Key Takeaways
- Ovarian stimulation helps produce multiple eggs in one cycle for IVF
- It involves daily hormone injections over about 8 to 14 days
- Your response is monitored through ultrasounds and blood tests
- A trigger injection is timed precisely before egg retrieval
- Egg retrieval usually takes place 34 to 36 hours after the trigger
- Most side effects are temporary, such as bloating or mild discomfort
- The process is individualised and closely supervised
Why Is Ovarian Stimulation Needed in IVF?
In a natural menstrual cycle, only one egg typically matures and is released. In-vitro fertilisation (IVF) aims to increase the number of eggs available by stimulating multiple follicles at the same time.
This improves the chances of fertilisation and embryo development, giving your care team more options for embryo transfer.
Step-by-Step IVF Ovarian Stimulation Process
Ovarian stimulation follows a structured process designed to support follicle development and ensure egg retrieval is timed accurately.
Step 1: Starting Fertility Medications
Treatment usually begins early in your menstrual cycle. You will be prescribed hormonal medications to stimulate your ovaries.
These may include:
- Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH): Encourages egg development
- Luteinising hormone (LH) or similar: Supports maturation
- Medications to prevent premature ovulation
What to expect:
- Daily hormone injections at home
- Guidance from your care team on administration
- A routine lasting around 8 to 14 days, depending on your response
Step 2: Monitoring Your Response
Regular monitoring ensures your treatment is progressing safely and effectively.
This typically involves:
- Ultrasound scans: To measure follicle size and number
- Blood tests: To assess hormone levels
- Medication adjustments: Based on your response
Appointments are usually scheduled every few days to track progress closely.
Step 3: Trigger Injection for Egg Maturation
When your follicles reach the appropriate size, a trigger injection is given to prepare the eggs for retrieval.
Key points:
- The timing of the trigger is precise and critical
- It helps eggs complete their final stage of development
- Egg retrieval is scheduled 34 to 36 hours later
How Might You Feel During Ovarian Stimulation?
Experiences vary, but most people tolerate this phase well.
Common physical symptoms include:
- Mild bloating or abdominal fullness
- Temporary weight changes due to fluid retention
- Breast tenderness
- Occasional cramping or ovary discomfort
Some people also notice emotional changes, such as mood swings, due to hormonal fluctuations.
These effects are usually temporary and improve after stimulation ends. If symptoms feel severe or unusual, your doctor will assess and advise.
How Do You Prepare for Egg Retrieval?
- A final ultrasound to confirm follicle development
- Blood tests to check hormone levels
- Instructions on fasting before the procedure
What Happens on Egg Retrieval Day?
- Done under sedation or light anaesthesia
- A fine needle guided by ultrasound collects eggs from the follicles
- The procedure takes about 20 to 30 minutes
- Most patients go home the same day
What Is Recovery Like After Egg Retrieval?
Recovery is usually straightforward.
- Mild cramping or spotting may occur
- Rest is recommended for the remainder of the day
- Most symptoms settle within a short time
- Your care team will update you on fertilisation and embryo development
Dr Kelly Loi Takes a Precise Approach in Fertility Treatment
Ovarian stimulation is a key step in IVF that is carefully planned and monitored to support the development of multiple healthy eggs. Understanding each stage can help you feel more prepared and confident throughout the process.
If you are considering IVF or would like to better understand your options, professional guidance can help you take the next step with clarity. At our fertility centre for women, Dr Kelly Loi ensures your treatment plan is tailored to your individual needs and goals. Arrange a consultation to receive personalised advice and move forward on your fertility journey with greater confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions about Ovarian Stimulation
Ovarian stimulation typically lasts 8 to 14 days, followed by egg retrieval about 34 to 36 hours after the trigger injection. The full phase, including monitoring, usually spans around two weeks.
Yes. Your doctor may adjust medication doses during the cycle based on how your ovaries respond, as seen in ultrasound scans and hormone levels.
Not all retrieved eggs will fertilise or develop into embryos. The number of usable embryos depends on egg quality, sperm quality, and laboratory development.
Your doctor may adjust your medication dosage or protocol to improve your response in the same or a future cycle.
Ovarian stimulation does not reduce your long-term fertility. It uses eggs that would naturally not be used in that cycle.
