Gonadotrophins for ovulation induction

Ovulation induction with gonadotrophins involves use of:

  • FSH, which recruits and matures follicles during the first few days of treatment1, followed by
  • high-dose (5000 to 10 000 units) hCG, which acts like luteinising hormone (LH) to trigger active ovulation of a single dominant mature follicle. This is known as the ‘hCG trigger injection’ (also used in in-vitro fertilisation).

The main hazards of ovulation induction with gonadotrophins are development of multiple follicles (leading to a multiple pregnancy) and ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) {OHSS in IVF}. Therefore, they should only be used be used with specialist guidance and monitoring.

1 Some females who lack luteinising hormone (LH) (eg as a result of severe hypothalamic or pituitary disorders) may also need a small dose of recombinant LH or a very low dose of human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG) in the follicular phase.Return