Medicines and Products for Infertility

Fertility treatment depends on the cause and on age. A fertility specialist decides the plan. Do not self-medicate.

For ovulation problems

• Clomiphene or letrozole to trigger ovulation, with monitoring
• Metformin in some women with PCOS
• Gonadotropin injections in selected cases
• Treatment for thyroid disease or high prolactin, if present

Procedures and assisted reproduction

• Intrauterine insemination (IUI): prepared sperm are placed in the uterus.
• In vitro fertilisation (IVF) and ICSI: eggs are fertilised in a laboratory and the embryo is transferred to the uterus.
• Success rates fall with age, and a specialist can explain individual chances.

Surgery

Removal of fibroids or polyps, treatment of endometriosis, tubal surgery, or repair of a varicocele, when appropriate.

For men

• Treat infections and hormone problems
• Stop medicines that harm sperm, with a doctor's advice
• Surgery for varicocele or blockage in selected cases

Safety

• Fertility medicines can cause side effects, multiple pregnancy and, with injections, ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome.
• Report severe belly pain, rapid weight gain, swelling or breathlessness at once.
• Do not buy fertility medicines without a prescription.
• Tell your doctor about all supplements and herbs.

Folic acid

Start before conception, as your doctor advises.

Key point

Treatment is individual, so see a fertility specialist and avoid unregulated "fertility boosters."

Before your appointment

Come as a couple if you can. Note how long you have been trying, cycle length and regularity, past pregnancies, surgeries, infections and medicines. Bring past reports and, if available, a semen analysis. List supplements and herbs you take, along with smoking, alcohol and exercise habits. Ask about tests, treatment options, costs, success rates and the warning signs that mean you should call 112 or 102.