The Value of Vaginal Progesterone as a Measure of Luteal Phase Support in Females with PCOS Undergoing Ovulation Induction Using Letrozole

Background & Objective: Ovulation induction is a successful treatment for PCOS patients who need fertility assistance because ovulation dysfunction is one of the criteria of diagnosis for the condition. The two most commonly used agents with this regard are clomiphene citrate and letrozole, despite that, the results are not always promising. The present study was conducted with aim to assess the value of vaginal progesterone as a luteal phase support for Iraqi women with PCOS undergoing ovulation induction using letrozole.Materials & Methods: This randomized controlled clinical trial was conducted on 60 women with history of “polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)” based on the Rotterdam criteria. The inclusion criteria were females less than 40 years of age who receiving letrozole for a random manner into two groups. The first group received vaginal gel of Crinone once daily (8% Vaginal gel containing progesterone hormone); whereas the second group were not treated with vaginal Crinone gel. The couples enrolled in this study were subjected to time intercourse and they were followed for the primary outcome of positive biochemical pregnancy.Results: There were no significant differences between the two groups in mean FSH and Mean AMH (P > 0.05). The rate of positive pregnancy tests in the intervention group was greater than that of control group (22.5 % versus 15 %, respectively); however, the difference was statistically not significant.Conclusion: The use of progesterone as a support for luteal phase can enhance pregnancy outcome in women with PCOS undergoing ovulation induction using letrozole.