[Ovarian stimulation monitoring: past, present and perspectives]

Abstract

Since the inception of Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART), knowing the moment of ovulation has always been a priority. Initially, the monitoring was accomplished by observing the luteinizing hormone (LH) surge just before ovulation. Currently, in all ART facilities, the monitoring of all stimulated ovulatory cycles is done by using the conventional two-dimensional (2D) ultrasound to measure follicle diameter and by drawing blood tests that measure estradiol, progesterone, and luteinizing hormone levels. These exams allow determination of the numbers and quality of growing ovarian follicles and evaluation of follicle maturity before choosing the appropriate time for ovulation triggering. The monitoring of ovulatory cycles has now become enhanced with the arrival of new software called SonoAVC. This software allows the utilization of 3D blocks to immediately calculate the total number and volume of the follicles inside the ovary. This automatic approach is faster, precise, and more efficient. It also has better reproducibility than the classical 2D diameters. Furthermore, certain ART professionals envision that by using the SonoVac technology, patients will no longer need to be monitored with regular ultrasounds and with systematic hormonal testing.