When embarking on your IVF journey, meeting with your doctor is a crucial first step. During this initial consultation, you’ll discuss your diagnosis and formulate a tailored treatment plan designed just for you. Your physician will also go over the tests and fertility medications you’ll need before diving into the IVF process. Once this is settled, you’ll be paired with a nurse coordinator who will walk you through your IVF plan, clarify your medication schedule, and address any queries you may have.
IVF Medications
IVF typically involves a mix of medications. Patients often start taking birth control pills a month prior to their treatment cycle. This is followed by injectable medications such as leuprolide (Lupron), which you’ll begin just before stopping the oral contraceptives. These medications work together to prepare your body for ovulation induction—essentially the release of eggs from your ovaries. Sometimes, your doctor might suggest Cetrotide, taken ten days post-ovulation in the cycle leading up to IVF, or oral estrogen during the last week before the IVF cycle. However, in some cases, pre-IVF medications may not be necessary at all.
Birth Control Pills
It might seem odd, but birth control pills can actually be quite beneficial for IVF for several reasons:
- They help prevent ovarian cysts that could interfere with normal ovarian function.
- They give your ovaries a chance to rest before treatment.
- They assist in regulating your cycle, which is essential for timing ovulation and egg retrieval effectively.
These pills are particularly useful for individuals who have irregular menstrual cycles.
Leuprolide (Lupron)
This synthetic hormone alters your menstrual cycle to prevent premature ovulation. You’ll start Lupron injections about a week before beginning stimulation medications, and continue them throughout the 10-12 days required for stimulation.
Cetrotide
This medication lowers FSH and LH levels, which can be crucial for patients likely to stimulate quickly or produce few follicles. Cetrotide helps manage the pace of follicle development during IVF. Oral estrogen can have a similar effect.
Pre-IVF Testing
You’ll likely undergo several important tests, including:
- Cycle Day 3 Blood Tests – These tests evaluate the hormonal health of your ovaries and pituitary gland, checking levels of FSH, Estradiol, and AMH, along with thyroid hormones, Prolactin, and infectious disease status.
- Mid-Cycle Ultrasound – Near ovulation, an ultrasound will assess the health of your uterus and ovaries.
- Hysterosalpingogram (HSG) – This X-ray examines the uterus and fallopian tubes for any blockages, ensuring everything is clear for the egg to travel.
- Hysterosonogram (Saline Sonogram) – This test checks for polyps or fibroids in the uterine cavity using saline and ultrasound.
- Hysteroscopy – If abnormalities are detected in previous tests, this procedure allows your doctor to inspect your uterus directly and possibly remove any obstructive growths.
- Male Fertility Evaluation – A semen analysis will assess sperm volume, motility, and morphology, while infectious disease testing is mandated for all male partners.
Ready to dive deeper into your journey? Check out our other blog post that discusses pregnancy planning and prevention with Dr. Emily James for more insights. Plus, if you’re considering at-home options, you can explore this comprehensive insemination kit for a convenient approach.
In summary, your IVF preparation involves essential consultations, medication, and testing, all tailored to optimize your chances of success. Understanding each step can make a significant difference in your journey toward parenthood.