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Abstract

The effect of obesity on ovarian response to ovulation induction and on in vitro fertilization (IVF) outcome is controversial. This controversy might stem from the fact that almost all studies on the subject use body mass index (BMI) for obesity measurement. We aimed to determine which obesity measure predicts the possible effect of obesity on ovarian response in IVF patients. In this retrospective study, patients who presented for IVF and underwent an antagonist protocol were included. Their histories and cycle properties were recorded, as well as their BMI and waist-to-hip (W/H) ratios. A total of 35 patients were included. While normal BMI significantly lowered the gonadotropin dose, normal W/H ratio increased the antral follicle count (AFC). Both BMI and W/H ratio did not significantly affect either the number of oocytes retrieved or the metaphase II oocytes. Ovulation induction during IVF cycles can overcome the adverse effects of obesity on ovarian reserve. Large-sample-sized, well-designed studies must be performed to clarify the best obesity measurement method for infertility treatment and to determine the real effect of obesity on IVF success.