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Dias L, Willems SG, Luyten J, De Loecker P, D'Hooghe TM, Peeraer K, Dancet EAF. The need for longitudinal data on the value of fertility treatment for infertile patients' quality of life: A review and pilot study. Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol 2023:102324. [PMID: 36948947 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2023.102324] [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: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2023]
Abstract
Infertility threatens the life goal of parenthood and, hence, quality of life (QoL) of (wo)men, but the fertility clinic trajectory might be burdensome. This review of longitudinal studies and pilot longitudinal study examines the impact of the pre-in vitro fertilization (IVF) fertility clinic trajectory on patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) for emotional well-being, including QoL. A publication found that the diagnostic workup decreases men's infertility-specific distress while publications disagree whether it decreases (wo)men's anxious and depressive reactions. Intrauterine insemination (IUI) was found to increase (wo)men's depressive reactions. Publications on infertility-specific, health-related, and overall QoL were missing. The pilot indicated that (wo)men's overall QoL is not affected by the diagnostic workup but is decreased by the time of the third IUI. Longitudinal studies on the impact of starting the fertility clinic trajectory on PROMs are needed as they are essential for patient-centered clinical decision-making and patient-centered policy-level decision-making.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Dias
- Fertiliteitscentrum Antwerpen, GZA Ziekenhuizen, Oosterveldlaan 24, 2610 Wilrijk, Belgium; Department of Development and Regeneration, University of Leuven, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium.
| | - S G Willems
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, KU Leuven, Kapucijnenvoer 35 Blok D - Bus 7001, 3000 Leuven, Belgium.
| | - J Luyten
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, KU Leuven, Kapucijnenvoer 35 Blok D - Bus 7001, 3000 Leuven, Belgium.
| | - P De Loecker
- Fertiliteitscentrum Antwerpen, GZA Ziekenhuizen, Oosterveldlaan 24, 2610 Wilrijk, Belgium.
| | - T M D'Hooghe
- Department of Development and Regeneration, University of Leuven, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; Merck, United States.
| | - K Peeraer
- Department of Development and Regeneration, University of Leuven, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; Leuven University Fertility Centre, University Hospitals Leuven, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium.
| | - E A F Dancet
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, KU Leuven, Kapucijnenvoer 35 Blok D - Bus 7001, 3000 Leuven, Belgium.
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Liu Z, Zheng Y, Wang B, Li J, Qin L, Li X, Liu X, Bian Y, Chen Z, Zhao H, Zhao S. The impact of sleep on in vitro fertilization embryo transfer outcomes: a prospective study. Fertil Steril 2023; 119:47-55. [PMID: 36435629 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2022.10.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2022] [Revised: 10/08/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To prospectively examine the association between sleep quality before embryo transfer with pregnancy outcomes in a population with infertility. DESIGN Prospective observational cohort study. SETTING Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University. PATIENT(S) From 7,847 women who enrolled from July 2019 to July 2020, 3,183 were eligible. INTERVENTION(S) Information about sleep, including sleep quality, sleep duration, and sleep chronology, were collected before embryo transfer using an integrated questionnaire. Sleep quality is quantified by the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) with a cut-point of 5 (PSQI >5 identifying poor sleep vs. PSQI ≤5 identifying good sleep). Average weekly sleep duration was calculated and divided into 5 groups (≤7, 7-8, 8-9, 9-10, and >10 h/d). In defining sleep chronotype, women with a sleep midpoint earlier than 2:30 AM were defined as morningness type, whereas those with a sleep midpoint later than 3:30 AM were defined as eveningness type, and the remainder were defined as an intermediate type. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Rate of clinical pregnancy and live birth. RESULT(S) Compared with those reporting poor sleep quality, those reporting good sleep quality showed higher clinical pregnancy (69.3% vs. 65.1%) and live birth rates (50.5% vs. 45.7%). After adjusting for confounding factors, women who self-reported good sleep had a higher probability of acquiring clinical pregnancy (RR, 1.07; 95% confidence interval, 1.01-1.13) and of live birth (RR, 1.12; 95% confidence interval, 1.02-1.23). Women with the morningness chronotype had the lowest rates of clinical pregnancy and live birth and had the highest rate of miscarriage. Sleep duration was found to have no significant association with any outcomes. In the stratified analyses, the positive associations of good sleep quality with clinical pregnancy and live birth existed only among women younger than 35 years old or who had undergone fresh embryo transfer. CONCLUSION(S) Good sleep quality was positively associated with outcomes in in vitro fertilization embryo transfer (IVF-ET), particularly with clinical pregnancy and live birth. Poor sleep quality may be a risk factor for adverse IVF-ET outcomes for women <35 years old. Treating sleep disorders and providing sleep behavior guidance to patients receiving IVF-ET may improve pregnancy outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Liu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Yukun Zheng
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Bingyu Wang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Jialin Li
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Lang Qin
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiao Li
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Xin Liu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuehong Bian
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Zijiang Chen
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, People's Republic of China; Center for Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Han Zhao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Shigang Zhao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China.
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Patient burden and healthcare resource utilization of regimens for ovarian stimulation. Reprod Biomed Online 2021; 44:573-581. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2021.03.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Revised: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 03/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Farquhar CM, Bhattacharya S, Repping S, Mastenbroek S, Kamath MS, Marjoribanks J, Boivin J. Female subfertility. Nat Rev Dis Primers 2019; 5:7. [PMID: 30679436 DOI: 10.1038/s41572-018-0058-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Subfertility is common and affects one in six couples, half of whom lack an explanation for their delay in conceiving. Developments in the diagnosis and treatment of subfertility over the past 50 years have been truly remarkable. Indeed, current generations of couples with subfertility are more fortunate than previous generations, as they have many more opportunities to become parents. The timely access to effective treatment for subfertility is important as many couples have a narrow window of opportunity before the age-related effects of subfertility limit the likelihood of success. Assisted reproduction can overcome the barriers to fertility caused by tubal disease and low sperm count, but little progress has been made in reducing the effect of increasing age on ovarian function. The next 5-10 years will likely see further increases in birth rates in women with subfertility, a greater awareness of lifestyle factors and a possible refinement of current assisted reproduction techniques and the development of new ones. Such progress will bring challenging questions regarding the potential benefits and harms of treatments involving germ cell manipulation, artificial gametes, genetic screening of embryos and gene editing of embryos. We hope to see a major increase in fertility awareness, access to safe and cost-effective fertility care in low-income countries and a reduction in the current disparity of access to fertility care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cynthia M Farquhar
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.
| | - Siladitya Bhattacharya
- College of Biomedical and Life Sciences, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Cardiff, UK
| | - Sjoerd Repping
- Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam Reproduction & Development research institute, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Sebastiaan Mastenbroek
- Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam Reproduction & Development research institute, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Mohan S Kamath
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Christian Medical College, Vellore, India
| | - Jane Marjoribanks
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Jacky Boivin
- School of Psychology, College of Biomedical and Life Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
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Siegel AM, Ravitsky V. Women With Mental Illness Seeking Assisted Reproduction Considerations in Ethical Candidate Selection. Curr Psychiatry Rep 2018; 20:70. [PMID: 30094584 DOI: 10.1007/s11920-018-0944-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This review aims to provide guidance to clinicians facing requests for assisted reproduction from women with mental illness. RECENT FINDINGS The paper explores the clinical and safety aspects of initiating fertility treatment in this context, including the use of psychotropic medication and the risk of untreated psychiatric mood or psychotic disorders. It also presents the ethical considerations involved in candidate selection, including treating similar cases equitably to avoid biased decisions based solely on "gut-feelings," respect for women's reproductive autonomy, and an effort to protect patients and prospective fetuses/children from harm by employing optimal strategies regarding medication and psychosocial support. Clinicians ought to be informed regarding recent evidence related to the safety and efficacy of psychopharmacologic treatment of women during pregnancy and the post-partum. They should also carry out a thoughtful ethical analysis to ensure minimal violation of women's reproductive autonomy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew M Siegel
- University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, 3535 Market Street, 2nd Fl, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA.
| | - Vardit Ravitsky
- School of Public Health, University of Montreal, Montreal, Canada
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Youssef MAF, van Wely M, Mochtar M, Fouda UM, Eldaly A, El Abidin EZ, Elhalwagy A, Mageed Abdallah AA, Zaki SS, Abdel Ghafar MS, Mohesen MN, van der Veen F. Low dosing of gonadotropins in in vitro fertilization cycles for women with poor ovarian reserve: systematic review and meta-analysis. Fertil Steril 2018; 109:289-301. [PMID: 29317127 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2017.10.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2017] [Revised: 10/24/2017] [Accepted: 10/24/2017] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the effectiveness of low doses of gonadotropins and gonadotropins combined with oral compounds compared with high doses of gonadotropins in ovarian stimulation regimens in terms of ongoing pregnancy per fresh IVF attempt in women with poor ovarian reserve undergoing IVF/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) treatment. DESIGN A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled studies that evaluate the effectiveness of low dosing of gonadotropins alone or combined with oral compounds compared with high doses of gonadotropins in women with poor ovarian reserve undergoing IVF/ICSI treatment. SETTING Not applicable. PATIENT(S) Subfertile women with poor ovarian reserve undergoing IVF/ICSI treatment. INTERVENTION(S) We searched the PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, the Cochrane Library, and the Clinical Trials Registry using medical subject headings and free text terms up to June 2016, without language or year restrictions. We included randomized controlled studies (RCTs) enrolling subfertile women with poor ovarian reserve undergoing IVF/ICSI treatment and comparing low doses of gonadotropins and gonadotropins combined with oral compounds versus high doses of gonadotropins. We assessed the risk of bias using the criteria recommended by the Cochrane Collaboration. We pooled the results by meta-analysis using the fixed and random effects model. MAIN OUTCOMES MEASURE(S) The primary outcome was ongoing pregnancy rate (PR) per woman randomized. RESULT(S) We retrieved 787 records. Fourteen RCTs (N = 2,104 women) were included in the analysis. Five studies (N = 717 women) compared low doses of gonadotropins versus high doses of gonadotropins. There was no evidence of a difference in ongoing PR (2 RCTs: risk rate 0.98, 95% confidence interval 0.62-1.57, I2 = 0). Nine studies (N = 1,387 women) compared ovarian stimulation using gonadotropins combined with the oral compounds letrozole (n = 6) or clomiphene citrate (CC) (n = 3) versus high doses of gonadotropins. There was no evidence of a difference in ongoing PR (3 RCTs: risk rate 0.90, 95% confidence interval 0.63-1.27, I2 = 0). CONCLUSION(S) We found no evidence of a difference in pregnancy outcomes between low doses of gonadotropins and gonadotropins combined with oral compounds compared with high doses of gonadotropins in ovarian stimulation regimens. Whether low doses of gonadotropins or gonadotropins combined with oral compounds is to be preferred is unknown, as they have never been compared head to head. A health economic analysis to test the hypothesis that an ovarian stimulation with low dosing is more cost-effective than high doses of gonadotropins is needed. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD42016041301.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Abdel-Fattah Youssef
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt.
| | - Madelon van Wely
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Monique Mochtar
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Usama Mohamed Fouda
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ashraf Eldaly
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Eman Zein El Abidin
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, Egypt
| | - Ahmed Elhalwagy
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | | | - Sherif Sameh Zaki
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | | | - Mohamed Nagi Mohesen
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, Egypt
| | - Fulco van der Veen
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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Quality of life and psychosocial and physical well-being among 1,023 women during their first assisted reproductive technology treatment: secondary outcome to a randomized controlled trial comparing gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonist and GnRH agonist protocols. Fertil Steril 2017; 109:154-164. [PMID: 29175067 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2017.09.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2017] [Revised: 09/12/2017] [Accepted: 09/18/2017] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To compare self-reported quality of life, psychosocial well-being, and physical well-being during assisted reproductive technology (ART) treatment in 1,023 women allocated to either a short GnRH antagonist or long GnRH agonist protocol. DESIGN Secondary outcome of a prospective phase 4, open-label, randomized controlled trial. Four times during treatment a questionnaire on self-reported physical well-being was completed. Further, a questionnaire on self-reported quality of life and psychosocial well-being was completed at the day of hCG testing. SETTING Fertility clinics at university hospitals. PATIENT(S) Women referred for their first ART treatment were randomized in a 1:1 ratio and started standardized ART protocols. INTERVENTION(S) Gonadotropin-releasing hormone analogue; 528 women allocated to a short GnRH antagonist protocol and 495 women allocated to a long GnRH agonist protocol. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Self-reported quality of life, psychosocial well-being, and physical well-being based on questionnaires developed for women receiving ART treatment. RESULT(S) Baseline characteristics were similar, and response rates were 79.4% and 74.3% in the GnRH antagonist and GnRH agonist groups, respectively. Self-reported quality of life during ART treatment was rated similar and slightly below normal in both groups. However, women in the GnRH antagonist group felt less emotional (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 0.69), less limited in their everyday life (AOR 0.74), experienced less unexpected crying (AOR 0.71), and rated quality of sleep better (AOR 1.55). Further, women receiving GnRH agonist treatment felt worse physically. CONCLUSION(S) Women in a short GnRH antagonist protocol rated psychosocial and physical well-being during first ART treatment better than did women in a long GnRH agonist protocol. However, the one item on self-reported general quality of life was rated similarly. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT00756028.
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Fan Y, Zhang X, Hao Z, Ding H, Chen Q, Tian L. Effectiveness of mild ovarian stimulation versus GnRH agonist protocol in women undergoing assisted reproductive technology: a meta-analysis. Gynecol Endocrinol 2017; 33:746-756. [PMID: 28508683 DOI: 10.1080/09513590.2017.1320385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE our meta-analysis was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of the mild ovulation induction protocol using CC/gonadotropin/GnRH antagonist compared to the conventional GnRH agonist protocol in women undergoing ART. METHOD Six electronic databases were searched from their date of establishment until August 2016. Outcomes in our analysis were calculated in terms of relative risk (RR) and weighted mean differences (WMD) and standard mean differences (SMD) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) using random effect models or fixed effect models. RESULTS Six prospective controlled clinical trials with 1543 women comparing the clinical impacts of the two protocols were included. The synthesized results suggested a significant reduction in the quantity of gonadotropins (SMD: -1.96, 95% CI: -2.28 to 1.64, I2 = 78.5%), the incidence of OHSS (RR: 0.16, 95% CI 0.03-0.86, I2 = 0%) and an increase in the cycle cancelation rate (RR: 1.46, 95% CI 1.05-2.03, I2 = 89.4%). While no evidence of statistically significant differences between the groups existed in the other clinical outcomes. CONCLUSION This study suggested that the probable benefits of the mild protocol, including its less costs and safer process without reducing the overall IVF treatment success rates, seemed to make it a better treatment option. Larger sample prospective trials evaluating live birth, clinical pregnancy, OHSS, multiple pregnancy incidence and so on were desired to establish.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Fan
- a Reproductive Medical Centre, Peking University People's Hospital , Beijing , China
| | - Xiaowei Zhang
- b Department of Urology , Peking University People's Hospital , Beijing , China , and
| | - Zhidong Hao
- c Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , Haidian Maternal & Child Health Hospital , Beijing , China
| | - Huanfei Ding
- a Reproductive Medical Centre, Peking University People's Hospital , Beijing , China
| | - Quanyu Chen
- a Reproductive Medical Centre, Peking University People's Hospital , Beijing , China
| | - Li Tian
- a Reproductive Medical Centre, Peking University People's Hospital , Beijing , China
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Frederiksen Y, O'Toole MS, Mehlsen MY, Hauge B, Elbaek HO, Zachariae R, Ingerslev HJ. The effect of expressive writing intervention for infertile couples: a randomized controlled trial. Hum Reprod 2016; 32:391-402. [PMID: 28007790 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dew320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2015] [Revised: 10/29/2016] [Accepted: 11/22/2016] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Is expressive writing intervention (EWI) efficacious in reducing distress and improving pregnancy rates for couples going through ART treatment? SUMMARY ANSWER Compared to controls, EWI statistically significantly reduced depressive symptoms but not anxiety and infertility-related distress. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY ART treatment is considered stressful. So far, various psychological interventions have been tested for their potential in reducing infertility-related distress and the results are generally positive. It remains unclear whether EWI, a brief and potentially cost-effective intervention, could be advantageous. STUDY DESIGN SIZE, DURATION Between November 2010 and July 2012, a total of 295 participants (163 women, 132 men) were randomly allocated to EWI or a neutral writing control group. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Participants were couples undergoing IVF/ICSI treatment. Single women and couples with Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis or acute change of procedure from insemination to IVF, were excluded. EWI participants participated in three 20-min home-based writing exercises focusing on emotional disclosure in relation to infertility/fertility treatment (two sessions) and benefit finding (one session). Controls wrote non-emotionally in three 20-min sessions about their daily activities. The participants completed questionnaires at the beginning of treatment (t1), prior to the pregnancy test (t2), and 3 months later (t3). In total, 26.8% (79/295) were lost to follow-up. Mixed linear models were chosen to compare the two groups over time for psychological outcomes (depression, anxiety and infertility-related distress), and a Chi2 test was employed in order to examine group differences in pregnancy rates MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE: One hundred and fifty-three participants received EWI (women = 83; men = 70) and 142 participants were allocated to the neutral writing control group (women = 83; men = 62). Both women and partners in the EWI group exhibited greater reductions in depressive symptoms compared with controls (P = 0.049; [CI 95%: -0.04; -0.01] Cohen's d = 0.27). The effect of EWI on anxiety did not reach statistical significance. Overall infertility-related distress increased marginally for the partners in the EWI group compared to the partners in the control group (P = 0.06; Cohen's d = 0.17). However, in relation to the personal subdomain, the increase was statistically significant (P = 0.01; Cohen's d = 0.24). EWI had no statistically significant effect on pregnancy rates with 42/83 (50.6%) achieving pregnancy in the EWI group compared with 40/80 (49.4%) in the control group (RR = 0.99 [CI 95% = 0.725, 1.341]; P = 0.94). LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION The results for depressive symptoms corresponded to a small effect size and the remaining results failed to reach statistical significance. This could be due to sample characteristics leading to a possible floor-effect, as we did not exclude participants with low levels of emotional distress at baseline. Furthermore, men showed increased infertility-related distress over time. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS EWI is a potentially cost-effective and easy to implement home-based intervention, and even small effects may be relevant. When faced with infertility, EWI could thus be a relevant tool for alleviating depressive symptoms by allowing the expression of feelings about infertility that may be perceived as socially unacceptable. However, the implications do not seem to be applicable for men, who presented with increased infertility-related distress over time. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS The present study was supported by research grants from Merck Sharpe and Dohme and The Danish Agency for Science Technology and Innovation as part of a publicly funded PhD. The funding bodies had no influence on the data collection, analysis or conclusions of the study. None of the authors have any conflicts of interest to declare. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER Clinicaltrials.gov, trial no. NCT01187095. TRIAL REGISTRATION DATE 7th September 2010 DATE OF FIRST PATIENT'S ENROLMENT: 23rd November 2010.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoon Frederiksen
- Department of Psychology and Behavioral Sciences, Aarhus University, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Mia Skytte O'Toole
- Department of Psychology and Behavioral Sciences, Aarhus University, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Mimi Y Mehlsen
- Department of Psychology and Behavioral Sciences, Aarhus University, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Benedicte Hauge
- Horsens Fertility Clinic, Horsens Hospital, 8700 Horsens, Denmark
| | | | - Robert Zachariae
- Department of Psychology and Behavioral Sciences, Aarhus University, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Oncology, Aarhus University Hospital, 8000 Aarhus Denmark
| | - Hans Jakob Ingerslev
- Center for Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis/the Fertility Clinic, Aarhus University Hospital, 8200 Aarhus N, Denmark.,Health, Aarhus University, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark
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Gameiro S, Boivin J, Dancet E, de Klerk C, Emery M, Lewis-Jones C, Thorn P, Van den Broeck U, Venetis C, Verhaak CM, Wischmann T, Vermeulen N. ESHRE guideline: routine psychosocial care in infertility and medically assisted reproduction-a guide for fertility staff. Hum Reprod 2015; 30:2476-85. [PMID: 26345684 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dev177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 159] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2015] [Accepted: 06/11/2015] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Based on the best available evidence in the literature, what is the optimal management of routine psychosocial care at infertility and medically assisted reproduction (MAR) clinics? SUMMARY ANSWER Using the structured methodology of the Manual for the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE) Guideline Development, 120 recommendations were formulated that answered the 12 key questions on optimal management of routine psychosocial care by all fertility staff. WHAT IS ALREADY KNOWN The 2002 ESHRE Guidelines for counselling in infertility has been a reference point for best psychosocial care in infertility for years, but this guideline needed updating and did not focus on routine psychosocial care that can be delivered by all fertility staff. STUDY, DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This guideline was produced by a group of experts in the field according to the 12-step process described in the ESHRE Manual for Guideline Development. After scoping the guideline and listing a set of 12 key questions in PICO (Patient, Intervention, Comparison and Outcome) format, thorough systematic searches of the literature were conducted; evidence from papers published until April 2014 was collected, evaluated for quality and analysed. A summary of evidence was written in a reply to each of the key questions and used as the basis for recommendations, which were defined by consensus within the guideline development group (GDG). Patient and additional clinical input was collected during the scoping and the review phase of the guideline development. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS The guideline group, comprising psychologists, two medical doctors, a midwife, a patient representative and a methodological expert, met three times to discuss evidence and reach consensus on the recommendations. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE THE GUIDELINE PROVIDES 120 recommendations that aim at guiding fertility clinic staff in providing optimal evidence-based routine psychosocial care to patients dealing with infertility and MAR. The guideline is written in two sections. The first section describes patients' preferences regarding the psychosocial care they would like to receive at clinics and how this care is associated with their well-being. The second section of the guideline provides information about the psychosocial needs patients experience across their treatment pathway (before, during and after treatment) and how fertility clinic staff can detect and address these. Needs refer to conditions assumed necessary for patients to have a healthy experience of the fertility treatment. Needs can be behavioural (lifestyle, exercise, nutrition and compliance), relational (relationship with partner if there is one, family friends and larger network, and work), emotional (well-being, e.g. anxiety, depression and quality of life) and cognitive (treatment concerns and knowledge). LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION We identified many areas in care for which robust evidence was lacking. Gaps in evidence were addressed by formulating good practice points, based on the expert opinion of the GDG, but it is critical for such recommendations to be empirically validated. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS The evidence presented in this guideline shows that providing routine psychosocial care is associated with or has potential to reduce stress and concerns about medical procedures and improve lifestyle outcomes, fertility-related knowledge, patient well-being and compliance with treatment. As only 45 (36.0%) of the 125 recommendations were based on high-quality evidence, the guideline group formulated recommendations to guide future research with the aim of increasing the body of evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Gameiro
- Cardiff Fertility Studies Research Group, School of Psychology, Cardiff University, CF10 3AT Cardiff, UK
| | - J Boivin
- Cardiff Fertility Studies Research Group, School of Psychology, Cardiff University, CF10 3AT Cardiff, UK
| | - E Dancet
- Leuven University Fertility Centre, University Hospitals Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium Center for Reproductive Medicine, Women's and Children's Hospital, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam 1105 AZ, The Netherlands
| | - C de Klerk
- Department of Psychiatry, Section Medical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Erasmus MC University Medical Centre, Rotterdam 3000 CA, The Netherlands
| | - M Emery
- Centre for Medically Assisted Procreation-CPMA, CH-1003 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | | | - P Thorn
- Practice for Couple and Family Therapy, 64546 Moerfelden, Germany
| | - U Van den Broeck
- Leuven University Fertility Centre, University Hospitals Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - C Venetis
- Women's and Children's Health, St George Hospital, University of New South Wales, NSW 2217 Sydney, Australia
| | - C M Verhaak
- Department of Psychology, Radboud University Medical Center, 6500 HB Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - T Wischmann
- Institute of Medical Psychology, Centre for Psychosocial Medicine, Heidelberg University Hospital, 69115 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - N Vermeulen
- European Society for Human Reproduction and Embryology, 1852 Grimbergen, Belgium
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Mamata D, Ray SK, Pratap K, Firuza P, Birla AR, Manish B. Impact of different controlled ovarian stimulation protocols on the physical and psychological burdens in women undergoing in vitro fertilization/intra cytoplasmic sperm injection. J Hum Reprod Sci 2015; 8:86-92. [PMID: 26157299 PMCID: PMC4477455 DOI: 10.4103/0974-1208.158615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2015] [Revised: 03/18/2015] [Accepted: 04/16/2015] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
CONTEXT: Infertility treatment involves a considerable amount of physical and psychological burden which may impact the outcome. AIM: The objective was to understand the amount of physical and psychological burden in women undergoing their first in vitro fertilization (IVF)/intra cytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) cycles. SETTING AND DESIGN: Multi-center, prospective, parallel, observational study. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study was conducted across 12 IVF centers in India. A total of 692 women undergoing controlled ovarian stimulation as a part of the first cycle IVF/ICSI completed the trial. Women were recruited in 2 groups based on type of treatment (Group A - gonadotropin-releasing hormone [GnRH] antagonist; Group B - GnRH agonist) and were asked to fill questionnaires during the 2 treatment visits. RESULTS: The mean changes between Visit 1 (baseline) and Visit 2 in anxiety and depression (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale) scores in Group A for anxiety and depression were −0.5 (3.67), −0.1 (3.57) respectively and for Group B were −0.4 (3.68), 0.1 (3.67) respectively, which was not statistically significant. In Group A, the mean (±standard deviation [SD]) Hopkins Symptom Check List (HSCL) score was 17.9 (±5.17) in visit 1 and 19.1 (±5.45) Visit 2. The change between visits was 1.1 (P < 0.0001) with higher score reflecting higher somatic distress symptoms. In Group B, the mean (±SD) HSCL score was 18.2 (±5.19) in Visit 1 and 18.8 (±5.23) in visit 2. The change between visits was 0.6 (P < 0.0014). The difference of the mean change in physical burden between Group A and Group B was not statistically significant. CONCLUSION: A significant impact in both treatment protocols with respect to the physical burden was found between Visit 1 and Visit 2 but no difference in physical or psychological burden between the two treatment groups was observed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deenadayal Mamata
- Medical Director, Infertility Institute and Research Center, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Subrat K Ray
- Associate Director, Organon India Pvt. Ltd., Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Kumar Pratap
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, Karnataka, India
| | - Parikh Firuza
- Director, Reproduction and Genetics at Jaslok Hospital, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | | | - Banker Manish
- Executive Director, Nova IVI Fertility Specialty, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India
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Abstract
In contrast to current approaches, the aim of mild stimulation is to develop safer and more patient-friendly protocols in which the risks of the treatment as a whole are minimized. Mild stimulation is defined as the method when exogenous gonadotropins are administered at lower doses, and/or for a shorter duration in GnRH antagonist co-treated cycles, or when oral compounds (antiestrogens, aromatase inhibitors) are used for ovarian stimulation for IVF, with the aim of limiting the number of oocytes obtained to fewer than eight. In this chapter we discuss the relevant physiology of follicle development, the development of milder stimulation protocols, the implications of mild stimulation, the current state of affairs, and future developments.
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Affiliation(s)
- O Hamdine
- Department of Reproductive Medicine and Gynaecology, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Heidelberglaan 100, 3584 CS, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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Stenbaek DS, Toftager M, Hjordt LV, Jensen PS, Holst KK, Bryndorf T, Holland T, Bogstad J, Pinborg A, Hornnes P, Frokjaer VG. Mental distress and personality in women undergoing GnRH agonist versus GnRH antagonist protocols for assisted reproductive technology. Hum Reprod 2014; 30:103-10. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deu294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
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Mahajan N. Should mild stimulation be the order of the day? J Hum Reprod Sci 2014; 6:220-6. [PMID: 24672159 PMCID: PMC3963303 DOI: 10.4103/0974-1208.126282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2013] [Revised: 09/14/2013] [Accepted: 09/22/2013] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Mild stimulation protocols aim to reduce the physical, financial and emotional burden associated with the conventional IVF protocol without compromising the pregnancy rate. Such protocols help to decrease the complications and the discomfort related to the prolonged administration of agonist and large doses of gonadotrophins, by limiting the number of oocytes recruited to no more than eight. The per cycle pregnancy rates are lower though the cumulative pregnancy rate in a year is equivalent. This CPR comes by going through earlier repeat cycles. Whether this reduces the physical, emotional or financial burden remains a matter of debate. There is need to standardize these protocol and do more trials to compare the two effectively. Till such time there is a clear benefit above the conventional protocol it will not be the protocol of choice with most physicians.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nalini Mahajan
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, NOVA IVI Fertility, New Delhi, India
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15
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Auricular acupressure reduces anxiety levels and improves outcomes of in vitro fertilization: a prospective, randomized and controlled study. Sci Rep 2014; 4:5028. [PMID: 24848522 PMCID: PMC4030259 DOI: 10.1038/srep05028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2014] [Accepted: 04/28/2014] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The study was to explore whether auricular acupressure (AA) can relieve anxiety during the period from trans-vaginal oocyte retrieval to the embryo transfer in IVF treatment and whether AA can improve the outcomes of IVF. 305 infertile patients with tubal blockage who were referred for IVF were included. The women were randomized into a control group with 102 cases, a Sham-AA group with 102 cases and an AA group with 101 cases. The anxiety levels were rated with Spielberger's State Trait Anxiety Inventory and the Amsterdam Preoperative Anxiety and Information Scale. Data of clinical pregnancy rate (CPR), implantation rate (IR) and live birth rate (LBR) were obtained. The levels of neuropeptide Y (NPY) and transforming growth factor alpha (TGF-alpha) in the follicular fluids were detected with ELISA. After treatment, in AA group, the levels of state anxiety, preoperative anxiety and need-for-information were significantly lower, whereas CPR, IR, LBR and NPY levels in the follicular fluids were markedly higher than Sham-AA group and control group. We concluded that AA could help to reduce anxiety levels associated with IVF and improves the outcomes of IVF partly through increasing the levels of NPY in the follicular fluids.
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Paragona M, Rossini M, Dattilo M, Stamm J. LH supplementation in mild stimulations cycles without pituitary suppression: a retrospective analysis. Gynecol Endocrinol 2013; 29:101-4. [PMID: 23256611 DOI: 10.3109/09513590.2012.730580] [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] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
A cohort of patients addressed to a mild stimulation protocol was retrospectively analysed aiming at evaluating the effect of a luteinizing hormone (LH) activity containing stimulation compared to a pure follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) drive in absence of any pituitary suppression. Due to a referral bias, the two groups (human FSH (hFSH) n = 210; hMG n = 105) were imbalanced for age with the hFSH group (mean age 38.4) being significantly older than the hMG group (mean age 36.8). But the clinical pregnancy rates (20%) did not differ between the groups. Secondary outcome variables showed a higher number of oocytes retrieved (3.02 vs. 2.31) and higher estradiol levels (1148 vs. 820) in the hMG/younger group whereas the fertilization rate (FR) was higher (54.8 vs. 63.8) in the FSH older/group. In spite of the LH content in the hMG product (~10 IU per vial), the LH concentration on the day of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) was higher, although non-significantly, in the hFSH group. We suppose hCG contained in hMG inhibited to some extent the natural release of LH from the non-suppressed pituitary. Concluding, the mild stimulation clinical pregnancy rates are satisfactory independently of the treatment choice. The hMG group showed a trend for a lower efficacy. This phenomenon might be limited to non suppressed cycles, but should be taken in due account also when designing full dose controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH) treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mizar Paragona
- Fertility Centre of La Carità Hospital, Locarno, Switzerland.
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Siristatidis C, Trivella M, Chrelias C, Sioulas VD, Vrachnis N, Kassanos D. A short narrative review of the feasibility of adopting mild ovarian stimulation for IVF as the current standard of care. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2012; 286:505-10. [PMID: 22546950 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-012-2347-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2012] [Accepted: 04/17/2012] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Mild ovarian stimulation has been conceived, proposed and implemented in clinical practice as a safer and cheaper alternative to conventional strategies of controlled ovarian hyperstimulation in preparation for in vitro fertilization (IVF). Our aim was to summarize the key evidence on this topic and explore its possible role as the standard treatment option for women undergoing IVF. MATERIALS AND METHODS A short narrative review of the existing literature, with emphasis on mild ovarian stimulation clinical and cost effectiveness, as well as treatment limitations. RESULTS Numerous studies highlight mild ovarian stimulation's favorable characteristics with respect to oocyte/embryo quality, reduced patient risk, and ease of intervention. There is, however, a need for high-quality laboratory environment. Limitations regarding poor responders, older women, or those seeking ovarian stimulation for non-infertility indications should also be considered. Finally, outcomes on the cumulative success rates and the cost effectiveness of mild ovarian stimulation remain inconclusive. CONCLUSION Mild ovarian stimulation protocols for IVF should currently be implemented only in carefully selected populations. Further research is needed to clarify the remaining controversies in this IVF approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charalampos Siristatidis
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, 3rd Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Attikon Hospital, University of Athens, Chaidari, Greece
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Payne D, Goedeke S, Balfour S, Gudex G. Perspectives of mild cycle IVF: a qualitative study. Hum Reprod 2011; 27:167-72. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/der361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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Abstract
Since the birth of the first baby through in vitro fertilisation over 30 years ago, there has been a rapid increase in the number of women using assisted reproductive technologies. New techniques are constantly being introduced and are evolving rapidly. Understanding the long-term impact of these treatments, which have been linked with several potential complications affecting the mother and the child, poses a constant challenge for the scientific community. The main complications discussed in this review include the rare but serious risk of thromboembolic disease particularly in the upper half of the body and a higher risk of pregnancy complications including abnormal placentation, miscarriage, gestational diabetes and hypertensive disorders. A link between assisted conception and a number of genital cancers particularly of the breast, ovary and endometrium has also been suggested, but the evidence is currently inconclusive. A number of foetal and neonatal complications including imprinting disorders, low birth weight, congenital malformations and growth disorders are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mostafa Metwally
- The Assisted Conception Unit, Ninewells Hospital, Dundee, Scotland.
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20
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Abstract
The physical impact of in vitro fertilisation (IVF) is not well explored. The aim of this prospective controlled longitudinal study was to examine the impact of 11 symptoms during an entire long down regulation (LDR) cycle and to determine the effect of the mean recombinant follicle stimulating hormone (RecFSH) dose and ovarian responsiveness of patients and outcome had on reported symptoms. The severity of symptoms was measured using a daily questionnaire to determine a total summary score (TSS) for each symptom, a summary symptom score (SSS) based on all TSS and a mean daily severity for each symptom. Outcome was determined by beta human chorionic gonadotrophin (β-hCG) test result. 79.1% of women undertaking LDR IVF cycles had significant physical symptoms. Treatment symptom severity peaked at oocyte retrieval, with prominent symptoms including bloating, abdominal pain/cramps and fatigue. No relationship was found between outcome, RecFSH dose and ovarian responsiveness with reported symptoms. In conclusion, IVF places a real physical burden on women should be encouraged to reduce undertaking LDR cycles. The impact of the symptoms, particularly the increase in severity leading up to day of oocyte retrieval suggests that women may be warned to reduce stress and activities during this time.
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Suthersan D, Kennedy S, Franzcog MC. The impact of long down regulation in vitro fertilisation cycles on patients' weight. HUM FERTIL 2011; 14:23-8. [DOI: 10.3109/14647273.2010.549161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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Revelli A, Casano S, Salvagno F, Delle Piane L. Milder is better? Advantages and disadvantages of "mild" ovarian stimulation for human in vitro fertilization. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2011; 9:25. [PMID: 21324155 PMCID: PMC3048523 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7827-9-25] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2010] [Accepted: 02/16/2011] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
In the last decades, several steps have been made aiming at rendering human IVF more successful on one side, more tolerable on the other side. The "mild" ovarian stimulation approach, in which a lower-than-average dose of exogenous gonadotropins is given and gonadotropin treatment is started from day 2 to 7 of the cycle, represents a significant step toward a more patient's friendly IVF. However, a clear view of its virtues and defects is still lacking, because only a few prospective randomized trials comparing "mild" vs. conventional stimulation exist, and they do not consider some important aspects, such as, e.g., thawing cycles. This review gives a complete panorama of the "mild" stimulation philosophy, showing its advantages vs. conventional ovarian stimulation, but also discussing its disadvantages. Both patients with a normal ovarian responsiveness to exogenous gonadotropins and women with a poor ovarian reserve are considered. Overall, we conclude that the level of evidence supporting the use of "mild" stimulation protocols is still rather poor, and further, properly powered prospective studies about "mild" treatment regimens are required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Revelli
- Reproductive Medicine and IVF Unit, Department of Obstetrical and Gynecological Sciences, University of Torino, via Ventimiglia 3, 10126 Torino, Italy
| | - Simona Casano
- Reproductive Medicine and IVF Unit, Department of Obstetrical and Gynecological Sciences, University of Torino, via Ventimiglia 3, 10126 Torino, Italy
| | - Francesca Salvagno
- Reproductive Medicine and IVF Unit, Department of Obstetrical and Gynecological Sciences, University of Torino, via Ventimiglia 3, 10126 Torino, Italy
| | - Luisa Delle Piane
- Reproductive Medicine and IVF Unit, Department of Obstetrical and Gynecological Sciences, University of Torino, via Ventimiglia 3, 10126 Torino, Italy
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Tremellen KP, Lane M. Avoidance of weekend oocyte retrievals during GnRH antagonist treatment by simple advancement or delay of hCG administration does not adversely affect IVF live birth outcomes. Hum Reprod 2010; 25:1219-24. [PMID: 20215127 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deq059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- K P Tremellen
- Repromed, 180 Fullarton Road, Dulwich, SA 5065, Australia.
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25
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Comparison of mild stimulation and conventional stimulation in ART outcome. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2009; 281:741-6. [DOI: 10.1007/s00404-009-1252-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2009] [Accepted: 09/25/2009] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Kienle R, Luszczynska A, Pfüller B, Knoll N. Appraisal Detection Bias and Well-Being in Close Relationships: Couples Experiencing Assisted Reproduction Treatment. Appl Psychol Health Well Being 2009. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1758-0854.2009.01011.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Garel M, Blondel B, Karpel L, Blanchet V, Breart G, Frydman R, Olivennes F. Women's views on Friendly IVF: a qualitative preliminary study. J Psychosom Obstet Gynaecol 2009; 30:101-4. [PMID: 19533489 DOI: 10.1080/01674820802604896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To study in the French Context women's experiences with a low-stimulation regimen of in vitro fertilisation (Friendly IVF) and to compare them with those of women undergoing standard IVF (S-IVF). POPULATION AND METHODS Two assisted reproduction technology centers participated in this preliminary study. Patients'views were explored qualitatively. In-depth interviews were conducted at the end of the second monitored cycle. Twelve friendly IVF patients and 13 S-IVF patients participated in the study. RESULTS The respondents indicated that the most positive aspect of Friendly IVF was the low doses of hormones used. Cancellation of cycles and failure of oocyte retrieval were perceived the most negatively. Women in the Friendly IVF group reported fewer side effects and expressed emotional distress less acutely than women in the S-IVF group. The Friendly IVF treatment was percieved as a first step, sustaining the hope of success with a standard treatment. CONCLUSION Friendly IVF, as practiced in the center studied, represents a valuable alternative for most respondents as a first step in IVF treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Micheline Garel
- INSERM, UMR S149, IFR 69, Epidemiological Research Unit on Perinatal and Women's Health, Villejuif, France.
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Verberg MFG, Macklon NS, Nargund G, Frydman R, Devroey P, Broekmans FJ, Fauser BCJM. Mild ovarian stimulation for IVF. Hum Reprod Update 2009; 15:13-29. [PMID: 19091755 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmn056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 108] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mild ovarian stimulation for in vitro fertilization (IVF) aims to achieve cost-effective, patient-friendly regimens which optimize the balance between outcomes and risks of treatment. METHODS Pubmed and Medline were searched up to end of January 2008 for papers on ovarian stimulation protocols for IVF. Additionally, references to related studies were selected wherever possible. RESULTS Studies show that mild interference with the decrease in follicle-stimulating hormone levels in the mid-follicular phase was sufficient to override the selection of a single dominant follicle. Gonadotrophin-releasing hormone antagonists compared with agonists reduce length and dosage of gonadotrophin treatment without a significant reduction in the probability of live birth (OR 0.86, 95% CI 0.72-1.02). Mild ovarian stimulation may be achieved with limited gonadotrophins or with alternatives such as anti-estrogens or aromatase inhibitors. Another option is luteinizing hormone or human chorionic gonadotrophin administration during the late follicular phase. Studies regarding these approaches are discussed individually; small sample size of single studies along with heterogeneity in patient inclusion criteria as well as outcomes analysed does not allow a meta-analysis to be performed. Additionally, the implications of mild ovarian stimulation for embryo quality, endometrial receptivity, cost and the psychological impact of IVF treatment are discussed. CONCLUSIONS Evidence in favour of mild ovarian stimulation for IVF is accumulating in recent literature. However, further, sufficiently powered prospective studies applying novel mild treatment regimens are required and structured reporting of the incidence and severity of complications, the number of treatment days, medication used, cost, patient discomfort and number of patient drop-outs in studies on IVF is encouraged.
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Affiliation(s)
- M F G Verberg
- Department of Reproductive Medicine and Gynaecology, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
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Brod M, Verhaak CM, Wiebinga CJ, Gerris J, Hoomans EHM. Improving clinical understanding of the effect of ovarian stimulation on women's lives. Reprod Biomed Online 2009; 18:391-400. [DOI: 10.1016/s1472-6483(10)60098-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Devroey P, Aboulghar M, Garcia-Velasco J, Griesinger G, Humaidan P, Kolibianakis E, Ledger W, Tomas C, Fauser BC. Improving the patient's experience of IVF/ICSI: a proposal for an ovarian stimulation protocol with GnRH antagonist co-treatment. Hum Reprod 2008; 24:764-74. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/den468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
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Verberg M, Fauser B, Macklon N. Reply: Why do couples drop out from IVF treatment? Hum Reprod 2008. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/den445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
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Verberg MFG, Eijkemans MJC, Heijnen EMEW, Broekmans FJ, de Klerk C, Fauser BCJM, Macklon NS. Why do couples drop-out from IVF treatment? A prospective cohort study. Hum Reprod 2008; 23:2050-5. [PMID: 18544578 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/den219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 230] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cumulative IVF pregnancy rates are compromised by the large number of couples who drop-out of treatment before achieving pregnancy. The aim of this study was to identify the role of the treatment strategy applied, and potential other factors that influence the decision of couples to discontinue treatment. METHODS The incidence of drop-out from IVF treatment and factors related to drop-out were studied in a cohort of IVF patients aged <38 years embarking on IVF treatment either with a mild or a standard treatment strategy for a planned maximum number of treatment cycles. RESULTS Of the 384 couples studied, 17% dropped out of IVF treatment. The physical or psychological burden of treatment was the most frequent cause of drop-out (28%). The application of a mild treatment strategy (mild ovarian stimulation along with the transfer of a single embryo) significantly reduced the chance of drop-out (hazard ratio (HR) 0.55; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.31-0.96). When a mild IVF strategy was employed, the association between the baseline anxiety score and drop-out was reduced by >50%. The presence of severe male subfertility (HR 4.80; 95% CI, 1.63-14.13) and the failure to achieve embryo transfer (odds ratio 0.41; 95% CI, 0.24-0.72) were also related to drop-out. CONCLUSIONS Reducing drop-out rate is crucial to further improve the efficacy and cost-effectiveness of IVF treatment. An important factor determining the risk of drop-out is the burden of the treatment strategy. The application of a mild treatment strategy and managing patient's expectations might reduce drop-out rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- M F G Verberg
- Department of Reproductive Medicine and Gynaecology, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Heidelberglaan 100, 3584 CS Utrecht, The Netherlands.
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Abstract
The current practice in medically assisted reproduction is still too exclusively focused on effectiveness and success rates. This has a number of considerable, and more importantly, avoidable drawbacks. Single embryo transfer was an important move away from this model to include safety and welfare of mother and child. Patient-friendly ART goes one big step further. It is composed of a mix of four criteria: cost-effectiveness, equity of access, minimal risk for mother and child and minimal burden for patients. All four components have a strong normative ethical basis: cost-effectiveness relies on the optimal use of community resources to maximise well-being; equity of access is based on justice, minimal risk is founded on the fundamental non-maleficence rule and minimal burden is largely based on the autonomy principle. The inclusion of the four criteria in decision-making about treatment would express these values in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guido Pennings
- Bioethics Institute Ghent, Ghent University, Blandijnberg 2, 9000 Gent, Belgium.
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Heijnen EM, Eijkemans MJ, De Klerk C, Polinder S, Beckers NG, Klinkert ER, Broekmans FJ, Passchier J, Te Velde ER, Macklon NS, Fauser BC. A mild treatment strategy for in-vitro fertilisation: a randomised non-inferiority trial. Lancet 2007; 369:743-749. [PMID: 17336650 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(07)60360-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 254] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mild in-vitro fertilisation (IVF) treatment might lessen both patients' discomfort and multiple births, with their associated risks. We aimed to test the hypothesis that mild IVF treatment can achieve the same chance of a pregnancy resulting in term livebirth within 1 year compared with standard treatment, and can also reduce patients' discomfort, multiple pregnancies, and costs. METHODS We did a randomised, non-inferiority effectiveness trial. 404 patients were randomly assigned to undergo either mild treatment (mild ovarian stimulation with gonadotropin-releasing hormone [GnRH] antagonist co-treatment combined with single embryo transfer) or a standard treatment (stimulation with a GnRH agonist long-protocol and transfer of two embryos). Primary endpoints were proportion of cumulative pregnancies leading to term livebirth within 1 year after randomisation (with a non-inferiority threshold of -12.5%), total costs per couple up to 6 weeks after expected date of delivery, and overall discomfort for patients. Analysis was by intention to treat. This trial is registered as an International Standard Randomised Clinical Trial, number ISRCTN35766970. FINDINGS The proportions of cumulative pregnancies that resulted in term livebirth after 1 year were 43.4% with mild treatment and 44.7% with standard treatment (absolute number of patients=86 for both groups). The lower limit of the one-sided 95% CI was -9.8%. The proportion of couples with multiple pregnancy outcomes was 0.5% with mild IVF treatment versus 13.1% (p<0.0001) with standard treatment, and mean total costs were 8333 euros and 10745 euros, respectively (difference 2412 euros, 95% CI 703-4131). There were no significant differences between the groups in the anxiety, depression, physical discomfort, or sleep quality of the mother. INTERPRETATION Over 1 year of treatment, cumulative rates of term livebirths and patients' discomfort are much the same for mild ovarian stimulation with single embryos transferred and for standard stimulation with two embryos transferred. However, a mild IVF treatment protocol can substantially reduce multiple pregnancy rates and overall costs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esther Mew Heijnen
- Department of Reproductive Medicine and Gynaecology, University Medical Centre, Utrecht, Netherlands; Division of Reproductive Medicine, Erasmus Medical Centre, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Marinus Jc Eijkemans
- Department of Reproductive Medicine and Gynaecology, University Medical Centre, Utrecht, Netherlands; Department of Public Health, Erasmus Medical Centre, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Cora De Klerk
- Department of Medical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Erasmus Medical Centre, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Suzanne Polinder
- Department of Medical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Erasmus Medical Centre, Rotterdam, Netherlands; Department of Public Health, Erasmus Medical Centre, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Nicole Gm Beckers
- Division of Reproductive Medicine, Erasmus Medical Centre, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Ellen R Klinkert
- Department of Reproductive Medicine and Gynaecology, University Medical Centre, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Frank J Broekmans
- Department of Reproductive Medicine and Gynaecology, University Medical Centre, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Jan Passchier
- Department of Medical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Erasmus Medical Centre, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Egbert R Te Velde
- Department of Reproductive Medicine and Gynaecology, University Medical Centre, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Nick S Macklon
- Department of Reproductive Medicine and Gynaecology, University Medical Centre, Utrecht, Netherlands; Division of Reproductive Medicine, Erasmus Medical Centre, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Bart Cjm Fauser
- Department of Reproductive Medicine and Gynaecology, University Medical Centre, Utrecht, Netherlands; Division of Reproductive Medicine, Erasmus Medical Centre, Rotterdam, Netherlands.
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Verpoest WMJA, Kolibianakis E, Papanikolaou E, Smitz J, Van Steirteghem A, Devroey P. Aromatase inhibitors in ovarian stimulation for IVF/ICSI: a pilot study. Reprod Biomed Online 2006; 13:166-72. [PMID: 16895628 DOI: 10.1016/s1472-6483(10)60611-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
This prospective randomized pilot study was aimed at investigating the effect of the novel addition of aromatase inhibitors to an ovarian stimulation protocol for IVF or intracytoplasmic sperm injection, on endocrine parameters including serum androgen, oestrogen, progesterone, LH and FSH concentrations. The patients were randomized to receiving letrozole (group A; n = 10), versus no letrozole (group B; n = 10) in an ovarian stimulation protocol with recombinant FSH 150 IU/day starting on day 2 of the cycle, and gonadotrophin-releasing hormone antagonist 0.25 mg/day starting on day 6 of the cycle. Median LH concentrations were significantly higher (P < 0.01) in group A versus group B during letrozole administration. Median serum oestradiol concentrations were lower in group A versus group B, and median serum FSH, testosterone and androstenedione concentrations were higher in group A versus group B, throughout the follicular phase, without reaching significance. Median endometrial thickness was significantly higher (P < 0.05) in group A versus group B on the day of human chorionic gonadotrophin administration. Pregnancies were achieved. This pilot study supports the idea that aromatase inhibitors can contribute to normal potential of implantation and follicular response, without having negative anti-oestrogenic effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Willem M J A Verpoest
- Academic Hospital of the Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 101 Laarbeeklaan, B-1090 Brussels, Belgium.
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