Library of Frequently Asked Questions
Ovulation induction
Irregular or abnormal ovulation accounts for approximately twenty-five percent of all infertility cases. Ovulation normally occurs twelve to sixteen days before the onset of menstruation. During ovulation, progesterone is released. Progesterone is the hormone that transforms the uterine lining into a receptive environment for implantation and nurturing of the fertilized egg.
If a woman feels that she many not be ovulating normally, there are several tests she may take to determine the regularity of her ovulation. She may complete a basal body temperature chart by taking her temperature orally each morning for a month and recording it. The release of progesterone usually causes a point five to one degree rise in temperature. She may also use an over-the-counter prediction kit which tests the urine.
A physician may perform a pelvic ultrasound examination or a biopsy to evaluate ovulation. If a woman is not ovulating, she may be prescribed medication to stimulate ovulation. Up to eighty percent of women taking ovulation drugs begin to ovulate regularly, and if no other factors need treatment, over half may become pregnant within the first six induced ovulations.
Previous: Menstrual and hormone problems | Next: Sperm banks
