Does IVF Medication Have Side Effects?

Of all the fertility treatment options available to women and couples today, in vitro fertilization (IVF) is one of the most popular and effective pathways for getting pregnant. The process requires constant monitoring to ensure a woman’s hormone levels are optimized to not just boost egg production, but also improve implantation odds once an embryo is transferred to the uterus. This goal is achieved often through medications. Although necessary, these prescriptions can create side effects, with the most severe being ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS). Knowing the risks and what to expect during an IVF cycle can help women and couples make informed choices and be better prepared.

What is OHSS?

OHSS is condition that occurs in the ovaries because of ovarian stimulation when the organ has increased exposure to hormones. Although the condition could happen to any woman, most people who are diagnosed are usually actively undergoing fertility treatments. The main culprit is human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), which is responsible for ensuring the eggs mature before the retrieval step. The most common symptoms associated with OHSS are bloating, vomiting, nausea, pain near the ovaries, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. In severe cases, women might experience weight gain, poor urination, serious pain, abdominal swelling, blood clots, or difficulty breathing.

Other side effects

OHSS is considered a worst-case scenario with IVF, but other side effects are possible that usually resolve once a cycle is completed. For example, many people commonly report experiencing headaches, mood swings, fatigue, and breast tenderness while in treatment. Likewise, some of the symptoms linked to OHSS can also occur, but less intensely, in people who do not have the condition. Bloating and nausea are very common and can be experienced without turning severe. Some women have even reported experiencing menopausal-like symptoms such as hot flashes, mood swings, and trouble sleeping. In other cases, some patients struggle with fluid retention.

When to seek help

Some symptoms are a sign that a medical emergency is developing. If a woman experiences rapid weight gain, such as 3-5 pounds within a few days, seek immediate help. Likewise, severe nausea, dehydration, vomiting, extreme or worsening abdominal pain or bloating, shortness of breath, and difficulty breathing shouldn’t be ignored.

Be an informed participant

Especially for women, IVF requires medication to be successful. Although beneficial, side effects are possible and can greatly reduce quality of life during a cycle. If symptoms are too intense, speak up. A fertility specialist can work with a pharmacist if necessary to adjust dosages to help control side effects. More importantly, asking about the benefits and risks of medication during prescribing visits can help women be more informed and knowledgeable about what to expect during a cycle.