Infertility is the number one problem why most couples can't conceive. And this is the main reason why most couples turn to use IVF fertility drugs.
Gonadotropins are hormones that stimulate ovaries to produce egg. Normally there are two type of gonadoptropins found in our body. First is the follicle stimulation hormone (FSH). FSH regulates the growth, development, reproductive processes and pubertal maturation of the female body. Second is the luteinizing hormone (LH). The rise of LH level triggers ovulation and the development of the corpus luteum.
The amount of hormones the IVF fertility drugs produce is slightly higher than the normal levels our bodies create. This results to an increase in egg production. The more eggs retrieved the higher the chance to transfer a healthy embryo.
IVF Fertility Drugs
In an IVF procedure, women who are unable to ovulate are advised to take fertility drugs. Fertility drugs trigger egg production the same way as our body's natural hormone does. For some lucky couples, fertility drugs are enough to get pregnant; but others need fertility drugs together with the IVF procedure for them to get pregnant.
Commonly Prescribed IVF Fertility Drugs
- Clomid or Serophene – is the most common fertility drug. This type of drug is in pill form and is pretty much cheaper than the other fertility drugs. At most times, taking this pill is 80% effective.
- Femera - is not really a fertility drug but it known to induce ovulation. But studies show that pregnant moms who take this drug increase the chance of birth defects. So this drug is usually taken before and after a pregnancy.
- Follistim or Gonal-F – both these fertility drugs have similar effects as FSH. These drugs are available as injections and are made in the lab using recombinant DNA technology.
- Bravelle or Fertinex – these drugs also work like FSH but the difference is they are not artificially created but are taken from the urine of a post menopausal woman. They are much cheaper and less potent than artificially made drugs.
- Ovidrel, Novarel, or Pregnyl – these drugs work like an LH. These drugs are made through hCG. They are usually in injectable forms.
- Antagon or Cetrotide – these drugs are used to work against FSH and LH. Meaning they suppress ovulation. These drugs are essential in an IVF treatment because it prevents the egg to go through ovulation and minimize the chances of getting lost inside the body before the retrieval process.
Risks of IVF Fertility Drugs
Just like any other drugs, IVF fertility drugs also have side effects. An increase in ovulation may lead to multiple pregnancies, thus putting the mother and the children in danger. Another risk is the potential to develop ovarian hyper stimulation syndrome or OHSS. When the ovaries are highly stimulated, they produce lots of eggs resulting to too much production of a fluid like substance, thus enlarging the ovaries. These fluids may lead into another kind of complication.
IVF fertility drugs have contributed a great share to the success of an IVF treatment. Before taking these drugs, one should know its bad and good effects to avoid any complications.