From the start of ovarian stimulation to the luteal phase, there are many procedures to be executed during each IVF cycle. Stimulation protocols differ considerably in type of gonadotropins, type of GnRH analogue and use of a variety of adjuncts to ovarian stimulation. The performance of clinicians also varies. Why do some use agonists, others use antagonists, and why use urinary FSH or recombinant FSH, or a combination of both? Which adjuncts should be used, if any? How do they deal with poor responders? How and what dose is used to trigger ovulation for final maturation of oocytes? Is LH supplementation needed during stimulation? Is in vitro maturation of oocytes an accepted routine procedure or still an experimental treatment? Physicians vary widely in their answers to these critical therapeutic questions.

This course is aimed at IVF specialists, clinical endocrinologists, fellows in reproductive medicine, infertility specialists, scientists and biologists in IVF laboratories and residents in obstetrics and gynecology. Participants will learn to differentiate between what is practiced and what is evidence-based, helping to improve their practice of medicine and benefit their patients. The faculty will clarify the role of preimplantation genetic testing in IVF and will address the huge knowledge gap
regarding the duration of luteal phase support.


LEARNING OBJECTIVES

At the conclusion of this course, participants should be able to:
1. Describe the role of GnRH antagonists in ovarian stimulation for IVF.
2. Compare different gonadotropins used for ovarian stimulation.
3. Implement treatment protocols for patients who respond poorly to gonadotropins.

To purchase a downloadable PDF of the PG course syllabus or syllabi, click here.