Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome following D-Trp-6 luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone microcapsules and menotropin for in vitro fertilization

In 143 cycles of in vitro fertilization the ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) occurred in 12 (8.4%) cycles. Six were in the moderate form and 6 severe. Ovarian stimulation by menotropins was preceded by induction of hypopituitary hypogonadism using D-Trp⁶-LH-RH microcapsules. The OHSS cycles are characterized by improved ovarian response expressed by the increased serum levels of estradiol, number of follicles, oocytes, embryos and pregnancy rate as compared to cycles with no OHSS. All patients recovered uneventfully. The follicular puncture did not have the suggested protective effect against OHSS. It is suggested that the substantial incidence of OHSS is probably related to the excessive ovarian stimulation not interrupted by early luteinization which is practically abolished by this protocol. The role of the given luteal hCG doses in the genesis of OHSS is questioned.