Superovulation is a technique used in in vitro fertilization (IVF) to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs. Normally, a woman's ovaries release one egg per menstrual cycle. However, in IVF, the goal is to retrieve multiple eggs to increase the chances of successful fertilization and embryo development.
Superovulation involves the administration of fertility medications, such as follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple mature eggs. These medications help to promote the growth and development of multiple ovarian follicles, which contain the eggs.
The process of superovulation is carefully monitored through ultrasound scans and hormone level measurements. Once the follicles reach an appropriate size, a trigger shot of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is given to induce the final maturation of the eggs.
After the trigger shot, the eggs are retrieved through a minor surgical procedure called transvaginal ultrasound-guided follicle aspiration. The eggs are then fertilized in the laboratory with sperm, either through conventional IVF or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI).
Superovulation in IVF allows for the collection of multiple eggs, increasing the chances of obtaining viable embryos for transfer into the woman's uterus. This technique has significantly improved the success rates of IVF and has become a standard practice in assisted reproductive technology.