Ovarian Stimulation: What to Expect During Your IVF Journey

• Rohit saini
• 28 November 2025

Ovarian Stimulation: What to Expect During Your IVF Journey

One of the most crucial stages of IVF is ovarian stimulation. It greatly raises the likelihood of a successful pregnancy by assisting the body in producing several mature eggs in a single cycle. This stage might be overwhelming for many women because of the frequent exams, hormonal fluctuations, and injections. This guide describes what ovarian stimulation entails, what to anticipate, and how to get ready for a seamless procedure.

1. Ovarian Stimulation: What Is It?

The ovaries only release one egg during a typical menstrual cycle. In order to produce additional embryos, doctors try to gather numerous eggs during IVF. The likelihood of successful fertilization and implantation is increased as a result.

Taking fertility drugs (hormone injections) for eight to twelve days is known as ovarian stimulation. These drugs stimulate the ovaries to produce several follicles, each of which contains an egg.

2. Medication Types Used

Depending on the patient’s age, ovarian reserve, and past response to treatment, doctors recommend a customized mix of hormones. The primary medications consist of:

Follicle-stimulating hormone, or FSH

encourages the production of many follicles by the ovaries.

Luteinizing hormone, or LH

promotes the development of follicles and the synthesis of estrogen.

GnRH agonist or antagonist

keeps ovulation from occurring too soon.

Injection trigger (hCG or GnRH agonist)

When follicles are large enough to develop the eggs for retrieval.

All drugs are administered via tiny subcutaneous injections, typically in the abdomen.

3. Expectations for the Daily Injections Process

Injections will be administered at home, typically at the same time each day. The needles are quite fine, and most ladies find them simpler than anticipated.

Frequent Blood Tests and Ultrasounds

The clinic is open to you every two to three days. Follicle growth is monitored by ultrasounds, and estrogen levels are measured by blood tests.

Adverse Reactions

Typical and minor adverse effects consist of:

Bloating

Breast tenderness

Weariness

Variations in mood

Moderate pressure in the abdomen

These are transient affects that typically go away after retrieving the egg.

Keeping an eye on OHSS

If the ovaries react excessively, a rare illness known as Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS) may develop. To avoid it, your doctor will keep a careful eye on you.

4. What is the duration of ovarian stimulation?

Depending on how your body reacts, the stimulation phase usually lasts eight to twelve days. Egg retrieval is planned for 34–36 hours after the trigger shot, which is administered once the follicles attain maturity (typically 18–20 mm).

5. Expectations on an emotional level

Mood swings and mild anxiety might be brought on by hormonal changes. This is entirely typical. Your partner, family, or counselor’s support can be beneficial. The procedure is also made easier by eating healthily, getting enough sleep, and staying hydrated.

6. Self-Preparation Advice

Adhere closely to your medication schedule.

Have a lot of water.

Steer clear of strenuous exercise

Consume a well-balanced diet

Talk honestly with your physician.

Reduce your level of tension

In conclusion

One important and well watched step in the IVF procedure is ovarian stimulation. Even while it could initially appear scary, knowing what to anticipate can make the trip easier and more comfortable. This stage of your fertility therapy can be made manageable and empowering with the right direction, medical supervision, and emotional support.