Common Fertility Medicines and Possible Side Effects
When a woman is not ovulating regularly, fertility medication is used to supplement her natural fertility. Fertility medication comes in a number of forms, in varying strengths for different purposes. Becoming familiar with common fertility medications can take some of the mystery out of fertility treatment.
Clomid
Clomid is often the first line of defense when ovulation issues are expected. Clomid works by stimulating the body to release additional hormones which in turn stimulate ovulation. Clomid is typically taken orally for five days and can be prescribed in varying dosages. If Clomid treatment does not result in pregnancy after three months, a woman is typically transitioned to a different drug.
Reported side effects of Clomid include hot flashes, headaches, and mood swings.
Crinone
Crinone is a cream suppository that contains progesterone, which is crucial during the early stages of pregnancy. Crinone suppositories are used when a woman’s progesterone levels are low in order to supplement her natural hormone levels. Crinone is typically prescribed after transfer or an IUI procedure and can continue through early pregnancy.
Reported side effects of Crinone are bloating, nausea, joint pain, and vaginal pain.
Ovidrel
Ovidrel is typically used during IVF treatment to trigger ovulation. Ovidrel is an injectable medication that contains hCG which is directly responsible for ovulation. Use of Ovidrel allows the fertility care team to time ovulation for egg retrieval. Ovidrel is administered via self-injection and is typically done once during a cycle.
Reported side effects of Ovidrel include nausea, headache, injection site pain, and vomiting.
Pregnyl
Pregnyl is used as a trigger medication for ovulation. When used with other medications, Pregnyl allows doctors to time ovulation. This injectable medication shouldn’t be used on women who have already reached menopause
Reported side effects while on Pregnyl include headache, tiredness, and injection site pain.
Learn more about the use of fertility medication as well as holistic fertility treatment by contacting the New Hope Fertility Center team. Please click the link below to enter your information and New Hope will contact you, or simply call 212-517-7676. Thank you.
