Womb Preparation

IVF Step 4: Preparing your womb to receive the embryos

The lining of your womb (endometrium) will have been well developed during the stimulation part of the cycle by oestrogen produced by the ovary.   Once the eggs are removed, a hormone called Progesterone prepares the endometrium ready for implantation of the embryo.  Progesterone supplements are usually given until the pregnancy test is taken.  This will ensure that the endometrium stays thick and offers the best environment for the developing embryo to implant and result in a pregnancy. In IVF, progesterone support is an important part of preparing the womb for embryo transfer.

The supplements that may be prescribed for you depend on your personal circumstances.  Utrogestan or Cyclogest pessaries are the most common form of progesterone supplements used at the clinic in fresh treatment cycles.  During frozen treatment cycles, either Utrogestan or Cyclogest pessaries are used along with Lubion injections. Both Utrogestan and Cyclogest are widely used in IVF to support implantation, and your care team will choose the product best suited to your cycle.

Utrogestan

Utrogestan is in a tablet form and is given vaginally.  It is started on the same evening as the trigger injection at a dose of 600 mg per night. Utrogestan is commonly used in IVF treatment to help maintain the endometrial lining and support implantation. Although some patients ask about differences between Utrogestan and Cyclogest, both provide essential progesterone support in IVF cycles.

Cyclogest

Cyclogest is also in a tablet form and is also given vaginally. Again, it is started on the same evening as the trigger injection.  The dose of Cyclogest is 800 mg per night. Cyclogest is used in IVF to support the luteal phase and maintain the progesterone levels needed for implantation. Many patients wonder whether Cyclogest helps implantation or what its role is, and its purpose is to support the endometrium so the embryo can attach securely.

These pessaries are inserted at bedtime, as drowsiness is a common side effect when Utrogestan or  Cyclogest is used. Taking them at night also reduces leakage and improves comfort. It also helps . Side effects are rare but local inflammation may cause vaginal discomfort. If symptoms become persistent or concerning, please contact the team so your progesterone support can be reviewed.

Page Last Modified: 28th April 2026