Ovulation induction

Letrozole is an oral medication that can be an effective fertility treatment for women with ovulation issues. Letrozole causes an increase in the output of FSH, which encourages follicle growth and can increase the chance of ovulation.

Letrozole is known to be effective for women with polycystic ovarian syndrome. Couples with ovulation issues may wish to try Letrozole as a first-line fertility treatment.

Couples on the public waiting list for treatment may want to try to become pregnant using an ovulation induction method. Please be aware that Letrozole and/ or Clomiphene packages are not covered under public funding and will incur a fee. 

Clomiphene is the alternative ovulation-induction treatment and works in a similar way to Letrozole.

Clomiphene cycles at Fertility PLUS are monitored with blood tests and, if needed, ultrasound scanning. This is to ensure that treatment is effective and to minimise the risk of a multiple pregnancy.

In some women with polycystic ovaries, metformin is an effective treatment used on its own or in conjunction with ovulation induction. Metformin is taken every day. After a couple of months of therapy, a women is more like to ovulate regularly.

Laparoscopic ovarian drilling is less common, but may be recommended for women who have not responded to other ovulation induction therapies.