Supporting Conception — With a Little Help
When a couple decides to try Intrauterine Insemination (IUI), it’s often one of the first steps into the world of fertility treatment. While IUI is a relatively simple procedure, its success depends on timing and preparation — and that’s where medications play a key role.
At Dr. Richa Gangwar’s fertility clinic in Lucknow, we guide couples through safe, tailored medication plans to support natural ovulation or enhance it — increasing the chances of fertilization at just the right moment.
If you’re about to begin your IUI cycle, here’s what you should know about the medications that may be used along the way.
Why Are Medications Used in IUI?
The goal of IUI is to place healthy, motile sperm directly into the uterus around the time of ovulation. However, not all women ovulate regularly, and not every ovulation leads to successful fertilization.
Medications are used to:
- Stimulate ovulation (especially in women with irregular cycles or PCOD)
- Increase the number of mature follicles (to improve the chances of conception)
- Time the release of the egg precisely
- Support the uterine lining for better implantation
Your treatment plan will be personalized depending on:
- Your age
- Hormonal profile
- Ovulation history
- Ultrasound findings
Male partner’s semen analysis
Are These Medications Safe?
Yes. All medications used during IUI cycles have been studied extensively and are safe under medical supervision. At Dr. Richa Gangwar’s clinic, we:
- Use the lowest effective doses
- Monitor with frequent ultrasounds and hormone tests
- Adjust medications based on how your body responds
Prioritize safety, comfort, and long-term reproductive health
Common Medications Used in IUI Treatment
💊 1. Clomiphene Citrate (Clomid)
This oral tablet is usually the first-line medication for ovulation induction. It stimulates the ovaries to release one or two eggs.
How it works:
Clomid blocks estrogen receptors in the brain, triggering the release of FSH and LH hormones — which promote follicle growth.
When it’s given:
Typically from Day 2 to Day 6 of the cycle.
Side effects:
Mild mood swings, bloating, or hot flashes. Most women tolerate it well.
💊 2. Letrozole (Femara)
An alternative to Clomid, Letrozole is especially preferred in women with PCOD or those who don’t respond to Clomid.
How it works:
Letrozole reduces estrogen levels temporarily, prompting the pituitary gland to release FSH — stimulating ovulation.
Advantages:
Less impact on the uterine lining and fewer side effects compared to Clomid.
💉 3. Gonadotropin Injections (FSH, HMG)
Injectable hormones like Follitropin (FSH) or Menotropins (HMG) directly stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple follicles.
Used in:
- Women who didn’t respond to oral tablets
- Women over 35
- Those with unexplained infertility or low ovarian reserve
Monitoring needed:
Frequent ultrasounds are done to avoid overstimulation or multiple pregnancies.
💉 4. hCG Trigger Shot (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin)
Once the follicles are mature (usually seen on ultrasound), an hCG injection is given to mimic the natural LH surge and trigger egg release.
Timing:
IUI is usually scheduled 36 hours after the trigger, ensuring sperm meets the egg at the right time.
💊 5. Progesterone Support (Luteal Phase Support)
After IUI, progesterone may be prescribed in the form of tablets, vaginal capsules, or injections to support the uterine lining and help with early implantation.
Especially recommended in:
- Women with recurrent IUI failure
- Thin endometrial lining
Short luteal phase
What If Medications Don't Work?
If ovulation doesn’t occur despite medications, or if cycles repeatedly fail, we may:
- Increase or adjust doses
- Switch medications (e.g., from oral to injectables)
- Consider IVF for better control and fertilization
The goal is never to rush, but to respond compassionately and wisely to each body’s signals.
Final Thoughts: Empowered, Informed Fertility Care
Every IUI journey is unique — and so is your medication plan. While these medicines may sound intimidating, they are simply tools to gently guide your body toward conception.
At Dr. Richa Gangwar’s best fertility clinic in Lucknow, you’re never just given a prescription — you’re given clarity, emotional support, and a trusted plan that prioritizes your well-being.
Whether you’re just starting your IUI journey or looking for a second opinion, we’re here — every step of the way.
