The pathophysiology and treatment of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome

Abstract

The ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) remains one of the enigmas of reproductive medicine. We all fear its development in our patients and we all have “pet” policies for its prevention and treatment. Despite this, its incidence has not changed significantly in the last 20 years with the severe form still occurring in 0.3–5.0% of cycles. Its pathogenesis clearly has a physiological basis but it would appear to be compounded by the body's homeostatic response to the changes produced by the syndrome.