We found this report of some fascinating new research about whether infertility doctors should individualize the dose of fertility medications based on a woman’s ovarian reserves or age.

This study was the OPTIMIST study, from the Dutch Consortium for Healthcare Evaluation and Research in Obstetrics and Gynecology. It was chosen as the Editor’s Highlight by Professor Hans Evers, Editor-in-Chief of Human Reproduction.

The findings are important:

• In women with a predicted poor response to ovarian stimulation, an increased FSH dose (ovarian stimulation medication) does not improve cumulative IVF live birth rates.
• In women with a predicted hyper-response at risk for Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (a dangerous possible side effect of infertility treatment), a reduced FSH dose does not affect live birth rates. It reduces the incidence of mild and moderate, but not severe OHSS.
• For all women with a regular cycle, 150 IU FSH/day is recommended.