The difference between long and short protocols The first step after entering IVF treatment is to develop a super ovulation protocol. Some people use the long protocol and some people need to do the short protocol. Many of my friends ask me what is the difference between these 2 protocols? Both protocols are ways to encourage follicle growth and provide the “supply” of the right number of mature follicles for the egg retrieval procedure. In terms of dosing time, the long regimen is longer, taking about 4 weeks, while the short regimen takes about 2 weeks. The long regimen is divided into 2 major phases, the first phase is the down regulation treatment which lasts for 14-21 days. The main goal is to inhibit follicle growth, just like in a running race, with a rope to keep everyone behind the starting line. In the second phase, the follicles are all neatly located on the starting line and grow together under the effect of ovulation-promoting drugs. After 8-12 days, the follicles reach 18-20mm, which is the size of mature follicles, and then the egg retrieval procedure can be scheduled. The advantage of the long protocol is that the follicles are synchronized and relatively uniform in size, and the hormone levels in the body are stable. In the short protocol, there is no down regulation phase and the ovulation medication is started directly. 8-12 days later, the follicles reach the size of mature follicles and the egg retrieval procedure is scheduled. It is like a race without a starting line, everyone stands in a random line and starts running when the gun goes off. The short protocol treats relatively more follicles and there is no suppression process. Is it true that anyone can choose the long and short protocols at will? Of course not. Generally speaking, younger people, say <35< span=""> years old, with good ovarian conditions, tend to choose long protocols for treatment. If you are >35 years old, or if your ovarian reserve is weak, you tend to choose the short regimen. Think about it, if the number of small follicles is already small, after suppression, are there even fewer follicles. Of course, the final choice is a complex one, taking into account all factors. You don’t have to worry, your doctor will choose the most suitable treatment plan for you.