Selection of superior stimulation protocols for follicular development in a program for in vitro fertilization.

Classification of stimulated controlled follicular development cycles in programs for in vitro fertilization by the likelihood of culminating in a pregnancy would allow for increased efficacy in patient management and the distribution of care provider services. Analysis of human menopausal gonadotropin stimulations by the estradiol (E2) patterns identified trends suggesting superiority of one pattern, but no statistically significant difference was identified. Similarly, trends were identified in the Norfolk data for the height and pattern of E2 response, but no statistical significance was identified. While these observations may become significant with larger numbers, until that time, criteria for altering patient management based on the rise of follicular phase E2 levels should be reconsidered.