Comparison of three protocols for Controlled Ovarian Hyperstimulation (COH) for clomiphene citrate poor responders

ABSTRACT

Objective: To compare the efficacy of Letrozole and Gonadotropin, given alone or in combination, in controlled ovarian hyperstimulation in Clomiphene citrate poor responders. Study Design: Prospective, non-randomized observational study on Clomiphene citrate poor responders at the St. Luke's Medical Center setting from January to July 2006. Results: Letrozole and gonadotropins, whether given alone or in combination, have similar clinical outcomes in terms of endometrial thickness during ovulation and the number of dominant follicles developed. The use of gonadotropins results in 100% ovulation rate, similar to results when Letrozole is used as an adjunct. Letrozole significantly reduces the dose of gonadotropin required to develop a mature follicle. Conclusion: Since the use of Letrozole and gonadotropins for ovarian hyperstimulation had similar results, Letrozole has the advantage of reduced cost and greater patient acceptance. It may be used alone or in conjunction with gonadotropins for poor responders to Clomiphene citrate.