Your guide to IVF medication: What you need to know

Starting your IVF journey can feel like stepping into the unknown, especially when it comes to the various medications involved. But don’t worry, we're here to help! At Care Fertility, we want to make sure you feel confident and informed every step of the way. That’s why we’ve written this comprehensive guide to IVF medications and what you can expect at each step. 

Types of IVF medications 
IVF treatment involves several medications, each with its own important role. Here’s a detailed look at the different types of medications you might encounter during your IVF journey. 

Ovarian stimulation medications 

Ovarian stimulation medications are used to encourage your ovaries to produce multiple follicles during one menstrual cycle. 

• Gonadotropins: These include medications like Gonal F, Ovaleap, Meriofert, Menopur and Pergoveris. They contain follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) with or without luteinising hormone (LH) to stimulate the ovaries. 

• Purpose: To stimulate the growth of multiple follicles in the ovaries, increasing the number of eggs available for retrieval. 

• Administration: Typically administered via subcutaneous injections. 

• Side effects: Possible side effects include bloating, mood swings, and mild abdominal discomfort. 

Medications to prevent premature ovulation 

These medications ensure that ovulation doesn’t occur before the eggs are retrieved. You’ll typically only have one of these medications, as they both do the same job but in a different way.  

• GnRH agonists: Examples include Buserilin and Prostap. These medications initially increase and then suppress the release of LH and FSH. 

• Purpose: To prevent premature ovulation and allow follicles to mature fully. 

• Administration: Administered via subcutaneous or intramuscular injections before you start the gonadotrophins. 

• Side effects: Possible side effects include headaches, hot flashes, and mood changes. 

• GnRH antagonists: Examples include Cetrotide, Ganirelix, and Fyremedal. These medications immediately suppress the release of LH. 

• Purpose: To prevent premature ovulation and maintain control over the timing of egg retrieval. 

• Administration: Administered via subcutaneous injection after you start the gonadotrophins. 

• Side effects: Possible side effects include headaches, abdominal pain, and injection site reactions. 

Trigger shot 

The trigger shot is used to induce the final maturation of the eggs and prepare them for retrieval. 

• hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin): Examples include Gonasi, Zivafert, and Ovitrelle. 

• Purpose: To trigger the final maturation of the eggs and initiate the ovulation process. 

• Administration: Administered via subcutaneous or intramuscular injections. 

• Timing: The shot is typically administered 35-37 hours before egg retrieval. 

• Side effects: Possible side effects include abdominal bloating, breast tenderness, and mild pain at the injection site. 

Medications for luteal phase support 

After egg retrieval, medications are needed to support the uterine lining and enhance the chances of embryo implantation. 

• Progesterone: Examples Cyclogest, Utrogestan, Lubion, and Prontogest. 

• Purpose: To thicken the uterine lining and create a supportive environment for embryo implantation. 

• Administration: Administered via vaginal suppositories, gels, or subcutaneous injections. 

• Side effects: Possible side effects include bloating, breast tenderness, and mood swings. 

The IVF medication timeline 

Understanding the timeline of IVF medications can help you prepare for each stage of the process. 

Down-regulation phase 

• Suppression medications: GnRH agonists or antagonists may be used to suppress natural hormone production and control the timing of your cycle. 

Stimulation phase 

• Gonadotropins: Administered daily for 10-14 days to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple follicles. 

• Monitoring: Regular ultrasounds, and sometimes blood tests, are conducted to monitor your response to the medication. 

Trigger phase 

• Trigger shot: Administered 35-37 hours before egg retrieval to induce the final maturation of the eggs. 

Post-retrieval phase 

• Luteal phase support: Progesterone is administered to support the uterine lining and enhance the chances of embryo implantation. 

Managing side effects 

IVF medications can cause side effects, but understanding how to manage them can make the process more comfortable. 

Common side effects 

• Bloating: Staying hydrated and avoiding high-sodium foods and carbonated drinks can help reduce bloating. 

• Mood swings: Practicing stress-reducing activities like yoga, breathwork and meditation can help manage mood swings. 

• Injection site reactions: Applying a warm compress after injections can reduce pain and swelling. 

When to contact your doctor 

It's important to know when side effects may indicate a more serious issue. Contact your doctor if you experience: 

• Severe abdominal pain or bloating 

• Heavy vaginal bleeding 

• Shortness of breath or chest pain 

• Signs of infection at the injection site 

Tips for managing IVF medications 

Stay organised 

• Medication schedule: Keep a detailed schedule of your medication, including dosages and times. 

• Supplies: Ensure you have all necessary supplies, such as needles, syringes, and alcohol swabs, before starting your medication. 

Follow instructions carefully 

• Administration: Follow the instructions provided by your fertility specialist for administering each medication. 

• Storage: Store medications as directed, typically in a refrigerator or a cool, dry place. 

Seek support 

• Partner or friend: Involve a partner or friend in the process to provide emotional support and assistance with injections if needed. 

• Fertility clinic: Reach out to your fertility clinic with any questions or concerns about your medications. 

Why it's important to understand your medication 

Knowing what each medication does and how it affects your body can make the process feel a lot less overwhelming. Plus, it helps you stay in control and confident as you move through each step. 

Remember, we're here to answer any questions and offer support along the way. So, feel free to get in touch if you need more information or just a bit of reassurance. We're in this together, and we're dedicated to helping you on your journey to parenthood. 

Ready for more helpful info? Check out our other guides on understanding your success rates and the benefits of counselling during IVF. We're here to make sure you feel seen, heard, and supported every step of the way.