Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) is an excessive response to taking the medicines (especially injectable gonadotropins) used to make eggs grow. Rarely, OHSS can result from taking other medications, such as clomiphene citrate or gonadotropin-releasing hormone.

Women with OHSS have a large number of growing follicles along with high estradiol levels. This leads to fluid leaking into the abdomen (belly), which can cause bloating, nausea, and swelling of the abdomen. When OHSS is severe, blood clots, shortness of breath, abdominal pain, dehydration, and vomiting are possible.

Listen in to learn more about this condition. As always, speak to your medical provider for more information regarding OHSS, especially if you have PCOS and are about to undergo an IVF cycle.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, subscribe to the Fertility Stories podcast and leave a review.

Podcast freebie: 7 day fertility optimizing meal plan with recipes and grocery list available for download through my website www.fertilityfundamentals.com.