Understanding Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome and Its Causes

Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS) is a possible side effect of fertility treatments that stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs. While most women experience mild or no symptoms, a small percentage may develop OHSS, which can range from mild to severe. Women at higher risk include those with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), younger than 35 years, with a high number of developing follicles, elevated estrogen levels during stimulation, or who become pregnant during the same cycle. Symptoms can be mild to moderate—such as bloating, discomfort, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or rapid weight gain of more than one kilogram per day—or severe, including intense abdominal pain, shortness of breath, decreased urination, dizziness, fainting, swelling of the legs, or chest pain. Immediate contact with Almond Blossoms and urgent hospital care are advised for severe symptoms.

OHSS occurs when the ovaries respond too strongly to fertility medications, becoming enlarged and triggering fluid shifts into the abdomen and chest. This fluid buildup causes bloating, discomfort, and in severe cases, breathing difficulties and other complications. The risk can be influenced by individual factors, treatment response, and pregnancy hormones, which may worsen symptoms if conception occurs during the same cycle.

Management, Prevention, and When to Seek Help

Mild OHSS often resolves within a week with rest, adequate fluid intake, and symptom monitoring. More serious cases may require hospitalisation for intravenous fluids, blood and urine monitoring, pain relief, and in rare situations, drainage of excess fluid. At Almond Blossoms, we reduce OHSS risk by tailoring medication protocols to each patient, conducting regular ultrasound and blood test monitoring, using alternative ovulation triggers to avoid hCG when suitable, and in high-risk cases, recommending freezing all embryos and postponing transfer to a later cycle instead of proceeding with a fresh transfer.

Immediate medical attention is essential if symptoms such as severe abdominal pain, rapid weight gain, breathing difficulties, reduced urination, chest pain, or leg swelling occur. Early intervention can prevent serious complications. For urgent concerns, patients should contact Almond Blossoms using the clinic’s emergency lines and seek emergency care without delay. With careful monitoring, personalised treatment, and timely management, most cases of OHSS can be effectively addressed while ensuring the patient’s safety and well-being.