Progynova is a medication that contains estradiol valerate as its active component. Essentially, Progynova refers to tablets of estradiol, which is considered the primary female hormone, and is taken orally to be absorbed by the body.
What is Estradiol?
Estradiol is a hormone that is naturally produced by the follicle, which is the structure that develops in the ovary and encases the egg during its growth. During the initial phase of the menstrual cycle, as the follicle increases in size, estradiol levels rise in the woman’s bloodstream, producing various effects throughout the body.
This method is typically employed in the context of an embryo transfer where it is necessary to regulate the woman’s menstrual cycle, both in intensity and duration. For instance, this approach may be used in frozen embryo transfer or oocyte donation procedure.
Estradiol is crucial in most of the female sexual characteristics and is responsible for the changes that occur during the menstrual cycle, especially in the first phase. After ovulation, the second phase of the cycle starts. In this phase, estradiol is secreted by the corpus luteum, which is the structure that remains in the ovary following ovulation. Estradiol, along with progesterone, is fundamental in regulating the menstrual cycle during this phase.
What is Progynova?
Progynova is an artificial hormone replacement that is utilized to increase the thickness of the uterus lining in readiness for embryo transfer in a frozen embryo transfer cycle. The typical way to use Progynova is to take it once a day starting from the first day of the menstrual cycle. Before the start of the cycle, the medical dosage will be provided. The medication should be taken until the day of the pregnancy test. If the result is positive, you should continue taking the tablets for an additional six weeks. In the event of a negative test result, you can cease taking the tablets and expect a period to begin within a few days.
How long do you take Progynova for IVF?
The duration of taking Progynova during an IVF cycle may vary depending on the specific treatment protocol prescribed by the doctor. However, typically Progynova is taken daily starting from the first or second day of the menstrual cycle and continuing until the day of the embryo transfer.
If a pregnancy is confirmed, the medication may be continued for several weeks or as advised by the healthcare provider. In the absence of pregnancy, the medication is usually stopped and a menstrual period is expected within a few days. The exact duration and dosage of Progynova will be determined by the doctor based on individual patient needs and medical history.
What are the side effects of Progynova during IVF?
Like any medication, Progynova can cause side effects. Some of the common side effects that may occur during IVF treatment with Progynova include:
- Nausea or vomiting
- Breast tenderness or swelling
- Headaches
- Abdominal pain or bloating
- Mood changes or irritability
- Fatigue or dizziness
- Skin rash or itching
More serious side effects are rare, but they may include blood clots, stroke, or heart attack. It’s important to seek medical attention if you experience any severe or concerning symptoms while taking Progynova. If you have any questions or concerns about the potential side effects of Progynova, it’s recommended to discuss them with your healthcare provider.
Who should not use Progynova?
Progynova serves a vital role in IVF treatments by preparing the uterine lining for embryo implantation. However, it is not universally suitable. Certain individuals should consider alternatives due to health risks.
- Firstly, if one experiences unexplained vaginal bleeding, it necessitates thorough medical examination prior to initiating any hormonal regimen.
- Additionally, those with a history of blood clots should avoid Progynova. The medication could heighten the risk of developing new clots.
- People diagnosed with estrogen-sensitive cancers, such as certain types of breast cancer, must also steer clear.
- Severe liver disease presents another contraindication. Progynova demands significant liver involvement for its metabolism, making it unsuitable for those with compromised liver function.
- Uncontrolled high blood pressure poses a considerable risk when taking Progynova, as it may exacerbate the condition.
- Lastly, an allergy to any of Progynova’s components, including estradiol or other excipients, is a clear signal to avoid its use.
Careful consideration of these contraindications ensures safer IVF journeys for all individuals.
Source:
Orief, Y. I., Mahmoud, T. H., & AbdElwahed, H. S. (2022). COMPARISON BETWEEN THE EFFECT OF FIXED AND ASCENDING DOSE OF ESTROGEN DURING ENDOMETRIAL PREPERATION FOR FROZEN EMBRYO TRANSFER. ALEXMED ePosters, 4(3), 28-29.
