Ovulation Induction & Cycle Monitoring
This form of treatment may be suitable for women who have irregular or unpredictable ovulation. Regular blood hormone tests, coupled with ultrasound scans (performed vaginally), can help to pinpoint the fertile time in a female’s cycle, therefore improving her chances of conception.
Monitoring may also involve the administration of fertility drugs to encourage egg development. Once the egg(s) are released from the ovaries (either naturally or after a trigger injection) the timing of sexual intercourse can be advised.
Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)
IUI is a simple form of treatment where prepared sperm is placed inside the uterine cavity. There may be some administration of fertility drugs to increase the chances of success, however, IUI can also take place in a natural cycle (i.e. no drug support).
In a stimulated cycle, satisfactory development of follicles will be monitored via blood tests and ultrasound scans. If required, ovulation will be triggered with an injection of human Chorionic Gonadotrophin (hCG). This will release the egg(s), at which stage the male partner is asked to produce a semen sample (donor sperm may be used when required). The sperm is then prepared in the laboratory before being deposited into the uterus via a thin catheter.
A natural cycle involves the monitoring of follicular development. Once ovulation has been detected, insemination can occur.