Can taking ovulation-stimulating medication increase the chances of having twins?

Nov 12, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Lu
Introduction
The main function of ovulation-stimulating drugs is to stimulate the ovaries, causing multiple follicles to develop and mature simultaneously. Normally, a woman releases only one egg per month, but with the use of ovulation-stimulating medications, multiple eggs may mature and be released at the same time. This increases the likelihood of multiple eggs being fertilized and resulting in multiple pregnancies. Therefore, taking ovulation-stimulating drugs may increase the chances of having twins.

Generally, taking ovulation-stimulating medications may increase the chances of conceiving twins. If any discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. The detailed explanation is as follows:

Ovulation-stimulating drugs primarily work by stimulating the ovaries to promote the simultaneous development and maturation of multiple follicles. Normally, a woman typically releases only one egg per month. However, after using ovulation-inducing medications, multiple eggs may mature and be released at the same time. This increases the likelihood of multiple eggs being fertilized simultaneously, leading to multiple pregnancies. Therefore, taking ovulation-stimulating drugs may increase the probability of having twins. However, whether or not twins are conceived is influenced by various factors, including the woman's age, family history, pre-pregnancy weight, and overall pre-pregnancy health. It should be noted that taking ovulation-inducing drugs may cause side effects such as gastrointestinal discomfort, abnormal ovulation, or ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome. If the ovaries are already capable of normal ovulation, administering ovulation-inducing treatments could easily lead to ovarian overstimulation, and prolonged use may result in premature ovarian failure. Therefore, couples considering the use of ovulation-stimulating drugs should do so only under the guidance of a qualified physician.

During attempts to conceive, maintaining healthy lifestyle habits and avoiding harmful behaviors such as smoking and drinking alcohol can help improve reproductive health.