Español 
Français 
Deutsch 
Italiano 
Nederlands 
International 
Ovarian Stimulation in Assisted Reproduction: Questions, Duration, and Side Effects
Ovarian stimulation plays a fundamental role in assisted reproduction treatments such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) or artificial insemination. Whether you are on the path to motherhood or simply wish to better comprehend this process, you are in the right place.
In this article, we’ve interviewed Dr. Katharina Spies to explain what ovarian stimulation is, how it is carried out, how long it takes, potential side effects, and what activities you should avoid during this process. We aim to address all your questions regarding ovarian stimulation!
- 1. What Is Ovarian Stimulation?
- 2. How Is Ovarian Stimulation Performed?
- 3. How Long Does Stimulation Take?
- 4. Side Effects of Ovarian Stimulation
- 5. What Shouldn’t You Do During Stimulation?
- 6. Ovarian Stimulation at Life Fertility
- 7. Frequently asked questions about ovarian stimulation
- 7.1. Is ovarian stimulation painful?
- 7.2. Is ovarian stimulation dangerous?
- 7.3. Does ovarian stimulation cause weight gain?
- 7.4. What are the side effects and risks of ovarian stimulation?
- 7.5. Ovarian stimulation for IVF: how many eggs are considered “good”?
- 7.6. Care during ovarian stimulation
- 7.7. What not to do during ovarian stimulation
- 8. Is ovarian stimulation treatment compatible with daily life?
- 9. Our fertility treatments
- 10. Where can I find Vida Fertility centres in Spain?
What Is Ovarian Stimulation?
Ovarian stimulation is a vital part of assisted reproduction treatments. Its aim is to induce the ovaries to produce multiple eggs instead of the natural occurrence of just one during the menstrual cycle. This is crucial for increasing the chances of success in treatments like IVF or artificial insemination.
How Is Ovarian Stimulation Performed?
The process starts with the administration of hormonal medications, typically through injections. These hormones stimulate the growth of ovarian follicles, small fluid-filled sacs containing eggs.
During this period, close monitoring is conducted through ultrasounds and blood tests to track the development of the follicles. When the follicles reach the appropriate size, another hormone is administered to trigger egg maturation.
How Long Does Stimulation Take?
The duration of ovarian stimulation can vary from one woman to another, but generally, it lasts around 10 to 14 days. This period includes the time needed for follicle growth and egg maturation.
Phases of the Ovarian Stimulation Process
The phases are divided into three distinct stages:
- Initial Assessment with Basal Ultrasound: This first phase involves conducting an ultrasound in the initial three days of the menstrual cycle, either after taking contraceptives or once ovulation has occurred. The primary purpose of this ultrasound is to confirm that the ovaries are at rest, free from cysts or abnormally sized follicles.
- Controlled Ovarian Stimulation: During this phase, hormones, typically urinary or recombinant gonadotropins, are administered to regulate follicle growth. This stage should commence in the early days of the menstrual cycle, ideally on the first or second day, aiming to synchronize follicle development to reach the appropriate size. This is the most extensive phase, lasting approximately 10 to 12 days.
- Follicular Maturation and Ovulation: The third stage of ovarian stimulation involves the injection of the triggering hormone, which can be hCG, a GnRH analog, or a combination of both. These hormones stimulate the final maturation of follicles and trigger egg release. It is administered roughly 32 to 36 hours before the follicular puncture procedure, with the primary goal of achieving controlled ovulation.
After completing ovarian stimulation, the follicular puncture is performed, a procedure to extract mature eggs with the guidance of ultrasound.
Side Effects of Ovarian Stimulation
Although ovarian stimulation is safe, it may cause some mild side effects. These can include abdominal bloating, breast tenderness, mood swings, and discomfort at the hormone injection site. However, these effects typically dissipate after the process.
Does Multiple Ovarian Stimulation Increase the Risk of Cancer?
According to recent studies and our specialist, Dr. Elena Santiago Romero, it has been reported that up to six ovarian stimulations do not increase the risk of developing hormone-dependent cancers in the future.
What Shouldn’t You Do During Stimulation?
During ovarian stimulation, it is important to avoid activities that could jeopardize your health or that of potential embryos. This includes refraining from alcohol consumption, not smoking, and avoiding the use of medications not authorized by your physician. Additionally, it is advisable to abstain from sexual intercourse during this period to prevent the possibility of an unwanted multiple pregnancy.
Ovarian Stimulation at Life Fertility
Ovarian stimulation is an essential part of assisted reproduction treatments that has helped many couples fulfill their dream of having a child. While it may seem like a complex process, with the proper guidance from fertility experts at Life Fertility, you can navigate this stage with confidence and hope.
If you’d like to learn more or take the first step toward motherhood, do not hesitate to contact us. We are here to support you on this exciting journey to parenthood.
Frequently asked questions about ovarian stimulation
Is ovarian stimulation painful?
Dr Katharina Spies answers:
No, ovarian stimulation is not usually painful.
The injections are subcutaneous, using very fine needles, and most patients learn to administer them easily.
Some women describe:
- Abdominal discomfort
- A feeling of bloating
- Pelvic pressure during the last few days
Is ovarian stimulation dangerous?
Dr Katharina Spies answers:
No, ovarian stimulation is a safe treatment when it is properly monitored by a specialist in assisted reproduction.
Nowadays, protocols are personalised according to age, ovarian reserve and each woman’s medical history.
Does ovarian stimulation cause weight gain?
Dr Katharina Spies answers:
No, ovarian stimulation does not cause weight gain, but it may lead to:
- Fluid retention
- A feeling of abdominal bloating
These effects are temporary and disappear after the cycle ends. It does not cause an increase in body fat or permanent metabolic changes.
What are the side effects and risks of ovarian stimulation?
Ovarian stimulation is a safe treatment when it is correctly indicated and monitored. However, like any medical treatment, it may cause side effects, which are generally mild and temporary.
Most common side effects
- Abdominal bloating
- A feeling of heaviness or pelvic pressure
- Mood changes
- Tiredness
- Mild fluid retention
These symptoms usually disappear a few days after the treatment ends.
Ovarian stimulation for IVF: how many eggs are considered “good”?
Dr Katharina Spies answers:
There is no universal ideal number. The number of eggs needed mainly depends on age and egg quality.
In an IVF treatment the number of eggs retrieved influences the chances, but it is not the only factor that determines the outcome.
Egg quality plays a decisive role and is closely related to factors such as age, ovarian reserve and response to stimulation.
As a general guideline, obtaining between 8 and 15 eggs usually provides a good margin to obtain viable embryos and select the most suitable ones for transfer.
Nevertheless, it is also possible to achieve pregnancy with fewer eggs, provided they are of good quality.
Having a higher number of eggs increases the options during the process, but does not guarantee success on its own.
By contrast, high-quality eggs, even if few, can result in embryos with implantation potential.
We could summarise that egg quality is a key factor in embryonic development.
Care during ovarian stimulation
Dr Katharina Spies answers:
During ovarian stimulation, it is important to take care of your body and respect the timing of the treatment. Maintain a calm lifestyle, with a balanced diet, good hydration and adequate rest. Follow exactly the medication guidelines indicated by your doctor and attend all ultrasound and blood tests, as they allow us to adjust the treatment and ensure your safety.
What not to do during ovarian stimulation
Dr Katharina Spies answers:
During this phase, it is advisable to avoid intense physical exercise, impacts and sudden efforts, as the ovaries increase in size. Do not take medication, supplements or natural products without first consulting your specialist. Avoid alcohol, tobacco and other substances that may interfere with the ovarian response. It is also not advisable to undergo situations of high stress or unnecessary travel without informing the medical team.
Is ovarian stimulation treatment compatible with daily life?
In most cases, ovarian stimulation is compatible with a normal life.
During the treatment:
- You can work as normal
- The injections are administered at home
- Medical visits are usually brief and scheduled
Ask for a consultation
You may also like
Last news
Testimonials
Where can I find Vida Fertility centres in Spain?
📍 C/ Palermo 15, Hortaleza, 28043 Madrid
📞 Phone number: +34 919 29 83 23
🕒 Opening hours: Monday to Friday from 8am to 7pm
📍 Av. Óscar Esplá 1, Bajo, 03008 Alicante
📞 Phone number: +34 919 29 83 23
🕒 Opening hours: Monday to Friday from 8am to 7pm
ℹ️ The information published on Vida Fertility is reviewed by our fertility specialists and medical team, following up-to-date scientific criteria and evidence-based medicine. Our team is a member at scientific societies such as SEF, ESHRE and SEGO.
