CONTROLLED OVARIAN HYPERSTIMULATION
Controlled ovarian hyperstimulation is a process where the ovaries are stimulated using hormonal injections (gonadotrophins) for 10-12 days to achieve maximum number of mature oocytes(eggs) from the patient.
In a natural cycle only, a single follicle ovulates in either of the ovaries, but for an IVF cycle aim is to achieve maximum number of eggs and then the embryos to increase chances of conception. Therefore, controlled hyperstimulation is required
Who Needs Controlled Ovarian Hyperstimulation ?
- Blocked /damaged fallopian tubes
- Ovulatory Dysfunction
- Endometriosis
- Male factor
- Pelvic inflammatory disease with severe adhesion
Steps Of Controlled Ovarian Hyperstimulation
- Consultation and evaluation of the patient.
- Process starts on day 2 of the cycle followed by follicular monitoring.
- Ovaries are stimulated using hormonal injections (gonadotrophins) for 10-12 days to achieve maximum number of mature oocytes(eggs) from the patient.
- The response to these injections is monitored using ultrasound and once the cohort of follicles is between 18-22mm (minimum 4-5) trigger injection is given and 34-36 hours later ovum pickup (egg collection) is scheduled
What We Expect From You
- Understanding of the procedure clearly.
- Plan your schedule well in advance (avoiding travel, job commitments, weddings, functions) to visit the clinic 4-5 times over a period of 10-12 days.
- The determination and motivation to take injections needs priming of the mind as the pain of a small prick has to be compared to the joy of having a “Baby Soon”.
- The technique and timing of taking the injections has to be followed.
No.Of Visit And Hospital Stay
4-5 visits for ultrasound for follicular monitoring
Frequently asked questions
1. What is Controlled ovarian hyper stimulation (COH)?
Ans- Controlled ovarian hyper stimulation is a procedure in which the patient’s ovaries are stimulated for 10-12 days with hormone injections (gonadotrophins) in order to obtain the highest number of mature oocytes (eggs).The response to these injections is tracked by ultrasound, and after the cohort of follicles reaches 18-22mm (minimum 4-5), a trigger injection is administered, followed by ovum pickup (egg collection) 34-36 hours later.
2. What are the risks associated with controlled ovarian hyperstimulation?
Ans- Ovaries of some females might respond excessively to the fertility drugs. OHSS(Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome) occurs in a minority of females who overrespond, symptoms of which include, vomiting, nausea, severe discomfort, abdominal distension and dehydration.
Note: The patient should immediately notify the clinician in case of such symptoms
3. How much it costs?
Ans- Cost of controlled ovarian hyperstimulation is not fixed because dose of injection depends on body weight and age, so cost may vary