Commonly known as fertility drugs, ovulation induction medications can be taken either orally or through injections to stimulate a woman's ovaries to release multiple mature eggs. This improves chances for fertilization and ultimately pregnancy.

Since these medications also control the time that ovulation occurs, fertilization can occur either naturally through sexual intercourse, or via intrauterine inseminations or other in vitro procedures at the time that is most likely to result in conception. The most common oral medications are Clomiphene Citrate (Clomid, Serophone), Glucophage (Metformin), and Bromocriptine (Parlodel). Common injections are Gonadotropins (Pergonal, Repronex, Menogon, Fertinex, Follistim, Gonal F, Puregon, Pregnyl, Novarel, Profasi, Ovidrel).

Success rates vary depending on the method of ovulation induction used to treat the infertility, though in general they are high. Risks include increased chances of multiple births and ovarian cysts, both of which are reduced by closely monitoring patients.

Based on testing done at the initial consultation, our reproductive specialists will determine if this is the best method of treatment for your unique situation.