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Mild ovarian stimulation

  • Symposium of the Aging Ovary
  • Published:
Journal of Assisted Reproduction and Genetics Aims and scope Submit manuscript

Abstract

Purpose

To evaluate the efficacy of using only mild ovarian stimulation protocols for in vitro fertilization. Both groups with decreased and normal ovarian reserve were evaluated.

Methods

Three different mild stimulation protocols were evaluated: natural with no exogenous follicle stimulation hormone (FSH) drugs at all, natural with a boost of low dose FSH to complete follicular maturation, and minimal stimulation with low dose (75-150IU) FSH from day 3–5 of the menstrual cycle. Ethinyl estradiol was sometimes used to lower high day 3 serum FSH.

Results

Good pregnancy and implantation rates were found even in those women with elevated serum FSH that could only generate one follicle.

Conclusions

Mild ovarian stimulation seems preferable to high dose FSH regimens in women with elevated day 3 serum FSH based on previous poor reported pregnancy rates with the latter protocols. Comparable pregnancy rates to high dose regimen were seen in women with normal egg reserve at much lower risk and cost.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Division of Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cooper Hospital/University Medical Center, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School at Camden, The University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, Camden, NJ, USA

    Jerome H. Check

  2. 7447 Old York Road, Melrose Park, Philadelphia, PA, 19027, USA

    Jerome H. Check

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  1. Jerome H. Check
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Correspondence to Jerome H. Check.

Additional information

Capsule

Regimens using low dosage of FSH are very effective for in vitro fertilization especially but not restricted to women with diminished egg reserve.

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Check, J.H. Mild ovarian stimulation. J Assist Reprod Genet 24, 621–627 (2007). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10815-007-9179-9

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10815-007-9179-9

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