Ovulation induction with pulsatile gonadotrophin releasing hormone (GnRH)

Anovulatory infertility has been successfully treated in 7 out of 13 women by means of pulsatile gonadotrophin releasing hormone (GnRH) therapy. Women with primary or secondary amenorrhoea received a bolus of GnRH (2.1-20 micrograms) subcutaneously once every 60, 90 or 120 min around the clock from a programmable, battery operated, syringe driver worn under the clothing. Duration of treatment varied from 1 week to 8 months (mean 2.5 months); 7 women ovulated and 2 conceived in the first month of treatment. We conclude that anovulatory women with normal prolactin levels, who are refractory to clomiphene with or without HCG, and who are unlikely to respond to anything but human pituitary FSH and HCG may now be treated with GnRH.