Birth control pills before starting IVF - why?

If you have been looking into fertility treatments to get pregnant, or already know that you are undergoing a cycle of invitro fertilization (IVF) soon, you might be overwhelmed with all the preparations that IVF involve. One thing that you might not expect, unlike for instance injectables before IVF, is to be put on the birth control pill the cycle before you start IVF. Yet, this is not at all uncommon. If you are wondering why on earth you should use a contraceptive the month before you start IVF, because you are obviously trying to get pregnant, we have some answers for you.

Reproductive endocrinologists do not prescribe the birth control pill to some patients for contraceptive reasons that one was probably already clear to you. One reason why the birth control pill is sometimes recommended before starting invitro fertilization is to bring on a period at a certain date. Your being on the pill the month prior to an IVF cycle actually gives your doctors more control over your cycle, thereby increasing the chances for success. Hormonal birth control has also been shown in some studies to reduce the risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, a nasty and serious side effect of injectible fertility medications.

Ovarian cysts are also less likely to occur if you go on the birth control pill the month before you undergo IVF. Some people even suggest that hormonal birth control can help increase the chances of getting pregnant during your cycle. That does not mean that the birth control pill is prescribed to everyone who undergoes invitro fertilization. When it comes to IVF, every woman's situation is different and discussing your needs with your medical team in advance, and then sticking to the agreements, offer the best chances for IVF success.