Ovulation Induction (OI)

Ovulation Induction (OI) is the controlled administration of drugs to stimulate the ovaries to produce mature eggs. OI is typically applied to couples in which the woman has irregular menstrual cycles and in which investigations indicate that they may not be ovulating on a regular basis.

Two types of fertility drugs are commonly used in OI:

Clomiphene Citrate: often called Clomid. This drug is an anti-oestrogen and works by stimulating your body into releasing more Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH). These higher levels of FSH stimulate the ovaries to produce eggs.  Clomid is usually given at the beginning of the menstrual cycle for 5 days. The mature egg is normally released (ovulation) naturally. However, ovulation can also be triggered using by a single injection of human Chorionic Gonadotrophin (hCG).

Gonadotrophin: such as Menopur, Gonal F & Puregon. These drugs are usually given daily to stimulate the development of a single mature follicle. Again, the mature egg is ovulated or the ovulation can be stimulated by hCG.

Our Fertility Specialist will advise which of these two types of drug is appropriate for your treatment.

Ultrasound scans and blood tests are performed to ensure that OI is both safe and effective. Once a mature follicle has been produced you will be advised when the best time for intercourse is in order to help achieve a pregnancy. Typically, couples need only a few months of OI in order to conceive.