ABSTRACT
Approximately 20% of infertile patients present with underlying ovulatory dysfunction as a major contributing factor to their infertility. Compared to other etiologies, ovulatory problems are often the easiest to correct. However, before any treatment is started, it is important to delineate the underlying cause of the ovulatory dysfunction (refer to the clinical algorithms in Chapter 5). The causes of ovulatory dysfunction are varied and can be categorized into hypergonadotropic (ovarian failure), eugonadotropic (chronic anovulation), and hypogonadotropic (hypothalamic, weight-related) states. Women who have ovarian failure or are perimenopausal generally do not respond favorably to medical treatment. There are many different medications, both oral and injectable, that can be used as part of ovarian stimulation. The choice of medication depends on the clinical presentation and the goal of the specified treatment. This chapter will review the current approach to ovulation induction.
