During the surrogacy process, gestational carriers undergo a series of treatments to boost their chances of a successful embryo implantation. IVF clinics perform a series of tests to gauge important fertility measurements including ovulation times (via luteinizing hormone surges), hysterosalpingography (to detect any abnormalities in the uterine cavity), and other hormone testing to make sure that it’s safe for a carrier to have a baby.
From there, surrogates undergo a course of medication that helps prepare them for a pregnancy. The medications of course vary based on what each woman needs, but here are some common drugs that are used for fertility:
What Medications Are Used In Fertility Treatments?
1. Doxycycline
What is it used for?
Doxycycline is a common antibiotic used to fight a wide variety of unwanted bacteria in the body. While not always used, doxycycline can help prep you for the surrogacy cycle.
How do I take it?
Generally, it’s prescribed as an oral tablet. You’ll take it for one or two periods before (and/or after) the embryo transfer.
2. Estrogen
What is it used for?
Estrogen is a naturally-occurring hormone produced by the ovaries. It helps thicken the uterine lining and aids in the maintenance of early pregnancy. Estrogen is commonly administered in the form of birth control pills, which you’ll take to help sync with an intended parent’s or egg donor’s cycle.
How do I take it?
Orally, or via suppository, injection, or patch.
3. Lupron
What is it used for?
Lupron inhibits the secretion of hormones that control your menstrual cycle. This helps to prevent premature ovulation, giving your endocrinologist better control and understanding of your natural cycle. Lupron is often used in combination with birth control to help coordinate cycles between surrogates and egg donors or intended mothers.
How do I take it?
Lupron is an injection. It’s usually self-administered.
4. Progesterone
What is it used for?
Progesterone is a hormone produced by the ovaries after ovulation. After estrogen builds up the uterine lining, progesterone signals your body to begin producing the nutrients needed to support an embryo.
How do I take it?
There are a wide variety of ways to take progesterone. While it’s usually administered as an injection, it also comes in suppository, gel, and pill form.
5. Medrol
What is it used for?
Medrol is a steroid prescribed generally in low doses to suppress the autoimmune system. This is important in the implantation of an embryo — overactive immune systems can make it difficult to successfully implant.
How do I take it?
Medrol is prescribed as an oral tablet.
6. Tetracycline
What is it used for?
Tetracycline is an antibiotic used in much the same way as doxycycline: it helps prevent infection during the embryo transfer, and aids in successful implantation.
How do I take it?
Tetracycline is administered orally.
Final thoughts
You’ll find that different surrogacy cycles call for different medications, and so this is by no means an exhaustive list of the medications that may be used during your journey. Every body is different, and doses, types of medications, and the timing of the medication schedule will all change based on what’s best for you.
Hey there. If you’re reading this article, you’re probably interested in working as a surrogate. If that’s the case, submit an intake form with us today to learn more about working with Love & Kindness, and take the first steps on your way to becoming a gestational carrier.