Ovulation Induction

To ensure the best response to medication, OI requires regular monitoring:

• Ultrasound Scans: Track follicle growth and development to determine the optimal timing for egg release.
• Blood Tests: Measure hormone levels to ensure the body is responding appropriately to medications.
• Medication Adjustments: Dosages may be modified based on the body’s response, ensuring effective but safe stimulation and avoiding multiple pregnancies.

The success of each OI cycle can vary, largely depending on factors such as age, health, partners fertility and the underlying cause of infertility:

• Success Rates: Generally range from 10-20% per cycle for women under 35, with rates decreasing slightly as age increases. Women over 35 may experience a lower rate of success per cycle, often between 5-10%.
• Age: Fertility declines with age, particularly after 35, as ovarian reserve and egg quality diminish.
• Underlying Fertility Issues: Conditions like PCOS often respond well to OI, as these individuals typically have a good ovarian reserve. Conversely, women with conditions like diminished ovarian reserve or tubal blockages may have a reduced success rate.
• Overall Health: Maintaining a healthy weight, managing hormone imbalances, and addressing other health issues, like thyroid disorders or diabetes, can support better treatment outcomes​.

While OI is considered a safe procedure, there are some potential risks and side effects to be aware of:

• Multiple Pregnancies: Medications may increase the chance of multiple eggs being released, raising the likelihood of twins or, in rare cases, higher-order multiples although very rare. If stimulation has resulted in multiple dominant follicles, the cycle can be cancelled to avoid multiple pregnancy.
• Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS): This can occur with gonadotropin use, leading to swollen, painful ovaries.
• Common Side Effects: Some individuals experience mood swings, fatigue, headaches, hot flashes, mild bloating, or abdominal discomfort during treatment.

The costs of OI treatment can vary based on the specific medications and level of monitoring required. In Australia, some costs may be partially covered by Medicare or insurance, which can help with expenses such as specialist consultations, diagnostic tests, and procedures. Out-of-pocket costs after rebates generally range between $800 to $1,500 per cycle​. 

• Maintaining a Healthy Weight: Both underweight and overweight individuals may experience hormonal imbalances that can disrupt ovulation.
• Balanced Diet: A nutrient-dense diet supports hormone health and ovulation.
• Regular Exercise: Moderate exercise can reduce stress and support hormonal balance, but excessive exercise can negatively impact ovulation.
• Limit Caffeine and Alcohol: High caffeine and alcohol intake can lower fertility.
• Quit Smoking, Vaping and Cannabis use: Smoking reduces egg quality and ovarian reserve.
• Manage Stress: Chronic stress can affect hormonal balance. Practices like yoga, meditation, or counselling can help.
• Good Sleep and Reduced Toxin Exposure: Quality sleep and reducing exposure to environmental toxins, such as certain plastics, can positively impact fertility.