Evaluation and Treatment of Low Responders

Abstract

Identification and treatment of low responders to ovulation induction is one of the most frustrating challenges in reproductive medicine. Because complex ovulation induction is required so frequently and is so expensive, efficient diagnosis of hyporesponders is critical. At present, the best techniques of evaluating ovarian reserve are basal follicle-stimulating hormone/Estradiol levels early in the proliferative phase and the clomiphene citrate challenge test. Wlien poor responders are identified, strong consideration should be given to adjunctive approaches such as gonadotropin-releasing hormone analog and microdose flare or, possibly, embryo hatching in those women undergoing in vitro fertilization.

Key Words:

ovarian reserve - follicle-stimulating hormone - fertility - ovarian function - ovary - ovulation induction - in vitro fertilization