Use of human urinary follicle-stimulating hormone in infertile women with polycystic ovaries.

Human urinary FSH (HU-FSH) was administered during 25 treatment cycles to 21 infertile women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCO) who had failed to conceive in response to clomiphene citrate. HCG was also given in 23 of the cycles. Twenty-two (88%) ovulations occurred, and eight (38.1%) conceptions resulted, two (25%) of which terminated in abortion and six (75.0%) in normal deliveries. No multiple pregnancies occurred. Ten instances (40%) of mild-moderate hyperstimulation also resulted. A spontaneous LH surge was observed in 12 treatment cycles. Ultrasound scanning revealed multiple ovarian follicles developing at various rates. We conclude that HU-FSH is an effective form of treatment for women with PCO. However, the response to exogenous FSH is unpredictable and depends on the stage of development and the number of follicles present prior to stimulation.