Womb Preparation

IVF Step 4: Preparing your womb to receive the embryos

The lining of your womb (endometrium) will have been well developed during the stimulation part of the cycle by oestrogen produced by the ovary.   Once the eggs are removed, a hormone called Progesterone prepares the endometrium ready for implantation of the embryo.  Progesterone supplements are usually given until the pregnancy test is taken.  This will ensure that the endometrium stays thick and offers the best environment for the developing embryo to implant and result in a pregnancy.

The supplements that may be prescribed for you depend on your personal circumstances.  Utrogestan or Cyclogest pessaries are the most common form of progesterone supplements used at the clinic in fresh treatment cycles.  During frozen treatment cycles, either Utrogestan or Cyclogest pessaries are used along with Lubion injections.

Utrogestan

Utrogestan is in a tablet form and is given vaginally.  It is started on the same evening as the trigger injection at a dose of 600 mg per night.

Cyclogest

Cyclogest is also in a tablet form and is also given vaginally. Again, it is started on the same evening as the trigger injection.  The dose of Cyclogest is 800 mg per night.

These pessaries are inserted at bedtime, as drowsiness is a common side effect when Utrogestan or  Cyclogest is used.  It also helps . Side effects are rare but local inflammation may cause vaginal discomfort.

Page Last Modified: 29th October 2024