Can premature luteinization in superovulation protocols be prevented by aspiration of an ill-timed leading follicle?

In 12 patients stimulated for in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer (IVF-ET), a single leading follicle developed, whereas the other follicles were 6 mm smaller. In 7 patients chosen at random (group A), the leading follicle was aspirated, whereas in the other 5 the leading follicle was allowed to continue growing (group B). Comparison of the hormonal pattern of both groups showed that a premature luteinizing hormone (LH) surge was avoided only in group A, and only in this group a second follicle aspiration for IVF-ET was done, and two pregnancies were achieved. In group B, aspiration for IVF-ET was canceled because of premature LH surge. It is suggested that aspiration of a single leading follicle during ovulation induction may be an efficient method to avoid premature LH surge enabling other follicles to develop up to the preovulatory stage.