Treatment guide
Ovulation induction
Oral or injectable medication to produce an ovulation where cycles are irregular or absent.
Written and reviewed by the MyBabyBridge editorial team · Last reviewed · 3 sources · General information, not medical advice. Our editorial standards
What it is
Where the problem is that ovulation is not happening reliably, the first treatment is usually medication rather than a procedure. Letrozole and clomiphene are taken orally for about five days early in the cycle; injectable gonadotropins are stronger and are used when oral agents fail. Treatment is monitored so that dose can be adjusted and the number of developing follicles can be seen, which is how the risk of triplets and higher is kept down.
Who it is usually for
Primarily for ovulatory disorders, most commonly polycystic ovary syndrome. Also used to time intercourse or IUI, and as part of a treatment ladder before IVF.
Unfamiliar term? See the fertility glossary.
What happens, step by step
- Step 1
Baseline
A scan and bloodwork early in the cycle to confirm a suitable starting point.
- Step 2
Medication
Typically five days of oral medication, or daily injections in a gonadotropin cycle.
- Step 3
Monitoring
Ultrasound to count and size follicles, with bloodwork to track response.
- Step 4
Timing
A trigger injection or a detected LH surge times intercourse or IUI.
Time and cost
How long it takes
One menstrual cycle per attempt. Clinicians commonly reassess after three to six ovulatory cycles without pregnancy.
What it typically costs
Oral medication cycles are among the least expensive fertility treatments. Injectable cycles cost substantially more, because of the medication and the closer monitoring they need.
Prices vary widely by clinic and region. Get an itemised estimate in writing — see the IVF cost guide.
Risks and limits
- Multiple pregnancy, which is why monitoring matters
- Ovarian hyperstimulation, mainly with injectables
- Side effects including hot flushes, mood changes, and headaches
- Repeated cycles that delay a move to more effective treatment
What to ask your clinic
- Why this medication rather than the alternative for my diagnosis?
- How many cycles will we try before changing plan?
- Will each cycle be monitored by ultrasound?
- What will we do if I develop too many follicles?
Ask for the answers in writing, alongside itemised costs.
Sources
- Women's Health Frequently Asked Questions — American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists
- Practice Guidance and Committee Opinions — American Society for Reproductive Medicine
- Infertility — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine
Thinking about Ovulation induction?
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