Ovarian stimulation regimes explained

Getting to grips with ovarian stimulation can really help you feel more confident as you navigate your IVF journey. At Care Fertility, we’re here to make sure you’re well-informed and supported every step of the way. Here’s a quick guide to what ovarian stimulation involves and what you can expect.

What is ovarian stimulation? 

Ovarian stimulation is a key part of IVF where medications are used to encourage your ovaries to produce multiple follicles. This step is important because it increases the chances of retrieving viable eggs for fertilisation. 

Types of ovarian stimulation regimes 

1. Short protocol 

Heard of the antagonist protocol? That's the short protocol in action! It is typically used for women who respond well to stimulation or have a high risk of Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS). 

• Medications used: You'll get gonadotropins (FSH and/or LH) early in your menstrual cycle, and GnRH antagonists will join later to prevent premature ovulation. 

• Duration: About 10-14 days. 

• Benefits: It's quicker and lowers the risk of OHSS. 

2. Long protocol 

 This one's often recommended if you've got a normal, or reduced, ovarian reserve. 

• Medications used: GnRH agonists start in the luteal phase of your previous cycle to suppress natural hormone production. Then, gonadotropins kick in to stimulate your ovaries. 

• Duration: About four weeks. 

• Benefits: Gives high control over your cycle and syncs up follicle development. 

3. Natural cycle IVF 

Here, it's all about minimal or no stimulation, focusing on retrieving that single egg produced in your natural menstrual cycle. 

• Medications used: Minimal or no medication. Sometimes, a small dose of hCG is used to trigger ovulation. 

• Duration: Matches your natural cycle, typically 10-14 days. 

• Benefits: No risk of OHSS and fewer side effects. 

4. Mild stimulation 

This regime aims to find a sweet spot with fewer medications while still aiming for a good egg count. 

• Medications used: Lower doses of gonadotropins combined with oral medications like clomiphene citrate. 

• Duration: About 10-14 days. 

• Benefits: Saves on medication costs and lowers the risk of OHSS. 

5. DuoStim 

Here two short protocols are run pretty much back-to-back. You can’t usually have a fresh embryo transfer though. It’s usually recommended for women with predicted or previous poor response to stimulation or patients wanting to freeze as many eggs as possible before having potentially damaging treatment e.g. some types of chemotherapy or surgery.  

• Medications used: You'll get gonadotropins (FSH and/or LH) early in your menstrual cycle, and GnRH antagonists will join later to prevent premature ovulation. Shortly after the first egg retrieval procedure, you’ll restart gonadotrophins and go again 

• Duration: About 32 days (2 lots of 14 with a 3–5-day gap in the middle) 

• Benefits: It maximises the number of eggs retrieved in the shortest amount of time. 

Monitoring during stimulation 

Regular check-ins are crucial to see how you're responding to the meds and tweak things as needed. 

• Ultrasounds: Keep an eye on those follicles and how they're growing. 

• Blood tests: Track hormone levels to fine-tune your treatment. 

Side effects and risks 

While ovarian stimulation is generally safe, it can have side effects and risks: 

• Common side effects: Bloating, headaches, and mood swings. 

• Risks: OHSS, which can cause severe abdominal pain, nausea, and rapid weight gain. Always contact your clinic if you experience any severe symptoms. 

Personalised treatment plans 

Everyone's journey is different, and we get that at Care Fertility. Our specialists will craft a plan that's all about you – your needs, your situation, your hopes. 

Ovarian stimulation is a crucial part of IVF, and knowing your options can make a world of difference. At Care Fertility, we're here to offer top-notch care and support. Got questions? We're just a message away – reach out anytime. Your journey to parenthood starts here.