GESTATIONAL SURROGACY MEDICATIONS
Learn More About Medications
Gestational Surrogacy Medications
The medications involved in a gestational surrogacy cycle are listed below. Please note that each surrogate responds differently to her individual medication. Some surrogates will experience no side effects at all. You will also have the opportunity to discuss the fertility clinic’s specific protocol with your IVF nurse at your medical evaluation appointment.
When you have questions about your medication you must contact your IVF Coordinator at the clinic for guidance. These medications are self administered. You will have monitoring appointments to check your levels. During these appointments you will have ultrasounds and bloodwork. The doctor will be able to determine if the medication is working properly and if you are following instructions.
What Is The Process?
DOXYCYCLINE
Use:
Doxycycline is a pre-cycle antibiotic that prevents any possible low-grade pelvic infection.
Side Effects:
None, but varies per individual.
Administration:
Oral tablet.
BIRTH CONTROL PILLS
Use:
The fertility clinic needs to be completely in control of your cycle in order to successfully plan the embryo transfer. That’s why you will need to take, and stop taking, birth control pills as a surrogacy medication in accordance with the guidance from your clinic.
Side Effects:
None, but varies per individual.
Administration:
Oral tablet.
LUPRON
Leuprolide Acetate
Use:
Lupron prevents the usual hormone exchange that causes follicle production and ovulation by suppressing the pituitary stimulation to the ovaries.
Side Effects:
Headache, fatigue, hot flashes.
Administration:
Lupron is an injection given subcutaneously (in the fatty tissue) by a ½ inch needle under the skin.
PROGESTOGEN
Use:
Just before the transfer, you will most likely need to take an injection of progestogen, which aids in preparing the uterine lining for the implantation of the embryo. This injection does involve a larger needle and is delivered intramuscularly, which means it may be a bit more painful.
Side Effects:
Headache, fatigue
Administration:
Is an injection given subcutaneously (in the fatty tissue) by a ½ inch needle under the skin.
MEDROL
Use:
Some surrogacy medication timelines will include Medrol, which is a low-dose steroid that some fertility clinics use to improve the chances of a successful embryo transfer.
Side Effects:
Headache, fatigue
Administration:
Is an injection
LOW DOSE ASPIRIN
Use:
Aspirin assists with cycle stimulation and impending embryonic implantation. This medication will continue until 12 weeks of pregnancy.
Side Effects:
Upset stomach, heartburn, easy bruising or bleeding.
Administration:
Oral tablet.
VIVELLE PATCHES
Estradiol
Use:
Estrogen is a hormone that helps grow the lining of the uterus which maintains an early pregnancy.
Side Effects:
Skin redness, irritation or rash, nausea, fluid retention.
Administration:
The patch is applied to the skin on the abdomen and the estrogen is absorbed through the skin.
Prenatal Vitamins
Use:
Like any other woman preparing to become pregnant, it’s important to take care of your body with prenatal vitamins taken before and after the embryo transfer. Check with your clinic to see if there is a specific brand that they recommend.
Side Effects:
None
Administration:
Oral medication