What happens in an ART (Assisted Reproduction Technology) cycle?
The goal of ovulation induction is to produce multiple follicles on the ovaries from which eggs are retrieved. In an ART cycle it is optimal to retrieve and fertilize as many eggs as possible to increase the chance of pregnancy.To increase the chance of collecting multiple eggs and to control the eggs from being released too early, fertility drugs such as Lupron, Humegon, Follistim, or Gonal-F and hCG are administered. An ovulation induction protocol, which includes the dose and timing of medications, is selected for each individual patient by her physician. Most of the medications used are for the female; however, the male is asked to comply with a regimen of antibiotic therapy to prevent and treat certain organisms in the semen.Transvaginal ultrasound examinations and blood hormone levels are used to monitor egg development. Ultrasound allows the physician to visualize the ovaries and ascertain follicle size. Blood is drawn numerous times during a stimulation cycle.
The goal of ovulation induction is to produce multiple follicles on the ovaries from which eggs are retrieved. In an ART cycle it is optimal to retrieve and fertilize as many eggs as possible to increase the chance of pregnancy. To increase the chance of collecting multiple eggs and to control the eggs from being released too early, fertility drugs such as Lupron, Humegon, Follistim, or Gonal-F and hCG are administered. An ovulation induction protocol, which includes the dose and timing of medications, is selected for each individual patient by her physician. Most of the medications used are for the female; however, the male is asked to comply with a regimen of antibiotic therapy to prevent and treat certain organisms in the semen. Transvaginal ultrasound examinations and blood hormone levels are used to monitor egg development. Ultrasound allows the physician to visualize the ovaries and ascertain follicle size. Blood is drawn numerous times during a stimulation cycle. As the follicle
