Why are fsh and lh given to women juring ivf treatment?

Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) are essential hormones for fertility and successful pregnancy, and they play crucial roles in the process of in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment. Here are the reasons why FSH and LH are given to women during IVF:

Ovarian stimulation: The primary goal of IVF is to retrieve multiple mature eggs from the ovaries to increase the chances of successful fertilization. FSH and LH are used to stimulate the growth and development of multiple follicles, each of which contains an immature egg. FSH specifically stimulates the growth of follicles by acting on the receptors in the ovaries. LH, on the other hand, supports follicular growth and triggers ovulation (the release of mature eggs from the ovaries).

Controlled Ovarian Hyperstimulation (COH): In IVF, doctors use controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH) to maximize the number of eggs retrieved. FSH and LH are administered to induce multiple follicle growth and development, which leads to the production of several mature eggs. This increases the probability of fertilizing multiple eggs, resulting in a higher chance of successful implantation and pregnancy.

Timing of ovulation: Precise timing of ovulation is crucial for successful IVF treatment. LH plays a vital role in triggering ovulation, which needs to be synchronized with the egg retrieval process. By carefully monitoring LH levels and administering it at specific times, doctors can accurately predict and control the timing of ovulation, ensuring the retrieval of mature eggs at the optimal stage for fertilization.

Synchronization with sperm collection: LH administration helps synchronize the ovulation process with sperm collection from the male partner. By controlling the timing of ovulation through LH, doctors can coordinate it with the collection of sperm, ensuring that viable sperm are available for fertilization at the appropriate time.

Customization of treatment: FSH and LH dosages are carefully tailored based on individual patient characteristics, such as age, ovarian reserve, and response to previous fertility treatments. This customization ensures that each patient receives the appropriate dosage to stimulate follicle growth effectively and optimize their chances of successful IVF treatment.

It is important to note that FSH and LH are administered under the strict supervision of a fertility specialist. Detailed monitoring of hormone levels, ultrasound examinations, and blood tests are performed to closely track the patient's response and adjust the doses accordingly. This careful monitoring minimizes the risk of side effects and ensures the optimal conditions for successful IVF treatment.