Figure 1

OCP and non-OCP protocols. Detailed legend: In the non-OCP group, daily injections of triptorelin 0.1 mg were started in the mid-luteal phase of the preceding cycle (for women with regular menstruations) or on the first day of bleeding (for women with oligomenorrhea or amenorrhea). Desensitization was checked 12 to 15 days after initiation of GnRH agonists (Desensitization day). Daily injections of recombinant FSH (r-FSH) were started only if E2 levels were lower than 50 pg/ml and if there was no functional ovarian cyst. In the OCP group, patients received 28 consecutive days of a monophasic combined oral contraceptive pill (ethinylestradiol (EE) 30 μg and desogestrel 150 μg) starting on cycle day 2. Daily injections of triptorelin 0.1 mg were started on the twenty-first day of OCP. Down-regulation was confirmed 3 or 4 days after discontinuing OCP. Recombinant FSH (r-FSH) was started on the third day of menstrual bleeding. r-FSH starting dose varied between 100 to 200 IU, according to age, BMI and antral follicle count (AFC) in both arms. 5000 IU of purified urinary hCG was administered as soon as at least three follicles reached a mean diameter higher or equal than 17 mm with a consistent rise in serum oestradiol concentration.