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Stimulation & induction

• Hematoma
  A hematoma (collection of blood) may form as a result of the injection.
  
  
• Swelling and redness
  Swelling, redness and pain at the injection site may occur.
  
  
• Allergic reactions
  Allergic reactions to the gonadotropins occur in only a small percentage of patients.
  
  
• Heachaches, hot flashes and mood swings
  Headaches, menopausal-like hot flashes and mild mood swings may occur as a result of gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) agonist down regulation. Some patients also complain of mild joint pain.
  
  
• Fluid in the abdomen
  A collection of fluid in the abdomen and chest cavity may occur due to excessive stimulation.
  
  
• Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS)
  OHSS is a serious medical problem that can happen when the ovaries are overstimulated. In the rare case, it has caused death. OHSS causes fluid to build up suddenly in the stomach and chest areas.
  
  Call your healthcare professional right away if you get any of the following symptoms: 

· Severe pelvic pain (lower stomach area)
·Nausea
·Vomiting
·Sudden weight gain
·Reduced urine output

• Abnormal clotting
  Abnormal clotting can result from severe hyperstimulation and can be life-threatening. This occurs rarely.

• Multiple births
  Treatment with gonadotropins can result in multiple births. Your healthcare professional will discuss your chances of multiple births.
  

Retrieval

• Internal bleeding
  Internal bleeding caused by the needle used in vaginal ultrasonically guided egg retrieval is rare.
  
  
• Pelvic infection
  Pelvic infection does occur on occasion but usually responds to antibiotic therapy.
  
  
• Pelvic abscesses
  Pelvic abscesses can develop but this occurs rarely.

IVF

• Ectopic pregnancy
  Ectopic pregnancy, usually tubal, may occur with ART procedures or IVF. Embryos that are replaced in the uterus may migrate into the fallopian tube because of uterine contractions. These early embryos may lodge in the oviduct or fallopian tube rather than return to the uterine cavity for normal implantation.

It is important to discuss these and other risks with your doctor.