IVF Treatment - Injections and Ultrasound

IVFAustralia provides staff and facilities for daily injections at our Clinics. However, more than 90% of women are finding it convenient to have their injections at home, given by themselves or their partners. The injection uses a tiny needle and is placed just under the skin. We provide written instructions on giving 'home' injections, depending on which drug(s) the patient will be using and the nurses are happy to provide instruction. We try to minimise disruption to normal daily life. If a patient is having her injections at home she may only have to attend on 4 or 5 occasions, (for blood tests. ultrasound scans and the surgical procedures) during the entire treatment.

The blood tests measure hormone levels and the ultrasound measures ovarian follicle size and number. From this we assess the response to the hormonal stimulation. The ultrasound machine uses sound waves (like radar) to 'see' the follicles growing in the ovaries. To ensure sterility, a condom is placed over the ultrasound probe which is also cleaned with sterilising solution between each patient.

When placed in the vagina the ultrasound probe is less than 2 cm from the ovaries allowing a very clear and detailed assessment. This should not cause any discomfort, does not require a full bladder and takes no more than 10-15 minutes depending upon the number of follicles to be measured. Generally large follicles yield better quality eggs but it must be remembered that not all follicles that are seen on the ultrasound have a retrievable egg.

From the assessment of blood and ultrasound results, (coupled with many years of experience), we can decide the appropriate time for egg collection. Once the decision is made, arrangements are made for a triggering injection of hCG in the evening and the operation of egg collection occurs 36 - 38 hours later. This means there is almost 2 days warning before the egg collection. After triggering, the FSH and analogues are no longer required.