Korean J Obstet Gynecol.  2009 Jul;52(7):691-699.

Ovulation induction: an up-to-date knowledge

• Kim SD
• Jee BC

Abstract

Ovulation induction is to make ovulation occur in a woman with ovulatory problems by giving her medical or surgical treatment. The method of ovulation induction varies depends on the cause and classification. In group I of WHO classification, gonadotropins should be used, and in group V or VI which shows hyperprolactinemia, dopamine agonist such as bromocriptine can be used to lower the serum level of prolactin. Group III is not an indication of ovulation induction and ovum donation should be recommended. In group II which is clinically most common, the first choice of treatment is clomiphene. If the initial treatment doesn't work, glucocorticoids, insulin sensitizers such as metformin, or gonadotropins can be added to induce ovulation. Aromatase inhibitor or gonadotropin alone can be an alternative treatment. In patients with polycystic ovary syndrome, ovarian electrocautery, diathermy or laser vaporization can be helpful. In patients with prolactinoma, transsphenoidal pituitary adenomectomy is available.

Keyword

Ovulation induction; Anovulation; Clomiphene; Letrozole

MeSH Terms

Anovulation
Aromatase
Bromocriptine
Clomiphene
Diathermy
Dopamine Agonists
Electrocoagulation
Female
Glucocorticoids
Gonadotropins
Humans
Hyperprolactinemia
Insulin
Laser Therapy
Metformin
Nitriles
Oocyte Donation
Ovulation
Ovulation Induction
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Prolactin
Prolactinoma
Triazoles
Aromatase
Bromocriptine
Clomiphene
Dopamine Agonists
Glucocorticoids
Gonadotropins
Insulin
Metformin
Nitriles
Prolactin
Triazoles