What's Agonist Schedule?

The agonist protocol, also known as the "long protocol" or "down-regulation protocol" is used during in vitro fertilization (IVF) in order to prevent ovulation from occurring too soon. The protocol starts seven days before the period is due, known as mid-luteal timing. The GnRH agonist is continued in combination with a follicle-stimulation hormone (FSH) drug which is started 2-7 days after the period starts.