Medications for controlled ovarian stimulation

What is controlled ovarian stimulation

COS is a process in which hormonal medications are used to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple mature eggs within a single menstrual cycle. This is essential because in a natural cycle, only one egg typically matures, whereas in IVF it is preferable to retrieve more eggs to increase the chances of successful fertilization and pregnancy. At Alternatyva Clinic, our reproductive specialists individually tailor the stimulation protocol based on each patient’s age, hormone levels, health condition, and reproductive history.

Main groups of medications used for ovarian stimulation

To achieve optimal results in COS, several groups of medications are used, each serving a specific function. Here are the main ones:

1. Gonadotropins. These are hormonal medications that mimic the action of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH). They stimulate the growth and maturation of follicles in the ovaries. The drugs are administered via subcutaneous injections. The dosage is personalized and monitored with ultrasound and estradiol blood tests.
2. GnRH agonists or antagonists. These drugs regulate the pituitary gland to prevent premature ovulation. GnRH agonists are used to “switch off” the natural hormonal cycle, allowing full medical control over stimulation. GnRH antagonists act faster and are often used in short protocols.
3. Ovulation triggers. Once the follicles have matured, medications are administered to induce final maturation of the eggs and ovulation.
4. Luteal phase support. After egg retrieval, the ovaries require support to produce progesterone, which prepares the uterus for embryo implantation. These medications may come in the form of tablets, vaginal gels, or injections.

Throughout the stimulation process, we perform regular monitoring via ultrasound and blood tests to adjust dosages as needed and minimize risks, particularly ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS).

How medications are selected

At Alternatyva clinic, we use a personalized approach when selecting medications.
Before starting stimulation, our specialists perform a comprehensive assessment, including:

• hormonal tests (FSH, LH, AMH, estradiol, progesterone);
• ultrasound to evaluate the condition of the ovaries and uterus;
• general health assessment.

Based on this data, the reproductive specialist develops an individualized COS protocol, which may be short, long, or ultra-short. We also take into account the patient’s preferences regarding medication administration convenience and financial considerations, offering optimal solutions.

Alternatyva IVF clinic — your partner on the journey to parenthood

At Alternatyva Clinic, you will receive a personalized stimulation protocol based on modern evidence-based medicine, access to high-quality medications without shortages or complicated searches, and full support from our team at every stage — from the first injection to egg retrieval. We are also always here if you need a consultation on IVF, want to select an egg or sperm donor from our catalogue, or plan a program using frozen biomaterial. Book a consultation with an IVF specialist to discuss your program and take the next step toward parenthood!