Authors' objectives: Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome is a significant complication of fertility treatment, where the ovaries become enlarged if they are overstimulated, resulting in fluid leakage. Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome can be classified as mild, moderate or severe. Symptoms vary dependent on severity but can include abdominal swelling, pain, nausea and vomiting, and shortness of breath. Treatment typically consists of monitoring initially, with active intervention if the condition progresses to a severe state, requiring hospitalisation. This study explored the acceptability and feasibility of outpatient paracentesis, and of gonadotropin-releasing hormone antagonists, as early interventions for ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome.

Authors' results and conclusions: Both healthcare professionals and patients were supportive of the proposed trials. Key findings included that healthcare professionals recommended clarity on patient eligibility, hospitalisation criteria and consent procedures. Patients expressed a desire to be given more detailed information about potential trials and had mixed opinions on self-monitoring. There were some concerns from both parties about treatment risks, particularly the paracentesis. Healthcare professionals noted a shift to more preventative practice due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Outpatient paracentesis and gonadotropin-releasing hormone antagonists were perceived as promising interventions. Potential concerns and recommendations around both acceptability and feasibility were raised, which were used to refine the treatment protocols for the Shaping and Trialling Outpatient Protocols for Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome trial.

Authors' methods: We conducted qualitative semi-structured interviews with healthcare professionals from fertility clinics (n = 8) and patients who had experienced ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (n = 10) across six United Kingdom fertility clinics. Interviews explored views on the proposed treatment protocols, and potential barriers and facilitators to randomised controlled trials evaluating these treatments.

Project Status: Completed

URL for project: https://www.journalslibrary.nihr.ac.uk/programmes/hta/NIHR128137_04

Year Published: 2026

URL for published report: https://www.journalslibrary.nihr.ac.uk/hta/published-articles/GJMM2923

URL for additional information: English

English language abstract: An English language summary is available

Publication Type: Full HTA

Country: England, United Kingdom

DOI: 10.3310/GJMM2923

Organisation Name: NIHR Health Technology Assessment programme

Contact Address: NIHR Journals Library, National Institute for Health and Care Research, Evaluation, Trials and Studies Coordinating Centre, Alpha House, University of Southampton Science Park, Southampton SO16 7NS, UK

Contact Name: journals.library@nihr.ac.uk

Contact Email: journals.library@nihr.ac.uk