IVF cycle monitoring is an important part of your fertility journey

Human reproduction is a complex and precise process, especially when it involves in vitro fertilization (IVF). Thankfully, Erika Munch MD, our San Antonio infertility doctor, carefully plans each step, including IVF cycle monitoring. The bloodwork and ultrasounds that occur as part of this process play vital roles in how IVF works.

Why is monitoring so important?

During IVF, you will take injectable fertility medications to help multiple eggs grow and mature in your ovaries. However, each woman is different, so Dr. Munch needs to closely monitor your body’s response to these medications. The results of each IVF cycle monitoring appointment tell her whether she needs to adjust your medication dosage to increase your likelihood of success and avoid complications.

Cycle monitoring is also valuable because it helps our San Antonio infertility doctor determine the precise time when your eggs will be ready for the outpatient egg retrieval procedure.

How does IVF cycle monitoring work?

When you begin ovarian stimulation for IVF, you will generally take medications for 10 to 14 days. You will schedule your first monitoring appointment with Dr. Munch about four to five days after your first dose of the medication. At your appointment, she will perform bloodwork and an ultrasound every few days to assess the following qualities.

• Estradiol levels increase as your eggs mature in your follicles. If your bloodwork reveals you have higher estradiol numbers, you are likely producing more eggs.
• Follicle count and size are measures of ovarian stimulation success. Using an ultrasound, Dr. Munch will count the number of egg-containing follicles in your ovaries. She will also measure your follicles, which should be 17-20mm for egg retrieval.
• Uterine lining (endometrium) quality can indicate whether your uterus is ready to support a pregnancy. Our San Antonio infertility doctor will assess your endometrial thickness, pattern and development using an ultrasound.

When it comes to how IVF works, precise timing is everything. For the best chance of success, Dr. Munch must ensure your eggs are mature for the retrieval procedure and that you have not already ovulated. Additionally, your uterus must be ready to support a baby when the eventual embryo transfer occurs.

Due to our team’s careful IVF cycle monitoring and extensive experience, we know how to increase your odds of IVF and pregnancy success. Contact us to schedule a consultation and learn more.