A simplified approach to in vitro fertilization.

A simplified protocol for in vitro fertilization treatment was developed using low-dose clomiphene for ovarian stimulation, timing of human chorionic gonadotropin administration based solely on sonographic criteria, in-office egg retrieval and use of a simplified culture medium for embryo culture. Twenty-six infertile women underwent 39 treatment cycles, with 33 egg retrievals resulting in 29 embryo transfers. Clinical pregnancy was obtained in six patients (20.7% per embryo transfer), for a rate comparable to that achieved with conventional in vitro fertilization treatment in an age-matched control group. This simplification of in vitro fertilization treatment protocols can lead to decreased patient stress and costs without a substantially lower success rate.