Ovulation Induction (OI)

Ovulation induction is a fertility treatment that uses medication to stimulate the ovaries to produce and release eggs. It is often combined with timed-intercourse to increase the chances of pregnancy by ensuring intercourse occurs during the most fertile window.

Note:

• Timed-intercourse: A fertility approach where couples have sexual intercourse during the woman’s most fertile days, usually around ovulation, to increase the chance of pregnancy.

At Sunfert, we recommend ovulation induction for women who experience ovulation-related fertility challenges or when optimising ovulation timing can improve the chance of pregnancy.

Ovulation induction may be suitable if patient have:

• irregular menstrual cycles
• absent ovulation (anovulation)
• infrequent ovulation (oligo-ovulation)
• polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
• hormonal imbalances affecting ovulation
• unexplained infertility, where ovulation support may improve conception timing

We commonly use ovulation induction when:

• ovulation is inconsistent or does not occur naturally
• natural conception has not been successful despite regular attempts
• a less invasive fertility treatment is preferred before progressing to IVF
• ovulation timing needs to be optimised for timed-intercourse or intrauterine insemination (IUI)

Before starting treatment, we conduct a comprehensive fertility assessment to ensure ovulation induction is appropriate, safe, and aligned with the patient’s reproductive goals.

It can be done in 4 steps.

Step 1: Fertility Evaluation

During a fertility assessment, we conduct a comprehensive evaluation for both partners to identify potential factors affecting fertility and guide a personalised treatment plan.

• Both Partners: Review of medical history, reproductive history, and previous fertility treatment outcomes.
• Female Partner: Hormonal profile testing, ovarian reserve assessment, and evaluation of the pelvic organs (uterus, ovaries, cervix, fallopian tubes).
• Male Partner: Semen analysis to assess sperm quality and reproductive potential.

Step 2: Prescribed Ovulation Induction Medication

Based on the patient’s diagnosis, we prescribe the most appropriate medication to stimulate ovulation.

Step 3: Cycle Monitoring

We closely monitor follicle development using ultrasound and, when necessary, blood tests to track the patient’s ovarian response.

Step 4: Timed-Intercourse or Assisted Procedures

We identify the patient’s fertile window and guide the patient on timed-intercourse or assisted treatments, such as IUI, to optimise success.

The treatment is always personalised to how the patient’s body responds.

There 2 different ovulation induction medications available at Sunfert:

• Clomiphene
• Letrozole

Our fertility specialists will determine the most suitable medication based on the patient’s diagnosis and treatment goals.

How Clomiphene works?

• Stimulates the brain to release more follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) that triggers ovulation
• Encourages the ovaries to develop and release eggs

Clomiphene is commonly used for:

• Irregular ovulation
• Early-stage fertility treatment

How Letrozole Can Help Women with PCOS?

It mimics the body’s natural ovulation process, because PCOS often prevents natural ovulation and causes issues such as:

• Irregular or absent ovulation
• High androgen (male hormone) levels
• Hormonal signals that fail to trigger egg release
• Even if periods occur, ovulation may not happen consistently, making conception difficult.

Letrozole Helps Restore Natural Ovulation

With the help of Letrozole, we can make ovulation becomes more predictable by:

• Temporarily lowering oestrogen levels
• Encouraging the brain to release hormones that stimulate ovulation
• Supporting the development of a healthy egg

If you are facing fertility challenges, start with a consultation with our specialists. We will guide you through your fertility journey with expertise and compassionate care. 

Make an appointment with our Fertility Specialist today and take the next step toward your parenthood goals.