Patients who undergo IVF treatment must come across this term, “TRIGGER SHOT”. This step is crucial to define whether the procedure is successful or not. If the ovary matures, it releases an egg which is helpful for the egg retrieval procedure. Let us explore the comprehensive overview trigger shot in the IVF procedure.
What is a Trigger Shot in IVF?
The trigger shot plays a crucial role in the IVF process. Its main purpose is to help the eggs complete their final stage of development and detach from the follicular wall. Because only the matured eggs are taken during the embryo retrieval procedure. As the name suggests, this injection triggers the ovaries to release the mature eggs.
Role of Trigger Shot in IVF Procedure
An essential part of IVF is a trigger shot. The purpose of this injection is to aid the eggs in reaching the last stage of development and shedding off the follicular wall, to which they are firmly connected. You may also wonder why this shot is required. This shot is crucial for embryos to develop nutritiously, mature eggs are necessary.
You may find the most precious human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) hormone in this trigger shot, which is essential to stimulate the body’s natural hormones that aid in the full maturation of the eggs. In the absence of this injection, the eggs may not be prepared for fertilisation, which is necessary for IVF to be successful.
The matured eggs are ready for the egg retrieval process, which enables proper embryo development and successful fertilization.
The success of the IVF procedure lies in this trigger shot by tricking the ovaries into ovulating a mature egg.
How does Trigger Shot work?
This shot works amazingly by supporting egg maturation and ovulation. The Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) hormone in this injection mimics the functions of the body’s natural luteinizing hormone (LH). The effective function of the trigger shot as follows:
- Maturing Eggs: After the shot, the eggs finish maturing and are prepared for retrieval.
- Releasing Eggs: The injection causes the eggs to detach from the follicular wall and move into the follicle fluid.
- Initiation of Meiosis: The eggs lose half of their chromosomes from 46 to 23 during meiosis, which is brought on by the injection.
Timing of Giving Trigger Shot
Timing is everything when it comes to IVF, particularly when administering the trigger injection. The injection is usually administered about 36 hours prior to the planned egg retrieval day. This precise timing is important because it coincides with the natural cycle of egg release.
For instance, if your egg retrieval is planned for Sunday morning, you usually take the trigger shot late Friday evening. Because even little delays can affect your IVF treatment, pay close attention to your doctor’s schedule. Your eggs will be prepared for the highest chance of success if you heed their advice.
How to Inject Trigger Shot by Yourself?
You can inject your trigger shots by yourself. There are two ways of injecting trigger shots. They are either administered intramuscularly, which means deeper into the muscle, or into the layer of fat just beneath the skin, generally around the abdomen.
Most people prefer the abdomen area to inject the shot by themselves, because of its easy access.
You will receive instructions from your fertility team on how to administer the shot to yourself. Don’t get frightened by seeing more injections, just think about the end result and go through the process.
Your doctor will give you thorough instructions and perhaps even arrange a practice session to make you more comfortable.
Follow the instructions as suggested by your advisor. If you need any emotional support, have your friend or partner to assist you in this process.
Missed Trigger Shot: What You Need To Know?
The first instruction you are given when you start your IVF procedure is don’t miss your IVF injections. If you miss anyone during your cycle what will happen? Your IVF cycle may become more complicated if you miss the trigger injection or take it at the incorrect time.
It’s crucial to get in touch with your fertility clinic right away if this occurs. Your egg pick-up time may be able to be changed, but prompt communication is essential.
By postponing the egg retrieval or changing the medication schedule, your doctor might still be able to save the cycle, depending on the circumstances.
Missing the shot, on the other hand, can often result in a cycle that is emotionally and financially difficult to break.
Therefore, the effectiveness of the treatment depends on establishing a strategy and setting reminders to make sure the shot is administered at the exact time your doctor has prescribed.
Possible Side Effects of Trigger Shot
The trigger shot used in fertility treatments is generally safe, but some women may experience side effects. These can include:
- Mild Injection Site Discomfort: Some women may feel soreness or irritation when the injection is given.
- Bloating or Abdominal Discomfort: It’s common to experience discomfort in the abdomen due to increased ovarian activity and enlargement.
- Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS): In rare cases, an overreaction to the hormones in the shot can lead to enlarged ovaries and other complications.
Significance of Trigger Shot in IVF
The IVF trigger injection is a small yet effective part of the IVF process. The maturation of the eggs increases the chances of successful fertilisation in the laboratory. This step is crucial to many couples’ capacity to realise their dream of becoming parents, even though it could seem like just another injection.
Conclusion
The trigger shot increases the chances of a successful outcome in IVF by preparing the eggs for fertilisation and retrieval. Although it may present challenges or problems, it is an essential component of assisted reproduction.
Understanding every step of the IVF process, including the trigger shot, can make it easier to navigate. Knowing what lies ahead can help you feel more in control and prepared for the excitement that lies ahead.
FAQ’s
Yes. Trigger shots are required to develop the eggs for collection. Women undergoing IVF therapy must perform a trigger shot. Following the injection, your ovaries release mature eggs to collect during the egg retrieval procedure.
For patients undergoing IVF procedures, the use of hCG to induce ovulation is linked to greater pregnancy rates than spontaneous ovulation. Therefore, the chances of successful pregnancy are increased when hCG is used to stimulate ovulation.