The fertilization of eggs by sperm outside the body is known as IVF or in vitro fertilization. This process is used to help women who are infertile.
Premature Luteinization
Luteinization is the process during which a matured ovarian follicle, that has discharged its ovum, transforms into the corpus luteum. In patients with higher levels of LH or the luteinizing hormone, the eggs are released prematurely from the follicle resulting in premature formation of the corpus luteum.
There is premature production of progesterone by the corpus luteum that causes undesired changes in the endometrial lining of the uterus. Premature luteinization can also adversely affect the quality of the egg.
Antagonist Cycle
An antagonist cycle is a fertility treatment used in IVF. During a premature surge in an antagonist cycle, the follicle stops growing and there is a fall in estrogen levels and a corresponding rise in progesterone levels. Premature luteinization has been associated with low pregnancy rates in patients undergoing IVF.
Several studies have shown that premature luteinization or surges of LH are prevented and therefore uncommon in an antagonist cycle. Even if they do occur, they don’t adversely affect successful fertilization of the egg.
