Q: I am supposed to take Pergonal for induction of ovulation. Does this increase my risk of ovarian cancer?

A: Some studies have found an association between ovarian cancer and certain ovulation-inducing medications such as gonadotropins (Pergonal is a member of this drug group) while other studies have not. If gonadotropins increase the likelihood for ovarian cancer two- to three-fold, then the lifetime risk of a woman changes from 1-2/100 women to 2-4/100 women. Anytime you take a medication, there are some risks involved and you must weigh the benefit against potential risk. You will have difficulties finding an effective medication that has no risks whatsoever. In your personal circumstance, you must weigh the benefits (getting pregnant) against the slightly increased risk of ovarian cancer.