Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) is a systemic disease caused by the release of vasoactive products from hyperstimulated ovaries. It is usually iatrogenic, occurring as a complication of ovulation induction therapy during fertility treatment; however, it can also occur following spontaneous ovulation. Fertility treatment frequently takes place outside the hospital setting in stand-alone assisted conception units that are independent of the NHS. Consequently, GPs are increasingly seeing patients presenting with OHSS. Symptoms are often mild and self-limiting and can be managed in the community. The aim of this article is to help GPs to understand, recognise and safely manage OHSS.
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