Fever After Ovulation Injection: Is It Normal and Safe for Conception?

Fever after receiving ovulation induction injections?

Hello Doctor: On the night of July 7th, I received a dose of Gonal-F 225 and Menopur 2 powder at the hospital.
The next day, on July 8th, around 10:30 AM, I received another dose of Gonal-F 225.
In the afternoon, I experienced discomfort, including dizziness, headache, and chills.
Later that evening, around 9 PM, I received another dose of Menopur 2 powder and developed a high fever of 39.5 degrees Celsius.
I thought this might be due to my body still adjusting to the medication or the significant hormonal changes.
The following day, July 9th, at 10:30 AM, I again received Gonal-F 225, along with 5 mg of progesterone.
In the afternoon, to rule out COVID-19, I took a rapid test, which came back negative.
However, I began to experience headaches again in the afternoon, and later that evening, I received another dose of Menopur 2 powder, followed by another high fever of 39.5 degrees Celsius.
The consultation room at the hospital indicated that this was normal, but I am still very concerned.
Is this continuous high fever, muscle aches, and headaches really beneficial for my fertility treatment? Could it lead to other complications?

TT, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/07/10

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, it is normal not to have a fever.
If there is no improvement, it is advisable to see an internist.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2022/07/10

More Info

Experiencing fever after receiving ovulation injections, such as Gonal-F (follitropin alfa) and Menopur (menotropins), can be concerning, especially when you're trying to conceive. It's important to understand that while some side effects are common, persistent high fever and other symptoms warrant careful consideration.

Firstly, the medications you received are designed to stimulate ovarian function and promote ovulation. Gonal-F is a follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) that helps in the development of ovarian follicles, while Menopur contains both FSH and luteinizing hormone (LH), which are crucial for ovulation. These hormonal changes can lead to various side effects, including flu-like symptoms, headaches, and fever. The body may react to the sudden increase in hormones, leading to discomfort and elevated body temperature.

In your case, the fever reaching 39.5 degrees Celsius (approximately 103.1 degrees Fahrenheit) is significant and should not be overlooked. While some mild fever can be a normal response to hormonal treatments, a high fever that persists, especially when accompanied by other symptoms like severe headaches and body aches, may indicate an adverse reaction or another underlying issue. It's essential to monitor your symptoms closely.

The fact that you tested negative for COVID-19 is reassuring, but it does not rule out other potential causes of your fever. Infections, whether viral or bacterial, can occur independently of your treatment. If your symptoms continue or worsen, it would be prudent to consult with your healthcare provider for further evaluation. They may recommend blood tests or imaging studies to rule out any complications, such as ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), which can occur in response to fertility medications.

Regarding your concerns about conception, while some discomfort and mild fever may not significantly impact your fertility, persistent high fever can potentially affect ovulation and implantation. Elevated body temperature during the luteal phase (the time after ovulation) can influence the uterine environment, which is crucial for embryo implantation. Therefore, it is advisable to manage your fever effectively and ensure that your body is in the best possible condition for conception.

In the meantime, here are some recommendations:
1. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids to help manage your fever and prevent dehydration.

2. Rest: Ensure you get adequate rest to allow your body to recover.

3. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your temperature and any other symptoms. If your fever persists for more than a couple of days or if you develop new symptoms, seek medical attention.

4. Pain Management: If you are experiencing significant discomfort, over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen (Tylenol) can help reduce fever and alleviate pain. However, consult your healthcare provider before taking any medication, especially if you are on other treatments.

In conclusion, while some side effects from ovulation injections can be expected, persistent high fever and accompanying symptoms should be evaluated by a healthcare professional. Your health and well-being are paramount, especially when trying to conceive. Don't hesitate to reach out to your doctor for guidance and support during this time.

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