Gonadotroph cell About 10 percent of the pituitary gland consists of gonadotroph cells (indicated by arrows), which secrete hormones known as gonadotropins. Examples of gonadotropins include luteinizing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone, which are essential to fertility. (more) How Do Fertility Drugs Work? Written by Kara Rogers Kara Rogers is the senior editor of biomedical sciences at Encyclopædia Britannica, where she oversees a range of content from medicine and genetics to microorganisms. She joined Britannica in 2006 and... Kara Rogers Fact-checked by Britannica Editors Encyclopaedia Britannica's editors oversee subject areas in which they have extensive knowledge, whether from years of experience gained by working on that content or via study for an advanced degree.... Britannica Editors Last updated Feb. 13, 2026 •History Fertility drugs for those trying to become pregnant work mainly by stimulating or regulating the hormones involved in ovulation, helping the ovaries produce and release eggs more effectively. Certain other fertility drugs address factors that influence hormones involved in ovulation, such as insulin resistance or elevated prolactin levels. Fertility drugs can also be used to increase testosterone and sperm production. The Basics of Female Fertility Female fertility is determined by a monthly cycle driven by...

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