P-682 Androgen and Inhibin B levels during ovarian stimulation before and after eight weeks of low dose hCG priming in women with low ovarian reserve

Abstract Study question Does eight weeks of low dose human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG)-priming affect androgen or Inhibin B levels in serum and follicular fluid during IVF/ICSI treatment? Summary answer was reduced on stimulation day 1 the cycle following hCG-priming. Androgen not increased. What is known already In our recently published pilot study, low-dose hCG-priming used to stimulate intraovarian synthesis women with AMH <6.29 pmol/L. Priming resulted more retrieved oocytes follicles sized 2-5 mm less 6-10 at start stimulation. Stimulation time FSH consumption increased after priming. HCG priming potentially causing upregulation receptors granulosa cells, therefore it unexpected that antral were smaller longer This might indicate a different mechanism action than previously thought. design, size, duration A prospective, paired, non-blinded, single-center study including 20 conducted between January 2021 July tertiary referral hospital. Participants underwent two identical IVF treatments: Control elective freezing all blastocysts fresh blastocyst transfer. The cycles separated by (two menstrual cycles) daily injections 260 IE hCG (details paper). Participants/materials, setting, methods Women aged 18-40 years lengths 23-35 days performed fixed GnRH-antagonist protocol. Blood samples taken 1, 5-6, trigger day, oocyte pick up (OPU), + 7 cycles. Follicular collected from first aspirated follicle both sides OPU Main results role chance significantly lower hCG-priming, but no other significant differences seen. concentrations androstenedione did vary testosterone cycle. corresponds being priming, this probably led contradicts theory causes developing (antral preovulatory) follicles. Instead, we hypothesize rescued some small would have otherwise undergone atresia end previous likely an increase receptor expression within these follicles, however, enough elevate serum. We production estradiol per ≥10 comparable cycle, suggesting competent producing steroid hormones. Limitations, reasons for caution sample size small, primary outcome. demonstrated higher level Wider implications findings make us behind prior IVF. It important design retrieval immediately investigate proposed hypothesis confirm improved outcomes i.e., larger population. Trial registration number NCT04643925