Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome: symptoms and people at risk
September 28, 2021
A woman's ovaries on average produce one fertilizable egg per menstrual cycle. During IVF, the number of mature eggs is increased through ovarian stimulation to increase the chance of pregnancy. However, this step can be risky as a small percentage of women develop ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome. What are its symptoms and possible treatments?
Cause and symptoms
Generally, the syndrome is caused by treatment with follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). FSH is used to increase the number of follicles in the ovaries. In 25% of cases, patients may experience mild symptoms such as enlarged ovaries, mild abdominal pain, or vomiting.
In the case of a severe form, hospitalization is necessary. In this case, there is a large increase in the size of the ovaries (about 12 cm in diameter), along with lung infections, bleeding disorders, and other complications.
Patients at risk
Unfortunately, there is no cure for this syndrome, so prevention is important. Women at risk of developing ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome are under 30 years of age, have a low body mass index (BMI), polycystic ovarian syndrome, or have multiple developing follicles at the time of stimulation.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us!