Results of planned in-vitro fertilization programming through the pre-administration of the oestrogen-progesterone combined pill.

The use of an oestrogen-progesterone combined pill permits the induction of ovulation in the absence of any developing follicle. Two treatments were compared. In the first, patients received no prior treatment before stimulation. In the second, combined oestrogen-progesterone treatment was given during approximately two menstrual cycles prior to stimulation. No differences between the two groups were found in relation to oocyte maturity, fertilization in vitro, cleavage, replacement and pregnancy. Fewer luteinizing hormone surges occurred in patients pre-treated with steroids. The utilization of the oestrogen-progesterone combined pill prior to induction of ovulation facilitates the forward planning of patients for in-vitro fertilization.