Explain the use of hormones in Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART)…

The idea

ART uses hormones to overcome fertility problems. In clomifene therapy, a woman who does not ovulate regularly takes clomifene, which stimulates the release of FSH and LH from the pituitary so that follicles mature and ovulation is triggered. In IVF, a woman is given FSH (and sometimes LH) to stimulate several eggs to mature at once; eggs are collected, fertilised with sperm outside the body, and one or more embryos are transferred to the uterus. Progesterone or other hormones may support the lining of the uterus afterwards. The hormones replace or boost the woman's own cycle so that eggs are produced and a pregnancy can be established.

What earns the marks

• Clomifene stimulates release of FSH and LH, causing follicles to mature and triggering ovulation.
• FSH is used in IVF to stimulate the maturation of several eggs at once.
• In IVF, eggs are collected and fertilised by sperm outside the body before embryos are transferred to the uterus.
• Hormones such as progesterone may be given to maintain the lining of the uterus and support pregnancy.
• ART hormones work by supplementing or mimicking the woman's natural reproductive hormones.

Common mistakes and how to put them right

• Thinking clomifene directly matures the egg itself.

  Put it right: Clomifene acts on the pituitary to increase FSH and LH release, which then act on the ovaries.

• Confusing which hormone stimulates egg maturation in IVF.

  Put it right: FSH stimulates follicle and egg maturation.

• Believing IVF fertilisation happens inside the body.

  Put it right: Fertilisation occurs outside the body before embryo transfer.

Exam tips

• Link each named hormone to its specific target and effect rather than giving a general 'it helps fertility' answer.
• Distinguish clomifene therapy (stimulating ovulation) from IVF (collecting eggs, external fertilisation, embryo transfer).
• Use precise terms such as ovulation, follicle, embryo transfer and uterus lining.