Use of clomiphene-based stimulation protocol in oocyte donors: A comparative study

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Endocrinology
• In Vitro Fertilization
• Ovarian Stimulation Protocols

Background:

• Donor oocyte cycles require effective ovarian stimulation protocols.
• Comparing clomiphene citrate (CC) with gonadotropin-releasing hormone antagonist protocols is crucial for optimizing donor cycles.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare clomiphene citrate (CC) and gonadotropin-releasing hormone antagonist protocols in donor-recipient cycles.
• To evaluate ovarian stimulation parameters and obstetric outcomes between the two protocols.

Main Methods:

• Two hundred and three fertile oocyte donors were divided into two groups: CC-based (n=103) and antagonist-based (n=100).
• Stimulation involved CC with recombinant FSH or recombinant FSH with antagonist, with trigger administration when follicles reached >17 mm.
• Oocyte retrieval was performed 34 hours post-trigger.

Main Results:

• No significant differences were observed in age, antral follicle count, gonadotropin dosage, stimulation duration, or oocyte yield between groups.
• Serum estradiol levels were significantly higher in the CC group (P < 0.001).
• Clinical pregnancy and live birth rates were comparable, with slightly higher rates in the CC group.

Conclusions:

• Controlled ovarian stimulation using clomiphene citrate and gonadotropin is a viable option for oocyte donation.
• Clomiphene-based protocols reduce cost and the number of injections per cycle, offering a more economical approach.