These protocols refer to the pharmaceutical regulation in order to achieve controlled ovarian stimulation (COS). The reason for their use is multiple follicle development and avoidance of early follicle rupture due to the surge in LH. Early follicle rupture is equivalent to the loss of oocytes prior to their scheduled pick-up (oocyte retrieval) that is performed by the gynaecologist under ultrasound guidance.
The decision of which stimulation protocol to use depends on the individual nature of each patient's cycle, the ovarian response in previous cycles, the age and other factors assessed by the doctor.
Nonetheless, the application of these protocols is flexible as every patient may respond to the drugs differently. An important part of our task is to define the best therapeutic protocol and decide on the ideal dosage for each separate case.
The most common protocols are:
