Many types of medication regimens have been used for controlled ovarian hyperstimulation for assisted reproductive technique (ART). Questions are now being raised regarding how to lower the escalating costs of assisted reproduction and decrease
the
extent of patient discomfort and disruption of life style without sacrificing success rates.
In this investigation, from January 1994 through August 1994 patients presenting to the Chung-Ang university hospital, infertility clinic were offered the option of the clomiphene citrate (CC)/single Human Menopausal Gonadotropin (HMG)
combination
and
conventional GnRH-agonist combination method. 60 patients (78 cycles) were given CC/single HMG combinations as a study group, and 78 patients (102 cycles) were given conventional GnRH-a combined ultrashort protocol as a control group for IVF-ET
program
and the resulting number of oocyte retrieved, embryo produced, and pregnancy initiated were compared.
There were no differences between the two groups in mean age, serum E2, LH and FSH level on menstrual cycle day 2. HMG requirement was 2 ampules in study group and 24.2±6.8 ampules in control group. On the day of HCG injection, serum LH and FSH
levels
were not significantly different, but serum E2 was significantly higher in control group (p<0.001).
There was relatively well endometrial quality in control group but not significant compare to study group. In control group, numbers of retrieved oocyte and transferred embryo were significantly more than study group (p<0.001). Fertilization rate
was
not significantly different in the two groups and pregnancy rates were 20.2% in study group 28.4% in control group (p<0.001).
CC/single HMG protocol for IVF-ET is less expensive than GnRH-a combined ultrashort protocol and minimizes patients discomfort. In addition, CC/single HMC protocol produces acceptable pregnancy rate and represents an attractive alternative to
select
patients undergoing IVF-ET.
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