Use of oral contraceptives in infertile patients: A descriptive review

Gynecol Endocrinol. 2006 Oct;22(10):537-46. doi: 10.1080/09513590601005672.

Abstract

In the past and currently, there are several applications of oral contraceptives (OCs) in the field of infertility. The aim of the present descriptive review is to analyze the old and new uses of OCs in infertile patients undergoing simple or multiple ovulation-induction programs. Available data seem to indicate that OCs given before treatment could be effective in patients who are resistant to clomiphene citrate and in poor responders. In addition, the use of OCs is useful for scheduling in vitro fertilization programs downregulated with gonadotropin-releasing hormone-antagonists.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Anovulation / drug therapy
  • Contraceptives, Oral / therapeutic use*
  • Female
  • Fertilization in Vitro / drug effects
  • Humans
  • Infertility / drug therapy
  • Ovulation Induction / methods

Substances

  • Contraceptives, Oral