With assisted conception techniques such as Intrauterine Insemination (IUI), In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) or Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) several medications with be used to prepare the body for treatment, stimulate the ovaries to produce more eggs and improve fertilization of the embryo.

 

 

This tablet is used to stimulate ovulation usually given on Day 2 – 6 of your menses. Common trade name includes Clomid. There are potential side effects such as risk of multiple pregnancies, hot flashes, nausea, vomiting, headache, blurring of vision, depression, mood swings and ovarian cyst.

 

This medication is used to induce the final maturation changes in the eggs and causes the ovarian follicle’s to burst releasing the eggs. Commonly used hCG includes Pregnyl and Ovidrel. It is usually given via injection below the skin (subcutaneous) or into the muscle (intramuscular). In addition, some doctors may use this medication to support the pregnancy after the embryo transfer in an IVF cycle.

 

This medication directly stimulates multiple follicle growth within your ovaries. Commonly used FSH includes Puregon and Gonal F. Possible side effects include increased incidence of multiple pregnancies, breast tenderness, skin swelling or rash at site of injection or hyperstimulation of the ovaries. It is usually given via injection below the skin.

 

This is also another type of medication with stimulates multiple follicle growth within your ovaries. However, it contains equal part of FSH and LH. Commonly used hMG include Menopur. Potential side effect is similar to FSH drugs mentioned above.

 

This medication is used to stimulate ovulation especially in patients with high levels of prolactin hormone in their body. Potential side effect include nausea, vomiting, headache, dizziness and reduce blood pressure.

 

 

This medication is designed to prevent the mid-cycle hormonal surge which could cause cancellation of the fertility treatment. Commonly used GnRH Agonist include Lucrin and Zoladex. Potential side effects include hot flashes, headache, mood swings and insomnia.

 

This medication antagonises the actions of the gonadotrophin medication to prevent premature ovulation. Commonly used medication includes Cetrotide and Orgalutron.

 

This medication is usually given to support the pregnancy following assisted treatment. It could be given either as intramuscular injection or vaginal suppositories.