The stimulation phase
The main aspects of the stimulation phase
Main aspects of the stimulation phase
The stimulation of the ovaries can be carried out in several ways.
- In most cases, the natural menstrual cycle is suppressed at the same time that the ovaries are stimulated. This can however be done before the start of treatment, or at a later moment.
- Sometimes your cycle will be pre-regulated with a contraceptive pill, in order to have better control over it later.
- In other cases, no form of suppression is applied. The stimulation is tuned to your natural cycle.
The decision of which option to use depends on the specific medication scheme which your doctor thinks is most appropriate for you (see
schematic overview).
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- The injections are given subcutaneously (under the skin). You can administer them yourself (you or your partner) or ask for the assistance of a home visit nurse.
- Subsequent blood tests will determine the levels of hormones in your system and a scheme will be composed by the daily monitoring which you will need to follow precisely. They will call you with instructions regarding the doses which will need to be injected.
- Once oestrogen levels begin to increase and the moment of ovulation nears, regular ultrasounds will be carried out. The development of the follicles will be monitored, in order to determine the best moment for egg cell collection.
- The number of ultrasounds and blood tests will depend upon how well your body reacts to the stimulation.
proposed start date
Before any treatment can begin, a start date has to be decided by the planning coordinator. See IVF start date for further information.
possible side effects
Under the influence of the medication, several follicles begin to develop at the same time. This causes the ovaries to increase in size, which can cause some discomfort and lead to light abdominal swelling. Also, the injection of hCG can cause local irritation and redness around the injection sites.
Three important questions These are three of the most frequently asked questions concerning the stimulation phase. Click on the question to read the answers.