Infertility Drugs

The biggest influence in deciding to become a gestational Surrogate Mother is the amount of medications used during the IVF Cycle. Clinics introduce a mix of injectables, patches, pills, suppositories and nasal sprays.

What Medications are used in IVF?

Gonadotropin Releasing Hormone Agonists (GnRH)

Used to induce ovulation in egg donors by inhibiting the brain from discharging hormones that regulate the menstrual cycle. The ovaries go into a state of rest, allowing the patient's ovulation can be artificially induced. Started one week before the period is expected or the beginning of the cycle. This drug is well-tolerated, and most women do not suffer any side effects. However, some women indicate hot flashes, weakness, migraines, moodiness or nausea. Lupron and Synarel are common brands of GnRHa: Lupron is injected into the veins, while Synarel is administered as a nasal spray.

Estradiol (Synthetic Estrogen)

This medication can be consumed orally, injected intramuscularly, or administered as a patch on the abdominal skin. Estrogen is the hormone that condenses the inner wall of the uterus (endometrium). It is used by the surrogate to prepare the womb for implantation and maintain its integrity during the early stages of pregnancy. Common side effects include vaginal irritation, shaking, nausea, migraines, bloating, weight variation, increased or decreased attentiveness for sex, and breast soreness.

Progesterone

This is the hormone created after ovulation. It improves the uterine lining, which may improve implantation of the embryo. Progesterone is introduced in the last stages of the cycle, several days prior to the embryo transfer. Progesterone is supplied by intravaginal suppository, oral prescription, or injected intramuscularly. It can be accompanied by bloating, irritability, and breast tenderness.

Doxycycline and Methyl Prednisone

Medications may be used as anti-rejection tactics.

All these medications are tremendously imperative and should be taken as educated by the doctor. Failure to follow your doctor’s guideline can compromise the IVF cycle, result in a miscarriage or breaking a contract.  

How do I Give Myself Injections for IVF?

It's an agonizing fact that IVF (In Vitro Fertilization) treatment involves giving a woman a lot of infertility medications through injection.

While some women are naturally needle-phobic, being educated on how to inject yourself can benefit the progression considerably,

Should you feel that you cannot do this alone, perhaps a relative, close friend, or partner can assist you. Trust me, no one will take care of you more than a loved one, and this can be a valuable way to educate yourselves.

There are 2 forms of injections - intramuscular (IM) and Subcutaneous (SC).

Menogon (HMG) is given intramuscularly; while Lupron (Buserelin) is given subcutaneously.

Remember there is a very low risk of your injuring yourself by doing the injections yourself. You can request that your physician monitors your first shot to aid you in the process and boost your confidence.

Resources:

Fertility Smarts https://www.fertilitysmarts.com/definition/786/gonadotropin-releasing-hormone-agonists-gnrh-agonist-fertility 

Embryodonation.com 

https://www.embryodonation.com/downloads/Lupron%20&%20Synarel%20Patient%20Information,%20EDI.pdf