IVF treatment offers a beacon of hope for many couples dreaming of parenthood. Ovarian stimulation is a critical stage of this process. However, sometimes this stimulation, though rarely, can lead to a condition called Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS). OHSS, or Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome, can occur in approximately 1-5% of women undergoing IVF treatment, is usually mild but can rarely lead to serious complications. As Ankara IVF Center, we prioritize our patients' health above all else and implement modern treatment protocols to minimize this potential risk. In this article, enlightened by Prof. Dr. Kubilay Vicdan's over 30 years of experience, we will thoroughly discuss the causes, risk factors, symptoms of OHSS, and most importantly, current prevention strategies.
What Causes OHSS?
OHSS is essentially an exaggerated response of the ovaries to controlled stimulation during IVF treatment. Normally, a woman's ovaries mature only one egg cell each month. However, in IVF treatment, external hormone medications (gonadotropins) are used to obtain more eggs and increase the chance of pregnancy. These medications trigger the simultaneous growth of numerous follicles (sacs containing eggs) in the ovaries.
As follicles grow, they secrete a hormone called estrogen. Especially when many follicles develop and estrogen levels rise excessively, the