Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 27, 2026

Collection of Human Follicular Fluid, Follicle Somatic Cells, and Immature Oocytes from Individuals Undergoing In Vitro Fertilization
Published on: October 24, 2025
Oxidative Stress Markers in GnRH Agonist and Antagonist Protocols in IVF
Lidija Tulić1, Snežana Vidaković1, Ivan Tulić1
1Department of In Vitro Fertilization, Gynecology and Obstetrics Institute, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, Clinical Center of Serbia, Serbia.
Background:
Our aim was to study the effect of GnRH agonist and antagonist protocols of ovarian stimulation on oxidative stress parameters in serum and the influence of oxidative stress parameters change on the outcome of IVF cycles.
Methods:
This prospective study included 82 patients who underwent IVF procedures. We determined SOD, MDA and SH groups in serum. Serum samples were obtained between the second and fourth day of the cycle and on the day of HCG administration during ovarian stimulation.
Results:
Patients were divided into two groups depending on the protocol of stimulation. The mean total and mature oocytes number and number of fertilized oocytes were higher in GnRH agonist group. There was no significant difference in biochemical pregnancy, miscarriage and live-birth rate in both groups. Mean serum SOD was significantly lower, while mean serum MDA and SH groups were significantly higher after ovarian stimulation. Delivery rate was higher in patients without OS while miscarriage rate was higher in patients with OS.
Conclusions:
Our study confirmed that there is a difference in the concentration of oxidative stress parameters before and after ovarian stimulation. IVF outcome is better in patients without OS after ovarian stimulation. However, the protocol of ovarian stimulation is neither associated with a change in oxidative stress parameters nor with the outcome of ART procedures.

