DHEA vs. Growth Hormone for Poor Ovarian Response in ICSI
Background
For women undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), poor ovarian response (POR) presents a significant hurdle, often leading to fewer retrieved oocytes and lower pregnancy rates. Current strategies to improve outcomes for these patients are often insufficient, highlighting a critical need for more effective interventions. This study aims to compare the efficacy of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and growth hormone (GH) supplementation in improving ovarian response and pregnancy outcomes in women with expected POR undergoing ICSI.
Results
As this is a study design, specific results comparing DHEA and Growth Hormone (GH) in women with poor ovarian response (POR) are not yet available. The study aims to identify which intervention, if any, leads to superior reproductive outcomes. Researchers will measure key metrics such as the total number of oocytes retrieved, the number of mature oocytes, fertilization rates, and embryo quality. They anticipate finding statistically significant differences in these parameters, with an expected increase in the number of viable embryos and a higher chance of successful implantation in one or both treatment groups compared to standard care. > The primary goal is to determine if either DHEA or GH can achieve a higher clinical pregnancy rate and ultimately a greater live birth rate for women undergoing ICSI who face the challenge of POR. The study will also analyze changes in antral follicular count (AFC) (follicles 3-10mm) and hormonal profiles (FSH, LH, Oestradiol) to elucidate the biological impact of each intervention.
Why It Matters
For women struggling with poor ovarian response (POR), finding effective pre-treatment strategies is paramount to improving the success rates of IVF/ICSI and alleviating the significant emotional and financial burden associated with infertility. This research could provide crucial evidence for optimizing fertility protocols, potentially leading to more personalized and effective treatment options. If the findings demonstrate a clear benefit, DHEA or GH supplementation could be integrated into standard clinical practice for women with POR, substantially enhancing their prospects of achieving a successful pregnancy. Future steps would involve a thorough analysis of the study's complete results, potentially paving the way for larger Phase III clinical trials to confirm efficacy and safety across diverse patient populations.