Introduction: The study evaluates the effectiveness of different protocols used in In-Vitro Fertilization procedures and their role inn recruiting follicles in different age groups affecting fertility outcome.

Methods: This prospective study was conducted in between August 2002 and September 2003, in which sixtyeight cases were enrolled, who had tubal block, anovulation, male factor infertility, endometriosis, failed IUI /IVF or idiopathic infertility. Women were categorized into three age groups A (24-29 years), B (30-34 years) and C (35-40 years). Their ovarian response using long, short and micro-dose stimulation protocols were monitored via ultrasonic follicular measurements and endometrial thickening. Oocytes were collected by aspiration of follicles under anesthesia, inseminated and incubated at 37o C with humidified 5% CO2 for fertilization. Two to three fertilized embryos were transferred into uterine cavity.

Results: Out of total 190 oocytes, 103 were fertilized and 87 were unfertilized. Conception results showed 17(53%) biochemical pregnancies out of 32 transfers. Of them, 8(25%) had clinical pregnancies, 4(12) abortions, 1(3%) ectopic pregnancy and 4(12%) had live births.

Conclusion: The major predictor of In vitro fertilization lays at the qualities of oocytes and sperm. However, age was the determinant of implantation and continuation of pregnancy in this study.