Ovarian Stimulation
The use of Clomiphene (Clomid, Serophene) for ovarian
stimulation is effective for chronic anovulation, polycystic ovarian syndrome, and
unexplained infertility. The term controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH) is reserved
for the use of injectable fertility medication (Pergonal, Metrodin, Fertinex, Follistim,
Humegon, etc.) which require monitoring by ultrasound and blood work (estradiol assay).
The ovaries are stimulated by the injections to produce more than one mature follicle with
a mature egg (hyperstimulation). At the same time, the circumstances are carefully
orchestrated (controlled) so that intense overstimulation does not occur. Variations in
protocol for COH are used in intrauterine insemination, GIFT, and IVF treatment.