Doppler velocimetry of the ovarian artery as a tool to detect LH surge in stimulated cycles

Abstract

Our aim was to assess the velocimetric pattern of the ovarian artery as a possible marker of LH surge in stimulated cycles. A total of 130 women undergoing ovarian stimulation for intrauterine insemination were randomized in two groups. Each woman was stimulated with 75 IU of recombinant FSH starting from the third day of the cycle. Velocimetric indices of the dominant ovarian artery were compared between patients with spontaneous LH surge and those needing HCG administration to trigger dominant follicle rupture. The pulsatility index and the ratio between peak systolic flow and lowest diastolic flow were significantly higher in women that had a spontaneous triggering of ovulation. These parameters had a high and very significant positive correlation with the dosage of luteinizing hormone. Threshold values of 2.60 for PI and 7.68 for S/D had a high sensitivity and specificity to predict LH surge. These velocimetric results demonstrated that an increased resistance in the dominant ovarian artery is correlated to LH surge in stimulated cycles. It may represent a sign of relevant clinical utility in timing of intrauterine insemination and/or natural intercourse.