Ovulation Induction—Where Biology Fails And Science Succeeds
When female patients cannot ovulate naturally, it may become necessary to assist ovulation by putting them on certain medical regimens. This is called ovulation induction.
When Is Ovulation Induction Necessary?
Ovulation induction is necessary when women are facing the problem of not being able to produce eggs in their own ovaries.
What Are The Causes Of Ovulation Inability In Women?
The most common causes are:
- Stress
- Weight fluctuations.
- Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (POCS)
- Ovarian failure due to treatment of ovarian cancer.
- Menopause.
Certain tests are necessary to establish the cause of ovulation failure in women, for example ultrasound scan of the ovaries, blood tests etc.
What Kind Of A Regimen Is Necessary For Ovulation Induction?
- Follicle stimulators like clomiphene or clomid to increase the production of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH)
- Gonadotrophins by injection to stimulate follicle production.
Follicles are monitored by ultrasound scans. As soon as the follicles reach the suitable size natural intercourse or IUI is suggested, depending on the physiologies of the couple.
What Are The Success Rates?
The individual response to the drug regimens varies from patient to patient. Therefore, an accurate prediction of success rates cannot be given. It might take up to 6 cycles for the results to be clear.
Are There Any Risks To Ovulation Induction?
There may be some side effects of the follicle-stimulating drug regimen. Up to 10 percent of pregnancies may result in twins. There is a one percent chance of having triplets too.
Dr. Nandita Palshetkar is a fertility specialist in Mumbai, India, who combines a high level of medical expertise with the latest IVF treatment-related medical technology to offer high success rates among Infertility treatments. For more information or consultation, please write to drnandita30@gmail.com
