Prior to the actual egg retrieval process, the woman undergoes a stimulation period where her ovaries are primed to produce the maximum number of viable eggs. Lupron may be initiated at different times depending on the protocol being used. Most commonly, it is begun one week before the anticipated menses of the upcoming treatment cycle. Lupron prevents premature ovulation, which would result in cancellation of the cycle. On a specified day, the woman begins injections of gonadotropins , according to a schedule that is provided by the clinic.
Follicles are fluid-filled sacs which contain developing eggs.
The purpose of these medications is to induce the woman's ovaries to produce more than one egg. The greater the number of eggs that are produced, the greater the likelihood that fertilization of one or more of them will occur and eventually result in pregnancy. The timing, dosage, and administration of the hormonal medications are critical to the success of the cycle. Therefore, careful physician monitoring is necessary to adjust dosages and ensure an optimal stimulation period. Typically, the physician will monitor the patient with vaginal or abdominal ultrasounds and blood tests.