Mild stimulation for in vitro fertilization

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Endocrinology
• In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)

Background:

• High-dose gonadotropins in IVF do not always improve outcomes.
• Mild ovarian stimulation focuses on optimizing oocyte/embryo competence and endometrial receptivity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy and safety of mild ovarian stimulation protocols in IVF.
• To compare mild IVF outcomes with conventional IVF treatments.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing evidence on mild ovarian stimulation protocols.
• Comparison of pregnancy rates, live birth rates, and cumulative pregnancy outcomes.
• Assessment of safety profiles, including ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome and venous thromboembolism incidence.

Main Results:

• Mild stimulation IVF shows comparable pregnancy and live birth rates to conventional IVF.
• Cumulative pregnancy outcomes are similar despite fewer oocytes/embryos retrieved.
• Mild IVF demonstrates a better safety profile and is more patient-friendly and cost-effective.

Conclusions:

• Mild ovarian stimulation is an effective alternative to conventional IVF.
• It offers significant advantages in safety, tolerability, and cost.
• Widespread adoption could increase global accessibility of IVF treatments.