Purpose:

IVM is used in assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) as an alternative to conventional IVF, particularly for patients at risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) or those undergoing fertility preservation.

How it works:

Immature oocytes are retrieved from the ovaries, often with minimal or no ovarian stimulation.

These oocytes are then cultured in a controlled environment (IVM) to complete their maturation process.

Once mature, they can be fertilized with sperm in vitro, and the resulting embryos can be transferred to the uterus.

Advantages over conventional IVF:

Reduces the risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome.

Minimizes the need for ovarian stimulation with gonadotropins.

Can be a simpler and less expensive procedure.

Clinical Applications:

Patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or polycystic ovaries.

Patients undergoing fertility preservation due to cancer treatment.

Patients with a high antral follicle count.

Patients experiencing repeated failures in assisted reproduction due to resistant ovary syndrome and poor responders.