Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS)

A lot of women take fertility medications to help them get pregnant, but sometimes this could lead to ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome.

Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome

Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome could occur after having fertility treatments or planning to do an IVF in order to get pregnant, which causes the ovaries to swell and leak fluids.

Causes and risk factors of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome

The reason behind OHSS isn’t fully understood, but it’s thought that having elevated levels of the hormone HCG (usually produced during pregnancy) participates in it. A trigger shot of HCG is usually given to make the follicle release an egg, and as a result, the ovarian blood vessels might react abnormally to it and develop OHSS.

The risk of ovarian hyperstimulation increases due to the following factors:

• Having PCOS.
• Having elevated levels of estrogen during the IVF.
• Having a large number of follicles.
• Receiving a high dose of HCG throughout the IVF treatment.
• The age is younger than 35.
• Being underweight.

Symptoms of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome

Mild to moderate OHSS:

• Belly bloating.
• Increased waist size.
• Tenderness in the area of the ovaries.
• Digestive issues, like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Severe OHSS:

• Severe belly pain, nausea, and vomiting.
• Fast weight gain.
• Enlarged belly.
• Shortness of breath.
• Decreased urination.
• Blood clots.

Complications of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome

• Ovarian twisting.
• Rupture of an ovarian cyst, which could cause bleeding.
• Losing the pregnancy.
• Blood clots in large vessels, like in the legs.
• Fluid buildup in the belly or the chest.
• Breathing issues.
• Electrolyte imbalance.
• Kidney failure.
• Death in rare cases.

Diagnosis of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome

• Physical exam.
• Blood tests.
• An ultrasound.

Treatment of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome

• Mild to moderate OHSS typically resolves on its own, and it’s kept under monitoring.
• Severe OHSS requires admission to the hospital.