Outpatient management of severe ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome

Abstract

Ovarian hyperstimulation (OHSS) is an iatrogenic complication, which commonly occurs after controlled ovarian stimulation (COS) in in-vitro fertilization (IVF) cycles. Most patients experience mild to moderate OHSS and can be managed safely in an outpatient setting with regular monitoring from their fertility treatment centre. However, severe OHSS has traditionally been managed on an inpatient basis to ensure regular monitoring and bloods can be performed to ensure there is no deterioration in the patient's condition. The mainstay of treatment remains supportive care even in severe cases of OHSS. This spotlight article aims to show that, with correct patient selection, most patients can be managed safely and effectively in an outpatient setting.