Cycle Monitoring for Fertility
Irregular or abnormal ovulation is a common cause of infertility. Early interventions, such as cycle monitoring and/or ovulation induction, can improve the odds of pregnancy with each cycle.
Cycle monitoring involves monitoring the development of eggs through follicle measurements. This can be done for both natural cycles and for those taking fertility medication to stimulate the ovaries.
How it Works
Whether you’re doing a natural cycle monitoring or pairing it with fertility treatment, the process works relatively the same. The development of eggs, follicles and hormone levels are monitored using bloodwork and a series of transvaginal probe ultrasounds. Knowing when your body is ready to conceive is one of the best ways to increase your fertility outcomes.
The Cycle Monitoring Process
Day One of Your Menstrual Cycle
On the first full flow day of your period, you will call or email your OFN nurse (as instructed), who will then provide you with a date and time for you to come into the clinic.
First Cycle Monitoring Visit
When you come in for your first visit, we’ll take a blood sample and do a transvaginal probe ultrasound. If you are doing an IUI cycle you can take the sample cups from the exam room, and if you are taking fertility medications you will take your medications home at this time. Your fertility nurse will contact you with further instructions after each visit.
Subsequent Cycle Monitoring Visits
Triggering Ovulation
Timed Intercourse and IUI
Timed intercourse should happen twice after you take the trigger medication; approximately 12 hours after, and again 36 hours afterward.
If you are receiving IUI, your nurse will give you a time to arrive at the clinic. If a fresh sample is being used, the sample will be produced at home and brought into the clinic at your appointment time. For sperm donor cycles, the sample will be removed at the time of your arrival.
Luteal Phase Support and Pregnancy Test
We’ll Guide You on the Right Fertility Path
FAQs
Can I plan my visits or Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) ahead of time?
How many visits will I need per cycle?
What are the possible side effects of fertility medications?
It’s important to note that most patients do not experience any signifiant side effects. In fact, fewer than 1% of patients have to stop taking their medication because of a side effect. Some side-effects of the medications you may be prescribed include:
- Nausea
- Bloating
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Mood changes
When should I bring in my sperm sample for IUI?
What times am I able to come in for IUI at an OFN clinic?
IUI procedures are completed in the morning; clinic scheduling will determine appointment availability however we always try our best to accommodate our patient’s preferred appointment time.
What should I do if I get my period before my bloodwork appointment?
Contact us on day one of your menstrual cycle (the first day of bleeding) and your nurse will send you further instructions.
How can I best prepare for each cycle monitoring visit?
You will also need to know how much medication you have left at each visit.
How many cycles will need to be monitored?
This varies for each woman, as each cycle can vary. It’s common for a woman to have a regular cycle one month, and a different experience the next. It is often necessary to monitor several cycles until conception is achieved.
What are the success rates of cycle monitoring?
To get a better understanding of your chances for a successful pregnancy, your medical team will determine any causes of infertility and form a plan to optimize your chances of conceiving.
Why choose an OFN clinic for cycle monitoring?
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