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30 March 2025

Do ovulation-stimulating medications really cause thinning of the uterine lining? Answered by Dr. Kitti Chattratrakulchai.


30 March 2025
Updates

Q: Do ovulation-stimulating medications really cause thinning of the uterine lining?

A: Ovulation-stimulating medications currently available include two main types. The first is OVINUM, which is commonly used due to its affordability. This medication does promote egg growth, but a disadvantage is that it can cause thinning of the uterine lining. However, the effect of the drug lasts for about 7 days, so there is no need to worry because after the drug's effect wears off, the uterine lining will return to normal. The second medication, LETROZOLE, is another option and is found to have the advantage of not causing uterine lining thinning, as compared to OVINUM. The only downside is that LETROZOLE tends to be more expensive.

What is ovulation-stimulating medication?

Ovulation-stimulating medications are used to stimulate the hormones in women so that the ovaries produce eggs that are of good quality and in sufficient quantity, according to the doctor's criteria, to be used for fertilization in procedures such as IUI, IVF, or ICSI. These medications are divided into two types:

  1. Oral ovulation-stimulating medications

  2. Injectable ovulation-stimulating medications

Both types of medications must be evaluated by a doctor to ensure they are appropriate for each patient, as the choice of medication and dosage depends on various factors, such as the patient's age, health issues, and any fertility problems that the doctor may have identified.

Preparation before ovulation stimulation

In cases where the patient administers the injection themselves, they should strictly follow the doctor's instructions.

  • Inject and take the medication exactly as prescribed by the doctor.

  • Avoid sexual intercourse during the egg stimulation process.

  • Refrain from intense physical exercise.

  • Choose to consume food that is healthy and beneficial, without harming the body.

  • Get at least 8 hours of rest.

  • Follow the doctor's orders, and if there are any further questions, consult the doctor immediately.

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The Biological Clock

This tool indicates:

  • Natural conception per month if you have no fertility issues
  • IVF success rate at the same age
  • When to seek help after months of unsuccessful attempts

If you are concerned at any stage – we recommend booking a doctor appointment or a free nurse consultation. The sooner you make a plan the better your chances in the long term.

When to seek advice early

  • If you have polycystic ovaries, endometriosis, or have been through a cancer diagnosis; we recommend you get in touch quickly so we can talk you through all your options and give you the greatest possible chance of success.
  • If you’re a single woman considering motherhood in the future; it’s best to approach us early and consider egg freezing as this can be an option for you while you have a higher ovarian reserve and healthier eggs.
Set your age and the months you’ve been trying to conceive
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Your chance of having a baby per month for fertile couples
Your chance of having a baby per IVF cycle (if experiencing infertility)

Body Mass Index calculator

Being overweight or underweight can reduce fertility, so it is important to keep your body weight within the normal healthy range.

Body Mass Index (BMI) is an indication of your body weight and can be calculated by dividing weight by height. You should aim for a BMI of between 20 and 25, as this will optimise your chances of conception.

Woman’s BMI below 19

Even in these modern times, nature knows best. If a woman's BMI falls below 19, the body senses famine and ovulation is switched off to prevent the risk of having a baby with malnutrition. Excessive exercise can reduce body fat and increase muscle mass to a point where periods cease for the same reason. Risk of miscarriage is also increased in women with a low BMI.

Being underweight

If a woman's BMI falls below 19, the body senses famine and ovulation is switched off to prevent the risk of having a baby with malnutrition. Excessive exercise can reduce body fat and increase muscle mass to a point where periods cease for the same reason. Risk of miscarriage is also increased in women with a low BMI.

BMI’s greater than 30

This can reduce fertility by 50%. Pregnancy for women with a 30+ BMI is often associated with problems such as maternal diabetes, high blood pressure, big babies and increased risk of caesarean section.

Add your height and weight to calculate your BMI