IVF (In vitro fertilization) is often associated with ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome. It is a comparatively rare complication that occurs in connection with hormonal stimulation with gonadotropins, as is necessary with artificial insemination.
IVF stimulation of the ovaries is the first step in artificial insemination. This is carefully planned and also checked. However, it cannot be ruled out that overstimulation will occur. This is because a sufficient number of egg cells should be there for successful IVF and it is difficult to estimate how each patient’s body will react to the stimulation.
As a rule, ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome is rare and can be treated well with practical or medical measures.(1)
Can Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome Go Away On Its Own?
The symptoms of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome depend on the severity of the overstimulation. In the course of normal stimulation, at the preliminary stages such as feelings of tension in the lower abdomen, malaise, and slight nausea can be shown. These complaints usually do not require special treatment.
If the overstimulation syndrome manifests itself mildly or moderately, then the complaints mentioned above will take place. There is sometimes a feeling of flatulence, water can accumulate in the abdomen and enlarged ovaries can be seen on ultrasound.
The mild or moderate form of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome can go away on its own after 1 to 2 weeks. The moderate form may require some medical intervention like over the counter medication and doctor advice. But it is not true for the severe form which may require hospitalization as well.
Severe Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome
Severe ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome initially manifests with a strong feeling of nausea and vomiting as well as diarrhea. Also, there may be oliguria (changes in the excretion of urine, i.e. less urine), pain in the upper abdomen, difficulty breathing, irritation of the diaphragm, significant water accumulation in the abdomen with feelings of tension and, of course, enlarged ovaries.
However, the symptoms do not appear suddenly. This can sometimes be prevented if regular and, above all, precise controls are carried out during the stimulation and when the mild or moderate form of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome was observed.
About 30% percent of women undergoing IVF develop a mild form of overstimulation. A severe course can occur in only about 0.5 to 5% of all patients.(2)(3)
What Are The Natural Remedies For Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome?
Natural therapies do well in mild and moderate conditions and may prevent the condition from becoming severe. Remember, it is important to follow the advice of your doctor and the treatment course along with a healthy lifestyle and natural therapies to minimize the consequences and symptoms of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome.
Some herbs like ginger, cinnamon, thyme, cumin, chamomile, and black pepper do wonders in controlling ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, PCOS, and help cure infertility.(6)
Treatment Options For Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome
The therapy course for ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome depends on the severity.
Measures For Mild Forms: If you suffer from a mild course of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, physical precautions are sometimes sufficient. Drinking water of at least three to four liters per day is also important. It can also make sense to cool your lower abdomen, which will reduce blood flow to your ovaries. A protein-rich diet or protein drinks can also be helpful.
Your doctor will also take blood to check the values regularly. Weight control may also be necessary, and progesterone may also be useful.
Treatment For Moderate To Severe Courses: If the course is severe, closely monitored outpatient care or an inpatient admission may be necessary. Bed rest and regular weight control and measurement of the abdominal circumference are particularly important. If the course is severe, daily infusions may also be necessary. If fluid forms in the abdominal cavity, this must be drained using an abdominal puncture.
Alleviating Symptoms And Ways To Prevent Complications: Calcium infusions can help to relieve the symptoms of overstimulation syndrome. It is also important that the kidney function is boosted for better water excretion. The blood collection mentioned above and the measurement of the abdominal circumference help to avoid serious complications (e.g. thrombosis, kidney failure).(4)(5)
How Can Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome Be Prevented?
Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome can occur without a direct causal connection. The treatment is therefore always based on the symptoms. Only during the stimulation phase is it possible to prevent ovarian overstimulation. It is therefore important to identify potential risk factors at an early stage so that measures can be taken to avoid them directly. For patients with an increased risk, low doses of the hormones should be used first.(2)
- Caretto A, Lanzi R, Piani C, Molgora M, Mortini P, Losa M. Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome due to follicle-stimulating hormone-secreting pituitary adenomas. Pituitary. 2017;20(5):553-560.
- Nelson SM. Prevention and management of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome. Thrombosis research. 2017;151:S61-S64.
- Pellicer N, Galliano D, Pellicer A. Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome. The Ovary: Elsevier; 2019:345-362.
- Dauod L, Schenker JG. Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS): Pathogenesis and Prevention. Reproductive Medicine for Clinical Practice: Springer; 2018:83-92.
- Abbara A, Islam R, Clarke S, et al. Clinical parameters of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) following different hormonal triggers of oocyte maturation in IVF treatment’. 2018.
- Rasekhjahromi A, Hosseinpoor M, Alipour F, Maalhagh M, Sobhanian S. Herbal medicines and ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome: a retrospective cohort study. Obstetrics and gynecology international. 2016;2016.
Also Read:
- Coping Methods For Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome
- How To Diagnose Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome & What Is The Best Medicine For It?
- What Are The First Symptoms Of Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome?
- What Is The Best Treatment For Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome?
- What Leads To Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome & Can It Be Cured?
- Can You Get Pregnant With Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome & Is OHSS A Sign Of Pregnancy?
- How Can I Avoid Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome During IVF & How Is Mild OHSS Treated?