Background: An elevated follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) level in the early follicular phase in women over age 40 has been associated with decreased potential for achieving pregnancy utilizing in vitro fertilization (IVF). Also, pregnancies achieved by such women commonly result in miscarriage.
Cases: A private infertility practice surveyed all patient records in women under age 35 who were undergoing either IVF or controlled ovarian hyperstimulation. Five women were identified with persistent early follicular phase elevation of FSH. Patients were reviewed in terms of ovulatory function and other fertility characteristics. Four of these patients achieved pregnancy and delivered normal infants.
Conclusion: Women under age 35 with elevated early follicular phase FSH levels constitute a heterogeneous group of patients. An elevated FSH level in such women may not have the same prognosis as it does in women over age 40.