Gonadotropin Superovulation

Ovulation with injectable gonadotropin therapy is known by several names: superovulation, controlled ovarian hyperstimulation, and superstimulation are among the most common. These medications are simply the hormones that a woman’s brain produces to directly stimulate egg development. There are several formulations, and the brand name medications in current use include Bravelle, Follistim, Gonal-f, Menopur, and Repronex. They are considered more powerful stimulators of egg development than oral medication. Because of its potency, superovulation therapy can promote egg development in more patients than oral medication, but requires more frequent monitoring

Once a woman’s eggs have grown to maturity using superovulation therapy, ovulation occurs and conception is possible with either artificial insemination or intercourse. Higher pregnancy rates generally occur when superovulation is combined with insemination rather than timed intercourse. If a woman’s eggs are transvaginally harvested prior to ovulation and then fertilized in the laboratory, this constitutes in vitro fertilization (IVF).