Gonadotropins are injectable fertility medications that contain follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and/or luteinizing hormone (LH). These hormones directly stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple follicles, making them a powerful treatment for women who do not respond to oral medications like Clomid or Letrozole.

How They Work:

• FSH (e.g., Gonal-F, Follistim, Menopur): Stimulates the development of follicles in the ovaries.

• LH (e.g., Menopur, Luveris): Supports follicle growth and maturation.

• hCG (e.g., Ovidrel, Pregnyl, Novarel): Triggers ovulation once the follicles are mature.

Who They’re For:

- Women who did not respond to Clomid or Letrozole.
- Those with PCOS who do not ovulate with oral medications.
- Women with hypothalamic amenorrhea (low FSH and LH production).
- Couples undergoing intrauterine insemination (IUI) or in vitro fertilization (IVF).
- Men with infertility (hCG is used to increase testosterone and sperm production).

How They’re Taken:

• Daily injections of FSH (and sometimes LH) for 7–14 days during the first half of the menstrual cycle.

• Ultrasound monitoring tracks follicle growth.

• Once follicles reach 18–22 mm, an hCG injection is given to trigger ovulation.

• Timed intercourse, IUI, or IVF follows.

Success Rates:

• Ovulation Rate: Nearly 100% in women with ovulatory disorders.

• Pregnancy Rate: Around 15–25% per cycle depending on age and diagnosis.

Benefits of Gonadotropins:

- High success rates in stimulating ovulation.
- More controlled ovarian response in IVF cycles.
- Effective for women who are Clomid/Letrozole-resistant.

Risks & Side Effects:

- Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS): Excessive ovarian response can lead to bloating, fluid retention, and discomfort (severe cases may require hospitalization).
- Multiple Pregnancies: Higher risk of twins (20-30%) or more, especially in non-IVF cycles.
- Injection Site Reactions: Bruising, redness, or discomfort at the injection site.

Considerations:

• Requires close monitoring with blood tests and ultrasounds to adjust dosage and reduce risks.

• Used in IUI and IVF to optimize egg production.

• More expensive than oral medications but highly effective.

Gonadotropins are one of the most effective treatments for infertility, especially when oral medications fail. However, they require careful use under a fertility specialist’s supervision to minimize risks and maximize success.

Gonadotropins