Day of hCG Administration

1. Lupron® is discontinued when hCG is given. 
2. hCG is given when mature follicles are present on ultrasound. 
3. 5,000 or 10,000 units of hCG are given intramuscularly at the time indicated by the nurse, depending on the time of retrieval. 250 mcg of Ovidrel (recombinant hCG) can also be used subcutaneously.
4. Alternatively, Lupron®, 1 mg or 20 units may be used to trigger follicle maturation.   This can only be used in cycles utilizing a GnRH antagonist. 

Following Retrieval

1. Following oocyte retrieval, you will be discharged home within approximately 1-2 hours. 
2. You may not be fully alert for several hours after discharge. Do not drive after being discharged on the day of retrieval. 
3. Limit your activity for 24 hours after the procedure. 
4. Medications - Some programs prescribe antibiotics or steroids before embryo transfer.  Follow the instructions given to you by your providers.  
5. Call the office if you experience any of the following problems:
   • Difficulty breathing
   • Excessive bleeding
   • Severe pain
   • Fever
   • Any other disturbing problem

Progesterone Supplementation

1. Progesterone may be administered intramuscularly, orally, and/or vaginally, depending on your physician's instructions.  Supplementation is maintained until a negative beta hCG or until discontinuation is recommended with a viable pregnancy. 
2. The dosage of progesterone may vary in some instances based on the patient's history.

Pregnancy Follow-up

1. An initial pregnancy test is obtained 9-13 days after the embryo transfer and is repeated as necessary. 
2. If pregnant, an ultrasound scan is recommended approximately four weeks after embryo transfer to assess the pregnancy. 
3. The patient will return to her obstetrician after ultrasound confirmation of a viable pregnancy to continue prenatal care.

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