Team HFC
Phase 2: Ovarian Stimulation
During this phase you will use injectable medications to stimulate the ovaries to grow follicles. A follicle is a fluid filled sac in the ovary, which typically contains an egg. You may also need to take some oral medications depending on your treatment plan.
The stimulation phase lasts from ~ 9-12 days, and you will need to come to the clinic for approximately 5-6 monitoring visits depending on your response to medications.
Injections
Pergoveris is the main injectable medication used during this phase of treatment, and is a combination of FSH (follicle stimulating hormone) and LH (luteinizing hormone). To prevent premature ovulation, a second injectable medication is typically introduced between day 5-7 of the stimulation, called Orgalutran.
Oral medications
The following medications may be added to your protocol based on your specific fertility history.
Dexamethasone may be used to optimize the impact of stimulation if required to manage immune response. Some patients experience sleep disturbances if this medication is taken too late in the evening. If you experience this, you may take your medication earlier in the afternoon.
Eltroxin/Synthroid may be used to prevent hypothyroidism that can result from the (expected) high levels of estrogen in an ovarian stimulation cycle. If you are already taking thyroid medication, continue taking your prescribed dose.
