Fertility treatment can be a confusing process, but it’s important to know the differences between your medications and what kind you may be taking. Whether you need injections or oral pills truly depends on your treatment plan that’s determined by your doctor! We’ve listed some of the common medications below, what they do, and why they’re important for your fertility treatment.
One more note before we dive into the details: There isn’t always one right answer when dealing with stimulation protocols and reproductive health. Everyone’s body is different, and the medications you need might not be what another patient needs. Your clinical staff will give you a one on one session, showing you how to administer and mix your medications, but we’ve linked some videos to show you how some of the injections are done!
Follitropin Beta Solution for Injection
Follistim is an important medication that helps to stimulate the development of eggs within your ovaries. It’s used for women who have been struggling with infertility, and it can be prescribed by your infertility specialist. This injection comes preloaded into pens with removable needles. While taken at home, follow the directions carefully, and have your nurse show you how to safely administer the injection.
Menotropins (FSH), Menotropins (LH) Solution for Injection
The medication is sold under the name Menopur. This injection requires a bit more work than Follistim because it must be mixed at home by you, using a sterile solution! This medication is used to stimulate the ovaries. It is an injection under the skin subcutaneously and comes in a small glass vial. Your nurse will show you how to mix it properly during your teaching session.
Chorionic Gonadotropin Solution for Injection
HCG or Human Chorionic Gonadotropin is a naturally occurring hormone that supports the normal development of an egg in a women’s ovaries. This causes them to release this egg during menstruation. It can be used as your “trigger shot” when going through fertility treatment by causing you to ovulate.
Prednisone Oral Tablet
Prednisone is commonly used to treat inflammation during fertility treatment. It’s a pill that’s taken orally, at the same time every day. If you happen to miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, talk to your doctor or health care professional to find out when they recommend taking it next.
Doxycycline Hyclate Oral Capsule
Doxycycline is an antibiotic. It kills certain bacteria or stops their growth, and can be helpful when managing your fertility treatment. Follow the directions on the prescription label, and take your medicine at regular intervals.
Estradiol Oral Tablet
Estradiol is used to thicken the endometrial lining, which must be monitored before your transfer. These tablets are also taken orally. A thicker endometrial lining is helpful during your transfer because it helps the embryo “stick” to the walls of your uterus and implant.
Letrozole Oral Tablet
Letrozole is an oral drug that can be an effective fertility treatment for women with ovulation problems, or for those with unexplained infertility. This medication is in a class of drugs called aromatase inhibitors. In women that already ovulate on their own, treatment with Letrozole can result in the development of multiple follicles and multiple eggs releasing.
Ganirelix Acetate Solution for Injection
Ganirelix is used to regulate hormone responses in women undergoing treatment for infertility and prevents you from ovulating during the cycle. Ganirelix stops eggs from being released too early and gives the eggs time to grow properly!
In Conclusion
We hope that this list takes some of the mystery out of fertility medication. We also want to point out that a lot of these medications are designed to change your body, and remind you to be gentle with yourself! You’re going through a tough battle right now. You may feel some moodiness, bloating, cramping, bruising and a mild stinging with the injections, but that’s totally normal.
Why New Hope?
New Hope Fertility Center is home to world-renowned fertility specialists. We custom design fertility treatments for the individual to increase the chances of a successful pregnancy. Our specialists believe in putting the patient first and being with them through every step of the fertility journey. Our team is well versed in helping women of all ages reach their fertility goals and we are passionate about educating, and supporting our patients throughout their journey. If you want compassionate fertility care, New Hope is the right place for you. Call us at (212) 517-7676 or schedule your initial consultation today!