For women who ovulate irregularly, or do not have periods at all, ovulation induction can be an effective fertility treatment. If eggs are not released, or are only done so erratically, the chances of conception are low, so by stimulating the ovaries to produce in a predictable window, conception is made more possible.
How does the process work?
The first step is a consultation with a fertility expert such as London female gynaecologist Amanda Tozer. Miss Tozer will take your medical history and run initial diagnostic tests. Before ovulation induction, it is necessary to rule out other issues such as hormone imbalances, blocked fallopian tubes or poor condition of the sperm. If it is appropriate for your fertility needs, you may take Clomiphene, a mild fertility drug. Clomiphene comes in tablet form and is taken from day 2 to 6 of a bleed with a scan performed on day 10; this scan checks that ovulation will occur but that the ovaries are not being over-stimulated. If the ovaries have responded to the Clomiphene, timed intercourse or sperm injected through the cervix (IUI) can be planned. Not all women respond to Clomiphene, however, and may require injectable gonadotrophins to achieve ovulation induction.
Are there any risks?
A woman undergoing ovarian induction does run the risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) but the day 10 scan is designed to catch that early by ensuring only one or two follicles are developing. There is also a risk of multiple pregnancies: twins can result in up to 10% of Clomiphene treatment cases, and 20% with gonadotrophins. All risks and side effects will be discussed at your consultation. Fertility treatment can be a stressful and emotional time. At Amanda Tozer’s London fertility clinic, you will receive one-to-one care, with Miss Tozer personally performing each procedure and being on hand throughout to answer any questions or concerns you have.