[Pituitary down-regulation and ovulation stimulation with gradually increased gonadotropin in controlled ovarian hyperstimulation].

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the efficacy of ovulation stimulation protocol with gradual increment of gonadotropin in women with high ovarian response.

METHODS

A retrospective study was conducted between june 2005 and April 2006 in 70 women undergoing controlled ovarian hyperstimulation. The clinical outcomes of the women using gradual increment protocol were compared with those of women receiving other ovulation-stimulating protocols.

RESULTS

The mean number of large follicles (>or=14 mm) and retrieved oocytes on the day of retrival was significantly lower, but the duration of stimulation was significantly longer in the gradual increment group than in the control group. The rate of follicular puncture was also higher in the former group. The clinical pregnancy rate, total gonadotropin dosage, cancellation rate and incidence of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome were similar for the two groups.

CONCLUSION

Ovulation stimulation protocol with gradually increased gonadotropin may provide a promising alternative for controlled ovarian hyperstimulation in women with a strong ovarian response.