GnRH antagonist in older IVF patients. Retrieval rates and clinical outcome.

Objective: To determine if the use of a midcycle GnRH antagonist provides better clinical outcomes and lower cancellation rates in in vitro fertilization (IVF).

Study Design: We examined all patients older than 40 years undergoing IVF-embryo transfer cycles between January 1999 and December 2000. Prior to June 2000, controlled ovarian stimulation in women > or = 40 years was performed with follicle stimulating hormone (FSH)/human menopausal gonadotropin (hMG) only and no GnRH agonist or antagonist (group I).

Supraphysiological estradiol levels do not affect oocyte and embryo quality in oocyte donation cycles.

Background: The study aim was to determine whether supraphysiological estradiol (E(2)) levels reduce oocyte/embryo quality in oocyte donation cycles.

Methods: A retrospective analysis of 330 consecutive fresh oocyte donation cycles was performed in an assisted reproductive treatment programme between January 1996 and December 2000. Throughout the study period, oocyte donors and recipients followed a standard synchronization regimen that did not vary.