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During the suppression stage of your IVF cycle, you take a GnRH Agonist (Lupron, Suprefact, Synarel etc.) to suppress your ovarian function.

How long will it take me to be suppressed?
The average length of time it takes to get suppressed is 10-12 days. The clinic should schedule a suppression check for you around this time. The suppression check will measure your Estrogen level to determine if you are suppressed. The level of Estrogen considered normal for suppression varies slightly from clinic to clinic. At my Canadian clinic the Estrogen level needed to below 100, but at American clinics it may need to go below 50 or lower, because of the different units of measurement used.

Where should I store my Lupron medication?
Lupron can be stored for up to 30 days at room temperature. In warm weather or if you will be storing Lupron for an extended period, Lupron should be stored in a refrigerator. Always check with your pharmacist to ensure that you are storing your medication in a proper location.

I am taking a nasal spray for suppression. How do I know that I am doing it right?
There isn't an easy way to tell if you are doing the nasal spray right until you go in for your suppression check. Most women don't have too many problems with taking the nasal spray. It can feel different each time the nasal spray is inhaled and you could still be doing it right. Make sure you receive instructions from your clinic on the proper use of the nasal spray you are taking. If you don't feel like you are doing it right, contact your clinic immediately.

What side effects can I expect from the suppression medication?
The side effects of the suppression medication are similar to that of going into menopause. Some women are very sensitive to the effects of the medication while others experience hardly any changes. You may experience some of the following side effects below. Always contact your doctor if you have any concerns or questions about your side effects or the medications you are taking.

• mood swings
• breast tenderness
• hot flashes
• headaches
• changes in sex drive

Should I get my period while on the suppression drugs?
If you are using the long protocol for your suppression you should get your period while on suppression drugs. Most clinics make you wait until you get your period before starting the stimulation drugs. Ask your clinic what they will do if your period doesn't arrive.

Why am I not getting suppressed?
One of the most common reasons for not getting suppressed, is that there is a cyst on one of your ovaries. The cyst causes the Estradiol level to remain high. Some clinics will allow you to stay on the suppression medication for a while longer to see if the cyst will go away on its own. Other clinics will want to remove the cyst physically before continuing. Please ask your doctor what your options are if this situation arises.