OVARIAN HYPERSTIMULATION SYNDROME

A case of severe ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) prompted us to review our experience of the condition, and to critically evaluate its clinical associations and treatment. Severe OHSS complicated 1.8% of gamete intra-Fallopian transfer (GIFT) cycles, but none of the ovul ation induction and artificial insemination by husband (OI/AIH) cycles . It is difficult to establish whether the higher pregnancy rate obser ved with OHSS was attributable to pregnancy increasing the risk of OHS S, or if it was the development of OHSS which increased the likelihood of pregnancy. Monitoring serum oestradiol levels and ultrasonographic evaluation of growing follicles may be helpful in identifying women a t risk. Strategies for reducing the risk of developing severe OHSS wer e considered.