The Role of Recombinant LH in Women with Hypo-Response to Controlled Ovarian Stimulation: a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Objective To study the role of recombinant human LH supplementation in women with hypo-response to ovarian stimulation. Methods We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of prospective clinical trials in which recombinant FSH monotherapy protocols were compared with LH-supplemented protocols in hypo-responders. A search was conducted of the Scopus, MEDLINE databases without time or language restrictions. Primary outcome was clinical pregnancy rate. Results Significantly higher clinical pregnancy rates (odds ratio: 2.03, P = 0.003), implantation rates (odds ratio: 2.62, P = 0.004) and number of oocytes retrieved (weight mean differences: 1.98, P = 0.03) were observed in hypo-responders supplemented with recombinant LH versus hypo-responders who underwent FSH monotherapy. No differences in terms of mature oocytes or miscarriage rates were found between the two groups. Conclusion In conclusion, our analysis confirms that women with a hypo-response to exogenous gonadotropins might benefit from LH supplementation. However, more trials are required before a definitive conclusion can be drawn.