Saturday 16 July 2005
LH boosts IVF embryo yield
Source: European Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology and Reproductive Biology 2005; 121: 77-80
Examining whether the use of exogenous luteinizing hormone during ovarian stimulation has a beneficial effect on oocyte yield and pregnancy rate.
The additional use of luteinizing hormone (LH) early in ovarian stimulation increases oocyte yield and the number of embryos available for IVF-embryo transfer (ET), say researchers.
The findings are based on a randomized trial comparing the effects of recombinant (r)-FSH with those of r-FSH plus LH on ovarian stimulation in 46 infertile couples. The participants, who were suffering from either tubal or male factor infertility, were all entering IVF for the first time.
Both groups used the long stimulation protocol with gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH)-analogs. For the first 4 days of stimulation, patients in group A were given 200 IU r-FSH, while those in group B received one amp human menopausal gonadotropin—which consists of 75 IU FSH and 75 IU LH-alongside 150 IU r-FSH.
Significantly higher numbers of mature oocytes, fertilized oocytes, and transferable embryos were seen in group B than in group A. However, the clinical pregnancy rate was comparable between the two groups.
The researchers, led by P. Drakakis from Athens University Medical School in Greece, say the relatively small sample size prevents them from making a "definitive conclusion," regarding the role of LH during early oocyte maturation, although a beneficial effect is indicated.
"This effect may be more important in cases in which few embryos are available for transfer," they suggest.
Posted: 13 July 2005
http://www.obgynworld.com/international/news/2005/Week_28/Day_3/LH_boosts_IVF_embryo.asp
LH boosts IVF embryo yield 
