Why is letrozole used in ovulation induction?

Letrozole temporarily reduces the body’s production of oestrogen. The brain responds by increasing signals to the ovaries, which may help a follicle grow and an egg mature. The aim is to create a predictable opportunity for ovulation and conception. A clinician may use scans, hormone checks, or cycle information to see how your ovaries respond.

This treatment is different from fertility treatment that places sperm or an embryo into the reproductive tract. It is a tablet-based way of supporting the ovary’s own cycle, and the plan depends on why ovulation is difficult.

Take each dose on the days prescribed, and do not change the schedule without speaking with your fertility clinician. You may be asked to track bleeding, ovulation signs, or timed intercourse. Monitoring helps the team decide whether the dose is suitable and whether an egg is developing.

Headache, tiredness, dizziness, nausea, or hot flushes can occur. Tell the clinic about troublesome symptoms, visual changes, or any medicines and supplements you use. Read more about [Letrozole](/materials/letrozole/) and [Ovulation Induction](/treatments/fertility-and-assisted-reproduction/ovulation-induction/).

Contact your fertility team promptly if you have severe pelvic pain, marked abdominal swelling, breathing difficulty, fainting, or heavy bleeding. These symptoms need assessment rather than waiting for the next appointment. Seek urgent medical help for sudden severe pain, collapse, or difficulty breathing.

Ask what is causing irregular ovulation, how your response will be monitored, when to have intercourse or another planned step, and what to do if a dose is missed. You can also ask which symptoms should lead you to contact the clinic.