How long does IVF stimulation last?

IVF stimulation typically lasts 8-14 days, depending on how your ovaries respond to the medications. Your doctor will monitor your follicle growth with ultrasounds and adjust the timeline accordingly.

When should I take my IVF trigger shot?

The trigger shot (hCG like Ovidrel/Pregnyl, or Lupron) is typically given 34-36 hours before egg retrieval. Your clinic will give you a specific time based on your scheduled retrieval - timing is critical.

What time of day should I take IVF stims?

Most clinics recommend taking stimulation medications in the evening, typically between 6-10 PM. The key is consistency - take them at the same time each day. Your clinic may have specific timing requirements.

Can I change my IVF injection time?

Small changes (1-2 hours) are usually fine, but always check with your clinic first. If you need to adjust timing, do it gradually over a few days rather than all at once.

What happens if I miss an IVF stim injection?

Take it as soon as you remember. If it's close to your next dose, contact your clinic for guidance. Missing one dose usually won't ruin your cycle, but consistent timing is important for optimal results.

When do I start Cetrotide or Ganirelix?

Antagonist medications are typically started around day 5-6 of stims, or when your lead follicle reaches 12-14mm. Your clinic will tell you exactly when to start based on your monitoring results.

IVF Stims Medication Schedule Template

Managing multiple IVF medications with different dosages and timing can feel overwhelming. This guide walks you through the stimulation phase and provides a framework for tracking your medications during the 8-14 day stims period.

How IVF Stimulation Works

Start on cycle day 2-3 after baseline bloodwork and ultrasound

Begin daily gonadotropin injections (Gonal-F, Menopur) at prescribed times

Add antagonist medication (Cetrotide, Ganirelix) when follicles reach 12-14mm

Attend monitoring scans every 2-3 days to track follicle growth

Take trigger shot at exact prescribed time (usually 34-36 hours before retrieval)

Common Stimulation Medications

Medication	Type	Purpose	Timing
Gonal-F / Follistim	FSH	Stimulates egg production	Once daily, evening
Menopur	FSH + LH	Stimulates egg production	Once daily, evening
Cetrotide / Ganirelix	Antagonist	Prevents premature ovulation	Once daily, morning or evening
Ovidrel / Pregnyl	Trigger	Final egg maturation	Single dose at exact time
Lupron	GnRH Agonist	Trigger or suppression	As prescribed

Tips for Tracking Your Stims

Do

• Take medications at the same time daily
• Set phone reminders for each injection
• Log doses immediately after taking them
• Keep medications properly refrigerated
• Rotate injection sites on your abdomen

Don't

• Skip doses without calling your clinic
• Change dosages on your own
• Take trigger shot at wrong time
• Forget to attend monitoring appointments
• Inject in the same spot repeatedly

Track Your Stims in IVFPath

Use our free app to set medication reminders, log your doses, and track your stims schedule digitally. Never miss a dose again.

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What is an IVF stims medication schedule?