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Updated: May 7, 2026

Fertility Preservation Through Oocyte Vitrification: Clinical and Laboratory Perspectives

Fertility Preservation Through Oocyte Vitrification: Clinical and Laboratory Perspectives

Published on: September 16, 2021

IVF endocrinology: the Edwards era.

Stephen G Hillier¹

¹MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, Queen's Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK.

Molecular Human Reproduction

|October 12, 2013

Summary

This review explores the evolution of ovulation induction in in vitro fertilization (IVF), highlighting Robert Edwards' contributions. It contrasts early spontaneous cycles with modern stimulation protocols and discusses the shift towards minimalist approaches for improved oocyte quality.

Keywords:

endocrinology fertilization gonadotrophins oocyte quality ovarian follicle

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Area of Science:

Reproductive Endocrinology
In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)
Ovulation Induction

Background:

The advent of IVF by Robert Edwards and Patrick Steptoe revolutionized infertility treatment.
Early IVF success relied on natural menstrual cycles and intensive endocrine monitoring.

Observation:

Initial attempts using human menopausal gonadotrophin (HMG) and human chorionic gonadotrophin (HCG) were often unsuccessful.
The first successful IVF pregnancy resulted from a spontaneous cycle, collecting a single egg timed to the LH surge.

Findings:

Ovulation induction, initially with clomiphene citrate and later with HMG/HCG and pure follicle-stimulating hormone, improved IVF reliability.
Gonadotrophin-releasing hormone analogues enhanced IVF success by controlling endogenous gonadotrophins, leading to higher oocyte yields ('more is better').

Implications:

Robert Edwards later advocated for minimalist, natural cycle approaches to enhance oocyte quality over quantity, citing cost and health concerns.
This review underscores the enduring impact of Edwards' work on reproductive endocrinology and IVF development.