Description

Gonadotropin Cycles in Fertility Treatment Gonadotropin cycles involve the use of gonadotropin hormones to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs, improving the chances of conception. These hormones are commonly used in ovulation induction (OI), intrauterine insemination (IUI), and in vitro fertilization (IVF). What Are Gonadotropins? Gonadotropins are hormones that directly stimulate the ovaries to mature and release eggs. The two main types used in fertility treatments are: Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) – Stimulates follicle (egg) growth. Luteinizing Hormone (LH) – Supports egg maturation and ovulation. Commonly Used Gonadotropins: Recombinant FSH (rFSH) – e.g., Gonal-F, Follistim Human Menopausal Gonadotropins (hMG) – e.g., Menopur (contains both FSH & LH) hCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin) – Triggers ovulation (e.g., Ovidrel, Pregnyl) Who Needs Gonadotropin Therapy? ✅ Women with anovulation (e.g., PCOS, hypothalamic dysfunction) ✅ Couples with unexplained infertility ✅ Women with poor ovarian response in previous cycles ✅ Men with low sperm production (gonadotropins can stimulate testicular function) ✅ Patients undergoing IUI or IVF Gonadotropin Treatment Protocol 1. Ovulation Induction (OI) with Gonadotropins Used for women who do not ovulate naturally. The goal is to stimulate the release of one or two eggs. Daily FSH injections for 7–14 days. Ultrasound monitoring to check follicle growth. hCG trigger shot to induce ovulation. Timed intercourse or IUI follows. 2. Gonadotropins in IUI Cycles Higher doses of FSH are used than in OI. Goal: Mature 2–3 follicles for higher pregnancy chances. hCG shot triggers ovulation. IUI (Intrauterine Insemination) is performed 24–36 hours later. 3. Gonadotropins in IVF Cycles Higher doses of FSH/LH to stimulate multiple follicles. Frequent ultrasounds & blood tests monitor response. hCG trigger shot when follicles are mature. Egg retrieval is performed 34–36 hours after the trigger. Risks & Considerations ❌ Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS) – Over-response to medication can cause swollen ovaries, fluid retention, and discomfort. ❌ Multiple Pregnancy – Higher risk of twins or triplets, especially in IUI. ❌ Emotional & Financial Stress – Daily injections, monitoring, and costs can be challenging. Success Rates OI + Gonadotropins: 15–20% per cycle. IUI with Gonadotropins: 10–25% per cycle. IVF with Gonadotropins: 40–60% (depends on age & embryo quality). Would you like details on side effects, cost comparisons, or success rates for your situation? 😊