The administration of a human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) injection, commonly referred to as a “trigger shot,” serves to induce final egg maturation and trigger ovulation. It mimics the luteinizing hormone (LH) surge, which naturally prompts the release of eggs from the ovarian follicles. This precise timing is critical in assisted reproductive technologies (ART) and certain ovulation induction protocols.
The procedure’s significance lies in its ability to control the timing of ovulation, facilitating egg retrieval during In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) or optimizing the window for intercourse or intrauterine insemination (IUI). By inducing ovulation at a predictable time, the likelihood of successful fertilization and subsequent pregnancy is enhanced. Historically, accurately predicting ovulation posed a challenge; this intervention offers a standardized and controllable method.