Treatment overview

• If there are irregularities in the menstrual cycle due to insufficient or abnormal release of FSH/LH
• Failure of ovarian function control (hypogonadotropic hypogonadism) caused by eating disorders, competitive sports, tumours or congenital diseases
• In women with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)

The partner’s sperm quality and fertility must be optimal.

Ovulation induction uses medication to trigger ovulation. Hormone-supported maturation of egg cells should cause 2-3 egg cells to mature. Fertilisation takes place by means of precisely scheduled natural sexual intercourse.

• When the sperm is the problem.
• When normal sexual activity is not possible due to physical limitations (injuries, erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, etc.).
• When the cervical mucus prevents semen from passing through.

IUI can only be successful if there are sufficient viable and motile sperm in the ejaculate.

In IUI, the male’s semen is inserted directly into the uterine cavity using a fine catheter. This is done at the time of ovulation. This means that the sperm cells do not have to travel all the way from the vagina through the cervix to the uterine cavity, giving them an advantage. Hormonal stimulation (in women) can, but does not always have to be, carried out in advance.

• For fallopian tube blockages
• For hormonal disorders relating to ovarian function
• If the woman has endometriosis
• If conservative therapeutic attempts have been exhausted in cases of unexplained infertility

The partner’s sperm quality and fertility must be optimal.

In IVF, the egg is fertilised outside the womb under strictly controlled laboratory conditions. The partner’s sperm is also extracted for fertilisation. Fertilisation is carried out by mixing the entire prepared male ejaculate with the eggs.

• If successful fertilisation of the egg cell is unlikely even with IVF. For example, because the sperm quality is inadequate or previous IVF treatments were unsuccessful.
• When very few sperm cells can be collected.

ICSI is a special fertilisation method used alongside IVF. The treatment steps are basically the same as for IVF. In ICSI, a male sperm cell is injected directly into the egg under the microscope.