In Vitro Maturation Procedure New Option for PCOS Patients Georgia Reproductive Specialists is now offering an In Vitro Maturation (IVM) protocol for patients at risk of Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS). Traditional IVF involves the use of gonadotropins to stimulate the ovaries in an attempt to collect as many mature oocytes as possible, without overstimulating the patient. However, a significant subgroup of female patients who undergo IVF suffer from polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). These patients are at high risk of experiencing OHSS when exposed to even relatively low levels of exogenous gonadotropins. This iatrogenic disorder is extremely uncomfortable, may require hospitalization and, in extreme circumstances, may even be life threatening. In such cases, a more gentle approach to IVF (IVM + IVF) can be applied to eliminate the risk of OHSS all together. With this approach, a patient undergoes minimal ovarian stimulation with low doses of gonadotropins. As in traditional IVF, human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) is taken as the final step of egg maturation in the body. In an IVM + IVF protocol, the follicles are much smaller at the time of retrieval than in with traditional IVF because the retrieval is timed earlier in the patient's cycle. Mostly immature oocytes are retrieved and are then matured in the laboratory using the IVM technique. Once the oocytes are fully matured, the traditional IVF process continues with the use of intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) for insemination. Following normal fertilization, embryo transfer and possible embryo cryopreservation take place. In this select group of patients, pregnancy rates approach those with standard IVF with far less risk of OHSS, fewer visits and reduced medication costs. GRS takes pride in our commitment to offering the most advanced, effective treatment for our patients. Due to that commitment, we are the first and only clinic in the region offering this cutting-edge procedure for reducing the occurrence of OHSS in this high-risk population, and thereby increasing the chance of a successful IVF cycle for those patients at risk. Return to the IVF Homepage This page, and all contents, are Copyright © 2005 by IVF.com, Atlanta, GA, USA.