Ovarian stimulation is a crucial step in the process of in vitro fertilization (IVF), which involves the stimulation of the ovaries by hormones to enhance egg production.

Ovarian stimulation has witnessed major developments, and novel techniques and technologies have revolutionized the field over the past few years. These advancements have improved the efficiency of IVF and increased the chances of success for couples undergoing infertility treatments.

Global Trends in Ovarian Stimulation and IVF

1. Personalized medicine

The advancements in technology have enabled the development of personalized medicine, where the treatment is customized based on the individual’s needs.

For example, genetic testing can be used to identify the cause of infertility, and IVF treatment can be tailored to suit the patient’s specific requirements.

2. Minimal stimulation IVF

A significant trend in IVF is the move towards minimal stimulation IVF, which uses lower doses of fertility drugs than conventional IVF.

This approach aims to reduce the risks and side effects associated with ovarian stimulation, such as ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), while maintaining comparable outcomes.

3. Freeze-all cycles

A growing trend is freeze-all cycles, where instead of immediately transferring the embryos, they are frozen and preserved for later use.

This approach improves the patient’s chances of pregnancy by allowing the endometrium to recuperate before the transfer of the embryos. Additionally, it reduces the risk of OHSS and improves the success rates of IVF.

4. Innovative drugs

A new generation of drugs, such as Kisspeptin, Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonists, and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) biosimilars, have been introduced to stimulate ovarian function.

These drugs offer several benefits, such as reduced side effects, increased efficacy, and improved control over the timing of ovulation.

5. Invasive and non-invasive techniques

Several invasive and non-invasive techniques have been developed to enhance ovarian stimulation.

Invasive techniques include transvaginal hydrolaparoscopy (THL) and deep cervical brushing (DCB), while non-invasive techniques include Acupuncture, transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), and mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR).

6. Advances in embryo culture conditions

Embryo culture conditions have evolved significantly, and continuous global attempts are being made to improve them further.

Different methods, such as the use of serum-free medium, reduced oxygen environment, or metabolomics profiling, have helped to maintain the embryo’s quality and improve the live birth rate after IVF.

7. Changing age demographics of women seeking IVF treatment

The age demographics of women seeking IVF treatment have shifted considerably, with an increasing number of women seeking fertility treatments in their late thirties, forties, and even fifties.

This trend has created substantial challenges for IVF clinics and healthcare providers to increase success rates for older women who face several significant hurdles to achieving a successful pregnancy, including decreased ovarian function, decreased egg quality, increased risk of chromosomal abnormalities, and higher risk for other pregnancy complications.

8. Increase in same-sex couples seeking fertility treatments

The increase in same-sex couples seeking fertility treatments has led to a shift in IVF demographics.

Many fertility clinics have adapted their services to serve the specific needs of same-sex couples, and the use of donor sperm or eggs and surrogacy are more frequently used to achieve pregnancy.

9. Rise in popularity of natural and complementary therapies

Complementary therapies, such as acupuncture, traditional Chinese medicine, and hypnotherapy, are gaining popularity, and many women are pairing these therapies with IVF treatments to improve their chances of success.

These therapies are thought to enhance fertility by reducing stress and anxiety and improving the circulation and hormonal balance, leading to improved ovulation function.

10. Greater patient involvement in treatment decisions and outcomes

Increasingly, patients are becoming more informed about IVF treatment options and actively participating in decisions regarding their care.

Clinics are adapting their services to provide greater involvement and support for patients, including access to online information and remote monitoring during treatment. This trend enables patients to take control of their care and achieve better treatment outcomes.

Conclusion

IVF and ovarian stimulation have undergone significant advancements in recent years, with the introduction of personalized medicine, the use of minimal stimulation IVF, innovations in drugs, and improvements in embryo culture conditions.

Furthermore, changing demographics of patients, increased patient involvement, and popularity of complementary therapies are trends that shape the future of IVF treatment. As the field of reproductive technology evolves, patients, healthcare providers, and researchers must work collaboratively to develop safe and effective treatments that suit individual needs.