Role of gonadotropin releasing hormone agonists in ovulation induction

The use of exogenous gonadotropins for ovulation induction in anovulatory women or for superovulation in gamete intrafallopian transfer or in vitro fertilization is complicated by premature luteinization, multiple gestation and ovarian hyperstimulation. Desensitization of the pituitary gonadotrophs can be achieved with gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists. The adjunctive use of GnRH agonists with exogenous gonadotropins prevents premature luteinization, possibly resulting in an improvement in ovarian stimulation.