OVARIAN STIMULATION

Ovarian stimulation is the development and maturation of follicles (eggs) using fertility medications. The goal of ovarian stimulation is either to treat patients with ovulation problems or stimulate multiple eggs to mature. The former is also called ovulation induction (maturation of a follicle) and the latter is called superovulation (development of multiple follicles).

Ovarian stimulation can be accomplished by using clomiphene citrate commonly known as the brand name Clomid. This oral medication acts as a false estrogen hormone at the level of the hypothalamus and occupies the estrogen receptor. When the estrogen receptor is occupied, more gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) is released, which then stimulates the production of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) from the pituitary gland, the hormones that stimulate follicles and ovulation. The end result is more pulsatile FSH and LH release which result in ovulation or superovulation.

Clomid is taken orally for five days starting on the third or the fifth day at 50 mg daily. The dose can be increased up to 250mg daily if ovulation is not obse