Long versus short Clomid protocols for ovarian stimulation in IVF
Official title: Evaluation of a Long Versus Short Clomid Protocol for Controlled Ovarian Stimulation in Patients With Diminished Ovarian Reserve Undergoing In-vitro Fertilization: a Randomized Controlled Trial
Run by University of Southern California · NCT06701071 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This test compares taking Clomid throughout an IVF stimulation cycle versus the usual five-day Clomid course (with a GnRH antagonist) to see which approach yields more mature eggs for people with diminished ovarian reserve.
Quick facts
| Phase | Phase 4 |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Ages | 18 Years to 44 Years |
| Sex | Women only |
| Enrollment | 120 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Southern California Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Pasadena, California) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | June 1, 2025 |
| Main results expected | June 2028 |
| Study ends | June 2028 |
| Registry record updated | August 4, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT06701071 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are people undergoing IVF with diminished ovarian reserve by POSEIDON criteria, antral follicle count ≥2, age under 45 at stimulation start, a non-azoospermic sperm source, and who are planning a freeze-all cycle or are eligible for fresh transfer in the short-Clomid arm.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with normal ovarian reserve or good response, those on minimal stimulation protocols, individuals with prior premature ovulation, or anyone allergic to Clomid are unlikely to benefit from this protocol.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
People with diminished ovarian reserve undergoing IVF will be randomized to either a "long" Clomid protocol (Clomid given throughout stimulation) or the standard approach of Clomid for five days with a later GnRH antagonist. The long protocol aims to boost FSH exposure, potentially increase ovarian response, and eliminate the need for an injectable antagonist. The trial's primary outcome is the number of mature (MII) eggs retrieved at oocyte pickup. The design targets patients planning a freeze-all cycle or those eligible for a fresh transfer if randomized to the short Clomid arm.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the long Clomid approach could produce more mature eggs while reducing injections and medication costs.
How similar studies have gone: Some clinics and observational reports have suggested benefit from extended Clomid use, but randomized data on a full-cycle "long Clomid" approach are limited, making this a relatively novel comparison.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Undergoing IVF * Must meet POSEIDON criteria based on clinic evaluation * Female partner: Antral follicle count of 2 or more and age \<45 at time of stimulation start * Male partner/sperm source: Cannot be azoospermic * Planning freeze-all cycle (regardless of blastocyst or cleavage stage culture) or fresh transfer if randomized to short Clomid group * Planning 36-hour trigger window Exclusion Criteria: * Normal ovarian reserve or good response * Allergy or adverse reaction to Clomid * Minimal stimulation protocols * History of prior premature ovulation
Where it's running
-
HRC Fertility
Pasadena, California, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Richard Paulson — paulsonivf@havingbabies.com
- Study coordinator: Bonnie Song, MD
- Email: Bonnie.Song@med.usc.edu
- Phone: 323-409-3026
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.