Ovarian stimulation using pure FSH in an in-vitro fertilization programme

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Endocrinology
• In-Vitro Fertilization (IVF)

Background:

• Conventional stimulation protocols using clomiphene or human menopausal gonadotropin (HMG) can be unsuccessful in some patients undergoing in-vitro fertilization (IVF).
• Ovarian follicular development is crucial for successful oocyte retrieval and subsequent fertilization.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the therapeutic efficacy of pure urinary follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) for ovarian stimulation in IVF.
• To compare pure urinary FSH efficacy against previous stimulation regimens (clomiphene or HMG).

Main Methods:

• Forty-three patients with prior unsuccessful stimulation underwent treatment with pure urinary FSH.
• Follicular fluid hormone levels (oestradiol, progesterone, androstenedione) were analyzed.
• Oocyte maturity and conception rates were recorded.

Main Results:

• Pure urinary FSH stimulation led to successful embryo transfer in 32 patients, with seven achieving pregnancy.
• In patients with impaired follicular maturation, FSH stimulation created favorable conditions for IVF.
• High progesterone concentrations in follicular fluid correlated with oocyte maturity, indicating luteinization.

Conclusions:

• Pure urinary FSH is an effective therapeutic option for ovarian stimulation in IVF patients who failed to respond to clomiphene or HMG.
• FSH stimulation enhances follicular development and oocyte quality, improving IVF outcomes.
• Hormonal profiles in follicular fluid, particularly progesterone, are indicative of oocyte maturity and successful luteinization.