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Xu Q, Mao X, Zhang J, Wu L. Immediate application of frozen-thawed embryo transfer cycle in month following COVID-19 recovery does not impair ongoing pregnancy outcome. ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY 2024. [PMID: 38437458 DOI: 10.1002/uog.27630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2023] [Revised: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate whether immediate frozen-thawed embryo transfer (FET) in the next month following coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) recovery affects ongoing pregnancy outcome. METHODS This was a retrospective cohort study carried out at a university-affiliated reproductive medicine center. The study group (post-COVID-19 group) comprised women who were affected by COVID-19 in December 2022 and immediately underwent FET in January 2023 after recovery, with transferred embryos not exposed to the infection. The control group comprised women treated during the pre-COVID-19 period (January 2019). Multivariable logistic regression analysis and a propensity score matching (PSM) approach were used to control potential confounders and selection bias. RESULTS A total of 200 women were included in the post-COVID-19 group and 641 women were enrolled in the control group. The rate of ongoing pregnancy was comparable between the study cohorts in both the unadjusted and confounder-adjusted logistic regression models. Other reproductive outcomes, including the odds of a positive pregnancy test, implantation, clinical pregnancy and early pregnancy loss, were similar between the comparison groups. PSM models further confirmed the lack of significant differences in pregnancy outcome between the post-COVID-19 group and the control group. CONCLUSIONS Among patients affected by COVID-19 for whom the transferred embryos were generated prior to infection, an immediate FET cycle in the next month after recovery does not seem to compromise ongoing pregnancy outcome. Thus, women who have frozen embryos from preinfection cycles should be counseled and encouraged to undergo FET as soon as possible after COVID-19 recovery. © 2024 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Q Xu
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - X Mao
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - J Zhang
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - L Wu
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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Havrljenko J, Kopitovic V, Pjevic AT, Milatovic S, Pavlica T, Andric N, Pogrmic-Majkic K. The Prediction of IVF Outcomes with Autologous Oocytes and the Optimal MII Oocyte/Embryo Number for Live Birth at Advanced Maternal Age. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2023; 59:1799. [PMID: 37893517 PMCID: PMC10608663 DOI: 10.3390/medicina59101799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Delayed childbearing in advanced age might be associated with a low prognosis for achieving pregnancy. Therefore, it is important to establish a predictive tool that will optimize the likelihood of a live birth at advanced age. Material and Methods: The retrospective study was conducted at the Ferona Fertility Clinic in Novi Sad (Republic of Serbia), between January 2020 and May 2021. The survey included 491 women aged ≥35 who met the inclusion criteria and who were subjected to an IVF (in vitro fertilization) treatment cycle. Results: The average number of retrieved oocytes, MII (metaphase II) oocytes, and developed embryos significantly decreased in advanced age. Age was also found to have a significant adverse effect on pregnancy and live birth rates. In women aged ≥35, 10/12 MII oocytes or 10/11 embryos are required for reaching an optimal live birth rate/cumulative live birth rate. Optimal CLBR (cumulative live birth rate) per one oocyte was achieved when 9 MII oocyte were retrieved. Conclusions: The study indicates that the cut-off for increased risk is ≥42 year. However, despite low live birth rates, autologous IVF for these women is not futile. An increase in the number of retrieved mature oocytes and a generation of surplus cryopreserved embryos could reinforce LBR (live birth rate) and CLBR. Clinicians should be very cautious in counseling, as autologous IVF may only be applicable to women with good ovarian reserve.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jelena Havrljenko
- Ferona Fertility Clinic, Sarplaninska 19, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia or (J.H.); (V.K.); (A.T.P.)
- Faculty of Sciences, Department of Biology and Ecology, University of Novi Sad, Trg Dositeja Obradovica 2, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia; (N.A.); (K.P.-M.)
| | - Vesna Kopitovic
- Ferona Fertility Clinic, Sarplaninska 19, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia or (J.H.); (V.K.); (A.T.P.)
| | | | - Stevan Milatovic
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Novi Sad, Hajduk Veljkova 3, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia;
| | - Tatjana Pavlica
- Faculty of Sciences, Department of Biology and Ecology, University of Novi Sad, Trg Dositeja Obradovica 2, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia; (N.A.); (K.P.-M.)
| | - Nebojsa Andric
- Faculty of Sciences, Department of Biology and Ecology, University of Novi Sad, Trg Dositeja Obradovica 2, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia; (N.A.); (K.P.-M.)
| | - Kristina Pogrmic-Majkic
- Faculty of Sciences, Department of Biology and Ecology, University of Novi Sad, Trg Dositeja Obradovica 2, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia; (N.A.); (K.P.-M.)
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Xue Y, Xiong Y, Cheng X, Li K. Impact of SARS-CoV-2 infection on clinical outcomes of in vitro fertilization treatments: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1233986. [PMID: 37867530 PMCID: PMC10588479 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1233986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The influence of SARS-CoV-2 infection on clinical outcomes in patients undergoing in vitro fertilization has been uncertain. Therefore, this systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the impact of past SARS-CoV-2 infection on IVF outcomes. A comprehensive search of PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library databases was conducted from December 2019 to January 2023. Included studies comparing IVF outcomes between patients with prior SARS-CoV-2 infection and controls without previous infection were analyzed. Study quality was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale. Sensitivity analysis, publication bias, and heterogeneity were also examined. The review protocol was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42023392007). A total of eight studies, involving 317 patients with past SARS-CoV-2 infection and 904 controls, met the inclusion criteria. The meta-analysis revealed no significant differences between the infection group and controls in terms of clinical pregnancy rate (OR 0.97, 95% CI 0.73-1.29; P = 0.82), implantation rate (OR 0.99, 95% CI 0.67-1.46; P = 0.96), or miscarriage rate (OR 0.64, 95% CI 0.15-2.65; P = 0.53). Subgroup analyses based on transfer type demonstrated comparable clinical pregnancy rates between the two groups in both fresh embryo transfer (OR 0.97, 95% CI 0.69-1.36; P = 0.86) and frozen embryo transfer (OR 0.96, 95% CI 0.38-2.44; P = 0.94). In conclusion, this meta-analysis suggests that previous SARS-CoV-2 infection does not have a detrimental impact on clinical outcomes in IVF patients. These findings provide valuable insights into assessing the influence of prior SARS-CoV-2 infection on successful pregnancy outcomes in IVF treatment. The systematic review was performed based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement. This review was prospectively registered with the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (ID CRD42023392007) on January 16, 2023.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yamei Xue
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yuping Xiong
- School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xiaohong Cheng
- School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Kun Li
- School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Laboratory of Experimental Animal’s & Nonclinical Laboratory Studies, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
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Ogawa K, Khan KN, Koshiba A, Fujishita A, Horiguchi G, Teramukai S, Itoh K, Guo SW, Mori T. Association between tissue stress reaction and ACE2/TMPRSS2 expression in endometria of reproductive aged women before and during Covid-19 pandemic. BMC Womens Health 2023; 23:229. [PMID: 37142998 PMCID: PMC10158702 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-023-02378-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A potential concern has been raised regarding fertility and reproductive outcome during the Covid-19 pandemic with growing stress and anxiety. However, information on the association between tissue stress reaction and expression profiles of SARS-CoV-2 viral entry proteins, ACE2 and TMPRSS2, in endometria collected from women before (pre-pandemic) and during the Covid-19 pandemic (in-pandemic) is unknown. We aim to investigate the relationship between the expression of stress-reactive proteins and of ACE2 and TMPRSS2 in endometria collected from women during these two different time frames. METHODS We retrospectively retrieved tissue blocks of endometrial samples from 25 women in 2019 (pre-pandemic) and 25 women in 2020 (in-pandemic) who underwent hysterectomy for different gynecological indications. Immunohistochemical analysis was performed with endometrial tissue samples that were collected before and during the pandemic, using respective antibodies targeting ACE2/TMPRSS2, ADRB2 and NK1R (stress and anxiety receptor markers, respectively). The quantification of immunoreactive cells for each marker was calculated by the immunoreactive score (IRS) analysis. This retrospective cohort study was limited to small sample size. RESULTS No significant differences in the IRS of ACE2 and TMPRSS2 were found between the endometria that were collected before and during the pandemic with a lack of correlation between ACE2 and TMPRSS2 expression in respective endometria (r = 0.11, pre-pandemic; r = 0.04, in-pandemic). The immunostaining levels of stress marker, ADRB2 were significantly higher in the endometria of in-pandemic group (p = 0.015) comparing to that of pre-pandemic group. Pearson's correlation coefficient analysis showed a significant correlation in the expression between ADRB2 and TMPRSS2 (r = 0.41, p = 0.042) in the endometria of in-pandemic group but not in the pre-pandemic group. CONCLUSION The rise in stress and anxiety among women during current pandemic may elicit substantial amount of tissue stress reaction with consequent increase in the expression of SARS-CoV-2 viral entry proteins in their endometria. A lack of correlation between ACE2 and TMPRSS2 expression in endometria may reassure women in their reproductive age that they are not more susceptible to infection by SARS-CoV-2 and suggest that stressful women during this pandemic can safely decide to conceive naturally or by artificial reproductive technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kanae Ogawa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, 465 Kajii-Cho, Kamigyo-Ku, 602-8566, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Khaleque N Khan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, 465 Kajii-Cho, Kamigyo-Ku, 602-8566, Kyoto, Japan.
- The Clinical and Translational Research Center, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, 465 Kajii-Cho, Kamigyo-Ku, 602-8566, Kyoto, Japan.
| | - Akemi Koshiba
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, 465 Kajii-Cho, Kamigyo-Ku, 602-8566, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Akira Fujishita
- Department of Gynecology, Saiseikai Nagasaki Hospital, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Go Horiguchi
- Department of Biostatistics, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Satoshi Teramukai
- Department of Biostatistics, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Kyoko Itoh
- Department of Pathology and Applied Neurobiology, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Sun-Wei Guo
- Shanghai Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Taisuke Mori
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, 465 Kajii-Cho, Kamigyo-Ku, 602-8566, Kyoto, Japan
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Ata B, Vermeulen N, Mocanu E, Gianaroli L, Lundin K, Rautakallio-Hokkanen S, Tapanainen JS, Veiga A. SARS-CoV-2, fertility and assisted reproduction. Hum Reprod Update 2023; 29:177-196. [PMID: 36374645 PMCID: PMC9976972 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmac037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Revised: 09/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In 2020, SARS-CoV-2 and the COVID-19 pandemic had a huge impact on the access to and provision of ART treatments. Gradually, knowledge of the virus and its transmission has become available, allowing ART activities to resume. Still, questions on the impact of the virus on human gametes and fertility remain. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE This article summarizes published data, aiming to clarify the impact of SARS-CoV-2 and the COVID-19 disease on human fertility and assisted reproduction, as well as the impact of vaccination, and from this, provide answers to questions that are relevant for people contemplating pregnancy and for health care professionals. SEARCH METHODS PUBMED/MEDLINE and the WHO COVID-19 database were searched from inception to 5 October 2022 with search terms focusing on 'SARS-CoV-2' and gametes, embryos, reproductive function, fertility and ART. Non-English studies and papers published prior to 2020 were excluded, as well as reviews and non-peer reviewed publications. Full papers were assessed for relevance and quality, where feasible. OUTCOMES From the 148 papers included, the following observations were made. The SARS-CoV-2-binding proteins, angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) and type II transmembrane serine protease (TMPRSS2), are expressed in the testis, but co-expression remains to be proven. There is some evidence of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in the ejaculate of COVID-19 patients with severe disease, but not in those with mild/moderate disease. SARS-CoV-2 infection can impair spermatogenesis, but this seems to resolve after one spermatogenic cycle. Testosterone levels seem to be lower during and after COVID-19, but long-term data are lacking; disease severity may be associated with testosterone levels. COVID-19 cannot be considered a sexually transmitted disease. There is no co-expression of ACE2 and TMPRSS2 in the myometrium, uterus, ovaries or fallopian tubes. Oocytes seem to have the receptors and protease machinery to be susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 infection; however, viral RNA in oocytes has not been detected so far. Women contemplating pregnancy following COVID-19 may benefit from screening for thyroid dysfunction. There is a possible (transient) impact of COVID-19 on menstrual patterns. Embryos, and particularly late blastocysts, seem to have the machinery to be susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 infection. Most studies have not reported a significant impact of COVID-19 on ovarian reserve, ovarian function or follicular fluid parameters. Previous asymptomatic or mild SARS-CoV-2 infection in females does not seem to negatively affect laboratory and clinical outcomes of ART. There are no data on the minimum required interval, if any, between COVID-19 recovery and ART. There is no evidence of a negative effect of SARS-CoV-2 vaccination on semen parameters or spermatogenesis, ovarian function, ovarian reserve or folliculogenesis. A transient effect on the menstrual cycle has been documented. Despite concerns, cross reactivity between anti-SARS-CoV-2 spike protein antibodies and Syncytin-1, an essential protein in human implantation, is absent. There is no influence of mRNA SARS-CoV-2 vaccine on patients' performance during their immediate subsequent ART cycle. Pregnancy rates post-vaccination are similar to those in unvaccinated patients. WIDER IMPLICATIONS This review highlights existing knowledge on the impact of SARS-CoV-2 infection or COVID-19 on fertility and assisted reproduction, but also identifies gaps and offers suggestions for future research. The knowledge presented should help to provide evidence-based advice for practitioners and couples contemplating pregnancy alike, facilitating informed decision-making in an environment of significant emotional turmoil.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baris Ata
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Koc University, Istanbul, Turkey.,ART Fertility Clinics, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | | | - Edgar Mocanu
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Rotunda Hospital and Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Luca Gianaroli
- Società Italiana Studi di Medicina della Riproduzione, S.I.S.Me.R. Reproductive Medicine Institute, Bologna, Emilia-Romagna, Italy
| | - Kersti Lundin
- Reproductive Medicine, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | | | - Juha S Tapanainen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Oulu University Hospital and Medical Research Centre PEDEGO Research Unit, Oulu, Finland
| | - Anna Veiga
- Barcelona Stem Cell Bank, IDIBELL Programme for Regenerative Medicine, Barcelona, Spain
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Tufvesson K, Catalini L, Fedder J. Semen parameters after SARS-CoV-2 infection: A literature review. Health Sci Rep 2022; 5:e745. [PMID: 35957971 PMCID: PMC9364074 DOI: 10.1002/hsr2.745] [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: 03/24/2022] [Revised: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and Aims The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is known to affect multiple organs by binding to angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 receptors and might therefore affect male fertility. This review aims to collect all original articles on the effects of SARS-CoV-2 infection on male fertility, including the duration of time after infection required for these effects to begin to manifest and recommend how clinicians should approach cases with a recent illness. Methods This review was developed according to the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses guidelines. The search string was applied to four online databases-namely Pubmed, Embase, Medline, and the Cochrane COVID-19 Register-and screened using the online tool Covidence.org. Articles were eligible for inclusion if they were cohort studies involving a healthy male population diagnosed with COVID-19, each of whom had semen samples collected before and after the infection or two different semen samples collected after the diagnosis. Results Nine cohort studies were eventually included. Five articles had pre- and post-COVID-19 data while four had two sets of post-COVID-19 data. The three largest studies found a statistically significant decrease in all semen parameters when waiting less than 3 months from diagnosis before sample collection, and no significant differences in results when the ejaculate was analyzed more than 3 months after recovery. One study compared the COVID-19 patients with a control group and found a significant decrease in semen parameters in the COVID-19 group. Conclusion Spermatogenesis seems to be affected by SARS-CoV-2 infection, but the impact tends to reverse within 3-4 months. It is still unclear why male fertility is affected by SARS-CoV-2 infection, and it might be the result of several different components. Clinicians should consider recent SARS-CoV-2 infection as a possible reason for the low semen quality of patients' semen samples, and might therefore need to collect new samples after 4 months before further treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathrine Tufvesson
- Research Unit of Reproductive Medicine, Faculty of Health SciencesUniversity of Southern DenmarkOdenseDenmark,Centre of Andrology and Fertility ClinicDept. D, Odense University HospitalOdenseDenmark
| | - Laura Catalini
- Research Unit of Reproductive Medicine, Faculty of Health SciencesUniversity of Southern DenmarkOdenseDenmark,Centre of Andrology and Fertility ClinicDept. D, Odense University HospitalOdenseDenmark
| | - Jens Fedder
- Research Unit of Reproductive Medicine, Faculty of Health SciencesUniversity of Southern DenmarkOdenseDenmark,Centre of Andrology and Fertility ClinicDept. D, Odense University HospitalOdenseDenmark
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Banker M, Arora P, Banker J, Shah A, Gupta R, Shah S. Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Clinical and Embryological Outcomes of Assisted Reproductive Techniques. J Hum Reprod Sci 2022; 15:150-156. [PMID: 35928469 PMCID: PMC9345275 DOI: 10.4103/jhrs.jhrs_57_22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Revised: 05/30/2022] [Accepted: 05/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The emergence of the COVID pandemic unfolded a series of precautions and dilemmas and the complete suspension of health services. With the gradual emergence of data showing near minimal effects of the virus on pregnancy, Assisted Reproductive Techniques (ART) services were gradually resumed following guidelines and advisories. Aim: The purpose of this study was to detect the COVID positivity rate in women undergoing ART treatment during the COVID pandemic and compare clinical and embryological outcomes to the ART cycles performed in the pre-COVID era. Study Setting and Design: This was a retrospective cohort study of all women undergoing controlled ovarian stimulation, followed by a fresh or frozen embryo transfer (ET) between 1st October 2019 and 31st March 2020 (control group) and between 1st April 2020 and 31st September 2020 (study group) at Nova IVF Fertility Clinic, Ahmedabad. Material and Methods: The study group underwent ART during the first wave of COVID-19 pandemic in India and when gradual unlocking of facilities including ART was advised as per the national ART advisory by the ICMR in December 2020. The outcomes were compared with the control group (cycles in pre-covid time). Statistical Analysis: Statistical analysis was performed in SPSS (v25.0) and included Mann-Whitney U, Fisher's exact and Pearson Chi-square as appropriate. Values of P < 0.05 were considered statistically significant. Results: A total of 367 in vitro fertilisation (IVF) stimulations were initiated. A total of 342 retrievals and 606 ETs (171 fresh and 435 frozen) were completed during the study period with a COVID positivity rate of 6.8% (25/367) amongst fresh and 3.9% (18/453) amongst frozen ETs, respectively; the PR and IR in the study group was similar to the control group (47.6 vs. 55.1 P = 0.4 and 68.7 vs. 66.4; P = 0.52, respectively). The maternal complication rates were similar in both groups with a COVID positivity rate of 10.2% (23/225) and 1 maternal death in the study group. The live birth rates were similar. Conclusions: We did not find a noteworthy difference in the clinical and embryological outcomes in the IVF cycles conducted in the COVID era as compared to the pre-COVID time. Thus, with adequate precautions and safety measures, ART services conducted during the COVID pandemic have comparable birth outcomes and can be safely advocated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manish Banker
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Nova IVF Fertility, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India
| | - Parul Arora
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Nova IVF Fertility, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India
| | - Jwal Banker
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Nova IVF Fertility, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India
| | - Anand Shah
- Department of Medicine, Unit 1, SVP General Hospital, Ahmedabad, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India
| | - Reena Gupta
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Nova IVF Fertility, New Delhi, India
| | - Sandeep Shah
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Nova IVF Fertility, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India
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Ata B, Gianaroli L, Lundin K, Mcheik S, Mocanu E, Rautakallio-Hokkanen S, Tapanainen JS, Vermeulen N, Veiga A. Outcomes of SARS-CoV-2 infected pregancies after medically assisted reproduction. Hum Reprod 2021; 36:2883-2890. [PMID: 34515777 PMCID: PMC8523208 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deab218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2021] [Revised: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION What is the impact of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection on the outcome of a pregnancy after medically assisted reproduction (MAR)? SUMMARY ANSWER Our results suggest that MAR pregnancies are not differentially affected by SARS-CoV-2 infection compared to spontaneous pregnancies. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Information on the effects of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) on pregnancy after MAR is scarce when women get infected during MAR or early pregnancy, even though such information is vital for informing women seeking pregnancy. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Data from SARS-CoV-2 affected MAR pregnancies were collected between May 2020 and June 2021 through a voluntary data collection, organised by the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE). PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS All ESHRE members were invited to participate to an online data collection for SARS-CoV-2-infected MAR pregnancies. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE The dataset includes 80 cases from 32 countries, including 67 live births, 10 miscarriages, 2 stillbirths and 1 maternal death. An additional 25pregnancies were ongoing at the time of writing. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION An international data registry based on voluntary contribution can be subject to selective reporting with possible risks of over- or under-estimation. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS The current data can be used to guide clinical decisions in the care of women pregnant after MAR, in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) The authors acknowledge the support of ESHRE for the data registry and meetings. J.S.T. reports grants or contracts from Sigrid Juselius Foundation, EU and Helsinki University Hospital Funds, outside the scope of the current work. The other authors declare that they have no conflict of interest. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Baris Ata
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Koc University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Luca Gianaroli
- Società Italiana Studi di Medicina della Riproduzione, S.I.S.Me.R. Reproductive Medicine Institute, Bologna, Emilia-Romagna, Italy
| | - Kersti Lundin
- Reproductive Medicine, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Saria Mcheik
- European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE) Central Office, Grimbergen, Belgium
| | - Edgar Mocanu
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Rotunda Hospital and Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
| | | | - Juha S Tapanainen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Oulu, Oulu University Hospital and Medical Research Centre, PEDEGO Research Unit, Oulu, Finland
| | - Nathalie Vermeulen
- European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE) Central Office, Grimbergen, Belgium
| | - Anna Veiga
- Reproductive Medicine Service, Dexeus Mujer, Hospital Universitari Dexeus/Institut d'Investigació Biomedica de Bellvitge, IDIBELL, Barcelona Stem Cell Bank, Regenerative Medicine Programme, Barcelona, Spain
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Li F, Zhang H, Shi W, Wu Y, Tian Y, Guo Y, Jin H, Li G. Controlled Ovarian Hyperstimulation Protocol in Infertile Patients During the COVID-19 Pandemic. Front Physiol 2021; 12:732709. [PMID: 34646157 PMCID: PMC8502809 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.732709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 08/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives: To explore the appropriate controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH) protocols in infertility patients who received the in vitro fertilization (IVF)/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) treatments during the COVID-19 pandemic. Materials and Methods: This retrospective cohort study evaluated the efficiency of the early follicular-phase long-acting GnRH-agonist long (EFLL) protocol (a new protocol developed by Chinese clinicians), prolonged pituitary down-regulation of EFLL protocol (Pro-EFLL), and the GnRH-ant protocol for couples meeting the study criteria between February 2020 and June 2020 who were treated by the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University during the COVID-19 pandemic, and compared the pregnancy rates and miscarriage rates per fresh transfer cycle, number of retrieved oocytes, endometrial thickness on the day of hCG injection and the number of fertilized oocytes, mature oocytes, fertilized oocytes, and transferable embryos among the three protocols. Results: We found that the prolonged pituitary down-regulation during the COVID-19 pandemic by utilizing a full-dose of GnRH-a administrated in infertility patients were no differences in clinical outcomes than other protocols, The prolonged pituitary down-regulation protocol and EFLL protocol were associated with a higher Endometrial thickness on the day of hCG injection (12.67 ± 2.21 vs. 12.09 ± 2.35 vs. 10.79 ± 2.38, P < 0.001), retrieved oocytes (14.49 ± 6.30 vs. 15.02 ± 7.93 vs. 10.06 ± 7.63, P < 0.001), mature oocytes (11.60 ± 5.71 vs. 11.96 ± 6.00 vs. 7.63 ± 6.50, P < 0.001), fertilized oocytes (9.14 ± 5.43 vs. 8.44 ± 5.34 vs. 5.42 ± 5.20, P < 0.001), and transferable embryos (4.87 ± 2.96 vs. 6.47 ± 5.12 vs. 3.00 ± 3.28 vs. P < 0.001) in the GnRH-antagonist protocol. Conclusion: We recommend that patients start Gn injections 33–42 days after a pituitary downregulated full dose (3.75 mg) of gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist during the COVID-19 pandemic, even a delay of 2–4 weeks does not affect the implantation rate. The study can provide a more detailed estimate and clinical management strategies for infertile couples during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fei Li
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First People's Hospital of Shangqiu, Shangqiu, China
| | - HuiXia Zhang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - WeiYi Shi
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - YiFang Wu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Ye Tian
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - YiHong Guo
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - HaiXia Jin
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Gang Li
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
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Somigliana E, Esposito G, Viganò P, Franchi M, Corrao G, Parazzini F. Effects of the early phase of the COVID-19 pandemic on natural and ART-mediated birth rates in Lombardy Region, Northern Italy. Reprod Biomed Online 2021; 43:765-767. [PMID: 34474979 PMCID: PMC8496890 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2021.07.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2021] [Revised: 07/17/2021] [Accepted: 07/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Research question What effects did the early phase of the COVID-19 pandemic have on natural and assisted reproductive technology (ART)-mediated birth rates? Design Regional registries were consulted with permission from the Health Authorities of Lombardy Region, Northern Italy, an area particularly affected by the early phase of the epidemic. Deliveries occurring in the area between 1 January 2019 and 31 December 2020 from women beneficiaries of the National Health System and resident in Lombardy were identified. Comparisons mainly focused on December 2020, when women who conceived after 8 March (the start of the stringent lockdown imposed by the authorities) were expected to deliver. Results When comparing the periods January to November in 2019 and 2020, a 5.1% reduction of monthly general birth rate (from 5732 in 2019 to 5438 in 2020) was observed. The contribution of ART births was similar in 2019 and 2020, being 4.4% and 4.5%, respectively. In December 2020, a notable drop in natural (–17.8%), ART-mediated (–86.6%) and overall (–21.0%) births was observed compared with December 2019. After adjusting for the expected 5.1% reduction, the inferred effect of the COVID-19 crisis corresponded to a 16.7% reduction in birth rate, of which 76% was related to natural (707 births) and 24% to ART (218 births) conceptions. Conclusions This is the first study providing population-based evidence on the effects of COVID-19 and its related stringent restrictions on birth rates. The birth rate was dramatically reduced following the critical period, and the closure of ART centres played only a marginal role (24%) in the overall detrimental effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edgardo Somigliana
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy; Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Neonatology, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy.
| | - Giovanna Esposito
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Paola Viganò
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Neonatology, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Matteo Franchi
- Laboratory of Healthcare Research and Pharmacoepidemiology, Department of Statistics and Quantitative Methods, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy; National Centre for Healthcare Research and Pharmacoepidemiology, Milan, Italy
| | - Giovanni Corrao
- Laboratory of Healthcare Research and Pharmacoepidemiology, Department of Statistics and Quantitative Methods, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy; National Centre for Healthcare Research and Pharmacoepidemiology, Milan, Italy
| | - Fabio Parazzini
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy; Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Neonatology, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
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Jirge PR, Patwardhan S, Jirge SN, Bhomkar DA, Chougule SM, Salpekar A, Modi D. Resuming Assisted Reproduction Services during COVID-19 Pandemic: An Initial Indian Experience. J Hum Reprod Sci 2020; 13:323-332. [PMID: 33627983 PMCID: PMC7879848 DOI: 10.4103/jhrs.jhrs_211_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2020] [Revised: 12/01/2020] [Accepted: 12/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The pandemic of COVID-19 has affected many countries and medical services including assisted reproductive treatment (ART) have been hampered. AIM The study was conducted to assess the preparedness of ART clinics and staff to resume services; patients' reasons to initiate treatment; and key performance indicators (KPIs) of ART laboratories during the pandemic. SETTING AND DESIGN This was a semidescriptive, prospective study in two private in vitro fertilization (IVF) clinics in Maharashtra, India, when COVID-19 testing for asymptomatic people was unavailable. MATERIALS AND METHODS Time required for replenishing consumables and clinic preparedness to function under "new norms" of pandemic was documented. Infection mitigation measures and triaging strategy were evaluated. KPIs following resumption were analyzed. The Student's t-test was performed for comparing parameters. RESULTS Thirty percent of the patients consulted through telemedicine accepted or were eligible to initiate treatment on clinic resumption. Lack of safe transport and financial constraints prevented majority from undergoing IVF, and 9% delayed treatment due to fear of pandemic. With adequate training, staff compliance to meet new demands was achieved within a week, but procuring consumables and injections was time-consuming. Fifty-two cycles of IVF were performed including fresh and frozen embryo transfers with satisfactory KPIs even during pandemic. Conscious sedation and analgesia during oocyte retrieval were associated with reduced procedure time and no intervention for airway maintenance compared to general anesthesia. Self-reported pain scores by patients ranged from nil to mild on a graphic rating scale. CONCLUSIONS This study provides practical insight for the resumption of IVF services during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Padma Rekha Jirge
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Sushrut Assisted Conception Clinic & Shreyas Hospital, Kolhapur, India
| | - Sadhana Patwardhan
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Nagpur Test Tube Baby Centre, Nagpur, India
| | - Shishir Narendra Jirge
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Sushrut Assisted Conception Clinic & Shreyas Hospital, Kolhapur, India
| | - Deepali A. Bhomkar
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Sushrut Assisted Conception Clinic & Shreyas Hospital, Kolhapur, India
| | - Shruti M. Chougule
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Sushrut Assisted Conception Clinic & Shreyas Hospital, Kolhapur, India
| | - Anita Salpekar
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Nagpur Test Tube Baby Centre, Nagpur, India
| | - Deepak Modi
- Molecular and Cellular Biology Laboratory, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Rproductive Health, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
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