I have been a poor responder to previous IVF attempts. My doctor suggested a boost cycle, where I sniff a drug while I simultaneously take the FSH injections. The sniffing drug causes my brain to be drained of FSH and gives my ovaries and extra boost of FSH hormone at the start of my cycle to get the follicles growing. I was feeling really good about this until I read the following:
While it indeed increases the release of FSH, it at the same time causes a surge in LH release. The latter can evoke excessive ovarian stromal androgen production which could potentially compromise egg quality. I am of the opinion that by evoking an exaggerated ovarian androgen response, can harm egg/embryo quality and reduce IVF success rates, especially in older women, and in women with diminished ovarian reserve . Accordingly, I do not prescribe them at all.
I have also read similar comments on other internet sites and am now very worried (Darn you, Dr Google!). So I am curious as to how other women have responded to this protocol to set my mind at ease.