Compounding Supports Fertility Treatments
Compounding pharmacies are specialized types of medication dispensing facilities that provide customized prescription support. Unlike traditional pharmacists, these specialists are known for creating catered solutions to meet specific patient needs. Although most people are familiar with the service of developing customized formulas to remove allergens or blend medications, a compounding pharmacy can also support women and couples undergoing fertility treatments.
Ovarian stimulation
One of the most obvious fertility treatments that relies on medication is in vitro fertilization (IVF). A key step in the process includes ovarian stimulation to boost egg production ahead of the egg retrieval appointment. However, a known risk with the medication is the potential for a woman to develop ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS). Compounding pharmacies can work with fertility centers to create customized hormone medication blends that adjust the dosage and minimize the chances of side effects. Sometimes the delivery method can be adjusted as well if a patient doesn’t react well to a certain format.
Regulating cycles
Any fertility treatment has to be properly timed to optimize success rates of getting pregnant. For women with irregular periods or underlying conditions that make tracking ovulation difficult, a fertility specialist might initially recommend birth control to help regulate the menstrual cycle. In some cases, a woman may need to be on birth control for several months to create an accurate pattern before transitioning to other medications if needed. Working with a compounding pharmacy could ensure proper timing to avoid lapses that might create errors and delay conception.
Improving receptivity
For some fertility patients, getting pregnant isn’t the actual problem. Sometimes, a woman’s endometrial or uterine lining isn’t within the optimal thickness range, resulting in miscarriages. Formally known as endometrial receptivity, some women may need to supplement hormones such as estrogen or progesterone to increase uterine lining thickness. These medications might be taken in conjunction with ovulation stimulants and may even need to be closely monitored to avoid not just side effects but also interactions between the drugs. A compounding pharmacy might be able to create customized blends or create a medication synchronization schedule to precisely time dosages.
Improving sperm production
Infertility isn’t just a woman’s issue. Men account for the sole cause in fertility woes for a third of all cases in the US. The most common culprit is poor sperm quality, quantity, and mobility. Just like how female partners might need to undergo hormone supplementation to boost uterine thickness or egg production, a man might also be prescribed testosterone to improve sperm production to provide a sample either for IVF or even intrauterine insemination (IUI).
A customized approach
Compounding pharmacies can be a critical support for fertility treatments, which often need to be customized to improve accuracy and success rates. While not every patient will need to turn to these facilities, knowing that the option is available can be incredibly helpful. Most people will know that a compounding pharmacist is needed based on diagnostics from fertility providers, and after trying specific medications and recognizing that adjustments are needed.
