Women underwent controlled ovarian hyperstimulation with a GnRH antagonist protocol in the majority of the cases (Merck Serono, Geneve, Switzerland; Organon, Oss, Netherlands) and with an agonist protocol in the remaining cases (Sanofi Aventis, Frankfurt, Germany). For stimulation, recombinant follicle stimulating hormone (rFSH) was used in most cases (Organon; Merck Serono), while human menopausal gonadotropin (HMG) was used as an alternative (Ferring, Kiel, Germany). Ovulation trigger was performed either with human chorionic gonadotropin (Organon) or recombinant HCG (Merck-Serono). Estradiol serum levels were analyzed on the day of HCG or one day before (Pinto et al., 2009 (link)).
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