The Ultimate Guide to Fertility Methods

Fertility Drugs

Fertility Method: Injected or taken in pill form, the drugs release hormones that induce ovulation to boost egg production and make the uterus more receptive to embryo implantation.

Best Suited For: The one-third to one-half of infertile women who don't ovulate regularly or who have partners with very poor sperm quality. Not for women with damaged or blocked fallopian tubes or with scarring from endometriosis (they require in vitro fertilization).

Success Rates*: 40% to 45% of women who take the pills and ovulate get pregnant, while 26% of women who ovulate as a result of the shots get pregnant.

Pros: The drugs are typically the first choice in fertility treatments because of their low cost and relative convenience.

Cons: Possible bloating, headaches, hot flashes, and nausea. Side effects are worse with the shots, including risk of multiple births, premature delivery, and formation of large ovarian cysts.

Costs: $100 to $400 per cycle for pills. $2,500 to $6,000 per cycle for shots, which require blood tests and ultrasounds to monitor how ovaries are responding.

Emotional Toll: Fertility medications can cause mood swings in some women.