If you are going through your fertility treatment, you may come across the term “TRIGGER SHOT”. You may wonder what is the meaning of that and what is the purpose of having a trigger shot in your IVF procedure. This article will help you understand what it is and why it is used in your fertility treatment.
What is a Trigger Shot?
One crucial phase in the IVF fertility therapy process is a trigger shot. The purpose of this injection is to assist the eggs in reaching the last stage of development and shedding off the follicular wall, to which they are firmly connected. Healthy embryonic development can only result from mature eggs. Because it causes the ovaries to release the mature eggs, it is referred to as a “trigger.”
Why Trigger Shot is Given?
A hormone known as human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is present in the trigger injection. HCG is vital because it replicates the natural hormones in a woman’s body that encourage eggs to finish maturing. The eggs might not be prepared for fertilisation without this shot, which is crucial for IVF to be successful. They are familiar with other names such as Ovidrel, Novarel, and Pregnyl.
How Does it Work?
HCG is more often known as the “pregnancy hormone.” However, when administered as a trigger shot, hCG functions more similarly to the luteinizing hormone (LH), which is produced by the pituitary gland. LH can be released just before ovulation and is in charge of getting the eggs ready to develop and ultimately hatch.
One type of treatment known as gonadotropin therapy includes trigger shots. For the past century, this kind of reproductive treatment has existed in many forms and has improved over the past decades.
Benefits and Use of Gonadotropins
Gonadotropins are helpful because they stimulate the ovaries in the following ways:
- Stimulate the ovaries to ovulate in any way.
- Stops weak ovulation and enhances active ovulation.
Lupron is a more recent trigger-shot alternative to the hCG hormone. It stimulates an increase in LH by using an agonist (drug) rather than hCG (hormone).
For a higher risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) or if there are other reasons why a typical trigger shot isn’t the best option for you, your doctor might advise using Lupron.
When is the Trigger Shot Given?
When it comes to IVF, timing is crucial, especially when giving the trigger injection. The injection is usually administered about 36 hours prior to the planned egg retrieval date. Because it aligns with the natural cycle of egg release, this exact timing is crucial.
For example, you typically take the trigger shot late Wednesday night if your egg retrieval is scheduled for Friday morning. Stick to your doctor’s schedule closely, as even small delays can impact your IVF treatment. Following their advice ensures your eggs are ready for the best chance of success.
How Trigger Shots are Administered?
The trigger shot can be administered intramuscularly, which means deeper into the muscle, or it can be injected into the layer of fat immediately beneath the skin, generally around the abdomen. Your fertility experts will walk you through the process of giving yourself the shot. Although that may sound a little frightening, you’ll probably feel ready and encouraged when the time comes.
Your physician will give you thorough instructions and might even arrange a practice session to make sure you feel comfortable. To guarantee that the drug is delivered appropriately, it is crucial to carefully follow their instructions. For emotional support and to guarantee correct technique, it might also be beneficial to have a friend or partner support.
What Are the Consequences of Missing the Trigger Shot?
Taking the trigger injection at the incorrect time or missing it can make your IVF cycle more difficult. It’s crucial to get in touch with your fertility clinic right away if this occurs. Although prompt communication is essential, they might be able to change the time of your egg pick-up. Your doctor could still be able to save the cycle by changing the drug schedule or rescheduling the egg retrieval, depending on the circumstances.
But occasionally missing the shot means delaying the cycle, which may be difficult on both an emotional and financial level. For the treatment to be successful, you must have a plan and set reminders to make sure the shot is administered at the exact time your doctor has prescribed.
Side Effects of the Trigger Shot
The trigger shot used in fertility treatments is generally safe, but some women may experience adverse effects. Here are some possible side effects to keep in mind as follows:
- Mild Injection Site Discomfort : The most frequent adverse effect is mild soreness or irritation where the injection was given.
- Bloating or Abdominal Discomfort : Abdominal discomfort is a common symptom for most women who take the trigger shot. This occurs due to heightened ovarian activity and enlargement.
- Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS) : Overreaction to the hormones in the trigger shot might result in OHSS, which can cause enlarged ovaries and possibly
Importance of Trigger Shot in IVF
A tiny but powerful component of the IVF procedure is the trigger injection. The likelihood of successful fertilisation in the lab is increased by making sure the eggs are ripe. Even though it could seem like just another injection, this step is essential to many couples’ ability to fulfil their ambition of becoming parents.
Conclusion
In IVF, the trigger shot is a crucial step in getting the eggs ready for fertilisation and retrieval, increasing the likelihood of a good outcome. Even though it can provide difficulties or issues, it plays a vital part in assisted reproduction.
Navigating the IVF procedure can be made simpler by being aware of each step, including the trigger injection. You can feel more in control and ready for the excitement ahead if you know what is coming up.
FAQ’s
The most reliable sign is confirmed ovulation. The Inito monitor can test PdG levels in your urine to verify ovulation.
Yes, following the trigger shot, small-to-medium-sized follicles keep growing and maturing until egg retrieval. This growth is crucial for obtaining viable eggs for fertilisation.
