The information on this website is not intended for diagnosis or treatment. Please consult your physician for health concerns.

+90 850 321 50 00

Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS)

A serious complication of ovulation induction in assisted reproductive technologies.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum department. Book Appointment →

What is Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS)?

Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome is a complication characterized by excessive ovarian enlargement and systemic vascular permeability triggered by gonadotropins or hCG during controlled ovarian stimulation.

Increased vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) plays a role in its pathogenesis. It has mild, moderate, and severe forms; in the severe form, ascites, pleural effusion, oliguria, hemoconcentration, and thrombosis can be seen.

Patients at high risk (young age, PCOS, high AMH, high antral follicle count) can be made safer with GnRH antagonist protocols, agonist triggering, and embryo freezing strategies.

Symptoms

Abdominal bloating and prominent distension
Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite
Shortness of breath and chest pressure
Weight gain (>2 kg/day)
Decreased urine output
Leg pain and swelling (thrombosis)

Risk Factors

Polycystic ovary syndrome
High AMH and antral follicle count
Young age and low body weight
Previous OHSS history
High-dose gonadotropin use
hCG triggering and pregnancy development

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • When rapid weight gain occurs after induction
  • When severe abdominal pain and shortness of breath develop
  • When urine output decreases or becomes concentrated
  • When leg pain and swelling are noticed
  • When dizziness and confusion occur

Treatment Methods

01
Fluid-electrolyte balance and hemoconcentration monitoring
02
Home oral fluids and rest in mild cases
03
Hospitalization and IV crystalloid in severe cases
04
Albumin infusion and paracentesis
05
Thromboprophylaxis (LMWH)
06
Postponing pregnancy with embryo freezing

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum Department

Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

Book AppointmentContact Us

Related Health Topics

Other articles from the same department you may want to explore.

Regular Gynecological Check-up

Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum

Regular gynecological check-ups enable early diagnosis of many women's diseases and increase treatment success. It is recommended that every sexually active woman or woman over 21 see a gynecologist at least once a year.

Cervical Cancer

Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum

Cervical cancer develops from uncontrolled growth of cells in the cervix and is among the most common women's cancers worldwide. Precancerous lesions can be recognized with regular Pap smear and HPV testing.

HPV and Vaccination

Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum

HPV is a common virus transmitted sexually that can lead to certain types of cancer. Vaccination provides over 90% protection against high-risk HPV strains.

Ovarian Cyst

Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum

Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that form in or on the ovarian tissue. Most are asymptomatic and disappear spontaneously; however, large or complex cysts can cause pain and complications.

Endometriosis

Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum

Endometriosis affects about 10% of women of reproductive age, causing cyclic pelvic pain, dysmenorrhea, dyspareunia, and infertility; combined medical and laparoscopic treatment improves quality of life.

Uterine Fibroids

Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum

Uterine fibroids are benign tumors developing from the uterine muscle layer. They affect 20-50% of women of reproductive age; most are asymptomatic, but can cause bleeding and pain.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum

PCOS is the most common endocrine disease affecting approximately 10% of women of reproductive age, characterized by androgen excess, ovulation disorder, and polycystic ovarian appearance.

Menopause

Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum

Menopause is the life stage defined by not having a period for 12 consecutive months and the natural cessation of ovarian function. The average age is 51, but it can vary between 45-55 years.

Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.