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Zhou R, Dong M, Wang Z, Huang L, Wang S, Chen Y, Zhu Z, Zhang X, Liu F. Impact of different progesterone timings on live birth rates for blastocyst frozen embryo transfer cycles. Reprod Biomed Online 2024; 49:104307. [PMID: 39111116 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2024.104307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2024] [Revised: 05/27/2024] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 09/15/2024]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Do different timings of progesterone administration for day 5 and day 6 blastocysts affect the live birth rate (LBR) of artificial frozen embryo transfer (FET) cycles? DESIGN This retrospective cohort study included 1362 patients who underwent artificial FET cycles. The effects of 6 and 7 days of progesterone administration prior to blastocyst transfer on clinical outcomes were compared in day 5 and day 6 blastocysts. Univariable and multivariable regression analyses were undertaken. RESULTS In all patients, LBR was comparable between the two groups (51.8% versus 47.9%, P = 0.165). For day 6 blastocysts, after adjusting for confounders, the 7-day progesterone regimen resulted in a significantly higher LBR (44.8% versus 36.4%, P = 0.039, adjusted OR = 1.494, 95% CI 1.060-2.106) and lower pregnancy loss rate (15.4% versus 25.2%, P = 0.031, adjusted OR = 0.472, 95% CI 0.260-0.856) compared with the 6-day progesterone regimen. For day 5 blastocysts, there were no significant differences in pregnancy outcomes between the two regimens, but the rate of low birthweight was higher with the 7-day progesterone regimen than with the 6-day progesterone regimen (13.9% versus 6.7%, P = 0.032). CONCLUSIONS In all blastocyst analyses, no difference in LBR was found between the 6- and 7-day progesterone regimens in artificial FET cycles. For day 6 blastocysts, LBR was significantly higher with the 7-day progesterone regimen than with the 6-day progesterone regimen, whereas for day 5 blastocysts, pregnancy outcomes were comparable between the two regimens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruiqiong Zhou
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Guangdong Women and Children's Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Mei Dong
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Guangdong Women and Children's Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Zhaoyi Wang
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Guangdong Women and Children's Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Li Huang
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Guangdong Women and Children's Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Songlu Wang
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Guangdong Women and Children's Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Ye Chen
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Guangdong Women and Children's Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Zhenghong Zhu
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Guangdong Women and Children's Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Xiqian Zhang
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Guangdong Women and Children's Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China.
| | - Fenghua Liu
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Guangdong Women and Children's Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China.
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Tehraninejad ES, Alizadeh S, Nekoo EA, Zargarzadeh N, Shariat M, Haghollahi F, Tarafdari A, Parsaei M. Comparing the outcomes of in-vitro fertilization in patients receiving vaginal, subcutaneous, and intramuscular progesterone for luteal phase support: a three-armed randomized controlled trial. BMC Womens Health 2024; 24:481. [PMID: 39223536 PMCID: PMC11367876 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-024-03337-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2024] [Accepted: 08/27/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The optimal approach to luteal-phase support in infertility treatment remains a subject of debate. This study was conducted to investigate the clinical outcomes, side effects, and patient satisfaction associated with vaginal, subcutaneous, and intramuscular progesterone administration in infertile women undergoing Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET). METHODS This three-armed randomized clinical trial assigned infertile patients eligible for FET to three progesterone treatment groups: vaginal suppositories (400 mg twice daily; n = 100), subcutaneous injections (25 mg daily; n = 102), and intramuscular injections (50 mg daily; n = 108). The primary outcomes were chemical and clinical pregnancy rates per embryo transfer cycle, with chemical pregnancy defined as beta-human chorionic gonadotropin levels > 50 IU/mL two weeks post-transfer and clinical pregnancy confirmed by ultrasound four weeks later. Exploratory outcomes included progesterone-related adverse effects and participant satisfaction, assessed via a Likert-scale survey 12 weeks post-transfer. Statistical analyses included Chi-square tests for categorical data, one-way analysis of variances, and Kruskal-Wallis tests for continuous data. RESULTS The intramuscular progesterone group had significantly higher chemical pregnancy rates compared to the vaginal and subcutaneous groups (41.7% vs. 26.0% and 27.5%, respectively; p = 0.026). Although the clinical pregnancy rate was also higher in the intramuscular group (32.4%) compared to the vaginal (23.0%) and subcutaneous groups (21.6%), this difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.148). Additionally, patient satisfaction was greater with vaginal and subcutaneous applications than with intramuscular injections (p < 0.001), likely due to a significantly higher incidence of side effects, such as pain and edema at the injection site, in the intramuscular group (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS We found that intramuscular progesterone resulted in higher chemical pregnancy rates than vaginal or subcutaneous routes, but this did not translate into higher clinical pregnancy rates. Despite its effectiveness, intramuscular administration was associated with more adverse effects and lower patient satisfaction. Future research should explore optimizing progesterone regimens to balance efficacy and patient comfort. TRIAL REGISTRATION The trial protocol was registered on December 6, 2020, in the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (IRCT), a primary registry in the World Health Organization (WHO) Registry Network, under the registration number IRCT20141217020351N12.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ensieh Shahrokh Tehraninejad
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Family Health Research Institute, Imam Khomeini Hospital Complex, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Vali-e-Asr Reproductive Health Research Center, Family Health Research Institute, Imam Khomeini Hospital Complex, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sanaz Alizadeh
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Family Health Research Institute, Imam Khomeini Hospital Complex, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Elham Azimi Nekoo
- Jacobi Medical Center, Albert Einstein University, Bronx, NY, 10461, USA
| | - Nikan Zargarzadeh
- Maternal Fetal Care Center, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Mamak Shariat
- Maternal, Fetal & Neonatal Research Center, Family Health Research Institute, Tehran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fedyeh Haghollahi
- Vali-e-Asr Reproductive Health Research Center, Family Health Research Institute, Imam Khomeini Hospital Complex, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Azadeh Tarafdari
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Family Health Research Institute, Imam Khomeini Hospital Complex, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
- Vali-e-Asr Reproductive Health Research Center, Family Health Research Institute, Imam Khomeini Hospital Complex, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Mohammadamin Parsaei
- Maternal, Fetal & Neonatal Research Center, Family Health Research Institute, Tehran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
- Breastfeeding Research Center, Family Health Research Institute, Tehran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
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3
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Shapiro RL, Bockley KM, Hsueh HT, Appell MB, Carter DM, Ortiz J, Brayton C, Ensign LM. Hypotonic, gel-forming delivery system for vaginal drug administration. J Control Release 2024; 371:101-110. [PMID: 38782065 PMCID: PMC11209758 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2024.05.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2024] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Vaginal drug delivery is often preferred over systemic delivery to reduce side effects and increase efficacy in treating diseases and conditions of the female reproductive tract (FRT). Current vaginal products have drawbacks, including spontaneous ejection of drug-eluting rings and unpleasant discharge from vaginal creams. Here, we describe the development and characterization of a hypotonic, gel-forming, Pluronic-based delivery system for vaginal drug administration. The rheological properties were characterized with and without common hydrogel polymers to demonstrate the versatility. Both qualitative and quantitative approaches were used to determine the Pluronic F127 concentration below the critical gel concentration (CGC) that was sufficient to achieve gelation when formulated to be hypotonic to the mouse vagina. The hypotonic, gel-forming formulation was found to form a thin, uniform gel layer along the vaginal epithelium in mice, in contrast to the rapidly forming conventional gelling formulation containing polymer above the CGC. When the hypotonic, gel-forming vehicle was formulated in combination with a progesterone nanosuspension (ProGel), equivalent efficacy was observed in the prevention of chemically-induced preterm birth (PTB) compared to commercial Crinone® vaginal cream. Further, ProGel showed marked benefits in reducing unpleasant discharge, reducing product-related toxicity, and improving compatibility with vaginal bacteria in vitro. A hypotonic, gel-forming delivery system may be a viable option for therapeutic delivery to the FRT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel L Shapiro
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, 3400 N. Charles Street, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA; The Center for Nanomedicine, The Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA
| | - Kimberly M Bockley
- The Center for Nanomedicine, The Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA; Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Henry T Hsueh
- The Center for Nanomedicine, The Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA
| | - Matthew B Appell
- The Center for Nanomedicine, The Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA; Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Davell M Carter
- The Center for Nanomedicine, The Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA; Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Jairo Ortiz
- The Center for Nanomedicine, The Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, The Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA
| | - Cory Brayton
- Department of Molecular and Comparative Pathobiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA
| | - Laura M Ensign
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, 3400 N. Charles Street, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA; The Center for Nanomedicine, The Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA; Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, The Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA; Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Department of Oncology, Department of Biomedical Engineering, and Department of Infectious Diseases, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21287, USA.
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Kastora SL, Gkova G, Stavridis K, Balachandren N, Kastoras A, Karakatsanis A, Mavrelos D. Comparison of luteal support protocols in fresh IVF/ICSI cycles: a network meta-analysis. Sci Rep 2024; 14:14492. [PMID: 38914570 PMCID: PMC11196689 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-64804-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Despite the proven superiority of various luteal phase support protocols (LPS) over placebo in view of improved pregnancy rates in fresh cycles of IVF (in vitro fertilization) and ICSI (intracytoplasmic sperm injection) cycles, there is ongoing controversy over specific LPS protocol selection, dosage, and duration. The aim of the present study was to identify the optimal LPS under six core aspects of ART success, clinical pregnancy, live birth as primary outcomes and biochemical pregnancy, miscarriage, multiple pregnancy, ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) events as secondary outcomes. Twelve databases, namely Embase (OVID), MEDLINE (R) (OVID), GlobalHealth (Archive), GlobalHealth, Health and Psychosocial Instruments, Maternity & Infant Care Database (MIDIRS), APA PsycTests, ClinicalTrials.gov, HMIC Health Management Information Consortium, CENTRAL, Web of Science, Scopus and two prospective registers, MedRxiv, Research Square were searched from inception to Aug.1st, 2023, (PROSPERO Registration: CRD42022358986). Only Randomised Controlled Trials (RCTs) were included. Bayesian network meta-analysis (NMA) model was employed for outcome analysis, presenting fixed effects, odds ratios (ORs) with 95% credibility intervals (CrIs). Vaginal Progesterone (VP) was considered the reference LPS given its' clinical relevance. Seventy-six RCTs, comparing 22 interventions, and including 26,536 participants were included in the present NMA. Overall CiNeMa risk of bias was deemed moderate, and network inconsistency per outcome was deemed low (Multiple pregnancy χ2: 0.11, OHSS χ2: 0.26), moderate (Clinical Pregnancy: χ2: 7.02, Live birth χ2: 10.95, Biochemical pregnancy: χ2: 6.60, Miscarriage: χ2: 11.305). Combinatorial regimens, with subcutaneous GnRH-a (SCGnRH-a) on a vaginal progesterone base and oral oestrogen (OE) appeared to overall improve clinical pregnancy events; VP + OE + SCGnRH-a [OR 1.57 (95% CrI 1.11 to 2.22)], VP + SCGnRH-a [OR 1.28 (95% CrI 1.05 to 1.55)] as well as live pregnancy events, VP + OE + SCGnRH-a [OR 8.81 (95% CrI 2.35 to 39.1)], VP + SCGnRH-a [OR 1.76 (95% CrI 1.45 to 2.15)]. Equally, the progesterone free LPS, intramuscular human chorionic gonadotrophin, [OR 9.67 (95% CrI 2.34, 73.2)] was also found to increase live birth events, however was also associated with an increased probability of ovarian hyperstimulation, [OR 1.64 (95% CrI 0.75, 3.71)]. The combination of intramuscular and vaginal progesterone was associated with higher multiple pregnancy events, [OR 7.09 (95% CrI 2.49, 31.)]. Of all LPS protocols, VP + SC GnRH-a was found to significantly reduce miscarriage events, OR 0.54 (95% CrI 0.37 to 0.80). Subgroup analysis according to ovarian stimulation (OS) protocol revealed that the optimal LPS across both long and short OS, taking into account increase in live birth and reduction in miscarriage as well as OHSS events, was VP + SCGnRH-a, with an OR 2.89 [95% CrI 1.08, 2.96] and OR 2.84 [95% CrI 1.35, 6.26] respectively. Overall, NMA data suggest that combinatorial treatments, with the addition of SCGnRH-a on a VP base result in improved clinical pregnancy and live birth events in both GnRH-agonist and antagonist ovarian stimulation protocols.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stavroula L Kastora
- UCL EGA Institute for Women's Health, University College London, Medical School Building, Room G15, 86-96 Chenies Mews, 74 Huntley Street, London, WC1E 6HX, UK.
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Barnet Hospital, Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK.
| | - Grigoria Gkova
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Barnet Hospital, Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Konstantinos Stavridis
- 2nd Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, "Aretaieion" University Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Neerujah Balachandren
- UCL EGA Institute for Women's Health, University College London, Medical School Building, Room G15, 86-96 Chenies Mews, 74 Huntley Street, London, WC1E 6HX, UK
| | - Athanasios Kastoras
- Reproductive Medicine Unit, "Leto" Maternity Hospital, Mouson Str. 7-13, 11524, Athens, Greece
| | - Andreas Karakatsanis
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
- Section for Breast Surgery, Department of Surgery, Uppsala University Hospital (Akademiska), Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Dimitrios Mavrelos
- UCL EGA Institute for Women's Health, University College London, Medical School Building, Room G15, 86-96 Chenies Mews, 74 Huntley Street, London, WC1E 6HX, UK
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5
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LA Marca A, Anserini P, Borini A, D'Amato G, Greco E, Livi C, Papaleo E, Rago R. Luteal phase support in assisted reproductive technology centers: Italian survey. Minerva Obstet Gynecol 2024; 76:109-117. [PMID: 37058319 DOI: 10.23736/s2724-606x.22.05219-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In assisted reproductive cycles (ART), the fine balance of controlling corpus luteum function is severely disrupted. To challenge this iatrogenic deficiency, clinicians aim to provide exogenous support. Several reviews have investigated progesterone route of administration, dosage and timing. METHODS A survey about luteal phase support (LPS) after ovarian stimulation was conducted among doctors in charge in Italian II-III level ART centers. RESULTS With regards to the general approach to LPS, 87.9% doctors declare to diversify the approach; the reasons for diversifying (69.7%) were based on the type of cycle. For all the most important administration routes (vaginal, intramuscular, subcutaneous) it appears that in frozen cycles there is a shift towards higher dosages. The 90.9% of the centers use vaginal progesterone, and when a combined approach is required, in 72.7% of cases vaginal administration is combined with injective route of administration. When Italian doctors were asked about the beginning and duration of LPS, 96% of the centers start the day of the pickup or the day after, while 80% of the centers continue LPS until week 8-12. The rate of participation of the centers confirms the low perceived importance of LPS among Italian ART centers, while may be considered quite surprising the relatively higher percentage of centers that measures P level. Tailorization to women's needs is the new objective of LPS: self-administration, good tolerability are the main aspects for Italian centers. CONCLUSIONS In conclusion, results of Italian survey are consistent to results of main international surveys about LPS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio LA Marca
- Department of Maternal-Child and Adult Medical and Surgical Sciences, Eugin Clinic of Modena, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy -
| | - Paola Anserini
- Unit of Physiopathology of Human Reproduction, IRCCS San Martino University Hospital, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | | | | | - Ermanno Greco
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Villa Mafalda Private Clinic, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Enrico Papaleo
- Unit of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Birth Science Center, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Rocco Rago
- Unit of Physiology of Reproduction, Sandro Pertini Hospital, Rome, Italy
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Garg A, Zielinska AP, Yeung AC, Abdelmalak R, Chen R, Hossain A, Israni A, Nelson SM, Babwah AV, Dhillo WS, Abbara A. Luteal phase support in assisted reproductive technology. Nat Rev Endocrinol 2024; 20:149-167. [PMID: 38110672 DOI: 10.1038/s41574-023-00921-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023]
Abstract
Infertility affects one in six couples, with in vitro fertilization (IVF) offering many the chance of conception. Compared to the solitary oocyte produced during the natural menstrual cycle, the supraphysiological ovarian stimulation needed to produce multiple oocytes during IVF results in a dysfunctional luteal phase that can be insufficient to support implantation and maintain pregnancy. Consequently, hormonal supplementation with luteal phase support, principally exogenous progesterone, is used to optimize pregnancy rates; however, luteal phase support remains largely 'black-box' with insufficient clarity regarding the optimal timing, dosing, route and duration of treatment. Herein, we review the evidence on luteal phase support and highlight remaining uncertainties and future research directions. Specifically, we outline the physiological luteal phase, which is regulated by progesterone from the corpus luteum, and evaluate how it is altered by the supraphysiological ovarian stimulation used during IVF. Additionally, we describe the effects of the hormonal triggers used to mature oocytes on the degree of luteal phase support required. We explain the histological transformation of the endometrium during the luteal phase and evaluate markers of endometrial receptivity that attempt to identify the 'window of implantation'. We also cover progesterone receptor signalling, circulating progesterone levels associated with implantation, and the pharmacokinetics of available progesterone formulations to inform the design of luteal phase support regimens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akanksha Garg
- Section of Endocrinology and Investigative Medicine, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK
- Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Agata P Zielinska
- Section of Endocrinology and Investigative Medicine, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK
- Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Arthur C Yeung
- Section of Endocrinology and Investigative Medicine, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK
- Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Rebecca Abdelmalak
- Section of Endocrinology and Investigative Medicine, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK
| | - Runzhi Chen
- Section of Endocrinology and Investigative Medicine, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK
| | - Aleena Hossain
- Section of Endocrinology and Investigative Medicine, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK
| | - Alisha Israni
- Section of Endocrinology and Investigative Medicine, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK
| | - Scott M Nelson
- School of Medicine, Dentistry & Nursing, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
- NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
- The Fertility Partnership (TFP), Oxford, UK
| | - Andy V Babwah
- Rutgers-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Waljit S Dhillo
- Section of Endocrinology and Investigative Medicine, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK
- Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Ali Abbara
- Section of Endocrinology and Investigative Medicine, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK.
- Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK.
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Shaulov T, Zanré N, Phillips S, Lapensée L. The association between the type of progesterone supplementation and miscarriage risk in women who have had a positive pregnancy test following embryo transfer: a retrospective cohort study. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2023; 308:569-577. [PMID: 37156908 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-023-07047-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this study was to identify if switching from intramuscular (IM) to vaginal progesterone compared to staying on IM progesterone after a positive pregnancy test following embryo transfer (ET) is associated with miscarriage risk. METHODS A retrospective cohort study was performed in a private university-affiliated fertility clinic and included women aged 18-50 years with a positive pregnancy test following ET. The two groups studied were: women who stayed on IM progesterone following a positive pregnancy test and those who switched to vaginal progesterone after a positive test. The main outcome measured was risk of miscarriage < 24 weeks gestation as a proportion of non-biochemical pregnancies. RESULTS 1988 women were included in the analysis. Among the baseline characteristics, the presence of prior miscarriages as well as prior failed ETs, and frozen cycles (vs fresh) as type of transfer were associated with IM progesterone use (p values ≤ 0.01). As per miscarriage risk < 24 weeks, 22.4% (274/1221) of patients in the IM progesterone group experienced a miscarriage compared with 20.7% (159/767) in the vaginal progesterone group (OR 0.90; 95% CI 0.73-1.13). A multivariable logistic regression model revealed an adjusted OR (aOR) of 0.97 (95% CI 0.77-1.22). CONCLUSION This study suggests that switching from IM to vaginal progesterone after a positive pregnancy test following an ET is not associated with miscarriage risk. Considering that IM progesterone imposes substantial discomfort, this study offers reassurance and some flexibility in treatment protocols. Further prospective studies are necessary to corroborate the results of this study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Talya Shaulov
- OVO Fertility Clinic, 8000 Decarie Blvd, Montreal, QC, H4P 2S4, Canada.
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Montreal, 2900 Edouard Montpetit Blvd, Montreal, QC, H3T 1J4, Canada.
| | - Nadège Zanré
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Montreal, 2900 Edouard Montpetit Blvd, Montreal, QC, H3T 1J4, Canada
| | - Simon Phillips
- OVO Fertility Clinic, 8000 Decarie Blvd, Montreal, QC, H4P 2S4, Canada
| | - Louise Lapensée
- OVO Fertility Clinic, 8000 Decarie Blvd, Montreal, QC, H4P 2S4, Canada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Montreal, 2900 Edouard Montpetit Blvd, Montreal, QC, H3T 1J4, Canada
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8
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Lee JC, Calzada-Jorge NS, Hipp HS, Kawwass JF. Natural cycle frozen embryo transfer: a survey of current assisted reproductive technology practices in the U.S. J Assist Reprod Genet 2023; 40:891-899. [PMID: 36856966 PMCID: PMC10224901 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-023-02751-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Emerging data suggests improved obstetric outcomes with frozen embryo transfer (FET) in an ovulatory or natural cycle (NC-FETs), as compared to programmed endometrial preparation. The objective of this study is to better understand practice patterns and provider attitudes regarding the use of NC-FETs in the United States (U.S.). METHODS In this cross-sectional study, an anonymous 22-question survey was emailed to 441 U.S. Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) clinics to assess the utilization of NC endometrial preparation for FET, protocols used, restrictions to offering NC-FET, and providers' perspectives on advantages and disadvantages of NC-FET. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze survey responses. RESULT(S) The survey response rate was 49% (216/441). Seventeen percent of responding clinics did not offer NC-FET. Of the clinics that did not offer NC-FET, 65% had only 1-2 physicians in their practice. Common reasons for not offering NC-FET included "lack of timing predictability for transfer" (81%) and "increased burden on staff/laboratory personnel on holidays and weekends" (54%). Of clinics offering NC-FET, 76% reported < 25% of cycles used the NC for endometrial preparation. Over half (52%) of clinics that offered NC-FET reported having eligibility restrictions for NC-FET. Reported benefits of NC-FET were "patient satisfaction" (18%), "decreased cost of medications" (18%), and "avoidance of intramuscular progesterone" (17%). The attitude towards NC-FET in their clinics was reported as positive by 65% of respondents. CONCLUSION NC-FETs are offered by most U.S. ART clinics but are used only in the minority of FET cycles for endometrial preparation, and use is often restricted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacqueline C Lee
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Emory Reproductive Center, 550 Peachtree Street, Suite 1800, Atlanta, GA, 30308, USA.
| | - Natalia S Calzada-Jorge
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Heather S Hipp
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Emory Reproductive Center, 550 Peachtree Street, Suite 1800, Atlanta, GA, 30308, USA
| | - Jennifer F Kawwass
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Emory Reproductive Center, 550 Peachtree Street, Suite 1800, Atlanta, GA, 30308, USA
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Toriumi R, Horikawa M, Sato C, Shimamura N, Ishii R, Terashima M, Hamada M, Tachibana N, Taketani Y. The addition of dydrogesterone improves the outcomes of pregnant women with low progesterone levels when receiving vaginal progesterone alone as luteal support in HRT-FET cycles. Reprod Med Biol 2023; 22:e12511. [PMID: 36969958 PMCID: PMC10032329 DOI: 10.1002/rmb2.12511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2022] [Revised: 01/26/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Vaginal progesterone (VP) alone has been used as luteal support (LS) in HRT-FET cycles without measuring serum progesterone concentrations (SPC) because it can achieve adequate intrauterine progesterone levels. However, several reports showed that the co-administration of progestin produced better outcomes than VP alone. We tried to address this discrepancy, focusing on SPC. Methods VP was given to 180 women undergoing HRT-FET. We measured SPC when pregnancy was diagnosed on day 14 of LS. We compared assisted reproductive technology outcomes between VP alone versus VP + dydrogesterone (D). Results When using VP alone, average SPC in the miscarriage cases (9.6 ng/mL) were significantly lower compared with the ongoing pregnancy (OP) cases (14.7 ng/mL). The cut-off value for progesterone, 10.7 ng/mL, was a good predictor for the subsequent course of the pregnancy. Of 76 women receiving D ± VP from the start of LS and achieving a pregnancy, the numbers of OP were 44 (84.6%) in SPC ≥ 10.7 ng/mL and 20 (83.3%) in SPC ≤ 10.7 ng/mL with no significant difference. Conclusion VP alone resulted in lower SPC in some pregnant women in HRT-FET cycles and exhibited a lower OP rate. The co-administration of D improved an OP rate of low progesterone cases to the level comparable with non-low progesterone cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rena Toriumi
- Women's Clinic Oizumigakuen, Lenia Medical CorporationTokyoJapan
| | - Michiharu Horikawa
- Women's Clinic Oizumigakuen, Lenia Medical CorporationTokyoJapan
- Artemis Women's Hospital, Lenia Medical CorporationTokyoJapan
| | - Chie Sato
- Women's Clinic Oizumigakuen, Lenia Medical CorporationTokyoJapan
| | - Nagisa Shimamura
- Women's Clinic Oizumigakuen, Lenia Medical CorporationTokyoJapan
| | - Rena Ishii
- Women's Clinic Oizumigakuen, Lenia Medical CorporationTokyoJapan
| | | | - Michiko Hamada
- Women's Clinic Oizumigakuen, Lenia Medical CorporationTokyoJapan
| | | | - Yuji Taketani
- Women's Clinic Oizumigakuen, Lenia Medical CorporationTokyoJapan
- Artemis Women's Hospital, Lenia Medical CorporationTokyoJapan
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10
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Jiang Y, Wang L, Shen H, Wang B, Wu J, Hu K, Wang Y, Ma B, Zhang X. The effect of progesterone supplementation for luteal phase support in natural cycle frozen embryo transfer: a systematic review and meta-analysis based on randomized controlled trials. Fertil Steril 2022; 119:597-605. [PMID: 36574915 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2022.12.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Revised: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
IMPORTANCE The necessity of progesterone supplementation for luteal phase support (LPS) in natural cycle frozen embryo transfer (NC-FET) cycles warrants further confirmation. OBJECTIVE To investigate the effect of progesterone supplementation for LPS on the reproductive outcomes of patients undergoing NC-FET cycles. DATA SOURCES The PubMed, Ovid-Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, CNKI, Wanfang, VIP, and CBM were electronically searched. The search time frame was from inception up to September 2022. STUDY SELECTION AND SYNTHESIS Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that used progesterone for LPS in NC-FET cycles, including true NC-FET cycles (tNC-FET) and modified NC-FET cycles (mNC-FET), were included. The counted data were analyzed using relative risk (RR) as the effect-size statistic, and each effect size was assigned its 95% confidence interval (CI). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES The primary outcomes were the live birth rate (LBR) and the clinical pregnancy rate (CPR), and the secondary outcome was the miscarriage rate. RESULTS Four RCTs were included, which involved 1116 participants. The results of the meta-analysis showed that progesterone supplementation was associated with increased LBR (RR, 1.42; 95% CI, 1.15-1.75; I2 = 0%, moderate-quality evidence) and CPR (RR, 1.30, 95% CI, 1.07-1.57; I2 = 0%, moderate-quality evidence) in patients undergoing NC-FET cycles. Subgroup analysis showed that progesterone supplementation was associated with higher LBR and CPR in tNC-FET cycles. However, no association was found between increased LBR and CPR in mNC-FET cycles. In addition, only one RCT reported that oral dydrogesterone had similar CPR and miscarriage rate compared with vaginal progesterone in mNC-FET cycles. CONCLUSION(S) Overall, moderate-quality evidence suggested that progesterone supplementation for LPS was associated with increased LBR and CPR in NC-FET cycles. Progesterone supplementation was associated with a higher LBR and CPR in tNC-FET cycles. However, the effectiveness of progesterone supplementation in mNC-FET cycles should be further verified by larger RCTs. Low to very low-quality evidence indicated that oral dydrogesterone and vaginal progesterone have similar reproductive outcomes in mNC-FET cycles, which requires further study, especially in tNC-FET cycles. REGISTRATION NUMBER PROSPERO CRD42022355550 (https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=355550) was registered on September 3, 2022.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanbiao Jiang
- The First Clinical Medical College, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Liyan Wang
- The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory for Reproductive Medicine and Embryo of Gansu Province, Lanzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Haofei Shen
- The First Clinical Medical College, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Bin Wang
- The First Clinical Medical College, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Jingyuan Wu
- The First Clinical Medical College, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Kaiyan Hu
- Evidence-Based Medicine Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Yiqing Wang
- The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory for Reproductive Medicine and Embryo of Gansu Province, Lanzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Bin Ma
- Evidence-Based Medicine Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Xuehong Zhang
- The First Clinical Medical College, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, People's Republic of China; The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory for Reproductive Medicine and Embryo of Gansu Province, Lanzhou, People's Republic of China.
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11
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Bulletti C, Bulletti FM, Sciorio R, Guido M. Progesterone: The Key Factor of the Beginning of Life. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232214138. [PMID: 36430614 PMCID: PMC9692968 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232214138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Revised: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 11/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Progesterone is the ovarian steroid produced by the granulosa cells of follicles after the LH peak at mid-cycle. Its role is to sustain embryo endometrial implantation and ongoing pregnancy. Other biological effects of progesterone may exert a protective function in supporting pregnancy up to birth. Luteal phase support (LPS) with progesterone is the standard of care for assisted reproductive technology. Progesterone vaginal administration is currently the most widely used treatment for LPS. Physicians and patients have been reluctant to change an administration route that has proven to be effective. However, some questions remain open, namely the need for LPS in fresh and frozen embryo transfer, the route of administration, the optimal duration of LPS, dosage, and the benefit of combination therapies. The aim of this review is to provide an overview of the uterine and extra-uterine effects of progesterone that may play a role in embryo implantation and pregnancy, and to discuss the advantages of the use of progesterone for LPS in the context of Good Medical Practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Bulletti
- Extra Omnes, Assisted Reproductive Technology, ART Center, Via Gallinelli, 8, 47841 Cattolica, Italy
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Science, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
- Correspondence:
| | | | - Romualdo Sciorio
- Edinburgh Assisted Conception Programme, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4SA, UK
| | - Maurizio Guido
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy
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12
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Kao TC, Tu YA, Yang PK, Huang CC, Yang JH, Chen SU, Chao KH. Clinical use of aqueous subcutaneous progesterone compared with vaginal progesterone as luteal support in in vitro fertilization: A randomized controlled study in Taiwan. Taiwan J Obstet Gynecol 2022; 61:863-867. [PMID: 36088057 DOI: 10.1016/j.tjog.2021.10.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aims to compare the efficacy, tolerability and patient satisfaction between aqueous subcutaneous progesterone (Prolutex, 25 mg/vial; IBSA) and vaginal progesterone (Crinone, 90 mg/tube; Merck) as luteal support for fresh embryo transfers in in-vitro fertilization (IVF). MATERIALS & METHODS In this prospective randomized study, 65 patients who underwent IVF were recruited and randomly assigned to either the Prolutex (25 mg daily, n = 33) or Crinone (90 mg daily, n = 32) group. The luteal support regimens were given daily, starting from two days after oocyte pickup. If the serum pregnancy test was positive, luteal support was continued until 7 weeks of gestation. Primary outcomes were clinical pregnancy rate and serum progesterone level at the mid-luteal phase and at 4 weeks of gestation. Secondary outcomes were drug tolerability and patient satisfaction assessed by questionnaire. RESULTS There were no significant differences in clinical pregnancy rates (Prolutex 25.0% versus Crinone 33.3%, p = 0.699), serum progesterone levels and patient satisfaction between Prolutex and Crinone group. Although the patients that had received Prolutex complained of more local pain at the injection sites, they also had less annoying vaginal discharges and vulvar discomforts. CONCLUSION Prolutex is of comparable efficacy and patient satisfaction to Crinone, and its availability means patients have more options in regards to the routes of progesterone administration as luteal phase support during IVF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tzu-Ching Kao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yi-An Tu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Po-Kai Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chu-Chun Huang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Jehn-Hsiahn Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Shee-Uan Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Kuang-Han Chao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.
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13
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Moini A, Arabipoor A, Zolfaghari Z, Sadeghi M, Ramezanali F. Subcutaneous progesterone (Prolutex) versus vaginal (Cyclogest) for luteal phase support in IVF/ICSI cycles: a randomized controlled clinical trial. MIDDLE EAST FERTILITY SOCIETY JOURNAL 2022. [DOI: 10.1186/s43043-022-00106-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
To compare the safety, efficacy, and tolerability of subcutaneous vaginal progesterone suppository for luteal phase support (LPS) in assisted reproduction technology (ART) cycles in patients referred to the Royan Institute.
Methods
This randomized clinical trial was conducted from August 2016 to March 2018. The infertile patients undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) and/or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) were evaluated. The controlled ovarian stimulation (COH) was performed in all of the patients with standard long GnRH agonist protocol. After ovum pickup, eligible women were randomly allocated into two groups. In group A, since oocyte retrieval day, subcutaneous injections of progesterone (50 mg) (Prolutex®) were used daily, and in group B, two vaginal suppositories (Cyclogest ®) were administrated for LPS. The clinical pregnancy and miscarriage rates and the drug’s side effect were compared between two groups by appropriate statistical tests.
Results
Finally, 40 patients in each group were enrolled, and the IVF/ICSI outcomes were compared between groups. The data analysis showed that no significant differences were found between groups in terms of the demographic, infertility characteristics, and the COH outcome between groups. The chemical and clinical pregnancy rates (CPR) in group A were significantly higher than those of group B (P = 0.04, P = 0.02, respectively). The implantation and twin pregnancy rates in group B were significantly higher than those in group A (P = 0.009, P = 0.02, respectively).
Conclusion
The subcutaneous administration of progesterone 25 mg twice daily for LPS was associated with higher CPR versus vaginal progesterone, and it was safe and well-tolerated in the follow-up. In addition, it can be a suitable replacement in cases of allergic reactions to vaginal suppositories. However, further study is required to compare the cost-effectiveness of these medications.
Trial registration
The study was also registered in the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials on February 19, 2015 (IRCT201402191141N18 at www.irct.ir, registered prospectively).
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14
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Boelig RC, Locci M, Saccone G, Gragnano E, Berghella V. Vaginal progesterone compared with intramuscular 17-alpha-hydroxyprogesterone caproate for prevention of recurrent preterm birth in singleton gestations: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Am J Obstet Gynecol MFM 2022; 4:100658. [PMID: 35562009 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajogmf.2022.100658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2022] [Revised: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Randomized trials have found benefits of both vaginal progesterone and 17-alpha-hydroxyprogesterone caproate in the prevention of recurrent preterm birth. A previous meta-analysis directly comparing the two was limited by low-quality evidence, and national and international society guidelines remain conflicting regarding progestin formulation recommended for prevention of recurrent preterm birth. The aim of this updated systematic review with meta-analysis was to evaluate the efficacy of vaginal progesterone compared with 17-alpha-hydroxyprogesterone caproate in the prevention of spontaneous preterm birth in patients with singleton gestations and previous spontaneous preterm birth. DATA SOURCES Searches were performed in MEDLINE, Ovid, Scopus, ClinicalTrials.gov, the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO), SciELO, Embase, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) with the use of a combination of keywords and text words related to "preterm birth," "preterm delivery," "singleton," "cervical length," "progesterone," "progestogens," "vaginal," "17-alpha-hydroxy-progesterone caproate," and "intramuscular" from inception of each database to September 2021. No restrictions for language or geographic location were applied. STUDY ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA We included all randomized controlled trials of asymptomatic singleton gestations with previous spontaneous preterm birth that were randomized to prophylactic treatment with either vaginal progesterone (ie, intervention group) or intramuscular 17-alpha-hydroxyprogesterone caproate (ie, comparison group). Post hoc sensitivity analysis was performed for studies with low risk of bias and studies with protocol registration. METHODS The primary outcome was preterm birth <34 weeks' gestation. The summary measures were reported as relative risks with 95% confidence intervals. RESULTS Seven randomized controlled trials including 1910 patients were included in the meta-analysis. Patients who received vaginal progesterone had a significantly lower rate of preterm birth at <34 weeks (14.7% vs 19.9%; relative risk, 0.74; 95% confidence interval, 0.57-0.96), preterm birth at <37 weeks (36.0% vs 46.6%; relative risk, 0.76; 95% confidence interval, 0.69-0.85), and preterm birth at <32 weeks of gestation (7.9% vs 13.6%; relative risk, 0.58; 95% confidence interval, 0.39-0.86), compared with women who received intramuscular 17-alpha-hydroxyprogesterone caproate. There were no significant differences in the rate of preterm birth at <28 weeks' gestation. Adverse drug reactions were significantly lower in the vaginal progesterone group than in the 17-alpha-hydroxyprogesterone caproate group (15.6% vs 22.2%; relative risk, 0.71; 95% confidence interval, 0.54-0.92). Perinatal mortality was lower in the vaginal progesterone group than in the 17-alpha-hydroxyprogesterone caproate group (2.2% vs 4.4%; relative risk, 0.51; 95% confidence interval, 0.25-1.01). In sensitivity analysis including trials rated with at least 4 Cochrane tools as of "low risk of bias," 4 trials were included (N=575), and there was no longer a significant difference in preterm birth at <34 weeks' gestation between vaginal progesterone and 17-alpha-hydroxyprogesterone caproate (12.2% vs 13.9%; relative risk, 0.87; 95% confidence interval, 0.57-1.32). CONCLUSION Overall, vaginal progesterone was superior to 17-alpha-hydroxyprogesterone caproate in the prevention of preterm birth at <34 weeks' gestation in singleton pregnancies with previous spontaneous preterm birth. Although sensitivity analysis of high-fidelity studies showed the same trend, findings were no longer statistically significant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rupsa C Boelig
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sidney Kimmel Medical College of Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA (Drs Boelig and Berghella)
| | - Mariavittoria Locci
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, School of Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy (Drs Locci and Saccone and Ms Gragnano)
| | - Gabriele Saccone
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, School of Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy (Drs Locci and Saccone and Ms Gragnano)
| | - Elisabetta Gragnano
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, School of Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy (Drs Locci and Saccone and Ms Gragnano)
| | - Vincenzo Berghella
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sidney Kimmel Medical College of Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA (Drs Boelig and Berghella).
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15
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Zhou R, Zhang X, Huang L, Wang S, Li L, Dong M, Zhu X, Liu F. The impact of different cycle regimens on birthweight of singletons in frozen-thawed embryo transfer cycles of ovulatory women. Fertil Steril 2022; 117:573-582. [PMID: 35120746 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2021.09.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2021] [Revised: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate whether different endometrial preparation regimens affect neonatal outcomes after frozen-thawed embryo transfer (FET). DESIGN Retrospective cohort study. SETTING Tertiary care academic medical center. PATIENTS A total of 3,639 patients with live-born singletons were categorized into three groups on the basis of the type of endometrial preparation regimens. Of these, 1,225, 2,136, and 278 live-born singletons were conceived through natural cycle FET, artificial cycle FET, and stimulated cycle FET, respectively. INTERVENTION(S) None. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES The main outcomes were the measures of birthweight including the absolute mean birthweight, Z-score, low birthweight, high birthweight (HBW), small for gestational age, and large for gestational age (LGA). RESULTS After controlling for a variety of covariates, singletons from the artificial cycle FET group had a higher mean birthweight and Z-score than those from the natural cycle FET group and stimulated cycle FET group. The risk of LGA infants significantly increased in the artificial cycle group (14.0%) than that in the natural cycle group (10.3%) and stimulated cycle group (7.6%). The risk of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy in the artificial cycle group (4.4%) was significantly higher than that in the natural cycle group (2.5%). The stimulated cycle FET singletons had a higher risk of low birthweight than the natural cycle FET singletons. The other perinatal outcomes, including the incidence of preterm birth, small for gestational age, and gestational diabetes mellitus, were comparable between the groups before or after adjustment for confounders. CONCLUSIONS Singletons from artificial cycle FET were associated with a higher risk of LGA infants, and natural cycle FET may be a better regimen for ovulatory women. Our results indicate a link between the absence of the corpus luteum and adverse perinatal outcomes, and further studies are needed to detect the underlying mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruiqiong Zhou
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Guangdong Women and Children Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiqian Zhang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Guangdong Women and Children Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Li Huang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Guangdong Women and Children Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Songlu Wang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Guangdong Women and Children Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Li Li
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Guangdong Women and Children Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Mei Dong
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Guangdong Women and Children Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiulan Zhu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Guangdong Women and Children Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Fenghua Liu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Guangdong Women and Children Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China.
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16
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Zhao J, Hao J, Li Y. Individualized luteal phase support after fresh embryo transfer: unanswered questions, a review. Reprod Health 2022; 19:19. [PMID: 35065655 PMCID: PMC8783459 DOI: 10.1186/s12978-021-01320-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Accepted: 12/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Luteal phase support (LPS) is an important part of assisted reproductive technology (ART), and adequate LPS is crucial for embryo implantation. At present, a great number of studies have put emphasis on an individualized approach to controlled ovarian stimulation (COS) and endometrium preparation of frozen- thawed embryo transfer (FET); However, not much attention has been devoted to the luteal phase and almost all ART cycles used similar LPS protocol bases on experience. Main body This review aims to concisely summarize individualized LPS protocols in fresh embryo transfer cycles with hCG trigger or GnRH-a trigger. The PubMed and Google Scholar databases were searched using the keywords: (luteal phase support or LPS) AND (assisted reproductive technology or ART or in vitro fertilization or IVF). We performed comprehensive literature searches in the English language describing the luteal phase support after ART, since 1978 and ending in May 2019. Recent studies have shown that many modified LPS programs were used in ART cycle. In the cycle using hCG for final oocyte maturation, the progesterone with or without low dose of hCG may be adequate to maintain pregnancy. In the cycle using GnRH-a for trigger, individualized low dose of hCG administration with or without progesterone was suggested. The optimal timing to start the LPS would be between 24 and 72 h after oocyte retrieval and should last at least until the pregnancy test is positive. Addition of E2 and the routes of progesterone administration bring no beneficial effect on the outcomes after ART. Conclusions Individualized LPS should be applied, according to the treatment protocol, the patients’ specific characteristics, and desires. Luteal phase support (LPS) is an important part of assisted reproductive technology (ART). In the cycle using hCG for final oocyte maturation, the progesterone with or without low dose of hCG may be adequate to maintain pregnancy. In the cycle using GnRH-a for trigger, individualized low dose of hCG administration with or without progesterone was suggested. The optimal timing to start the LPS would be between 24 and 72 h after oocyte retrieval and should last at least until the pregnancy test is positive. Addition of E2 and the routes of progesterone administration bring no beneficial effect on the outcomes after ART. Individualized LPS should be applied, according to the treatment protocol, the patients’ specific characteristics, and desires.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Zhao
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha City, Hunan Province, People's Republic of China.,Clinical Research Center For Women's Reproductive Health In Hunan Province, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Jie Hao
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha City, Hunan Province, People's Republic of China.,Clinical Research Center For Women's Reproductive Health In Hunan Province, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Yanping Li
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha City, Hunan Province, People's Republic of China. .,Clinical Research Center For Women's Reproductive Health In Hunan Province, Hunan, People's Republic of China.
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17
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Zierden HC, Ortiz JI, DeLong K, Yu J, Li G, Dimitrion P, Bensouda S, Laney V, Bailey A, Anders NM, Scardina M, Mahendroo M, Mesiano S, Burd I, Wagner G, Hanes J, Ensign LM. Enhanced drug delivery to the reproductive tract using nanomedicine reveals therapeutic options for prevention of preterm birth. Sci Transl Med 2021; 13:13/576/eabc6245. [PMID: 33441428 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.abc6245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2020] [Accepted: 10/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Inflammation contributes to nearly 4 million global premature births annually. Here, we used a mouse model of intrauterine inflammation to test clinically used formulations, as well as engineered nanoformulations, for the prevention of preterm birth (PTB). We observed that neither systemic 17a-hydroxyprogesterone caproate (Makena) nor vaginal progesterone gel (Crinone) was sufficient to prevent inflammation-induced PTB, consistent with recent clinical trial failures. However, we found that vaginal delivery of mucoinert nanosuspensions of histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors, in some cases with the addition of progesterone, prevented PTB and resulted in delivery of live pups exhibiting neurotypical development. In human myometrial cells in vitro, the P4/HDAC inhibitor combination both inhibited cell contractility and promoted the anti-inflammatory action of P4 by increasing progesterone receptor B stability. Here, we demonstrate the use of vaginally delivered drugs to prevent intrauterine inflammation-induced PTB resulting in the birth of live offspring in a preclinical animal model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah C Zierden
- Center for Nanomedicine, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA.,Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA
| | - Jairo I Ortiz
- Center for Nanomedicine, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA.,Department of Ophthalmology, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA
| | - Kevin DeLong
- Center for Nanomedicine, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA.,Department of Ophthalmology, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA
| | - Jingqi Yu
- Center for Nanomedicine, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA
| | - Gaoshan Li
- Center for Nanomedicine, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA.,Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA
| | - Peter Dimitrion
- Center for Nanomedicine, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA
| | - Sabrine Bensouda
- Center for Nanomedicine, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA
| | - Victoria Laney
- Center for Nanomedicine, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA.,Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA
| | - Anna Bailey
- Center for Nanomedicine, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA
| | - Nicole M Anders
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | - Morgan Scardina
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | - Mala Mahendroo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Sam Mesiano
- Department of Reproductive Biology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Irina Burd
- Integrated Research Center for Fetal Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | - Gunter Wagner
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Justin Hanes
- Center for Nanomedicine, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA.,Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA.,Department of Ophthalmology, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA.,Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | - Laura M Ensign
- Center for Nanomedicine, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA. .,Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA.,Department of Ophthalmology, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA.,Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA.,Integrated Research Center for Fetal Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
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18
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Vuong LN, Pham TD, Le KTQ, Ly TT, Le HL, Nguyen DTN, Ho VNA, Dang VQ, Phung TH, Norman RJ, Mol BW, Ho TM. Micronized progesterone plus dydrogesterone versus micronized progesterone alone for luteal phase support in frozen-thawed cycles (MIDRONE): a prospective cohort study. Hum Reprod 2021; 36:1821-1831. [PMID: 33930124 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deab093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Revised: 03/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Does the addition of oral dydrogesterone to vaginal progesterone as luteal phase support improve pregnancy outcomes during frozen embryo transfer (FET) cycles compared with vaginal progesterone alone? SUMMARY ANSWER Luteal phase support with oral dydrogesterone added to vaginal progesterone had a higher live birth rate and lower miscarriage rate compared with vaginal progesterone alone. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Progesterone is an important hormone that triggers secretory transformation of the endometrium to allow implantation of the embryo. During IVF, exogenous progesterone is administered for luteal phase support. However, there is wide inter-individual variation in absorption of progesterone via the vaginal wall. Oral dydrogesterone is effective and well tolerated when used to provide luteal phase support after fresh embryo transfer. However, there are currently no data on the effectiveness of luteal phase support with the combination of dydrogesterone with vaginal micronized progesterone compared with vaginal micronized progesterone after FET. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Prospective cohort study conducted at an academic infertility center in Vietnam from 26 June 2019 to 30 March 2020. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS We studied 1364 women undergoing IVF with FET. Luteal support was started when endometrial thickness reached ≥8 mm. The luteal support regimen was either vaginal micronized progesterone 400 mg twice daily plus oral dydrogesterone 10 mg twice daily (second part of the study) or vaginal micronized progesterone 400 mg twice daily (first 4 months of the study). In women with a positive pregnancy test, the appropriate luteal phase support regimen was continued until 7 weeks' gestation. The primary endpoint was live birth after the first FET of the started cycle, with miscarriage <12 weeks as one of the secondary endpoints. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE The vaginal progesterone + dydrogesterone group and vaginal progesterone groups included 732 and 632 participants, respectively. Live birth rates were 46.3% versus 41.3%, respectively (rate ratio [RR] 1.12, 95% CI 0.99-1.27, P = 0.06; multivariate analysis RR 1.30 (95% CI 1.01-1.68), P = 0.042), with a statistically significant lower rate of miscarriage at <12 weeks in the progesterone + dydrogesterone versus progesterone group (3.4% versus 6.6%; RR 0.51, 95% CI 0.32-0.83; P = 0.009). Birth weight of both singletons (2971.0 ± 628.4 versus 3118.8 ± 559.2 g; P = 0.004) and twins (2175.5 ± 494.8 versus 2494.2 ± 584.7; P = 0.002) was significantly lower in the progesterone plus dydrogesterone versus progesterone group. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION The main limitations of the study were the open-label design and the non-randomized nature of the sequential administration of study treatments. However, our systematic comparison of the two strategies was able to be performed much more rapidly than a conventional randomized controlled trial. In addition, the single ethnicity population limits external generalizability. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Our findings study suggest a role for oral dydrogesterone in addition to vaginal progesterone as luteal phase support in FET cycles to reduce the miscarriage rate and improve the live birth rate. Carefully planned prospective cohort studies with limited bias could be used as an alternative to randomized controlled clinical trials to inform clinical practice. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS This study received no external funding. LNV has received speaker and conference fees from Merck, grant, speaker and conference fees from Merck Sharpe and Dohme, and speaker, conference and scientific board fees from Ferring; TMH has received speaker fees from Merck, Merck Sharp and Dohme, and Ferring; R.J.N. has received scientific board fees from Ferring and receives grant funding from the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) of Australia; BWM has acted as a paid consultant to Merck, ObsEva and Guerbet, and is the recipient of grant money from an NHMRC Investigator Grant. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT0399876.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lan N Vuong
- University of Medicine and Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.,IVFMD, My Duc Hospital and HOPE Research Center, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Toan D Pham
- IVFMD, My Duc Hospital and HOPE Research Center, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Khanh T Q Le
- IVFMD, My Duc Hospital and HOPE Research Center, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Trung T Ly
- IVFMD, My Duc Hospital and HOPE Research Center, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Ho L Le
- IVFMD, My Duc Hospital and HOPE Research Center, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Diem T N Nguyen
- IVFMD, My Duc Hospital and HOPE Research Center, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Vu N A Ho
- IVFMD, My Duc Hospital and HOPE Research Center, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Vinh Q Dang
- IVFMD, My Duc Hospital and HOPE Research Center, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Tuan H Phung
- IVFMD, My Duc Hospital and HOPE Research Center, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Robert J Norman
- Robinson Research Institute and Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Ben W Mol
- Monash University, Melbourne, Australia.,Aberdeen Centre for Women's Health Research, School of Medicine, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
| | - Tuong M Ho
- IVFMD, My Duc Hospital and HOPE Research Center, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
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19
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Next generation strategies for preventing preterm birth. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2021; 174:190-209. [PMID: 33895215 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2021.04.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2021] [Revised: 04/16/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Preterm birth (PTB) is defined as delivery before 37 weeks of gestation. Globally, 15 million infants are born prematurely, putting these children at an increased risk of mortality and lifelong health challenges. Currently in the U.S., there is only one FDA approved therapy for the prevention of preterm birth. Makena is an intramuscular progestin injection given to women who have experienced a premature delivery in the past. Recently, however, Makena failed a confirmatory trial, resulting the Center for Drug Evaluation and Research's (CDER) recommendation for the FDA to withdrawal Makena's approval. This recommendation would leave clinicians with no therapeutic options for preventing PTB. Here, we outline recent interdisciplinary efforts involving physicians, pharmacologists, biologists, chemists, and engineers to understand risk factors associated with PTB, to define mechanisms that contribute to PTB, and to develop next generation therapies for preventing PTB. These advances have the potential to better identify women at risk for PTB, prevent the onset of premature labor, and, ultimately, save infant lives.
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20
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Shapiro M, Romanski P, Thomas A, Lanes A, Yanushpolsky E. Low dose hCG supplementation in a Gn-RH-agonist trigger protocol is associated with worse pregnancy outcomes: a retrospective cohort study. FERTILITY RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2021; 7:12. [PMID: 34049598 PMCID: PMC8161625 DOI: 10.1186/s40738-021-00104-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2021] [Accepted: 05/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Background A number of studies have looked at dual triggers with hCG and GnRH agonist (GnRHa) in varying doses, but the question remains: what is the optimal dose of hCG to minimize ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) and still offer adequate pregnancy rates? The purpose of this study was to compare pregnancy and OHSS rates following dual trigger for oocyte maturation with GnRHa and a low-dose hCG versus hCG alone. A secondary objective was the assess pregnancy outcomes in subsequent frozen cycles for the same population. Methods A total of 963 women < 41 years old, with a BMI 18–40 kg/m2 and an AMH > 2 ng/mL who underwent fresh autologous in vitro fertilization (IVF) with GnRH antagonist protocol at a University-based fertility center were included in this retrospective cohort study. Those who received a low dose dual trigger with hCG (1000u) and GnRHa (2 mg) were compared to those who received hCG alone (10,000u hCG/250-500 μg Ovidrel). Differences in implantation rates, pregnancy, live birth, and OHSS were investigated. Results The dual trigger group was younger (mean 33.6 vs 34.1 years), had a higher AMH (6.3 vs 4.9 ng/mL,) more oocytes retrieved (18.1 vs 14.9) and a higher fertilized oocyte rate (80% vs 77%) compared with the hCG only group. Yet, the dual trigger group had a lower probability of clinical pregnancy (gestational sac, 43.4% vs 52.8%) and live birth (33.4% vs 45.8%), all of which were statistically significant. There were 3 cases of OHSS, all in the hCG-only trigger group. In subsequent frozen cycles, pregnancy rates were comparable between the two groups. Conclusions The dual trigger group had a better prognosis based on age and AMH levels and had better stimulation outcomes, but significantly worse pregnancy outcomes, suggesting the low dose hCG (1000u) in the dual trigger may not have provided adequate luteal support, compared to an hCG-only trigger (10,000u hCG/250-500 μg Ovidrel). Interestingly, the pregnancy rates were comparable in subsequent frozen cycles, further supporting the hypothesis that the issue lies in inadequate luteal phase support, rather than embryo quality. Based on these findings, our program has changed the protocol to 1500u of hCG in a dual trigger.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maren Shapiro
- Obstetrics & Gynecology, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA. .,Center for Reproductive Health, University of California, 499 Illinois Street, 6th floor, San Francisco, CA, 94158, USA.
| | - Phillip Romanski
- Obstetrics & Gynecology, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.,Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
| | - Ann Thomas
- Obstetrics & Gynecology, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Andrea Lanes
- Obstetrics & Gynecology, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Elena Yanushpolsky
- Obstetrics & Gynecology, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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21
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Intramuscular progesterone optimizes live birth from programmed frozen embryo transfer: a randomized clinical trial. Fertil Steril 2021; 116:633-643. [PMID: 33992421 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2021.04.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2021] [Revised: 04/15/2021] [Accepted: 04/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine whether vaginal progesterone for programmed endometrial preparation is noninferior to intramuscular progesterone in terms of live birth rates from frozen embryo transfer (FET). DESIGN Three-armed, randomized, controlled noninferiority trial. SETTING Multicenter fertility clinic. PATIENT(S) A total of 1,346 volunteer subjects planning vitrified-warmed transfer of high-quality nonbiopsied blastocysts were screened, of whom 1,125 subjects were ultimately enrolled and randomly assigned to treatment. INTERVENTION(S) The subjects were randomly assigned to receive, in preparation for FET, 50 mg daily of intramuscular progesterone (control group), 200 mg twice daily of vaginal micronized progesterone plus 50 mg of intramuscular progesterone every third day (combination treatment), or 200 mg twice daily of vaginal micronized progesterone. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) The primary outcome was live birth rate per vitrified-warmed embryo transfer. The secondary outcomes were a positive serum human chorionic gonadotropin test 2 weeks after FET, biochemical pregnancy loss, clinical pregnancy, clinical pregnancy loss, total pregnancy loss, serum luteal progesterone concentration 2 weeks after FET, and patient's experience and attitudes regarding the route of progesterone administration, on the basis of a survey administered to the subjects between FET and pregnancy test. RESULT(S) A total of 1,060 FETs were completed. The live birth rate was significantly lower in women receiving only vaginal progesterone (27%) than in women receiving intramuscular progesterone (44%) or combination treatment (46%). Fifty percent of pregnancies in women receiving only vaginal progesterone ended in miscarriage. CONCLUSION(S) The live birth rate after vaginal-only progesterone replacement was significantly reduced, due primarily to an increased rate of miscarriage. Vaginal progesterone supplemented with intramuscular progesterone every third day was noninferior to daily intramuscular progesterone, offering an effective alternative regimen with fewer injections. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT02254577.
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22
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Zierden HC, Josyula A, Shapiro RL, Hsueh H, Hanes J, Ensign LM. Avoiding a Sticky Situation: Bypassing the Mucus Barrier for Improved Local Drug Delivery. Trends Mol Med 2021; 27:436-450. [PMID: 33414070 PMCID: PMC8087626 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2020.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2020] [Revised: 11/24/2020] [Accepted: 12/01/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The efficacy of drugs administered by traditional routes is limited by numerous biological barriers that preclude reaching the intended site of action. Further, full body systemic exposure leads to dose-limiting, off-target side effects. Topical formulations may provide more efficacious drug and nucleic acid delivery for diseases and conditions affecting mucosal tissues, but the mucus protecting our epithelial surfaces is a formidable barrier. Here, we describe recent advances in mucus-penetrating approaches for drug and nucleic acid delivery to the ocular surface, the female reproductive tract, the gastrointestinal tract, and the airways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah C. Zierden
- Center for Nanomedicine at the Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231,Department of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218
| | - Aditya Josyula
- Center for Nanomedicine at the Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231,Department of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218
| | - Rachel L. Shapiro
- Center for Nanomedicine at the Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231,Department of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218
| | - Henry Hsueh
- Center for Nanomedicine at the Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231,Department of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218
| | - Justin Hanes
- Center for Nanomedicine at the Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231,Department of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218,Department of Ophthalmology, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287,Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21218,Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287,The Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21287,Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287
| | - Laura M. Ensign
- Center for Nanomedicine at the Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231,Department of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218,Department of Ophthalmology, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287,Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21218,Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287,The Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21287,Departments Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287,Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287,Correspondence: (L.M. Ensign)
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23
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Xu H, Zhang XQ, Zhu XL, Weng HN, Xu LQ, Huang L, Liu FH. Comparison of vaginal progesterone gel combined with oral dydrogesterone versus intramuscular progesterone for luteal support in hormone replacement therapy-frozen embryo transfer cycle. J Gynecol Obstet Hum Reprod 2021; 50:102110. [PMID: 33727207 DOI: 10.1016/j.jogoh.2021.102110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2020] [Revised: 12/08/2020] [Accepted: 03/05/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND It remains under subject of debate regarding the optimal route of luteal support for hormone replacement therapy- frozen embryo transfer (HRT-FET) cycles. We compared efficacy of vaginal progesterone gel combined with oral dydrogesterone and intramuscular progesterone for HRT-FET lutein support. METHODS This is a retrospective observational study. After matching for propensity score of getting vaginal + oral treatment, a total of 208 FET cycles in the vaginal progesterone combined with oral dydrogesterone and 624 cycles in the intramuscular progesterone group were enrolled. Pregnancy outcomes and neonatal outcomes including chemical pregnancy rate, clinical pregnancy rate, implantation rate, spontaneous abortion rate, live birth rate, gestational weeks, pre-term delivery, birth weight, and congenital anomalies rate were compared. RESULTS No significant differences were observed in patient characteristics such as age, duration of infertility, type of infertility, or hormone level after matching. Chemical pregnancy rate (68.3 % versus 70.5 %), clinical pregnancy rate (64.9 % versus 64.4 %), implantation rate (52.3 % versus 50.2 %), spontaneous abortion rate (21.5 % versus 18.4 %), and live birth rate (49.0 % versus 51.3 %) were similar in both group without statistically significant difference. No significant differences in neonatal outcomes were observed between the two groups. CONCLUSION We observed similar pregnancy outcomes in both vaginal progesterone gel combined with oral dydrogesterone and intramuscular progesterone protocol. Vaginal progesterone gel combined with oral dydrogesterone can be substituted for intramuscular progesterone given that vaginal plus oral use has good safety and is more convenient and may be associated with less side effect caused by intramuscular injection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Xu
- Reproductive Health and Infertility Department, Guangdong Woman and Children's Hospital, Guangzhou 511442, China
| | - Xi-Qian Zhang
- Reproductive Health and Infertility Department, Guangdong Woman and Children's Hospital, Guangzhou 511442, China
| | - Xiu-Lan Zhu
- Reproductive Health and Infertility Department, Guangdong Woman and Children's Hospital, Guangzhou 511442, China
| | - Hui-Nan Weng
- Reproductive Health and Infertility Department, Guangdong Woman and Children's Hospital, Guangzhou 511442, China
| | - Li-Qing Xu
- Reproductive Health and Infertility Department, Guangdong Woman and Children's Hospital, Guangzhou 511442, China
| | - Li Huang
- Reproductive Health and Infertility Department, Guangdong Woman and Children's Hospital, Guangzhou 511442, China
| | - Feng-Hua Liu
- Reproductive Health and Infertility Department, Guangdong Woman and Children's Hospital, Guangzhou 511442, China.
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24
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Scheffer JB, Scheffer BB, Aguiar APDS, Franca JB, Lozano DM, Fanchin R. A comparison of the effects of three different estrogen used for endometrium preparation on the outcome of day 5 frozen embryo transfer cycle. JBRA Assist Reprod 2021; 25:104-108. [PMID: 32991118 PMCID: PMC7863099 DOI: 10.5935/1518-0557.20200059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the effects of three different estrogen used for endometrium preparation on pregnancy rate, as well as hormone profile on day 5 frozen embryo transfer (FET) cycles. METHODS Retrospective, observational study. Setting: A tertiary teaching and research private reproductive medicine center. Patients: Ninety patients who were undergoing endometrium preparation for day five frozen embryo transfer cycle (FET). Intervention(s): The women were divided in three groups according to the administration route of estrogen (E2): oral (Primogyna), transdermal patches (Estradot), or transdermal gel (Oestrogel Pump). These administration routines of estrogen are equivalent to 6mg of estradiol daily. All women received 600mg of vaginal progesterone (P) per day (Utrogestan) for luteal phase support. We drew blood samples on starting P day, as well as on beta hCG day for E2 and P measurements. Main Outcome Measure(s): Clinical pregnancy rates (PR). RESULTS Patient features in the three groups were comparable. There were no significant differences concerning implantation rate, clinical PR, miscarriage rate, multiple-pregnancy rate, or E2 and P levels on starting P day and on beta hCG day. CONCLUSIONS In FET cycles with oral (Primogyna) or transdermal patches (Estradot), or transdermal gel (Oestrogel Pump), there was no significant difference on pregnancy rates.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Bruno Brum Scheffer
- IBRRA - Brazilian Institute of Assisted Reproduction, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | | | | | - Daniel Mendez Lozano
- School of Medicine, Tecnologico de Monterrey and Center for Reproductive Medicine CREASIS, San Pedro Monterrey, Mexico
| | - Renato Fanchin
- Professeur des Universites - Praticien Hospitalier en Medecine de la Reproduction, France; Hopital Foch, France
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25
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Atzmon Y, Aslih N, Estrada D, Bilgory A, Ellenbogen A, Shalom-Paz E. Comparable Outcomes Using Oral Dydrogesterone Vs. Micronized Vaginal Progesterone in Frozen Embryo Transfer: a Retrospective Cohort Study. Reprod Sci 2020; 28:1874-1881. [PMID: 33140324 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-020-00376-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2020] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
This retrospective study was conducted to determine whether using oral dydrogesterone (DYD) instead of micronized vaginal progesterone (MVP) in frozen embryo transfer (FET) cycles affects pregnancy outcomes. Women undergoing autologous FET in an academic fertility center were evaluated. Uses of 10 mg TID oral DYD or MVP for patients treated in FET cycles (artificial and ovulatory cycle, separately) were compared. The main outcome measure was live birth rates in each group. The study analyzed 599 cycles that occurred from January 2018 through December 2019. Chemical and clinical pregnancy rates were comparable between DYD vs. MVP groups (41.6% vs. 38.1%; P = 0.44 and 36.7% vs. 31.4%; P = 0.18, respectively). The ongoing pregnancy and delivery rates (29% vs. 22%, P = 0.06), as well as abortion rate (12.3% vs. 15.8%, P = 0.2), were comparable between the two groups. In a case-control sub-analysis of artificial FET cycles, we found comparable results between the two modes of luteal support. Similarly, results were comparable in ovulatory cycles using these medications for luteal support. Chemical and clinical pregnancy rates were comparable with DYD vs. MVP, in artificial FET (33.7% vs. 34.8%; P = 0.89 and 27.7% vs. 27.5%; P = 1), and in ovulatory FET (46.5% vs. 43.9%; P = 0.71 and 42.3% vs. 38.2%; P = 0.53), respectively. Our results indicate that in FET, pregnancy outcomes with oral DYD were not inferior to those with MVP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuval Atzmon
- IVF Unit, Hillel Yaffe Medical Center, Hadera, Israel
| | - Nardin Aslih
- IVF Unit, Hillel Yaffe Medical Center, Hadera, Israel
| | | | - Asaf Bilgory
- IVF Unit, Hillel Yaffe Medical Center, Hadera, Israel
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26
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Bakkensen JB, Racowsky C, Thomas AM, Lanes A, Hornstein MD. Intramuscular progesterone versus 8% Crinone vaginal gel for luteal phase support following blastocyst cryopreserved single embryo transfer: a retrospective cohort study. FERTILITY RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2020; 6:10. [PMID: 32626594 PMCID: PMC7329474 DOI: 10.1186/s40738-020-00079-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2020] [Accepted: 06/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Background The optimal route of progesterone administration for luteal support in cryopreserved embryo transfer (CET) has been the subject of much debate. While most published research has pertained to day 3 transfers, recent data on blastocyst CET has suggested that intramuscular progesterone (IMP) is superior to twice daily vaginal Endometrin suppositories for luteal phase support, resulting in significantly higher ongoing pregnancy rates. This study aimed to determine whether IMP is similarly superior to 8% Crinone vaginal gel for luteal phase support following blastocyst CET. Methods Autologous and donor oocyte blastocyst cryopreserved single embryo transfer (SET) cycles from January 2014-January 2019 utilizing either 50 mg IMP daily or 90 mg 8% Crinone gel twice daily for luteal support were included. The primary outcome was live birth. Secondary outcomes included biochemical pregnancy, spontaneous abortion, and clinical pregnancy. All analyses were adjusted a priori for oocyte age. Log-binomial regression analysis was performed with differences in outcomes reported as relative risk (RR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI). Results A total of 1710 cycles were included, of which 1594 utilized IMP and 116 utilized 8% Crinone gel. Demographic and cycles characteristics were similar between the two groups. Compared to cycles utilizing IMP, cycles utilizing Crinone gel resulted in similar rates of live birth (RR 0.91; 95% CI 0.73-1.13), biochemical pregnancy (RR 1.12, 95% CI 0.65-1.92), spontaneous abortion (RR 1.41, 95% CI 0.90-2.20), and clinical pregnancy (RR 1.00, 95% CI 0.86-1.17). Conclusions Compared to cryopreserved blastocyst SET cycles utilizing IMP for luteal support, cycles utilizing 8% Crinone gel resulted in similar likelihood of live birth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer B Bakkensen
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Brigham & Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, 75 Francis Street, Boston, MA 02115 USA
| | - Catherine Racowsky
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Brigham & Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, 75 Francis Street, Boston, MA 02115 USA
| | - Ann M Thomas
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Brigham & Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, 75 Francis Street, Boston, MA 02115 USA
| | - Andrea Lanes
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Brigham & Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, 75 Francis Street, Boston, MA 02115 USA
| | - Mark D Hornstein
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Brigham & Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, 75 Francis Street, Boston, MA 02115 USA
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27
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Noble M, Child T. A UK-wide cross-sectional survey of practice exploring current trends in endometrial preparation for frozen-thawed embryo replacement. HUM FERTIL 2020; 25:283-290. [PMID: 32609049 DOI: 10.1080/14647273.2020.1786171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
In the United Kingdom, between 2012 and 2017 the annual number of frozen-thawed embryo replacement (FER) cycles doubled, while fresh cycles declined. With FER now accounting for 34% of IVF cycles, the aim of this UK-wide survey of IVF clinics was to determine current trends in the management of FER. A senior clinician in each of the 84 UK IVF clinics was asked to complete an online survey between September 2018 and February 2019 focussing on their clinic's first-line protocols for FER. Sixty-five clinics (77%) responded, accounting for approximately 24,419 FER cycles annually. In ovulatory women, 69% of clinics favour medicated, 26% natural cycle and 5% modified natural cycle FER. In medicated FER, 61% of clinics undertake blastocyst transfer on the sixth day of progesterone administration, 21% on the fifth, 13% on the seventh, 3% on the fourth and 2% on the third. The preferred route of progesterone in medicated FER is vaginal, favoured by 82% of clinics. For pituitary suppression, 55% of clinics favour GnRH-agonist, 11% GnRH-antagonist and 34% oestrogen-only. In natural cycle FER, 31% always, 44% sometimes and 25% never give supplementary luteal support. In summary, the results illustrate wide variation in practice and highlight key research priorities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matt Noble
- Oxford Fertility, Institute for Reproductive Sciences, Oxford, UK
| | - Tim Child
- Oxford Fertility, Institute for Reproductive Sciences, Oxford, UK.,Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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Pabuçcu E, Pabuçcu R, Gürgan T, Tavmergen E. Luteal phase support in fresh and frozen embryo transfer cycles. J Gynecol Obstet Hum Reprod 2020; 49:101838. [PMID: 32585391 DOI: 10.1016/j.jogoh.2020.101838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2019] [Revised: 05/02/2020] [Accepted: 06/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Nearly 5 million babies have been delivered following assisted conception (IVF/ICSI) and the demand is increasing. Meticulous ovarian stimulation and well programmed luteal phase support are the landmarks of treatment success. Although the importance of luteal phase support in IVF/ICSI cycles is well established, the optimal route, dose and duration of this support is still a matter of debate. Regardless of the ovarian stimulation, parenteral and vaginal progesterone has been one of the most common routes. However, oral or subcutaneous routes are also well-investigated and reveal satisfactory clinical outcomes. It is obviously critical to choose a progesterone with adequate clinical efficacy and patient tolerability as well. Moreover, fresh and frozen embryo transfer cycles markedly different from each other in terms of physiological changes and luteal support concept should be modified accordingly. The aim of this narrative review is to provide evidence-based take home messages for the luteal phase support in either fresh or frozen embryo transfer cycles in the context of a recent scientific evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emre Pabuçcu
- Ufuk University School of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ankara, Turkey.
| | - Recai Pabuçcu
- Ufuk University School of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ankara, Turkey; Centrum Clinic Assisted Reproduction Center, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Timur Gürgan
- Gürgan Clinic Assisted Reproduction Center, Ankara, Turkey; Bahçeşehir University School of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Erol Tavmergen
- Tavmergen Clinic Assisted Reproduction Center, İstanbul, Turkey; Ege University School of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, İzmir, Turkey
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Kastora SL, Triantafyllidou O, Kolovos G, Kastoras A, Sigalos G, Vlahos N. Combinational approach of retrospective clinical evidence and transcriptomics highlight AMH superiority to FSH, as successful ICSI outcome predictor. J Assist Reprod Genet 2020; 37:1623-1635. [PMID: 32430730 PMCID: PMC7376803 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-020-01802-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2019] [Accepted: 04/28/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Combination of transcriptomic and retrospective clinical data, to assess anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) functionality at a cumulus cell level and evaluate AMH potential as a suitable marker for IVF outcomes (oocytes retrieved, number of day 3 embryos, gestation outcomes). Design Raw RNA-sequencing data of cumulus cells sourced from younger (n = 10) patient group (group A) (age 29 (1 year of age), baseline FSH 7.4 (0.5 mIU/ml), AMH 4.67 (1.56 ng/ml)) and older (n = 10) patient group (group B) (age 43 (± 0.55 years of age), baseline FSH 8 (0.8 mIU/ml), AMH 1.07 (0.44 ng/ml)) were employed to derive transcriptomic differences among high vs. low AMH groups. We collected retrospectively patient data from 80 infertile patients selected according to pre-specified inclusion criteria. Setting Publicly available raw RNA-sequencing data were retrieved from the SRA database of NCBI resource GEO Accession (GSM21575/35-44; GEO Accession: GSM21575/45-55). Retrospective data were collected from referrals to the Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Lito Hospital of Athens and the Institute of Life, Iaso Hospital of Athens, between the periods of March 2015 and April 2018. Intervention(s) A fixed human menopausal gonadotropin (hMG) antagonist protocol was used for all patients. All patients had serum AMH levels measured within a 3-month period prior to stimulation and serum levels of FSH and estradiol (day 2 of menstrual cycle; E2) (Clinical Trial code NV24042014). Main outcome measure(s) The primary outcomes were identification of transcriptomic variations among high (group A) vs. low (group B) AMH patients. Retrospective data primary outcomes were number of oocytes retrieved, fertilized successfully (grades A and B, day 2 embryos), and total number of day 3 embryos. Secondary outcome was live birth rate. Finally, we compared primary outcomes with AMH and FSH level as well as their genetic pathways (interacting genes) to demonstrate the predictive accuracy. Results Essential players of the AMH signaling cascade, namely, SMAD1, SMAD4, SMAD5, ALK1, and LEF1, were significantly upregulated in group A (n 10) transcriptome. This biological clue was further supported by retrospective clinical data (n 80 participants), where AMH was positively correlated with both oocytes retrieved and fertilized as well as number of day 3 (grades A and B) embryos from patients undergoing IVF, in a statistically significant manner. AMH was further positive trend of association with successful pregnancy outcomes. Conclusion Overall, this study offers new insight on AMH effects upon cumulus cells and new aspects on how AMH might promote oocyte integrity and embryo viability at a biochemical level as well as add to the current body of evidence supporting AMH clinical potential as a more sensitive marker of IVF outcomes in comparison with FSH, regarding numbers of oocytes received and high-quality day 2 and day 3 embryos. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1007/s10815-020-01802-w) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Olga Triantafyllidou
- Reproductive Medicine Unit, "Leto" Maternity Hospital, Mouson str. 7-13, 11524, Athens, Greece
| | - Georgios Kolovos
- 2nd Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aretaieion Hospital, University of Athens, Vas. Sofias str. 7, 11528, Athens,, Greece
| | - Athanasios Kastoras
- Reproductive Medicine Unit, "Leto" Maternity Hospital, Mouson str. 7-13, 11524, Athens, Greece
| | - Georgios Sigalos
- Reproductive Medicine Unit, "Leto" Maternity Hospital, Mouson str. 7-13, 11524, Athens, Greece
| | - Nikos Vlahos
- Assisted Conception Unit "IAKENTRO", Fragokklisias Str, 15125, Athens, Greece
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Turkgeldi E, Hanege BY, Yildiz S, Keles I, Ata B. Subcutaneous versus vaginal progesterone for vitrified-warmed blastocyst transfer in artificial cycles. Reprod Biomed Online 2020; 41:248-253. [PMID: 32532668 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2020.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2020] [Revised: 04/05/2020] [Accepted: 04/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Does subcutaneous progesterone provide similar live birth or ongoing pregnancy rates as vaginal progesterone in frozen embryo transfer (FET) cycles? DESIGN Retrospective cohort study (n = 214 women), consisting of 107 women who received subcutaneous progesterone for FET in artificial cycles and 107 women receiving vaginal progesterone who were matched for age and treatment cycle rank acted as controls. All embryos were transferred in an artificial cycle with 6 mg per day oral oestradiol valerate starting on the second or third day of the menstrual cycle. Patients underwent transvaginal ultrasound on the 10th day of priming, and subcutaneous progesterone (50 mg/day) or vaginal progesterone (180 mg/day) was started if the endometrium had a trilinear pattern regardless of its thickness. Embryo transfer was carried out on the sixth day of progesterone administration. Oestradiol and progesterone were continued until a negative pregnancy test, 10 days after the transfer, or until the completion of 10th gestational week. Main outcome measures were live birth or ongoing pregnancy rates. RESULTS Baseline characteristics were similar between the groups. Positive pregnancy test rates (64.5% versus 58.9%; P = 0.40; RR 1.1; 95% CI 0.89 to 1.35), live birth or ongoing pregnancy rates (39.3% versus 35.5%; P = 0.57; RR 1.11; 95% CI 0.78 to 1.56) and miscarriage rates (29% versus 25.5%; P = 0.68; RR 1.08; 95% CI 0.76 to 1.55) were similar in the subcutaneous progesterone and vaginal progesterone groups, respectively. CONCLUSIONS Subcutaneous progesterone seems to be an effective alternative to vaginal progesterone in patients undergoing FET. Randomized controlled trials comparing it with different progesterone preparations, routes and protocols are needed to better define its role.
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Affiliation(s)
- Engin Turkgeldi
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Koc University Hospital, Davutpasa Cad No 4, Topkapi 34010, IstanbulTurkish Republic
| | - Burcu Yilmaz Hanege
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Koc University Hospital, Davutpasa Cad No 4, Topkapi 34010, IstanbulTurkish Republic
| | - Sule Yildiz
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Koc University Hospital, Davutpasa Cad No 4, Topkapi 34010, IstanbulTurkish Republic
| | - Ipek Keles
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Koc University Hospital, Davutpasa Cad No 4, Topkapi 34010, IstanbulTurkish Republic
| | - Baris Ata
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Koc University Hospital, Davutpasa Cad No 4, Topkapi 34010, IstanbulTurkish Republic; Department of Obstetrics and Gyneacology, Koç University School of Medicine, Rumelifeneri Yolu Sariyer 34450 Istanbul, Turkish Republic.
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Abdelhakim AM, Abd-ElGawad M, Hussein RS, Abbas AM. Vaginal versus intramuscular progesterone for luteal phase support in assisted reproductive techniques: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Gynecol Endocrinol 2020; 36:389-397. [PMID: 32054365 DOI: 10.1080/09513590.2020.1727879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
We aimed to compare the efficacy of vaginal progesterone versus intramuscular progesterone (IMP) for luteal phase support in assisted reproductive techniques (ART). A comprehensive electronic search of four electronic databases (PubMed, Cochrane Library, Scopus, and ISI Web of Science) was performed from inception till August 2019 for randomized controlled trials (RCTs). We included studies performed different ART with the use of vaginal progesterone versus IMP for luteal phase support. Our primary outcome was clinical pregnancy rate. Our secondary outcomes were ongoing pregnancy, miscarriage, live birth rates, and satisfaction in both groups. 15 RCTs met our inclusion criteria with a total of 5656 patients. Our analysis indicated no significant differences between vaginal progesterone and IMP regarding clinical and ongoing pregnancies (RR = 0.90, 95% CI [0.80, 1.00], p = .06), (RR = 0.90, 95% CI [0.76, 1.06], p = .21), respectively. No significant differences were found between both routes of progesterone in miscarriage (p = .98) and live birth (p = .99). Subgroup analysis between fresh and frozen embryo transfer cycles in above outcomes showed no difference between progesterone routes. Vaginal progesterone was significantly associated with more satisfaction compared to IMP (p < .00001). In conclusion, vaginal progesterone can be used an alternative method for luteal phase support instead of IMP in ART.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Mohamed Abdelhakim
- Medical Research Group of Egypt, Cairo, Egypt
- Kasralainy, Faculty of medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Abd-ElGawad
- Medical Research Group of Egypt, Cairo, Egypt
- Faculty of medicine, Fayoum University, Fayoum, Egypt
| | - Reda S Hussein
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Egypt
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Ahmed M Abbas
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Egypt
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Shiba R, Kinutani M, Okano S, Kawano R, Kikkawa Y. Efficacy of four vaginal progesterones for luteal phase support in frozen-thawed embryo transfer cycles: A randomized clinical trial. Reprod Med Biol 2020; 19:42-49. [PMID: 31956284 PMCID: PMC6955584 DOI: 10.1002/rmb2.12300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2019] [Revised: 08/24/2019] [Accepted: 09/01/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate the efficacy of four vaginal progesterones, Lutinus, Utrogestan, Luteum, and Crinone, as luteal phase support (LPS) in frozen-thawed embryo transfer (Frozen-ET) cycles. METHODS Patients undergoing autologous Frozen-ET of one cleavage-stage embryo or one blastocyst. Two hundred fifty-nine Frozen-ET cycles were randomized to four groups for LPS: Lutinus, Utrogestan, Luteum, and Crinone. The clinical pregnancy rate (CPR), fetal heartbeat rate (FHR), and miscarriage rate (MR) were analyzed using the Mann-Whitney or Kruskal-Wallis test and Fisher exact test. RESULTS Two hundred thirty-five Frozen-ET cycles were analyzed: 63 cycles in the Lutinus group, 60 in the Utrogestan group, 56 in the Luteum group, and 56 in the Crinone group. No significant differences were observed between the four groups in CPR (Lutinus, Utrogestan, Luteum, and Crinone: 34.9%, 33.3%, 37.5%, and 35.7%, respectively; P = .976), FHR (26.9%, 31.6%, 30.3%, and 25.0%, respectively; P = .857), and MR (31.8%, 10.0%, 19.0%, and 30.0%, respectively; P = .306). Multivariate logistic regression analysis also revealed that there were no statistically significant differences between the four groups with regard to CPR, FHR, and MR. CONCLUSION There was no clinically significant difference in pregnancy outcomes between the four vaginal progesterone groups for LPS in Frozen-ET cycles.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Reo Kawano
- Center for Integrated Medical ResearchHiroshima University HospitalHiroshimaJapan
| | - Yuko Kikkawa
- Kinutani Women’s ClinicHiroshimaJapan
- Present address:
Katsuki Ladies ClinicHiroshimaJapan
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Abstract
The aim of this review is to provide qualitative evidence-based synthesis regarding efficacy of luteal-phase support on fertility outcome in women undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) with respect to clinical or live birth rates and pregnancy loss rates. Although the need of luteal phase support in IVF/ICSI cycles is well-known, the optimal start, dosage, route and the duration of the luteal phase support is still subject of debate. Data suggest that the optimal period to start with the luteal phase support would be between 24-72 hours after oocyte-retrieval and should continue at least until a positive pregnancy test is achieved. However, the majority of IVF-centers worldwide provide progesterone support up to 8 weeks of pregnancy. Among the well-established routes of luteal support, oral dydrogesterone and subcutaneous progesterone represent new and interesting routes of progesterone administration. The current studies support these routes of progesterone administration use in terms of comparable pregnancy rates and pregnancy loss rates to vaginal and intramuscular progesterone. Furthermore, the acceptance and tolerability among patients seems to be even better. In the frozen-thawed embryo transfer, dydrogesterone and vaginal progesterone are not effective as monotherapy treatments; however, when combined there is no reason to avoid one or the other in this setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vlatka Tomic
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Miro Kasum
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital Centre Zagreb, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Katarina Vucic
- Department for Safety and Efficacy Assessment of Medicinal Products, Agency for Medicinal Products and Medical Devices, Zagreb, Croatia
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Zeyneloglu HB, Tohma YA, Onalan G, Moran U. Granulocyte colony-stimulating factor for intracytoplasmic sperm injection patients with repeated implantation failure: which route is best?†. J OBSTET GYNAECOL 2019; 40:526-530. [PMID: 31496328 DOI: 10.1080/01443615.2019.1631772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to assess whether the dual administration of granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) increases the effect of only systemic administration in patients with RIF. This retrospective study included 111 infertile normoresponder cases with two or more unsuccessful in vitro fertilisation/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (IVF/ICSI) treatments, despite the transfer of good quality embryos. Patients were divided into three groups according to using G-CSF and administration route; Group 1 included patients who received subcutaneous (SC) G-CSF only (n = 38), Group 2 comprised patients who received both intrauterine (IU) and SC G-CSF (n = 39), the control group included patients who did not receive G-CSF who were matched by age (n = 34). The IU route of G-CSF was employed on ovulation triggering day. G-CSF was administered via an IU insemination catheter. SC injection was started on the day of oocyte retrieval and administered for 15 days at 100,000 IU/kg. Foetal cardiac activity (clinical pregnancy) was present in 50 patients (46.2%) after embryo transfer, with 20 patients included in SC group (Group 1) (52.6%), 25 in SC + IU group (Group 2) (64.1%) and 8 (23.5%) in control group and significant difference was observed between groups (p: .001). Pregnancy resulted in live birth in 43 patients (39.8%), with 13 patients belonging in Group 1 (34.2%), 25 in Group 2 (61.5%) and 8 (23.5%) in control group; significant differences were observed between groups (p: .001). In conclusion, our results showed that dual administration of G-CSF was significantly more effective that the SC only method.Impact statementWhat is already known on this subject? A number of studies reported the possible benefits of granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) administration in recurrent implantation failure (RIF) and recurrent pregnancy loss patients; however, it is unclear which administration route is better.What do the results of this study add? Our results showed that G-CSF is a promising and safe agent for increasing live birth rates in patients with RIF. Additionally, dual administration is considered the better method than SC only administration.What are the implications of these findings for clinical practice and/or further research? Clinicians should consider a combination of IU use before ovulation triggering with SC administration starting from the day of oocyte collection for using G-CSF for the treatment of recurrent implantation failure. Additionally, our data show the need for research in the field of administration route of G-CSF for RIF. We suggest that further studies be performed in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yusuf Aytac Tohma
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baskent University School of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Gogsen Onalan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baskent University School of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Utkun Moran
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baskent University School of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
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Hantoushzadeh S, Sheikh M, Shariat M, Mansouri R, Ghamari A, Golshahi F. The effects of progesterone therapy in pregnancy: vaginal and intramuscular administration. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med 2019; 34:2033-2040. [PMID: 31409166 DOI: 10.1080/14767058.2019.1656190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
AIM This study was performed to evaluate the effects of vaginal versus intramuscular progesterone supplementations on the mood, quality of life, and metabolic changes in pregnant women with the history of previous preterm birth. METHODS This study was conducted as a prospective, randomized, open label, clinical trial evaluated 100 pregnant women who referred for prenatal visit, with 16-17 weeks of gestation from September 2014 through October 2015. The mothers were then randomly allocated into two groups: the vaginal progesterone group to receive 400 mg cyclogest vaginal suppositories (Actavis, UK limited, England) once daily, and the intramuscular progesterone group to receive weekly intramuscular injections of 250 mg of 17-hydroxyprogesterone caproate (17-HPC) (Bayer Schering Pharma, Germany), starting from the 16th to the 35th weeks of pregnancy. Demographics, medical and obstetrical history, sleeping disturbances, alteration in sexual desire, nausea/vomiting, serum levels of fasting blood sugar (FBS), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) were evaluated, first and 8 weeks later. RESULTS About 11 (11.2%) screened positive for psychosocial disorders; 25 (25.5%) had sleep disturbance, 11 (11.2%) had alteration in sexual desire, and 29 (29.6%) had nausea/vomiting upon enrollment. After 2 months of receiving daily vaginal progesterone, there was a significant increase in the GHQ-28 score (p < .001), and rates of positive screening for psychosocial disorders (p = .001) in this group. No statistically significant differences were observed in the HDL levels (p = .06), LDL levels (p = .15), rates of impaired FBS (p = .08), nausea/vomiting (p = .2), sexual desire alteration (p = .56), and sleep disturbance (p = 1) in the participants who were randomized to this group. CONCLUSION Our results indicated that psychosocial disorders increased significantly at 24th week gestational age after 2 months of progesterone consumption in both groups which could show psychological impact of progesterone regardless of the route of consumption. This calls for higher psychological attention in these women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sedigheh Hantoushzadeh
- Maternal, Fetal and Neonatal Research Center, Vali-Asr Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahdi Sheikh
- Maternal, Fetal and Neonatal Research Center, Vali-Asr Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mamak Shariat
- Maternal, Fetal and Neonatal Research Center, Vali-Asr Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Roodabeh Mansouri
- Maternal, Fetal and Neonatal Research Center, Vali-Asr Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Azin Ghamari
- Growth and Developmental Research Center, Children Medical Center of Excellence, Tehran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Golshahi
- Maternal, Fetal and Neonatal Research Center, Vali-Asr Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Mohammed A, Woad KJ, Mann GE, Craigon J, Raine-Fenning N, Robinson RS. Evaluation of progestogen supplementation for luteal phase support in fresh in vitro fertilization cycles. Fertil Steril 2019; 112:491-502.e3. [PMID: 31200970 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2019.04.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2019] [Revised: 03/15/2019] [Accepted: 04/11/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the effectiveness of progestogen supplementation in improving clinical pregnancy rates in women undergoing fresh IVF cycles and to compare different routes, start times, durations, and estrogen coadministration regimen. DESIGN Comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis. SETTING University. PATIENT(S) Women undergoing fresh IVF cycles who did and did not receive progestogen supplementation. INTERVENTION(S) Summary odds ratios (ORs) were calculated by binomial logistic regression. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Clinical pregnancy rates. RESULT(S) Eighty-two articles (26,726 women) were included. Clinical pregnancy rates were increased by IM (OR = 4.57), vaginal (OR = 3.34), SC (OR = 3.36), or oral (OR = 2.57) progestogen supplementation versus no treatment. The greatest benefit was observed when progestogens were supplemented IM versus vaginally (OR = 1.37). The optimal time to commence administration was between oocyte retrieval and ET (OR = 1.31), with oocyte retrieval +1 day being most beneficial. Coadministration of estrogen had no benefit (OR = 1.33), whether progestogens were coadministered vaginally or IM. Clinical pregnancy rates were equivalent when progestogen supplementation was ceased after ≤3 weeks or continued for up to 12 weeks (OR = 1.06). CONCLUSION(S) This broad-ranging meta-analysis highlights the need to reevaluate current clinical practice. The use of progestogens in fresh IVF cycles is substantially beneficial to clinical pregnancy. Critically, the use of IM progestogens should not be dismissed, as it yielded the greatest clinical pregnancy rates. Pregnancy success was impacted by initiation of therapy, with 1 day after oocyte retrieval being optimal. There is little evidence to support coadministration of estrogen or prolonging progestogen treatment beyond 3 weeks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amal Mohammed
- Division of Animal Sciences, School of Biosciences, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Loughborough, United Kingdom; Department of Clinical Reproductive Physiology, High Institute of Infertility Diagnosis and Assisted Reproductive Technologies, Al-Nahrain University, Baghdad, Iraq
| | - Kathryn J Woad
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Loughborough, United Kingdom
| | - George E Mann
- Division of Animal Sciences, School of Biosciences, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Loughborough, United Kingdom
| | - Jim Craigon
- Division of Animal Sciences, School of Biosciences, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Loughborough, United Kingdom
| | - Nick Raine-Fenning
- Division of Child Health, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham Medical School, Nottingham, United Kingdom; Nurture Fertility, The Fertility Partnership, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Robert S Robinson
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Loughborough, United Kingdom.
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Asoglu MR, Celik C, Karakis LS, Findikli N, Gultomruk M, Bahceci M. Comparison of daily vaginal progesterone gel plus weekly intramuscular progesterone with daily intramuscular progesterone for luteal phase support in single, autologous euploid frozen-thawed embryo transfers. J Assist Reprod Genet 2019; 36:1481-1487. [PMID: 31104292 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-019-01482-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2019] [Revised: 05/05/2019] [Accepted: 05/07/2019] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To compare outcomes between daily intramuscular progesterone (IMP) and daily vaginal progesterone (VP) gel plus weekly intramuscular hydroxyprogesterone caproate (IMHPC) for luteal phase support (LPS) in single, autologous euploid frozen-thawed blastocyst transfers (FBTs) following artificial endometrial preparation (EP). METHODS The retrospective cohort study included 767 single, autologous FBTs from 731 patients between January 2015 and March 2018. LPS was performed either with IMP (100 mg/day) or with VP gel (90 mg, twice daily) plus IMHPC (250 mg/week). Oral estrogen was prescribed in combination of both regimes. Oral estrogen was discontinued following the visualization of fetal cardiac activity on ultrasound and progesterone at 10 weeks of gestation. The primary outcome was live birth rate. The secondary outcomes included implantation, clinical pregnancy, and multiple pregnancy rates. RESULTS Patient characteristics did not differ in LPS regimes. Of 767 FBTs, 608 had IMP (100 mg/day) for LPS and 159 had VP gel (90 mg, twice daily) plus IMHPC (250 mg/week) for LPS. The live birth rate was 51.8% and 50.3%, respectively (p = 0.737, OR 0.94, 95%CI 0.66-1.33). The implantation rate was 62.7% and 64.2%, respectively (p = 0.730, OR 1.06, 95%CI 0.74-1.53). The clinical pregnancy rates were also similar in both groups (59.5% vs. 61.6%, respectively, p = 0.631, OR 1.09, 95%CI 0.76-1.56). CONCLUSIONS We did not observe significant differences in the rates of live birth, implantation, and clinical pregnancy between daily IMP and daily VP gel plus weekly IMHPC for LPS in single, autologous euploid FBTs after artificial EP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehmet Resit Asoglu
- Bahceci Fulya Assisted Reproduction Center, Hakki Yeten St. No:11, Sisli, 34394, Istanbul, Turkey.
| | - Cem Celik
- Bahceci Umut Assisted Reproduction Center, Mahir Iz st. No: 31, Uskudar, 34662, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Lale Susan Karakis
- Bahceci Fulya Assisted Reproduction Center, Hakki Yeten St. No:11, Sisli, 34394, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Necati Findikli
- Bahceci Umut Assisted Reproduction Center, Mahir Iz st. No: 31, Uskudar, 34662, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Meral Gultomruk
- Bahceci Fulya Assisted Reproduction Center, Hakki Yeten St. No:11, Sisli, 34394, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Mustafa Bahceci
- Bahceci Fulya Assisted Reproduction Center, Hakki Yeten St. No:11, Sisli, 34394, Istanbul, Turkey
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Chi H, Li R, Qiao J, Chen X, Wang X, Hao G, Wu Q, Cao Y, Cai L, Ye H, Zhu Y, Wang S, Zhang X, Zhang C, Zhang Y, Lv Q, Sun Y, Li H, Huang X, Wang F. Vaginal progesterone gel is non-inferior to intramuscular progesterone in efficacy with acceptable tolerability for luteal phase support: A prospective, randomized, multicenter study in China. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2019; 237:100-105. [PMID: 31035117 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2019.04.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2018] [Revised: 04/04/2019] [Accepted: 04/14/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Research suggests the efficacy of progesterone for luteal phase support in assisted reproduction cycles using gonadotropin-releasing hormone analogues. Our study objective was to compare the efficacy of two available preparations of progesterone, vaginal gel and intramuscular injection, for luteal phase support in assisted reproduction cycles. STUDY DESIGN This study included data gathered from 18 reproductive centers in China. Subjects were randomly allocated to receive progesterone gel or intramuscular progesterone (IMP). The progesterone gel group received micronized progesterone in gel (8%, 90 mg) once daily; the IMP group received IMP (progesterone oil) once daily. The ongoing pregnancy rate was calculated (number of women with a viable pregnancy at 12 weeks divided by the number of women who had undergone an oocyte pickup cycle). RESULTS A total of 1313 patients were enrolled in the study, 1248 of whom began treatment. The intention-to-treat set included 527 and 531 patients in the gel and IMP groups, respectively. The ongoing pregnancy rate in the progesterone gel group was non-inferior to that in the IMP group (48.4% [95% confidence interval (CI): 44.0, 52.8] vs. 46.3% [95% CI: 42.0, 50.7]); the between-group rate difference was 2.1% (-4.0, 8.1). There was no difference between the gel group and IMP group on most secondary endpoints, including implantation rate, biochemical pregnancy rate, clinical pregnancy rate, multiple pregnancy rate, early abortion rate, and vaginal bleeding rate, but there was a between-group difference in luteal phase bleeding rate. The safety analysis showed no difference in the incidence of total adverse events. CONCLUSIONS Progesterone gel showed good efficacy and safety outcomes and therefore provides an alternative method of luteal support in Chinese in vitro fertilization patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongbin Chi
- Peking University Third Hospital, IVF Center, No. 49, North Garden Rd., Haidian District, Beijing, 100191, PR China.
| | - Rong Li
- Peking University Third Hospital, IVF Center, No. 49, North Garden Rd., Haidian District, Beijing, 100191, PR China.
| | - Jie Qiao
- Peking University Third Hospital, IVF Center, No. 49, North Garden Rd., Haidian District, Beijing, 100191, PR China.
| | - Xiujuan Chen
- The Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, No. 1, North Road, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia, PR China.
| | - Xingling Wang
- The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, No. 7, Heping Qianjie, Erqi District, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, PR China.
| | - Guimin Hao
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Hebei Medical University, No. 215, Heping West Road, Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, PR China.
| | - Qiongfang Wu
- Jiangxi Maternal and Child Hospital, No. 318, Bayi Avenue, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, PR China.
| | - Yunxia Cao
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No. 218, Jixi Road, Hefei, Anhui Province, PR China.
| | - Liyi Cai
- Wuxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital, No. 48, Yushu Lane, Wuxi, Jiangsu Province, PR China.
| | - Hong Ye
- Chongqing Health Center for Women and Children, No. 64, Jingtang Street, Qixinggang, Yuzhong District, Chongqing, PR China.
| | - Yimin Zhu
- Women's Hospital School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, No. 1, Xueshi Road, Hangzhou City, Zhejiang Province, PR China.
| | - Shuyu Wang
- Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, No. 251, Yaojiayuan Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing, PR China.
| | - Xuehong Zhang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Lanzhou University, No. 1, Donggang West Road, Chengguan District, Lanzhou, Gansu Province, PR China.
| | - Cuilian Zhang
- Henan Provincial People's Hospital, No. 7, Weiwu, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, PR China.
| | - Yunshan Zhang
- Tianjin Central Hospital of Gynecology Obstetrics, No. 156, Nankai Sanma Road, Tianjin, PR China.
| | - Qun Lv
- Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, No. 32, West Second Section First Ring Road, Chengdu, Sichuan, PR China.
| | - Yingpu Sun
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, No. 1, Jianshe East Road, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, PR China.
| | - Hong Li
- Suzhou Municipal Hospital, No. 26, Daoqian Street, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, PR China.
| | - Xuefeng Huang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Nanbaixiang, Ouhai District, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, PR China.
| | - Fang Wang
- Chengdu Women's & Children's Central Hospital, No. 1617, Riyue Avenue, Qingyang District, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, PR China.
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Ginsburg ES, Jellerette-Nolan T, Daftary G, Du Y, Silverberg KM. Patient experience in a randomized trial of a weekly progesterone vaginal ring versus a daily progesterone gel for luteal support after in vitro fertilization. Fertil Steril 2019; 110:1101-1108.e3. [PMID: 30396554 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2018.07.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2018] [Revised: 06/30/2018] [Accepted: 07/12/2018] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess patient experience and convenience of using progesterone vaginal ring (VR) versus vaginal gel for women requiring luteal phase support during in vitro fertilization (IVF). DESIGN Post hoc analysis of a prospective, randomized, single-blind, multicenter, phase 3 clinical trial. SETTING Twenty-two U.S. IVF centers. PATIENT(S) Women undergoing IVF (N = 1,297). INTERVENTION(S) Randomization to weekly VR or daily gel the day after egg retrieval for up to 10 weeks, with fresh embryo transfer IVF per site-specific procedures. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Patient satisfaction questionnaire completed at final study visit. RESULT(S) In the women who were taking ≥1 dose of either VR (n = 647) or gel (n = 650), >97% reported that learning to use the formulation, remembering to take it at the correct time, and using it as prescribed was "easy" or "somewhat easy." More VR than gel users reported noninterference with daily activity (93.3% vs. 74.7%, P<.001), sexual comfort (80.3% vs. 67.8%, P<.001), and sexual desire (73.8% vs. 61.8%, P<.001), as well as not being bothered during sexual intercourse (66.9% vs. 39.2%, P<.001). More gel than VR users reported no difficulty with application (97.4% vs. 80.9%, P<.001). Among women who had previously used progesterone during IVF, more VR users than gel users preferred their currently assigned treatment to their previous treatment (91.4% vs. 83.0%, P=.03). CONCLUSION(S) Weekly progesterone VR and daily progesterone gel were easy to use, with limited impact on quality of life. Overall, the VR appeared to interfere less with daily life, social activities, and sexual activity although the gel was less difficult or stressful to apply. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT00615251.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth S Ginsburg
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.
| | | | | | - Yunling Du
- Ferring International Pharmascience Center US, Parsippany, New Jersey
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Development of a mucoinert progesterone nanosuspension for safer and more effective prevention of preterm birth. J Control Release 2019; 295:74-86. [PMID: 30597245 PMCID: PMC6398330 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2018.12.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2018] [Revised: 12/19/2018] [Accepted: 12/27/2018] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Preterm birth (PTB) is a significant global problem, but few therapeutic options exist. Vaginal progesterone supplementation has been demonstrated to reduce PTB rates in women with a sonographic short cervix, yet there has been little investigation into the most effective dose or delivery form. Further, vaginal products like progesterone gel often contain excipients that cause local toxicity, irritation, and leakage. Here, we describe the development and characterization of a mucoinert vaginal progesterone nanosuspension formulation for improved drug delivery to the female reproductive tract. We compare the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics to the clinical comparator progesterone gel in pregnant mice and demonstrate increased vaginal absorption and biodistribution via the uterine first-pass effect. Importantly, the unique plasma progesterone double peak observed in humans, reflecting recirculation from the uterus, was also observed in pregnant mice with vaginal dosing. We adapted a mouse model of progesterone withdrawal that was previously believed to be incompatible with testing the efficacy of exogenous progestins, and are first to demonstrate efficacy in preventing preterm birth with vaginal progesterone in this model. Further, improved vaginal progesterone delivery by the nanosuspension led to increased efficacy in PTB prevention. Additionally, we identified histological and transcriptional evidence of cervical and uterine toxicity with a single vaginal administration of the clinical gel that are absent after dosing with the mucoinert nanosuspension formulation. We demonstrate that a progesterone formulation that is designed for improved vaginal progesterone absorption and vaginal biocompatibility could be more effective for PTB prevention.
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Chi HB, Liu NN, Li R, Tao LY, Chen LX, Qiao J. Comparison of Vaginal Gel and Intramuscular Progesterone for In vitro Fertilization and Embryo Transfer with Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone Antagonist Protocol. Chin Med J (Engl) 2018; 131:1557-1561. [PMID: 29941709 PMCID: PMC6032680 DOI: 10.4103/0366-6999.235106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Luteal support is a key to patients undergoing in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer (IVF-ET) with gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH)-antagonist protocol. This study aimed to compare the effect between vaginal progesterone (VP) and intramuscular progesterone (IMP) with GnRH-antagonist protocol after IVF-ET. Methods: A total of 1760 patients (18 years ≤ age ≤35 years) undergoing IVF-ET with GnRH-antagonist protocol were studied retrospectively between September 2014 and August 2015 in Peking University Third Hospital. In the patients, 1341 patients received VP (VP group) and 419 patients received IMP (IMP group) as luteal support. We compared clinical outcomes between these two groups. The primary objective of the study was the live birth rate. Measurement data between the two groups were conducted using independent samples t-test. The variables in line with non-normal distribution were expressed as median (p25 and p75) and were compared using nonparametric Mann–Whitney U-test. Results: Live birth rate in VP group was 38.55%, significantly higher than that in the IMP group, which was 30.79% (χ2 = 8.287, P = 0.004). The clinical intrauterine pregnancy rate and implantation rate in VP group were also significantly higher than those in the IMP group (clinical intrauterine pregnancy rate 47.35% vs. 41.29%, χ2 = 4.727, P = 0.030; implantation rate 30.99% vs. 25.26%, χ2 = 14.546, P < 0.001). Any statistically significant differences in ectopic pregnancy and abortion rates between two groups were not observed. Conclusion Luteal support with VP had better clinical outcomes for young women undergoing IVF-ET with GnRH-antagonist protocol.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong-Bin Chi
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Na-Na Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Rong Li
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital; Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Li-Yuan Tao
- Research Center of Clinical Epidemiology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Li-Xue Chen
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Jie Qiao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital; Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100191, China
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Venturella R, Vaiarelli A, Buffo L, D'alessandro P, Colamaria S, Pedri S, Di Carlo C, Alviggi E, Forte M, Faustini F, Zullo F, Rienzi L, Ubaldi FM. Progesterone for preparation of the endometrium for frozen-thawed blastocyst transfer in vitro fertilization cycles: a prospective study on patients' opinions on a new subcutaneous formulation. Gynecol Endocrinol 2018; 34:766-771. [PMID: 29546775 DOI: 10.1080/09513590.2018.1451508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022] Open
Abstract
We aimed to evaluate patients' perspectives on a progesterone subcutaneous formulation for endometrial preparation for frozen-thawed blastocyst transfer. In this prospective study, women with at least one experience with vaginal progesterone, undergone endometrial preparation with oral estradiol valerate and daily subcutaneous progesterone administered from the fifth day before the transfer until the day of the beta-hCG test. Patients completed three questionnaires, at enrollment (Q1), for gathering information on the experience with vaginal treatment and expectations about the subcutaneous route and then at the time of the transfer (Q2) and eight days later (Q3). Main outcome measures were patients' opinions on comfort, ease of use, convenience, overall satisfaction, level of anxiety and pain associated with the administration of subcutaneous progesterone in comparison with their previous experience. Sixty-nine women completed the questionnaires. All vaginal versus subcutaneous comparisons were significantly in favor of the subcutaneous route. When comparing patients' expectations at Q1 with patients' opinions at Q2 and Q3, all evaluations, except for one, demonstrated that the patient's positive expectation was confirmed after 5 and 13 days of treatment. In conclusion, in women with previous experience with vaginal progesterone, the subcutaneous route was associated with significantly increased acceptance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Venturella
- a Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology , Magna Graecia University of Catanzaro , Catanzaro , Italy
- b GENERA Napoli, Clinica Ruesch , Naples , Italy
| | - Alberto Vaiarelli
- c GENERA Roma, Clinica Valle Giulia , Rome , Italy
- d Unit of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Department of Human Pathology in Adulthood and Childhood "G. Barresi" , University of Messina , Messina , Italy
| | - Laura Buffo
- e GENERA Marostica, Poliambulatorio SALUS , Marostica , Italy
| | | | | | - Sara Pedri
- a Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology , Magna Graecia University of Catanzaro , Catanzaro , Italy
| | - Costantino Di Carlo
- a Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology , Magna Graecia University of Catanzaro , Catanzaro , Italy
| | | | - Marina Forte
- c GENERA Roma, Clinica Valle Giulia , Rome , Italy
| | | | - Fulvio Zullo
- a Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology , Magna Graecia University of Catanzaro , Catanzaro , Italy
| | - Laura Rienzi
- b GENERA Napoli, Clinica Ruesch , Naples , Italy
- c GENERA Roma, Clinica Valle Giulia , Rome , Italy
- d Unit of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Department of Human Pathology in Adulthood and Childhood "G. Barresi" , University of Messina , Messina , Italy
| | - Flippo M Ubaldi
- b GENERA Napoli, Clinica Ruesch , Naples , Italy
- c GENERA Roma, Clinica Valle Giulia , Rome , Italy
- d Unit of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Department of Human Pathology in Adulthood and Childhood "G. Barresi" , University of Messina , Messina , Italy
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Groenewoud ER, Cohlen BJ, Macklon NS. Programming the endometrium for deferred transfer of cryopreserved embryos: hormone replacement versus modified natural cycles. Fertil Steril 2018; 109:768-774. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2018.02.135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2017] [Revised: 02/13/2018] [Accepted: 02/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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Role of gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists, human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), progesterone, and estrogen in luteal phase support after hCG triggering, and when in pregnancy hormonal support can be stopped. Fertil Steril 2018; 109:749-755. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2018.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2018] [Revised: 03/07/2018] [Accepted: 03/08/2018] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Affiliation(s)
- M. P. Warren
- Department of Endocrinology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
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Devine K, Richter KS, Widra EA, McKeeby JL. Vitrified blastocyst transfer cycles with the use of only vaginal progesterone replacement with Endometrin have inferior ongoing pregnancy rates: results from the planned interim analysis of a three-arm randomized controlled noninferiority trial. Fertil Steril 2018; 109:266-275. [PMID: 29338855 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2017.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2017] [Revised: 10/19/2017] [Accepted: 11/06/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the noninferiority of vaginal P (Endometrin) compared with daily intramuscular P for replacement in programmed vitrified-warmed blastocyst transfer cycles and to assess the noninferiority of vaginal P in combination with intramuscular progesterone every third day compared with daily intramuscular P. DESIGN Three-arm randomized controlled noninferiority study. To enable early recognition of inferiority if present, an a priori interim analysis was planned and completed once ongoing pregnancy data were available for 50% of the total enrollment goal. The results of this interim analysis are presented here. SETTING Assisted reproduction technology practice. PATIENT(S) Women undergoing transfer of nonbiopsied high quality vitrified-warmed blastocyst(s) in a programmed cycle. INTERVENTION(S) Vitrified-warmed blastocyst transfer with mode of P replacement determined by randomization to either: (1) 50 mg daily intramuscular P only; (2) 200 mg twice daily vaginal Endometrin; or (3) 200 mg twice daily Endometrin plus 50 mg intramuscular P every 3rd day. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Live birth. The primary outcome of this interim analysis was ongoing pregnancy. RESULT(S) A total of 645 cycles were randomly assigned to one of the three treatment arms, received at least one dose of P replacement therapy according to this assignment and underwent vitrified-warmed blastocyst transfer. These cycles were included in the intention-to-treat analysis. The study team, including the statistician, were blinded to the identity of the treatment arms, which were randomly labeled "A," "B," and "C" in the dataset. Ongoing pregnancy occurred in 50%, 47%, and 31% of cycles in arms A, B, and C respectively. Although arm C had an rate of positive hCG equivalent to the other two arms, the rate of pregnancy loss for arm C was significantly higher than for either of the two arms, resulting in a more than one-third lower rate of ongoing pregnancy. There were no statistically significant differences for any outcome tested between arms A and B. Results of a per-protocol analysis were nearly identical to those of the intention-to-treat analysis. On completion of these analyses, arm C was revealed to be the vaginal P only arm. CONCLUSION(S) Relative to regimens inclusive of intramuscular P, vaginal-only P replacement for vitrified-warmed blastocyst transfer results in decreased ongoing pregnancy, due to increased miscarriage, and should be avoided. Randomization to the vaginal-only arm was terminated with these findings. This trial is ongoing to assess the noninferiority of the vaginal plus every 3rd day intramuscular P arm compared with daily intramuscular P in terms of live birth. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NLM identifier NCT02254577.
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Heine P, Sellar L, Whitten S, Bajaj P. A questionnaire-based audit to assess overall experience and convenience among patients using vaginal progesterone tablets (Lutigest ®) for luteal phase support during IVF treatment. PATIENT-RELATED OUTCOME MEASURES 2017; 8:169-179. [PMID: 29263708 PMCID: PMC5726362 DOI: 10.2147/prom.s140678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Purpose The aim of this audit was to assess the overall experience and patient convenience of vaginal progesterone tablets (Lutigest®, marketed as Endometrin® in the USA) used for luteal phase support (LPS) during in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment. Patients and methods This questionnaire-based audit included responses from 100 patients undergoing IVF treatment at six IVF clinics in the UK from September 2015 to November 2016. Fourteen days after starting progesterone supplementation for LPS during their IVF treatment, patients rated overall experience and perceived convenience of the prescribed progesterone by completing a questionnaire. Results Of the 100 patients included, 96 received vaginal progesterone tablets for LPS. Overall, 53.1% (51/96) indicated that the progesterone tablets were “very easy” to use; 42.7% (41/96) and 44.8% (43/96) found it “very convenient” or “neither convenient or inconvenient” to administer the tablet, respectively. Overall experience with using progesterone tablets was rated as “very comfortable” by 34.4% (33/96) and “neither comfortable or uncomfortable” by 56.3% (54/96) of patients. The applicator was used by 93.8% (90/96) of patients to administer the tablet, and 86.5% (83/96) indicated that the applicator was easy to clean for repeated use. A total of 33 patients had a previous IVF cycle during which they were prescribed vaginal progesterone pessaries for LPS. Compared with progesterone pessaries, the majority found treatment with progesterone tablets to be more comfortable (60.6%; 20/33) and more convenient (57.6%; 19/33) and indicated that the progesterone tablet was their preferred progesterone formulation for LPS (60.6%; 20/33). Conclusion These findings offer insights into real-world patient experiences with the progesterone vaginal tablet formulation. The results suggest overall patient convenience, ease, and comfort with using progesterone vaginal tablets for LPS. The majority of patients found progesterone vaginal tablets more convenient and comfortable to use compared with progesterone pessaries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Polly Heine
- Fertility Team, The Agora Gyneacology and Fertility Centre, Hove
| | - Laura Sellar
- Fertility Team, The Agora Gyneacology and Fertility Centre, Hove
| | - Sue Whitten
- Medical Affairs, Ferring Pharmaceuticals, West Drayton, UK
| | - Priti Bajaj
- Medical Affairs, Ferring Pharmaceuticals, West Drayton, UK
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Effect of the initiation of progesterone supplementation in in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer outcomes: a prospective randomized controlled trial. Fertil Steril 2017; 109:97-103. [PMID: 29175065 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2017.09.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2017] [Revised: 09/14/2017] [Accepted: 09/26/2017] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To analyze the influence of the start point of luteal support on clinical pregnancy rate, implantation rate, and live birth rate of in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer (IVF-ET) cycles. DESIGN Single-center prospective randomized controlled trial. SETTING University-affiliated IVF unit. PATIENT(S) Women ≤35 years of age with day 3 FSH levels <15 mIU/mL, who were undergoing their first IVF-ET cycles and received ovarian stimulation with the use of a GnRH agonist long protocol. INTERVENTION(S) The patients were randomized on the day of hCG trigger to receive luteal phase support either 1 day after oocyte retrieval (group A) or on the day of oocyte retrieval (group B). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Clinical pregnancy rate, implantation rate, miscarriage rate in the first trimester of pregnancy, and live birth rate per embryo transfer cycle. RESULT(S) Two hundred thirty-three patients were enrolled in this study: 117 were assigned to group A and 116 to group B. The clinical pregnancy rate (group A vs. group B: 55.3% vs. 51.5%), implantation rate (38.4% vs. 38.0%), and miscarriage rate (7.7% vs. 7.5%) were similar between the two groups. The live birth rate also did not significantly differ between the two groups (45.7% vs. 46.6%). CONCLUSION(S) Our study indicated that the initiation of progesterone supplementation 1 day after oocyte retrieval did not decrease the clinical pregnancy rate, implantation rate, or live birth rate in women undergoing IVF-ET cycles with the use of the GnRH agonist long protocol. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER ChiCTR-IPR-14005293.
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Wong JMH, Kanga N, Dogra N, Ngoma MS, Serghides L, Silverman M. Perceived acceptability of progesterone to prevent preterm births and low birth weight among HIV-infected and HIV-uninfected Zambian pregnant women. Int J Womens Health 2017; 9:827-833. [PMID: 29180906 PMCID: PMC5695261 DOI: 10.2147/ijwh.s136191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Intramuscular and vaginal progesterone are recommended for prevention of preterm labor (PTL) in women with risk factors. Studies are emerging to indicate that HIV-infected women on combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) are at risk of PTL and low birth weight (LBW), and may benefit from supplemental progesterone. This study aims to determine the perceived acceptability of various modes of progesterone supplementation to prevent PTL and LBW in HIV-infected and HIV-uninfected women. Methods HIV-infected and HIV-uninfected women were recruited in Lusaka, Zambia. The participants completed a questionnaire to assess their willingness to take oral, vaginal, or intramuscular progesterone supplementation for preventing PTL and LBW, preferred modes of supplementation, and concern for PTL and LBW. Results The study questionnaire was completed by 147 participants. Of the participants, 98.6% would consider using a medication to help prevent PTL and LBW, of whom 97.9% would consider using an oral form of progesterone. In addition, 83.3% and 84.0% of women would consider intramuscular and vaginal (gel or tablet) administration of progesterone respectively. Between intramuscular and vaginal modes of progesterone, 60.5% of participants (n=147) preferred intramuscular progesterone, while 39.5% preferred vaginal progesterone. There was no difference in preference between HIV-infected (n=70) and HIV-uninfected (n=77) women. Conclusions/implications Pregnant Zambian women demonstrated a high degree of acceptance for all modes of progesterone supplementation for the prevention of PTL and LBW. Women preferred intramuscular over vaginal supplementation. Progesterone supplementation can be considered a feasible intervention for preventing PTL and LBW in both HIV-infected and HIV-uninfected pregnant Zambian women.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Neha Kanga
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Nupur Dogra
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | | | - Lena Serghides
- Toronto General Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Michael Silverman
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Western University, London, ON, Canada
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Taurin S, Almomen AA, Pollak T, Kim SJ, Maxwell J, Peterson CM, Owen SC, Janát-Amsbury MM. Thermosensitive hydrogels a versatile concept adapted to vaginal drug delivery. J Drug Target 2017; 26:533-550. [PMID: 29096548 DOI: 10.1080/1061186x.2017.1400551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Vaginal drug delivery represents an attractive strategy for local and systemic delivery of drugs otherwise poorly absorbed after oral administration. The rather dense vascular network, mucus permeability and the physiological phenomenon of the uterine first-pass effect can all be exploited for therapeutic benefit. However, several physiological factors such as an acidic pH, constant secretion, and turnover of mucus as well as varying thickness of the vaginal epithelium can impact sustained drug delivery. In recent years, polymers have been designed to tackle challenges mentioned above. In particular, thermosensitive hydrogels hold great promise due to their stability, biocompatibility, adhesion properties and adjustable drug release kinetics. Here, we discuss the physiological and anatomical uniqueness of the vaginal environment and how it impacts the safe and efficient vaginal delivery and also reviewed several thermosensitive hydrogels deemed suitable for vaginal drug delivery by addressing specific characteristics, which are essential to engage the vaginal environment successfully.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastien Taurin
- a Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Gynecologic Oncology , University of Utah Health Sciences , Salt Lake City , UT , USA
| | - Aliyah A Almomen
- a Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Gynecologic Oncology , University of Utah Health Sciences , Salt Lake City , UT , USA.,b Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Chemistry , University of Utah , Salt Lake City , UT , USA
| | - Tatianna Pollak
- a Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Gynecologic Oncology , University of Utah Health Sciences , Salt Lake City , UT , USA
| | - Sun Jin Kim
- b Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Chemistry , University of Utah , Salt Lake City , UT , USA
| | - John Maxwell
- a Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Gynecologic Oncology , University of Utah Health Sciences , Salt Lake City , UT , USA
| | - C Matthew Peterson
- c Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology , University of Utah Health Science Center , Salt Lake City , UT , USA
| | - Shawn C Owen
- b Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Chemistry , University of Utah , Salt Lake City , UT , USA.,d Department of Bioengineering , University of Utah , Salt Lake City , UT , USA
| | - Margit M Janát-Amsbury
- a Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Gynecologic Oncology , University of Utah Health Sciences , Salt Lake City , UT , USA.,b Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Chemistry , University of Utah , Salt Lake City , UT , USA.,c Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology , University of Utah Health Science Center , Salt Lake City , UT , USA.,d Department of Bioengineering , University of Utah , Salt Lake City , UT , USA
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