Long vs. Short Clomid Protocol for IVF in Diminished Ovarian Reserve
Background
In-vitro fertilization (IVF) is a cornerstone treatment for infertility, but patients with diminished ovarian reserve (DOR) often face challenges with suboptimal ovarian response to stimulation. Current standard protocols typically involve a 5-day course of Clomid (clomiphene citrate) followed by a GnRH antagonist. This study aims to evaluate whether a longer Clomid protocol can improve outcomes, specifically the number of mature eggs retrieved, compared to the standard 5-day regimen for ovarian stimulation in DOR patients.
Results
As this study is currently recruiting and has a projected completion date of December 2027, there are no findings to report yet. However, the primary outcome the investigators will evaluate is the number of mature eggs retrieved, with the long protocol hypothesized to yield a higher count. Researchers aim to determine if the extended Clomid regimen can intensify ovarian stimulation, potentially leading to a greater yield of viable oocytes. Secondary aims include assessing the impact on treatment cost and patient injection burden, anticipating a reduction with the long Clomid protocol. The ultimate goal is to identify a more effective and patient-friendly approach to ovarian stimulation for IVF in DOR patients, potentially improving success rates and reducing treatment burden.
Why It Matters
This research is critical for optimizing IVF protocols for a challenging patient population with diminished ovarian reserve, who often have lower success rates with conventional treatments. If the long Clomid protocol proves more effective in increasing mature egg yield and reducing patient burden, it could lead to a significant improvement in clinical practice and become a new standard of care for women with diminished ovarian reserve undergoing IVF. The results of this randomized controlled trial will directly inform future clinical guidelines and potentially improve outcomes for thousands of infertile couples.