Dreaming of becoming a mother is a great hope for every woman. But sometimes, due to various health reasons, that dream can be delayed a little. Especially if there is a problem with ovulation, that is, the process of releasing a healthy egg properly, it becomes a big obstacle to getting pregnant. So today we are going to talk about a special hormone treatment that doctors recommend for women who are delayed in having children due to problems related to ovulation.
What is this Lutropin alfa?
Simply put, Lutropin alfa is a synthetic hormone that is similar to the naturally occurring hormone called Luteinizing Hormone (LH) in our bodies, but is made in a lab. One of its popular names on the market is Luveris.
Now imagine, for a woman to get pregnant, a healthy, mature egg must be released from her ovaries. This is what we call ovulation. In some women, this process does not happen properly due to hormonal imbalances in their bodies. At such times, the Lutropin alfa injection is used to stimulate the ovaries, help a healthy egg mature, and help it be released properly. This is usually given in combination with other types of hormones as a treatment.
Things to tell your doctor before taking this medicine
Okay, now before you start this treatment, there are a few things you need to tell your doctor. Because not all medications work for everyone, right? These things are very important for your safety.
Be sure to discuss these points with your doctor:
- Abnormal bleeding: If you have unusual vaginal bleeding for no reason.
- Asthma: If you have asthma.
- Cancer status: If you have or have had a brain tumor or other cancerous condition.
- Problems with other glands: If you have a disease of the adrenal gland or thyroid gland.
- Ovarian problems: If the ovaries are swollen (enlarged ovaries) or have ovarian cysts. Also, if the ovaries have stopped producing eggs completely (ovarian failure).
- Allergies: Tell your doctor if you have any allergies to Lutropin alfa, other medications, foods, preservatives, or dyes.
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding: This medicine is not suitable if you are currently pregnant or breastfeeding.
The most important thing is to give your doctor a complete description of any medication, vitamin, herbal remedy, or supplement you are taking.
How should I use the medicine?
This medicine is given as an injection under the skin. This is usually given to you by a trained person in a hospital or clinic.
However, in some cases, you may be instructed to give yourself the vaccine at home. If so, follow the instructions exactly as your doctor or nurse tells you. Take the exact dose at the right time. Do not take more doses than your doctor tells you to or change the time between doses.
What do you do with used needles and syringes?
This is very important. Never throw used needles and syringes in the trash. There is a special container for them (sharps container). If you don't have one, ask your doctor about it. Disposing of these safely can help prevent injuries to yourself and others.
What if the dose is increased or missed?
If you think you have taken more than the prescribed dose, immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital, or go to the Emergency Department (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
If you miss a dose or cannot get the vaccine on time, never take a double dose or more. Call your doctor immediately for advice on how to take your next dose.
Things to consider during treatment
You will need to work closely with your medical team throughout this treatment.
- Regular check-ups: Go for check-ups as prescribed by your doctor. It is essential to monitor your condition closely during this time.
- If you suspect you are pregnant: If you suspect you are pregnant, tell your healthcare team immediately. You may need to be monitored for up to two weeks after stopping treatment.
- Record Keeping: If you are taking this treatment with the aim of conceiving, you need to do exactly as your doctor tells you, such as measuring and recording your basal body temperature (BBT) daily and recording the days you have sex.
- Having sex: To maximize your chances of getting pregnant, it's important to have sex around the time you ovulate. Your doctor will give you more advice on this.
Warning: If you suddenly develop severe stomach pain , stop treatment immediately and call your doctor. Also, avoid using the vaccine and having sex.
What are the possible side effects?
Like any medicine, this one can cause some side effects. Some of them are serious, some are common. You can clearly see them in the table below.
| Side effect | Description |
|---|---|
| Serious side effects that should be reported to your doctor immediately | |
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips or tongue. |
| Severe stomach pain or bloating | Unbearable stomach pain, bloating. |
| Nausea and vomiting | Frequent nausea or vomiting. |
| Diarrhea | Flatulence. |
| Body swelling and weight gain | Sudden swelling and rapid weight gain. |
| Breast pain | Breast pain. |
| Common side effects that should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Headache | Slight headache. |
| Pain at the injection site | Redness, swelling, or pain at the injection site. |
| Stomach discomfort | Slight stomach discomfort. |
| Painful menstruation | Pain during menstruation. |
If you experience any other side effects not listed on this list, please inform your doctor.
Take-Home Message
- Lutropin alfa is a special hormone injection given to women who are experiencing delayed fertility due to problems with ovulation.
- Before starting treatment, be sure to tell your doctor about your complete health history and all medications you are taking.
- Follow the doctor's instructions and vaccination schedule exactly. Do not skip doses or take more than the recommended dose.
- If you experience severe stomach pain, sudden weight gain, or swelling during treatment, call your doctor immediately.
- Dispose of used needles and syringes safely, in a sharps container only.
- This medication should only be used under the supervision of your doctor. Therefore, be sure to attend the scheduled tests and clinics.
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