Ovulation InductiIon Timed Intercourse (OI-TI)
What is Ovulation induction-timed intercourse?
Ovulation induction with timed intercourse is a form of infertility treatment that involves stimulating ovulation (the release of an egg from the ovary) and then timing intercourse to coincide with ovulation. The goal of ovulation induction with timed intercourse is to increase the chances of pregnancy by ensuring that sperm are present in the fallopian tubes when the egg is released.
What is the process of Ovulation induction-timed intercourse?
The process of ovulation induction typically involves taking medication, to stimulate ovulation. These medications work by increasing the levels of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) in the body, which in turn stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs.
Once ovulation is predicted, the couple is advised to have intercourse, and in some cases, the doctor may recommend intrauterine insemination (IUI) to increase the chances of fertilization. This can be done by a simple procedure where the sperm is collected and placed directly into the uterus, close to the time of ovulation, increasing the chances of fertilization.
When is Ovulation induction-timed intercourse procedure recommended?
Ovulation induction with timed intercourse is often used as a first-line treatment for couples with infertility issues related to ovulation. It is considered to be a less invasive, less expensive and less complex treatment than other fertility treatments. This may include conditions such as:
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): A condition in which the ovaries produce too much androgen, leading to irregular ovulation or anovulation (absence of ovulation)
- Hypothalamic amenorrhea: A condition in which the hypothalamus, a part of the brain that controls the pituitary gland, doesn’t release enough gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) to stimulate ovulation
- Hyperprolactinemia: A condition in which there is an excessive production of the hormone prolactin, which can interfere with ovulation
- Luteal phase defect: A condition in which the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle is shorter than usual, which can prevent implantation of a fertilized egg.
It’s also recommended for couples with mild male factor infertility, such as low sperm count or poor sperm motility. Ovulation induction with timed intercourse is considered to be a less invasive, less expensive, and less complex treatment than in vitro fertilization (IVF) and has a relatively higher success rate.
