Ovulation induction is a simple, effective treatment that uses medication to help the body produce and release an egg – often the first step for women who ovulate irregularly or not at all and can be combined with timed intercourse or intrauterine insemination (IUI) to improve the chances of conception.
In a normal menstrual cycle, the ovaries produce and release a single egg each month. In women who do not ovulate regularly – or at all – this process can be encouraged using fertility medication, either in tablet form (such as clomifene or letrozole) or as injectable gonadotrophins.
Treatment is carefully monitored with ultrasound scans to track follicle development and reduce the risk of multiple pregnancy. When an egg is mature, ovulation may occur naturally or be triggered by an injection.
It is generally not appropriate where both fallopian tubes are blocked or where there is a significant male factor issue. A full assessment is always carried out before treatment begins.
Your consultant will review your history, confirm that ovulation induction is appropriate, and check that your fallopian tubes are open and sperm quality is adequate.
Medication is usually started early in your cycle (typically day 2–5). Tablet-based treatments are taken for five days; injectable gonadotrophins are given daily for a longer period.
You will attend one or two ultrasound scans to track follicle growth and ensure the medication is working at a safe level. This is important to minimise the risk of multiple pregnancy.
When a mature follicle is identified, a trigger injection may be given to time ovulation. You will be advised when to have intercourse or, if IUI is planned, when to attend the clinic for insemination.
A pregnancy test is carried out around two weeks after ovulation. Your nurse will support you during this time.
Aria was founded by fertility professionals, which means every decision is driven by what is best for patients. You will have a dedicated consultant overseeing your care, supported by our team of highly experienced embryologists and nurses, to ensure you receive personalised, compassionate care.
Our laboratory was one of the first in the UK to use AI-assisted embryo selection, and our single-embryo transfer rate and multiple-pregnancy rate (currently 3.7%) reflect our commitment to safe, evidence-based care. We are regulated by the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA) and publish our results transparently.
Our Marylebone clinic offers a calm, unhurried environment and personalised support from the first appointment to the final outcome.
Fertility treatment is a significant financial commitment, and we believe in being transparent about what that means from the outset.
Costs vary depending on your individual treatment plan, the investigations required, and whether additional procedures are recommended. When comparing prices between clinics, it’s worth ensuring you have a full breakdown of all components – consultation fees, monitoring scans, medication, and laboratory costs can vary considerably and are not always included in headline figures.
At Aria, we will discuss the expected costs during your initial consultation and provide you with a fully costed treatment plan before we start, so there are no surprises along the way.
The questions below are intended to give you a clear and honest overview. For advice specific to your situation, we always recommend booking a consultation with one of our team.
What is ovulation induction?
Ovulation induction uses medication to stimulate the ovaries to produce and release an egg in women who do not ovulate regularly. It is one of the simplest fertility treatments available and can be very effective for the right patients.
What is the difference between ovulation induction and IVF?
In ovulation induction, the egg is fertilised naturally inside the body (or via IUI). In IVF, eggs are collected and fertilised outside the body in a laboratory. Ovulation induction is simpler and less invasive but is only suitable in certain clinical situations.
What medication is used for ovulation induction?
The most commonly used medications are clomifene citrate and letrozole (both taken as tablets), or injectable gonadotrophins. The choice depends on your diagnosis, body weight and response to previous treatment. Your consultant will recommend the most appropriate option for you.
What is the risk of twins with ovulation induction?
Ovulation induction carries a small risk of multiple pregnancy, particularly if more than one follicle develops. We monitor your cycle carefully with ultrasound and will advise you to avoid intercourse or cancel insemination if the risk of multiples is considered too high.
How many cycles of ovulation induction will I need?
Most consultants recommend up to six cycles before considering other options. If ovulation is successfully induced but pregnancy has not occurred after several cycles, it may be appropriate to move to IUI or IVF. Your consultant will discuss the best approach based on your response to treatment and your age.
How much does ovulation induction cost at Aria?
Ovulation induction costs vary based on the medications prescribed and the monitoring required. You will be provided with a fully costed treatment plan before proceeding. Visit our Pricing Page for more information.
Where is Aria Fertility?
We are located at 8 Welbeck Way, Marylebone, London W1G 9YL – a short walk from Bond Street Underground station. The clinic is deliberately discreet and calm, situated in a quiet mews in the heart of London’s medical district.
When you are ready and the time is right for you, the next step is to contact us, and we will help you arrange a face-to-face, telephone or video-call introduction with one of our consultants.
You can do this by filling in the contact form below or by calling one of our friendly team members on +44 (0) 203 263 6025.
We really look forward to getting to know you and helping guide you toward your next steps toward your dream family.