Gonadotropin Treatment for Infertility

During gonadotropin treatment, frequent monitoring of egg follicle development is needed. This may be done with Reference ultrasound Opens New Window and blood tests. Without careful monitoring, the ovaries may become hyperstimulated. Reference Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) Opens New Window can be a very serious condition. It usually goes away by itself in 2 to 4 weeks. But a woman may need bed rest or hospitalization and intravenous fluid therapy. Or she may need a procedure to remove fluid from the abdomen.

Gonadotropins should only be used by doctors who are specially trained in infertility and who are familiar with the management of possible complications.

Ovarian stimulation increases the likelihood of multiple pregnancy (twins, triplets, or more).

Up to 35% of women who become pregnant after hMG/hCG or rFSH/hCG therapy have a miscarriage.^{Reference 1} This is higher than the risk of miscarriage in the general population.

Taking medicine

Medicine is one of the many tools your doctor has to treat a health problem. Taking medicine as your doctor suggests will improve your health and may prevent future problems. If you don't take your medicines properly, you may be putting your health (and perhaps your life) at risk.

There are many reasons why people have trouble taking their medicine. But in most cases, there is something you can do. For suggestions on how to work around common problems, see the topic Reference Taking Medicines as Prescribed.

Advice for women

After you know you are pregnant, do not use any medicines unless your doctor tells you to. Some medicines can harm your baby. This includes prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, herbs, and supplements. And make sure that all your doctors know that you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant.

Checkups

Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.

Complete the new medication information form (PDF) (What is a Reference PDF Opens New Window document?) to help you understand this medication.

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