IVF Medications Explained: What You'll Take and Why

IVF involves several medications at different stages. Understanding what each does—and why—helps you feel more confident about your treatment. This guide explains every medication you might encounter.

Key Takeaways

• Three phases: Stimulation (FSH, antagonists), trigger shot (hCG), and post-retrieval support (progesterone)
• Self-injection: Most medications use small needles similar to insulin; it becomes routine after a few days
• Timing is critical: The trigger shot must be given exactly 36 hours before egg retrieval
• Medication costs: Total medication costs typically range EUR 700-1,400, often cheaper in Portugal than UK
• Side effects: Most are mild and temporary, including bloating, breast tenderness, and mood changes

Overview: The Medication Timeline

Phase	Duration	Main Medications
Stimulation	10-14 days	FSH, LH/hMG, GnRH antagonist
Trigger	1 injection	hCG or GnRH agonist
Post-retrieval	2+ weeks	Progesterone

Stimulation Medications

FSH (Follicle-Stimulating Hormone)

Brand names: Gonal-F, Puregon, Follistim

What it does: Stimulates your ovaries to produce multiple follicles (eggs)

How it's given: Daily subcutaneous injection (tiny needle, like insulin)

When: Days 1-10 of stimulation (approximately)

Side effects:

• Bloating
• Mild cramping
• Breast tenderness
• Mood swings

LH or hMG (Human Menopausal Gonadotropin)

Brand names: Menopur, Pergoveris

What it does: Contains both FSH and LH to support follicle development

How it's given: Daily subcutaneous injection, often combined with FSH

When: Throughout stimulation

Side effects: Similar to FSH

GnRH Antagonist

Brand names: Cetrotide, Orgalutran, Ganirelix

What it does: Prevents premature ovulation so eggs don't release before retrieval

How it's given: Daily subcutaneous injection

When: Usually starting day 5-6 of stimulation until trigger

Side effects:

• Injection site reactions
• Headache (rare)
• Generally well-tolerated

The Trigger Shot

hCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin)

Brand names: Ovitrelle, Pregnyl

What it does: Triggers final egg maturation

How it's given: Single injection (subcutaneous or intramuscular)

When: Exactly 36 hours before egg retrieval

Critical: Timing must be precise—even a few hours off can affect results

GnRH Agonist Trigger

Brand names: Lupron, Decapeptyl

What it does: Alternative trigger for patients at risk of OHSS

When: Used instead of hCG in certain protocols

Post-Retrieval Medications

Progesterone

Brand names: Utrogestan, Crinone, Endometrin, Prontogest

What it does: Supports the uterine lining for embryo implantation

How it's given:

• Vaginal pessaries/gel (most common)
• Intramuscular injections
• Oral tablets

When: Starts day of retrieval, continues through early pregnancy

Side effects:

• Vaginal discharge (with pessaries)
• Bloating
• Breast tenderness
• Fatigue
• Mood changes

Estrogen (Sometimes)

Brand names: Progynova, Estrofem

What it does: Supports uterine lining in some protocols

How it's given: Oral tablets or patches

Self-Injection Tips

Most IVF medications require self-injection. It sounds scary but becomes routine quickly.

Tips for success:

• Watch the clinic's instructional videos
• Practice with the pen/syringe (without needle) first
• Ice the area beforehand to numb
• Inject at the same time each evening
• Rotate injection sites
• Pinch skin, insert at 45-90 degrees
• Inject slowly

Common injection sites:

• Lower abdomen (2 inches from belly button)
• Upper thigh

Medication Costs

Medication	Approximate Cost
FSH (Gonal-F/Puregon)	€400-800
GnRH antagonist	€150-300
Trigger shot	€50-100
Progesterone	€100-200
Total	€700-1,400

Tip: Medications are often cheaper in Portugal than UK. Ask your clinic about purchasing locally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do the injections hurt?

The needles are very small (like insulin needles). Most women describe mild discomfort, not pain. It becomes routine after a few days.

What if I miss a dose?

Contact your clinic immediately. For most medications, taking it a few hours late is fine, but don't double up without guidance.

Can I travel with IVF medications?

Yes. Keep medications in original packaging with prescription. Some need refrigeration—use a cooler bag for travel.

How do I store medications?

Some require refrigeration (check packaging). Once opened, most are room temperature. Keep away from heat and light.

What about side effects?

Most side effects are mild and temporary. Severe symptoms (difficulty breathing, severe pain, rapid swelling) require immediate medical attention.

Understanding Your Protocol

Your clinic will provide a detailed medication schedule. Don't hesitate to ask questions—understanding your protocol helps you feel in control.

Book a free consultation to discuss what your treatment protocol might look like.

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Nestiva helps you understand every aspect of your IVF journey in Portugal, including medication guidance and support.