Provera in IVF: Unraveling Its Role Beyond Menopause

Greetings from Amma Bear,

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Provera (medroxyprogesterone acetate) is a synthetic form of the hormone progesterone. While it is indeed used in some contexts for the management of menopausal symptoms, its role in the realm of fertility and IVF is quite distinct. Here's why Provera might be used during IVF:

• Inducing Menstruation: For women who have irregular menstrual cycles or amenorrhea (absence of menstrual periods), Provera can be prescribed to induce a withdrawal bleed. This bleed marks the beginning of an IVF cycle, ensuring that the lining of the uterus is at a predictable stage before starting fertility medications.

• Preparing the Endometrium: The hormone progesterone is vital for preparing the lining of the uterus (endometrium) for implantation of an embryo. If there's insufficient natural progesterone, synthetic forms like Provera or other progesterone supplements might be prescribed to support and prepare the uterine lining for a potential pregnancy.

• Luteal Phase Support: After egg retrieval in an IVF cycle, the luteal phase (the second half of the menstrual cycle) may require support to optimize the chances of embryo implantation. Progesterone, whether in the form of Provera or other preparations, is often prescribed to ensure the endometrial lining remains receptive and supportive to the transferring embryo.

• Regulation of the Cycle: In some IVF protocols, especially those using donor eggs, it's important to synchronize the donor's cycle with the recipient's uterine lining. Provera or other progesterone supplements can help achieve this synchronization.

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It's worth noting that there are various forms and preparations of progesterone used in IVF, including vaginal gels, suppositories, injections, and oral medications. The choice of which form to use and when to use it is typically based on the specific IVF protocol, the patient's individual needs, and the physician's preferences.

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If you or someone you know is considering IVF, it's essential to discuss any medications, including Provera, with a reproductive endocrinologist or fertility specialist to understand the rationale, benefits, and potential risks in your specific context.

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With admiration for the steps you're making,

Amma Bear

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Source:

1. https://www.chelseafertilitynyc.com/fertility-care/in-vitro-fertilization/the-ivf-process
2. https://www.manchesterfertility.com/learn/ask-expert/fertility/provera-medroxyprogesterone/
3. https://premom.com/blogs/infertility/what-are-commonly-used-first-line-fertility-medications-and-how-do-they-change-the-way-i-track-my-cycles
4. https://www.verywellhealth.com/getting-your-period-on-provera-2616535
5. https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-6996/provera-oral/details
6. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25956370/
7. https://www.fertstert.org/article/S0015-0282(21)00160-6/fulltext
8. https://www.slhd.nsw.gov.au/rpa/fertility/help-IVF.html
9. https://www.uthscsa.edu/patient-care/physicians/services/assisted-reproduction/frozen-embryo-transfer-hormone-replacement
10. https://mft.nhs.uk/app/uploads/sites/4/2019/02/Short-cycle-GonalF.pdf
11. https://www.chelseafertilitynyc.com/fertility-care/in-vitro-fertilization/the-ivf-process
12. https://www.manchesterfertility.com/learn/ask-expert/fertility/provera-medroxyprogesterone/
13. https://laivfclinic.com/fertilitycontraception/
14. https://www.pacificfertilitycenter.com/treatment-care/clomiphene