In the ovulation induction process, medications are taken (oral or injectable) to stimulate the ovaries to make eggs. Medications for ovulation induction help regulate the timing of ovulation and stimulate the development and release of mature eggs. They can also help correct hormonal problems that can affect the lining of the uterus as it prepares to receive a fertilized egg.
Ovulation induction is recommended for women with ovulation problems caused by:
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
- Absence of periods due to abnormal secretions of prolactin, by the reproductive portion of the brain (hypothalamus)
- Diminished ovarian reserve
- Unexplained infertility
Ovulation medications can stimulate more than one egg to be released which increases the possibility of having twins or multiple births. At the Center for Infertility and Reproductive Surgery we strive to maximize pregnancy rates while minimizing the number of high order pregnancies established, since these pregnancies involve risks to both the mother and the fetuses.
When ovulation induction is successful, pregnancy rates per cycle are close to those of normally ovulating women in a comparable age group. Learn more about our success rates.
