As you know, the first stage of classical IVF is stimulation of the ovaries . This procedure is carried out in order to obtain more ovules ready for fertilization than in the natural cycle.
The regimens for taking and the types of drugs that are used for stimulation are called IVF protocols. As a rule, when carrying out IVF, two types of protocols are used: short and long.
Which IVF protocol is better and their characteristics
It is unequivocal to answer which IVF protocol is the best, since the most successful stimulation schemes depend on many factors and are exclusively individual. As a rule, before the appointment of the IVF protocol, the doctor thoroughly studies the factor of infertility, examines the patient and partner, takes into account already performed, but unsuccessful attempts at fertilization. An important role in the choice of the protocol is played by age and concomitant diseases.
What is the short and long protocol of IVF, how long it lasts, and what preparations are used, we will consider in more detail.
Long IVF protocol by day
A long IVF protocol begins with suppression of the ovaries. One week prior to the proposed menstruation, a woman is prescribed hormonal drugs that block the production of the follicle-stimulating and luteinizing hormone, directly responsible for the growth of follicles and ovulation, by the pituitary gland. 10-15 days after the beginning of the IVF protocol, ovaries should not contain follicles exceeding 15 mm, against a background of a lowered level of estradiol.
This state allows the doctor to control the stimulation process as best as possible, which begins with the administration of gonadotropin drugs. Their dose is regulated during the reception, depending on the results controlled by tests and ultrasound, until the moment when the follicles reach the right size.
After that gonadotropins are canceled, and the patient is administered 5-10 thousand units. HCG for 36 hours before oocyte puncture.
In total, the most successful long IVF protocols last about 6 weeks.
Short IVF protocol by day
By the nature of stimulation and preparation for the ripening of mature eggs, a short ECO protocol is identical to a long one. The main difference is in the absence of a phase of ovarian suppression, therefore this IVF fertilization technique more closely resembles the natural process, with stimulation beginning on the 3rd day of the menstrual cycle and lasting about 4 weeks.
Most often, a shorter version is prescribed for women older than middle age, and also with a poor ovarian response to a long protocol. Of course, a short ECO protocol is more easily tolerated by the body, has fewer negative consequences and side effects.