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Kim JJ, Renaud L, Torrance S, Shmorgun D, Gale J, Wu CQ. Pregnancy outcomes after superovulation-intrauterine insemination (SO-IUI) using gonadotropins versus letrozole in the obese population. J Assist Reprod Genet 2024:10.1007/s10815-024-03205-7. [PMID: 39172321 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-024-03205-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 08/23/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To compare fertility outcomes of obese patients (body mass index [BMI] ≥ 30 kg/m2) undergoing superovulation and intrauterine insemination (SO-IUI) using gonadotropins versus letrozole. METHODS A single centre retrospective cohort study of obese patients undergoing SO-IUI using gonadotropins or letrozole between January/2019 and June/2022. Primary outcome was clinical pregnancy rate (intrauterine pregnancy with positive fetal heart rate). Secondary outcomes included rates of multifollicular development, multiple pregnancy, spontaneous abortion and cycle cancellation. Subgroup analysis was done stratifying by obesity class. A multivariate logistic regression model was used for primary/secondary outcomes, adjusting for clinically determined covariates. RESULTS Out of 802 total identified SO-IUI cycles, 715 cycles were completed (518-gonadotropins and 197-letrozole cycles). The clinical pregnancy rates were not significantly different in obese patients undergoing SO-IUI with gonadotropins versus letrozole when adjusted for age, gravidity, parity, cause of infertility, IUI cycle number, endometrial thickness, sperm source and post-wash motile sperm count (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.37, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.72-2.59). Similarly, no significant associations were found in spontaneous abortion (aOR1.46, 95%CI 0.42-5.08), multiple pregnancy (aOR1.33, 95%CI 0.20-8.88) or cancellation rates (OR0.89, 95%CI 0.55-1.45) between the two groups. The rates of multifollicular development were also comparable between the two groups (aOR0.51, 95% CI 0.19-1.38). For cycles involving gonadotropins, higher BMI classes required higher total gonadotropin dose (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION After adjusting for patient and cycle factors, gonadotropins and letrozole led to comparable odds of achieving pregnancy in obese patients undergoing SO-IUI. Future research in the obese population will help to better understand how to optimize fertility treatments for this growing population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna J Kim
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, K1H 8L6, Canada
| | - Livia Renaud
- Faculty of Science, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, K1N 6N5, Canada
| | - Samantha Torrance
- Ottawa Fertility Centre, 100-955 Green Valley Crescent, Ottawa, ON, K2C 3V4, Canada
| | - Doron Shmorgun
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, K1H 8L6, Canada
- Ottawa Fertility Centre, 100-955 Green Valley Crescent, Ottawa, ON, K2C 3V4, Canada
| | - Jenna Gale
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, K1H 8L6, Canada
- Ottawa Fertility Centre, 100-955 Green Valley Crescent, Ottawa, ON, K2C 3V4, Canada
| | - Clara Q Wu
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, K1H 8L6, Canada.
- Ottawa Fertility Centre, 100-955 Green Valley Crescent, Ottawa, ON, K2C 3V4, Canada.
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Luo Q, Qin J, Wang H, Hu Y, Yang L, Mao T, Yi L, Liu W, Zeng Q, Qiu Y. Factors associated with spontaneous miscarriage risk in IUI treatment: A retrospectively cohort of 31,933 cycles. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2023; 286:61-68. [PMID: 37209524 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2023.05.005] [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: 10/09/2022] [Revised: 03/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
To determine the factors associated with intrauterine insemination (IUI) miscarriages and reduce the IUI miscarriage rate, a retrospective study was performed by reviewing 31,933 IUI cycles from 2006 to 2018. The overall there were 14.50% clinical pregnancies, and 16.74% miscarriages. Logistic regression revealed the following three predictive variables: females aged ≥ 35 years (odds ratio [OR] = 2.131; p < 0.001), spontaneous miscarriage history (OR = 1.513; p = 0.005), and ovarian stimulation schemes such as clomiphene citrate (CC) (OR = 1.459; p = 0.003). The natural cycle led to a lower miscarriage rate for patients without spontaneous miscarriage history both for those over 35 years old (OR = 0.402; p = 0.034) and for those under 35 years old (OR = 0.806; p = 0.017). Gonadotropin (Gn) showed the lowest miscarriage rate for patients without abortion history, though no significant differences were found. Patients under 35 with a history of miscarriage were protected from miscarriage by using CC and Gn together (OR = 0.516; p = 0.032). No significant differences were found between various ovarian protocols when patients with abortion history were aged ≥ 35 years (p = 0.606). CC + Gn showed the lowest miscarriage rate. In conclusion, the natural cycle could be suggested for infertility couples to minimize abortion risk. When ovarian induction is required, CC + Gn had the lowest miscarriage rate for women with a history of spontaneous miscarriage while Gn is more successful for individuals without such a history.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiongxiu Luo
- Jiangxi province Ji'an Women and Child Health care Hospital (Children's Hospital), Ji'an, PR China
| | - Jiaying Qin
- Translational Center for Stem Cell Research, Tongji Hospital, Department of Regenerative Medicine, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Huan Wang
- Jiangxi province Ji'an Women and Child Health care Hospital (Children's Hospital), Ji'an, PR China
| | - Yinyan Hu
- Jiangxi province Ji'an Women and Child Health care Hospital (Children's Hospital), Ji'an, PR China
| | - Lan Yang
- Jiangxi province Ji'an Women and Child Health care Hospital (Children's Hospital), Ji'an, PR China
| | - Taifeng Mao
- Jiangxi province Ji'an Women and Child Health care Hospital (Children's Hospital), Ji'an, PR China
| | - Ling Yi
- Jiangxi province Ji'an Women and Child Health care Hospital (Children's Hospital), Ji'an, PR China
| | - Wenyan Liu
- Jiangxi province Ji'an Women and Child Health care Hospital (Children's Hospital), Ji'an, PR China
| | - Qiao Zeng
- Jiangxi province Ji'an Women and Child Health care Hospital (Children's Hospital), Ji'an, PR China.
| | - Yu Qiu
- Jiangxi province Ji'an Women and Child Health care Hospital (Children's Hospital), Ji'an, PR China.
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Liu M, Mai Z, Lin H, Li Y, Chen X, Yang D. Does elevated luteinizing hormone level before trigger mean premature luteinizing hormone surge in advanced-aged women undergoing mild ovarian stimulation? Gynecol Endocrinol 2022; 38:314-317. [PMID: 35142255 DOI: 10.1080/09513590.2022.2037546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [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 To explore whether elevated luteinizing hormone (LH) level before trigger means premature LH surge in advanced aged women undergoing mild ovarian stimulation. METHODS To retrospectively analyze 235 in vitro fertilization/intracytoplasmic sperm injection cycles in women >35 years old with the poor ovarian response (POR) from January 2012 to March 2016. Cycles are named Group 1, Group 2, and Group 3, being treated with gonadotropin-releasing hormone antagonist protocol (76 cycles), mild stimulation protocol using clomiphene citrate (73 cycles), and tamoxifen (86 cycles), respectively. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) The dynamic change of LH level during stimulation; the proportion of an elevated LH level defined as >10 IU/L on trigger day; the proportion of premature ovulation in each group. RESULTS Serum LH level increased early in Group 2 and Group 3 and remained significantly higher than that in Group 1 during stimulation. In a sequence of three groups, the proportion of elevated LH levels before the trigger was 11.84, 43.8, and 37.21% (p<.001) respectively. And the proportion of premature ovulation in patients with elevated LH levels was 11.11, 18.75, and 25% (p = .11) respectively. CONCLUSION Elevated LH level before trigger does not mean premature LH surge in women more than 35 years old with POR undergoing mild ovarian stimulation with clomiphene or tamoxifen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manlin Liu
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhuoyao Mai
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Haiyan Lin
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yu Li
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoli Chen
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Dongzi Yang
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
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Cicek OY, Demir M. The İmpact of gonadotropin type on controlled ovarian stimulation and İntrauterine İnsemination cycle outcomes. J Hum Reprod Sci 2022; 15:51-57. [PMID: 35494204 PMCID: PMC9053343 DOI: 10.4103/jhrs.jhrs_177_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Revised: 03/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Intrauterine insemination (IUI) combined with controlled ovarian stimulation (COS) results in higher pregnancy rates. However, there is still no consensus on the optimal COS protocol. Aims: In the present study, we aimed to analyse the effects of COS protocols with different gonadotropin types on IUI outcomes. Study Setting and Design: This was a retrospective cohort study conducted at the infertility clinic of a University hospital, including 237 COS + IUI cycles. Materials and Methods: Eligible cycles were divided into three groups according to the type of gonadotropin used for COS; cycles with recombinant follicle-stimulating hormone (rFSH) (group 1, n = 36), highly purified FSH (HP-FSH) (group 2, n = 178) and highly purified menotropin (HP-hMG) (group 3, n = 23). Clinical pregnancy rate (CPR) and live birth rate (LBR) per cycle were compared between groups. Statistical Analysis Used: The Mann–Whitney U test and Kruskal–Wallis test were used to compare numerical variables. Dunn test was used for multiple comparisons. Results: The duration of stimulation and total gonadotropin dose were similar between the three groups (P > 0.05). The CPR was 16.7% in rFSH group, 9.6% in HP-FSH group and 13.0% in HP-hMG group. The LBR was 16.7% in rFSH group, 8.4% in HP-FSH group and 13.0% in HP-hMG group. Both CPR and LBR were comparable in all three groups (P > 0.05). Conclusions: Ovarian stimulation with rFSH, HP-FSH and HP-hMG show similar COS characteristics. Furthermore, these three gonadotropin protocols for COS + IUI yielded comparable CPR and LBR. These findings suggest that all three gonadotropin types (rFSH, HP-FSH, HP-hMG) are similarly effective in COS + IUI cycles.
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Wessel JA, Danhof NA, van Eekelen R, Diamond MP, Legro RS, Peeraer K, D’Hooghe TM, Erdem M, Dankert T, Cohlen BJ, Thyagaraju C, Mol BWJ, Showell M, van Wely M, Mochtar MH, Wang R. OUP accepted manuscript. Hum Reprod Update 2022; 28:733-746. [PMID: 35587030 PMCID: PMC9434229 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmac021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Revised: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intrauterine insemination with ovarian stimulation (IUI-OS) is a first-line treatment for unexplained infertility. Gonadotrophins, letrozole and clomiphene citrate (CC) are commonly used agents during IUI-OS and have been compared in multiple aggregate data meta-analyses, with substantial heterogeneity and no analysis on time-to-event outcomes. Individual participant data meta-analysis (IPD-MA) is considered the gold standard for evidence synthesis as it can offset inadequate reporting of individual studies by obtaining the IPD, and allows analyses on treatment–covariate interactions to identify couples who benefit most from a particular treatment. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE We performed this IPD-MA to compare the effectiveness and safety of ovarian stimulation with gonadotrophins, letrozole and CC and to explore treatment–covariate interactions for important baseline characteristics in couples undergoing IUI. SEARCH METHODS We searched electronic databases including MEDLINE, EMBASE, CENTRAL, CINAHL, and PsycINFO from their inception to 28 June 2021. We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing IUI-OS with gonadotrophins, letrozole and CC among couples with unexplained infertility. We contacted the authors of eligible RCTs to share the IPD and established the IUI IPD-MA Collaboration. The primary effectiveness outcome was live birth and the primary safety outcome was multiple pregnancy. Secondary outcomes were other reproductive outcomes, including time to conception leading to live birth. We performed a one-stage random effects IPD-MA. OUTCOMES Seven of 22 (31.8%) eligible RCTs provided IPD of 2495 couples (62.4% of the 3997 couples participating in 22 RCTs), of which 2411 had unexplained infertility and were included in this IPD-MA. Six RCTs (n = 1511) compared gonadotrophins with CC, and one (n = 900) compared gonadotrophins, letrozole and CC. Moderate-certainty evidence showed that gonadotrophins increased the live birth rate compared to CC (6 RCTs, 2058 women, RR 1.30, 95% CI 1.12–1.51, I2 = 26%). Low-certainty evidence showed that gonadotrophins may also increase the multiple pregnancy rate compared to CC (6 RCTs, 2058 women, RR 2.17, 95% CI 1.33–3.54, I2 = 69%). Heterogeneity on multiple pregnancy could be explained by differences in gonadotrophin starting dose and choice of cancellation criteria. Post-hoc sensitivity analysis on RCTs with a low starting dose of gonadotrophins (≤75 IU) confirmed increased live birth rates compared to CC (5 RCTs, 1457 women, RR 1.26, 95% CI 1.05–1.51), but analysis on only RCTs with stricter cancellation criteria showed inconclusive evidence on live birth (4 RCTs, 1238 women, RR 1.15, 95% CI 0.94–1.41). For multiple pregnancy, both sensitivity analyses showed inconclusive findings between gonadotrophins and CC (RR 0.94, 95% CI 0.45–1.96; RR 0.81, 95% CI 0.32–2.03, respectively). Moderate certainty evidence showed that gonadotrophins reduced the time to conception leading to a live birth when compared to CC (6 RCTs, 2058 women, HR 1.37, 95% CI 1.15–1.63, I2 = 22%). No strong evidence on the treatment–covariate (female age, BMI or primary versus secondary infertility) interactions was found. WIDER IMPLICATIONS In couples with unexplained infertility undergoing IUI-OS, gonadotrophins increased the chance of a live birth and reduced the time to conception compared to CC, at the cost of a higher multiple pregnancy rate, when not differentiating strategies on cancellation criteria or the starting dose. The treatment effects did not seem to differ in women of different age, BMI or primary versus secondary infertility. In a modern practice where a lower starting dose and stricter cancellation criteria are in place, effectiveness and safety of different agents seem both acceptable, and therefore intervention availability, cost and patients’ preferences should factor in the clinical decision-making. As the evidence for comparisons to letrozole is based on one RCT providing IPD, further RCTs comparing letrozole and other interventions for unexplained infertility are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- J A Wessel
- Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - N A Danhof
- Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - R van Eekelen
- Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - M P Diamond
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - R S Legro
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA 17033, USA
| | - K Peeraer
- UZ Leuven, Leuven University Fertility Center, Leuven 3000, Belgium
| | - T M D’Hooghe
- Merck Healthcare KGaA, Darmstadt 64293, Germany
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Group Biomedical Sciences, KU Leuven/University of Leuven, Leuven 3000, Belgium
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - M Erdem
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Gazi University, Ankara 06560, Turkey
| | - T Dankert
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Rijnstate Hospital Arnhem, 06560 Ankara, The Netherlands
| | - B J Cohlen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Isala Fertility Center, 8025 AB Zwolle, The Netherlands
| | - C Thyagaraju
- Department of OBG, Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical education and Research (JIPMER), Pondicherry 605006, India
| | - B W J Mol
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia
- Aberdeen Centre for Women’s Health Research, School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen AB24 3FX, UK
| | - M Showell
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Auckland, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
| | - M van Wely
- Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - M H Mochtar
- Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - R Wang
- Correspondence address. Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Level 5, Monash Medical Centre, 246 Clayton Road, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia. E-mail:
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Cantineau AE, Rutten AG, Cohlen BJ. Agents for ovarian stimulation for intrauterine insemination (IUI) in ovulatory women with infertility. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2021; 11:CD005356. [PMID: 34739136 PMCID: PMC8570324 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd005356.pub3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intrauterine insemination (IUI), combined with ovarian stimulation (OS), has been demonstrated to be an effective treatment for infertile couples. Several agents for ovarian stimulation, combined with IUI, have been proposed, but it is still not clear which agents for stimulation are the most effective. This is an update of the review, first published in 2007. OBJECTIVES To assess the effects of agents for ovarian stimulation for intrauterine insemination in infertile ovulatory women. SEARCH METHODS We searched the Cochrane Gynaecology and Fertility Group trials register, CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, CINAHL and two trial registers from their inception to November 2020. We performed reference checking and contacted study authors and experts in the field to identify additional studies. SELECTION CRITERIA We included truly randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that compared different agents for ovarian stimulation combined with IUI for infertile ovulatory women concerning couples with unexplained infertility. mild male factor infertility and minimal to mild endometriosis. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS We used standard methodological procedures recommended by Cochrane. MAIN RESULTS In this updated review, we have included a total of 82 studies, involving 12,614 women. Due to the multitude of comparisons between different agents for ovarian stimulation, we highlight the seven most often reported here. Gonadotropins versus anti-oestrogens (13 studies) For live birth, the results of five studies were pooled and showed a probable improvement in the cumulative live birth rate for gonadotropins compared to anti-oestrogens (odds ratio (OR) 1.37, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.05 to 1.79; I2 = 30%; 5 studies, 1924 participants; moderate-certainty evidence). This suggests that if the chance of live birth following anti-oestrogens is assumed to be 22.8%, the chance following gonadotropins would be between 23.7% and 34.6%. The pooled effect of seven studies revealed that we are uncertain whether gonadotropins lead to a higher multiple pregnancy rate compared with anti-oestrogens (OR 1.58, 95% CI 0.60 to 4.17; I2 = 58%; 7 studies, 2139 participants; low-certainty evidence). Aromatase inhibitors versus anti-oestrogens (8 studies) One study reported live birth rates for this comparison. We are uncertain whether aromatase inhibitors improve live birth rate compared with anti-oestrogens (OR 0.75, CI 95% 0.51 to 1.11; 1 study, 599 participants; low-certainty evidence). This suggests that if the chance of live birth following anti-oestrogens is 23.4%, the chance following aromatase inhibitors would be between 13.5% and 25.3%. The results of pooling four studies revealed that we are uncertain whether aromatase inhibitors compared with anti-oestrogens lead to a higher multiple pregnancy rate (OR 1.28, CI 95% 0.61 to 2.68; I2 = 0%; 4 studies, 1000 participants; low-certainty evidence). Gonadotropins with GnRH (gonadotropin-releasing hormone) agonist versus gonadotropins alone (4 studies) No data were available for live birth. The pooled effect of two studies revealed that we are uncertain whether gonadotropins with GnRH agonist lead to a higher multiple pregnancy rate compared to gonadotropins alone (OR 2.53, 95% CI 0.82 to 7.86; I2 = 0; 2 studies, 264 participants; very low-certainty evidence). Gonadotropins with GnRH antagonist versus gonadotropins alone (14 studies) Three studies reported live birth rate per couple, and we are uncertain whether gonadotropins with GnRH antagonist improve live birth rate compared to gonadotropins (OR 1.5, 95% CI 0.52 to 4.39; I2 = 81%; 3 studies, 419 participants; very low-certainty evidence). This suggests that if the chance of a live birth following gonadotropins alone is 25.7%, the chance following gonadotropins combined with GnRH antagonist would be between 15.2% and 60.3%. We are also uncertain whether gonadotropins combined with GnRH antagonist lead to a higher multiple pregnancy rate compared with gonadotropins alone (OR 1.30, 95% CI 0.74 to 2.28; I2 = 0%; 10 studies, 2095 participants; moderate-certainty evidence). Gonadotropins with anti-oestrogens versus gonadotropins alone (2 studies) Neither of the studies reported data for live birth rate. We are uncertain whether gonadotropins combined with anti-oestrogens lead to a higher multiple pregnancy rate compared with gonadotropins alone, based on one study (OR 3.03, 95% CI 0.12 to 75.1; 1 study, 230 participants; low-certainty evidence). Aromatase inhibitors versus gonadotropins (6 studies) Two studies revealed that aromatase inhibitors may decrease live birth rate compared with gonadotropins (OR 0.49, 95% CI 0.34 to 0.71; I2=0%; 2 studies, 651 participants; low-certainty evidence). This suggests that if the chance of a live birth following gonadotropins alone is 31.9%, the chance of live birth following aromatase inhibitors would be between 13.7% and 25%. We are uncertain whether aromatase inhibitors compared with gonadotropins lead to a higher multiple pregnancy rate (OR 0.69, 95% CI 0.06 to 8.17; I2=77%; 3 studies, 731 participants; very low-certainty evidence). Aromatase inhibitors with gonadotropins versus anti-oestrogens with gonadotropins (8 studies) We are uncertain whether aromatase inhibitors combined with gonadotropins improve live birth rate compared with anti-oestrogens plus gonadotropins (OR 0.99, 95% CI 0.3 8 to 2.54; I2 = 69%; 3 studies, 708 participants; very low-certainty evidence). This suggests that if the chance of a live birth following anti-oestrogens plus gonadotropins is 13.8%, the chance following aromatase inhibitors plus gonadotropins would be between 5.7% and 28.9%. We are uncertain of the effect of aromatase inhibitors combined with gonadotropins compared to anti-oestrogens combined with gonadotropins on multiple pregnancy rate (OR 1.31, 95% CI 0.39 to 4.37; I2 = 0%; 5 studies, 901 participants; low-certainty evidence). AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS Based on the available results, gonadotropins probably improve cumulative live birth rate compared with anti-oestrogens (moderate-certainty evidence). Gonadotropins may also improve cumulative live birth rate when compared with aromatase inhibitors (low-certainty evidence). From the available data, there is no convincing evidence that aromatase inhibitors lead to higher live birth rates compared to anti-oestrogens. None of the agents compared lead to significantly higher multiple pregnancy rates. Based on low-certainty evidence, there does not seem to be a role for different combined therapies, nor for adding GnRH agonists or GnRH antagonists in IUI programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Astrid Ep Cantineau
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | | | - Ben J Cohlen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Isala Clinics, Zwolle, Netherlands
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Wang X, Zhang Y, Sun HL, Wang LT, Li XF, Wang F, Wang YL, Li QC. Factors Affecting Artificial Insemination Pregnancy Outcome. Int J Gen Med 2021; 14:3961-3969. [PMID: 34349545 PMCID: PMC8326936 DOI: 10.2147/ijgm.s312766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2021] [Accepted: 07/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective The aim of the present study was to explore related clinical pregnancy outcome factors in intrauterine insemination (IUI). Materials and Methods The clinical data of 3984 IUI cycles in 1862 couples experiencing infertility who attended the Reproductive Center of Binzhou Medical University Hospital between July 2006 and July 2017 were retrospectively analyzed. Female and male patient age, endometrial thickness (EMT), the post-wash total motile sperm count (PTMC), artificial insemination timing, insemination frequency, and ovarian stimulation protocols were compared between the study’s pregnant group and non-pregnant group in order to explore any correlation. Results There were statistically significant differences in female and male age, EMT, artificial insemination timing, insemination frequency, and ovarian stimulation protocols between the two groups (p < 0.05). The clinical pregnancy rate was significantly higher in ovarian stimulation cycles than in natural cycles (21.2% and 11.6%, respectively; p < 0.01), the clinical pregnancy rate was significantly higher in double IUI than in single IUI (17.8% and 12.1%, respectively; p < 0.01), and EMT was significantly greater in the pregnant group than in the control group (p < 0.05). However, the differences in clinical pregnancy rates among the PTMC groups were not statistically significant (14.8%, 14.4%, 17.3%, and 17.3%, respectively; p > 0.05). Conclusion The results of the present study demonstrate that the clinical IUI pregnancy rate is correlated with the factors of female age, male age, EMT, artificial insemination timing, insemination frequency, and ovarian stimulation protocols; the ovarian stimulation protocol can noticeably improve the patient pregnancy outcome. Furthermore, compared with single IUI, double IUI can significantly increase the clinical pregnancy rate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue Wang
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou, 256603, People's Republic of China
| | - Yue Zhang
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou, 256603, People's Republic of China
| | - Hong-Liang Sun
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou, 256603, People's Republic of China
| | - Li-Ting Wang
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou, 256603, People's Republic of China
| | - Xue-Feng Li
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou, 256603, People's Republic of China
| | - Fei Wang
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou, 256603, People's Republic of China
| | - Yan-Lin Wang
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou, 256603, People's Republic of China
| | - Qing-Chun Li
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Binzhou Medical University Hospital, Binzhou, 256603, People's Republic of China
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Tokgoz VY, Sukur YE, Ozmen B, Sonmezer M, Berker B, Aytac R, Atabekoglu CS. Clomiphene Citrate versus Recombinant FSH in intrauterine insemination cycles with mono- or bi-follicular development. JBRA Assist Reprod 2021; 25:383-389. [PMID: 33746515 PMCID: PMC8312288 DOI: 10.5935/1518-0557.20200106] [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] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: The present study aims to assess the success of controlled ovarian stimulation in intrauterine insemination cycles stimulated by recombinant-FSH and Clomiphene citrate for either mono- or bi-follicular development. Methods: We assessed 870 infertile patients treated with controlled ovarian stimulation in intrauterine insemination cycles at a university-based infertility clinic between January 2012 and December 2017. We compared the cycles stimulated by clomiphene citrate and recombinant-FSH in two set-ups; mono- and bi-follicular development. The main outcome measure was the clinical pregnancy rate per cycle. Results: The demographic and cycle parameters were similar between the groups, except for endometrial thickness on the day of hCG administration, which was higher in the recombinant-FSH group than the clomiphene citrate group. The overall clinical pregnancy rates in clomiphene citrate and recombinant-FSH groups were 9.8% and 10.3%, respectively (p=0.940). Regarding the entire cohort, clinical pregnancy was significantly higher in cases of bi-follicular development when compared to mono-follicular development (16.8% vs. 10.2%, respectively; p=0.009). Conclusions: Clomiphene citrate and recombinant-FSH have similar success rates in terms of clinical pregnancy, in either mono-follicular development or bi-follicular development. Clomiphene citrate and recombinant-FSH cycles resulted in comparable rates of bi-follicular development, which significantly increases clinical pregnancy rate. Clomiphene citrate and recombinant-FSH have similar success rates in terms of clinical pregnancy, in either mono-follicular development or bi-follicular development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vehbi Yavuz Tokgoz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Eskisehir Osmangazi University Faculty of Medicine, Eskisehir, Turkey
| | - Yavuz Emre Sukur
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ankara University Faculty of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Batuhan Ozmen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ankara University Faculty of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Murat Sonmezer
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ankara University Faculty of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Bulent Berker
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ankara University Faculty of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Rusen Aytac
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ankara University Faculty of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Cem Somer Atabekoglu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ankara University Faculty of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
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9
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Thanaboonyawat I, Charanwetprasert M, Boriboonhirunsarn D, Petyim S, Laokirkkiat P. Ultrasound guidance versus the classical method for intrauterine insemination in oral medication-stimulated cycles: A randomized, single-blind, controlled trial. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2021; 258:278-282. [PMID: 33494027 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2021.01.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2020] [Revised: 12/23/2020] [Accepted: 01/10/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study was conducted to compare the pregnancy rates of ultrasound-guided intrauterine insemination (UG-IUI) and classical intrauterine insemination (C-IUI) cycles. STUDY DESIGN A total of 320 infertile women were enrolled and randomized into an UG-IUI group, and a C-IUI group. All participants received an oral medication for ovarian stimulation. With both groups, the IUIs were scheduled and performed by doctors in their residency and fellowship training, under supervision. The duration and difficulty of the procedures were assessed. A pregnancy test was offered 3 weeks later if the participants did not have menstruation. RESULTS The demographic and other baseline characteristics of the groups (baseline hormone levels, cervical length, uterine position, endometrial thickness, and expertise of the providers) were comparable. The pregnancy rates were similar, with 6.9 % and 6.3 % for the UG-IUI and C-IUI groups, respectively. In the UG-IUI group, the pregnancy rate of the multigravida women was three times higher than that of the nulligravida women (15.4 % vs. 5.0 %; p = 0.13). Although the duration of the procedure was shorter for the UG-IUI group (p < 0.05), the level of difficulty was similar for the two groups. CONCLUSIONS For oral-medication stimulated cycles, UG-IUI did not increase the pregnancy rate more than with C-IUI. However, the pregnancy rate tended to increase with UG-IUI for multigravida women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isarin Thanaboonyawat
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10700, Thailand; Infertility and Reproductive Biology Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10700, Thailand.
| | - Manita Charanwetprasert
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10700, Thailand
| | - Dittakarn Boriboonhirunsarn
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10700, Thailand
| | - Somsin Petyim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10700, Thailand; Stem Cell Research and Development Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10700, Thailand; Infertility and Reproductive Biology Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10700, Thailand.
| | - Pitak Laokirkkiat
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10700, Thailand; Infertility and Reproductive Biology Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10700, Thailand
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10
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Frank R, Steiner N, Al Shatti M, Ruiter-Ligeti J, Dahan MH. A comparison of oral versus injectable ovarian stimulation in IUI in women ≥38 years of age with decreased ovarian reserve. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2021; 303:1607-1616. [PMID: 33389112 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-020-05897-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2020] [Accepted: 11/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To compare pregnancy rates of oral ovarian hyperstimulation agents (clomiphene citrate (CC) and letrozole) versus injectable agents (gonadotropins) in intrauterine insemination (IUI) in the older reproductive age group with diminished ovarian reserve. METHODS A retrospective cohort study was performed among 210 women 38-43 years of age undergoing IUI with controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH) at a single academic institution between 2009 and 2018. RESULTS A total of 335 IUI cycles met inclusion criteria. Gonadotropins were the most frequently used ovarian hyperstimulation agent (n = 264), followed by CC (n = 38) and letrozole (n = 33). Mean age of the cohort was 40.5 (±1.6) years (range 38-43) did not differ significantly among groups (p = 0.41). Mean AFC and number of mature follicles on day of ovulation trigger also did not differ among groups (p = 0.98, p = 0.10). Overall clinical pregnancy rate was 7.5% per cycle, and rates for CC, letrozole, and gonadotropins respectively were 5.3%, 9.1%, 7.5% per cycle (p = 0.347). There was one multiple gestation pregnancy (twins), which was in a patient stimulated with gonadotropins. CONCLUSION This is the first study to compare CC, letrozole, and gonadotropins in older reproductive age women with decreased ovarian reserve. The findings reveal that COH/IUI in older women with decreased ovarian reserve is a viable option (clinical pregnancy rate of 7.5% per cycle), and suggest that oral stimulation agents may be the first-line option, with letrozole having conferred the highest clinical pregnancy rate, 9.1%, which is notable given the typical poor fecundability of this population. However, larger population studies are needed to support this.
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Affiliation(s)
- Russell Frank
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University Health Centre, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada.
| | - Naama Steiner
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University Health Centre, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Maryam Al Shatti
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University Health Centre, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Jacob Ruiter-Ligeti
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University Health Centre, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Michael H Dahan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University Health Centre, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
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11
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Gulsen Coban P, Sargin Oruc A, Kuru Pekcan M, Inal HA, Hancerliogullari N, Yilmaz N. Influence of Catheter Type and Tenaculum Use on Intrauterine Insemination Outcome. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF FERTILITY & STERILITY 2020; 14:213-217. [PMID: 33098388 PMCID: PMC7604713 DOI: 10.22074/ijfs.2020.6161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2019] [Accepted: 03/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Background We investigated the impact of the choice of catheter type and tenaculum use on pregnancy related out-
comes in intrauterine insemination (IUI) treatments. Materials and Methods A total of 338 consecutive IUI cycles were assessed in this retrospective study. Participants
were divided according to the insemination technique - soft catheter (group 1; n=175), firm catheter (group 2; n=100),
or tenaculum (group 3; n=63). Clinical, laboratory, semen parameters and pregnancy related outcomes were compared. Results Demographic characteristics and laboratory parameters were similar between the groups (P>0.05). The clini-
cal pregnancy rate (CPR) was significantly higher in the firm catheter (19%, 19/100) and tenaculum (31.7%, 20/63)
groups compared to the soft catheter group (5.1%, 9/175, P<0.001). There were no significant differences between
the groups in live birth and miscarriage rates per clinical pregnancy (P>0.05). Conclusion Our findings indicate that the use of a firm catheter or tenaculum for IUI might result in a higher CPR, but
might not have a considerable effect on the live birth rate (LBR). Further prospective randomized studies are required
to determine the long-term effects of the catheter type or tenaculum use on IUI success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pinar Gulsen Coban
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Numune Education and Research Hospital, Ankara,Turkey
| | - Ayla Sargin Oruc
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Ankara Guven Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Meryem Kuru Pekcan
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Zekai Tahir Burak Women's Health and Research Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Hasan Ali Inal
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Konya Education and Research Hospital, Konya, Turkey.Electronic Address:
| | - Necati Hancerliogullari
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Zekai Tahir Burak Women's Health and Research Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Nafiye Yilmaz
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Zekai Tahir Burak Women's Health and Research Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
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12
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Danhof NA, Wang R, van Wely M, van der Veen F, Mol BWJ, Mochtar MH. IUI for unexplained infertility-a network meta-analysis. Hum Reprod Update 2020; 26:1-15. [PMID: 31803930 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmz035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2018] [Revised: 08/29/2019] [Accepted: 09/06/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND IUI for unexplained infertility can be performed in a natural cycle or in combination with ovarian stimulation. A disadvantage of ovarian stimulation is an increased risk of multiple pregnancies with its inherent maternal and neonatal complication risks. Stimulation agents for ovarian stimulation are clomiphene citrate (CC), Letrozole or gonadotrophins. Although studies have compared two or three of these drugs to each other in IUI, they have never been compared to one another in one analysis. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE The objective of this network meta-analysis was to compare the effectiveness and safety of IUI with CC, Letrozole or gonadotrophins with each other and with natural cycle IUI. SEARCH METHODS We searched PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, CENTRAL and the Clinical Trial Registration Database indexed up to 16 August 2018. We included randomized controlled trials that compared a stimulation regimen with CC, Letrozole or gonadotrophins to each other or to natural cycle IUI among couples with unexplained infertility. We performed the network meta-analysis within a multivariate random effects model. OUTCOMES We identified 26 studies reporting on 5316 women. The relative risk (RR) for live birth/ongoing pregnancy rates comparing IUI with CC to natural cycle IUI was 1.05 (95% CI 0.63-1.77, low quality of evidence), while comparing IUI with Letrozole to natural cycle IUI was 1.15 (95% CI 0.63-2.08, low quality of evidence) and comparing IUI with gonadotrophins to natural cycle IUI was 1.46 (95% CI 0.92-2.30, low quality of evidence). The RR for live birth/ongoing pregnancy rates comparing gonadotrophins to CC was 1.39 (95% CI 1.09-1.76, moderate quality of evidence), comparing Letrozole to CC was 1.09 (95% CI 0.76-1.57, moderate quality of evidence) and comparing Letrozole to gonadotrophins was 0.79 (95% CI 0.54-1.15, moderate quality of evidence). We did not perform network meta-analysis on multiple pregnancy due to high inconsistency. Pairwise meta-analyses showed an RR for multiple pregnancy rates of 9.11(95% CI 1.18-70.32) comparing IUI with gonadotrophins to natural cycle IUI. There was no data available on multiple pregnancy rates following IUI with CC or Letrozole compared to natural cycle IUI. The RR for multiple pregnancy rates comparing gonadotrophins to CC was 1.42 (95% CI 0.68-2.97), comparing Letrozole to CC was 0.97 (95% CI 0.47-2.01) and comparing Letrozole to gonadotrophins was 0.29 (95% CI 0.14-0.58).In a meta-analysis among studies with adherence to strict cancellation criteria, the RR for live births/ongoing pregnancy rates comparing gonadotrophins to CC was 1.20 (95% CI 0.95-1.51) and the RR for multiple pregnancy rates comparing gonadotropins to CC was 0.80 (95% CI 0.38-1.68). WIDER IMPLICATIONS Based on low to moderate quality of evidence in this network meta-analysis, IUI with gonadotrophins ranked highest on live birth/ongoing pregnancy rates, but women undergoing this treatment protocol were also at risk for multiple pregnancies with high complication rates. IUI regimens with adherence to strict cancellation criteria led to an acceptable multiple pregnancy rate without compromising the effectiveness. Within a protocol with adherence to strict cancellation criteria, gonadotrophins seem to improve live birth/ongoing pregnancy rates compared to CC. We, therefore, suggest performing IUI with ovarian stimulation using gonadotrophins within a protocol that includes strict cancellation criteria. Obviously, this ignores the impact of costs and patients preference.
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Affiliation(s)
- N A Danhof
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, AMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - R Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University
| | - M van Wely
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology, AMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | | | - M H Mochtar
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology, AMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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13
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Evidence-based treatments for couples with unexplained infertility: a guideline. Fertil Steril 2020; 113:305-322. [PMID: 32106976 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2019.10.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2019] [Accepted: 10/07/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To provide evidence-based recommendations to practicing physicians and others regarding the effectiveness and safety of therapies for unexplained infertility. METHODS ASRM conducted a literature search, which included systematic reviews, meta-analyses, randomized controlled trials, and prospective and retrospective comparative observational studies published from 1968 through 2019. The ASRM Practice Committee and a task force of experts used available evidence and informal consensus to develop evidence-based guideline recommendations. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Outcomes of interest included: live-birth rate, clinical pregnancy rate, implantation rate, fertilization rate, multiple pregnancy rate, dose of treatment, rate of ovarian hyperstimulation, abortion rate, and ectopic pregnancy rate. RESULT(S) The literature search identified 88 relevant studies to inform the evidence base for this guideline. RECOMMENDATION(S) Evidence-based recommendations were developed for the following treatments for couples with unexplained infertility: natural cycle with intrauterine insemination (IUI); clomiphene citrate with intercourse; aromatase inhibitors with intercourse; gonadotropins with intercourse; clomiphene citrate with IUI; aromatase inhibitors with IUI; combination of clomiphene citrate or letrozole and gonadotropins (low dose and conventional dose) with IUI; low-dose gonadotropins with IUI; conventional-dose gonadotropins with IUI; timing of IUI; and in vitro fertilization and treatment paradigms. CONCLUSION(S) The treatment of unexplained infertility is by necessity empiric. For most couples, the best initial therapy is a course (typically 3 or 4 cycles) of ovarian stimulation with oral medications and intrauterine insemination (OS-IUI) followed by in vitro fertilization for those unsuccessful with OS-IUI treatments.
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14
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Li S, He Y, Cao M, Liu H, Liu J. Low-dose human menopausal gonadotrophin versus natural cycles in intrauterine insemination for subfertile couples with regular menstruation. J Ovarian Res 2020; 13:36. [PMID: 32247312 PMCID: PMC7129328 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-020-00638-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2019] [Accepted: 03/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Women with irregular menstruation should be considered to benefit from the ovarian stimulation. However, most literature did not separate ovulatory disorders from normal menstrual cycles. Our purpose was to assess the superiority of ovarian mild stimulation compared with the natural cycle in IUI for subfertile couples when the women with regular menstruation. METHODS A retrospective study in a single medical center in which 2413 couples with 3573 IUI cycles were studied from 2013 to 2018. The results of IUI in natural cycles versus low-dose HMG induced cycles were analyzed. RESULTS For young women (age < 35 years) with normal menstrual cycle, HMG induced ovulation combined with IUI can improve clinical pregnancy outcome (13.55% in two follicular induced cycles vs. 7.23% in natural cycles, p < 0.01); even if only one follicle was induced, the clinical pregnancy rate was increased to 10.32% (p < 0.01). When two growth follicles were induced in HMG cycles, a remarkable improvement of the live birthrate (10.28% vs. 5.91% in natural cycles, p < 0.05) was noted. Simultaneously, twin pregnancy rates were increased to 20.69% (p < 0.01). Twin pregnancies showed significantly increased risk of both ectopic pregnancy and preterm birth (p = 0.00 for both). For advanced women (age ≥ 35 years) with regular menstrual cycle, ovulation induction didn't improve clinical pregnancy and live birthrates, while age was the only relevant factor. CONCLUSIONS Combining HMG induced ovulation and IUI can improve pregnancy outcome in young women with normal menstrual cycles. 1-2 follicles with diameter ≥ 14 mm served as the purpose of ovulation induction. Further, both twin and ectopic pregnancy rate in HMG cycles with two growth follicles were significantly higher than those in natural cycles were. Therefore, doctors must evaluate the risk before making choices and inform the patients to achieve the best results. For advanced women with normal menstrual cycles, natural IUI cycles were optional.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sichen Li
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, 63 Duobao Road, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yuxia He
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, 63 Duobao Road, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Mingzhu Cao
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, 63 Duobao Road, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Hanyan Liu
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, 63 Duobao Road, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Jianqiao Liu
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, 63 Duobao Road, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
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15
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Zolton JR, Lindner PG, Terry N, DeCherney AH, Hill MJ. Gonadotropins versus oral ovarian stimulation agents for unexplained infertility: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Fertil Steril 2020; 113:417-425.e1. [PMID: 31973903 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2019.09.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2019] [Revised: 09/24/2019] [Accepted: 09/30/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To compare live birth and multiple gestation in patients diagnosed with unexplained infertility undergoing intrauterine insemination after ovarian stimulation (OS-IUI) with oral medications versus gonadotropins. DESIGN Systemic review and meta-analysis. SETTING Not applicable. PATIENT(S) Patients undergoing OS-IUI for treatment of unexplained infertility. INTERVENTION(S) Clomiphene, letrozole, or gonadotropins for OS-IUI. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Live birth and multiple gestation. RESULT(S) Eight total trials were identified that met the inclusion criteria and comprised 2,989 patients undergoing 6,590 cycles. One study reported a significant increase in both live births and multiple gestations with the use of gonadotropins, two studies found an increased likelihood of live birth with the use of gonadotropins, and two studies found an increased risk of twins with gonadotropins. The relative risk of live birth in subjects receiving gonadotropins was 1.09. The relative risk of multiple gestation in subjects receiving gonadotropins was 1.06. Clinical pregnancy was higher in protocols with lax cancellation policies or higher gonadotropin doses, with subsequent increased relative risks of multiple gestations of 1.20 and 1.15, respectively. Singleton births per subject were similar between the two groups. The results did not change in per-protocol, per cycle, or fixed-effect model sensitivity analyses. CONCLUSION(S) For every birth gained with the use of gonadotropins, a similar increased risk of multiple gestation occurs. The randomized data do not support the use of gonadotropin for OS-IUI in women with unexplained infertility. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER Prospero CRD4201911998.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica R Zolton
- Program in Reproductive Endocrinology and Gynecology, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland.
| | - Peter G Lindner
- Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Nancy Terry
- National Institutes of Health Library, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Alan H DeCherney
- Program in Reproductive Endocrinology and Gynecology, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Micah J Hill
- Program in Reproductive Endocrinology and Gynecology, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland; Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, Maryland
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16
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Danhof NA, van Wely M, Repping S, Koks C, Verhoeve HR, de Bruin JP, Verberg MFG, van Hooff MHA, Cohlen BJ, van Heteren CF, Fleischer K, Gianotten J, van Disseldorp J, Visser J, Broekmans FJM, Mol BWJ, van der Veen F, Mochtar MH. Follicle stimulating hormone versus clomiphene citrate in intrauterine insemination for unexplained subfertility: a randomized controlled trial. Hum Reprod 2019; 33:1866-1874. [PMID: 30137325 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dey268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2018] [Accepted: 07/24/2018] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Is FSH or clomiphene citrate (CC) the most effective stimulation regimen in terms of ongoing pregnancies in couples with unexplained subfertility undergoing IUI with adherence to strict cancellation criteria as a measure to reduce the number of multiple pregnancies? SUMMARY ANSWER In IUI with adherence to strict cancellation criteria, ovarian stimulation with FSH is not superior to CC in terms of the cumulative ongoing pregnancy rate, and yields a similar, low multiple pregnancy rate. WHAT IS ALREADY KNOWN FSH has been shown to result in higher pregnancy rates compared to CC, but at the cost of high multiple pregnancy rates. To reduce the risk of multiple pregnancy, new ovarian stimulation regimens have been suggested, these include strict cancellation criteria to limit the number of dominant follicles per cycle i.e. withholding insemination when more than three dominant follicles develop. With such a strategy, it is unclear whether the ovarian stimulation should be done with FSH or with CC. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION We performed an open-label multicenter randomized superiority controlled trial in the Netherlands (NTR 4057). PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS We randomized couples diagnosed with unexplained subfertility and scheduled for a maximum of four cycles of IUI with ovarian stimulation with 75 IU FSH or 100 mg CC. Cycles were cancelled when more then three dominant follicles developed. The primary outcome was cumulative ongoing pregnancy rate. Multiple pregnancy was a secondary outcome. We analysed the data on intention to treat basis. We calculated relative risks and absolute risk difference with 95% CI. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Between July 2013 and March 2016, we allocated 369 women to ovarian stimulation with FSH and 369 women to ovarian stimulation with CC. A total of 113 women (31%) had an ongoing pregnancy following ovarian stimulation with FSH and 97 women (26%) had an ongoing pregnancy following ovarian stimulation with CC (RR = 1.16, 95% CI: 0.93-1.47, ARD = 0.04, 95% CI: -0.02 to 0.11). Five women (1.4%) had a multiple pregnancy following ovarian stimulation with FSH and eight women (2.2%) had a multiple pregnancy following ovarian stimulation with CC (RR = 0.63, 95% CI: 0.21-1.89, ARD = -0.01, 95% CI: -0.03 to 0.01). LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION We were not able to blind this study due to the nature of the interventions. We consider it unlikely that this has introduced performance bias, since pregnancy outcomes are objective outcome measures. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS We revealed that adherence to strict cancellation criteria is a successful solution to reduce the number of multiple pregnancies in IUI. To decide whether ovarian stimulation with FSH or with CC should be the regimen of choice, costs and patients' preferences should be taken into account. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This trial received funding from the Dutch Organization for Health Research and Development (ZonMw). Prof. Dr B.W.J. Mol is supported by a NHMRC Practitioner Fellowship (GNT1082548). B.W.M. reports consultancy for Merck, ObsEva and Guerbet. The other authors declare that they have no competing interests. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER Nederlands Trial Register NTR4057. TRIAL REGISTRATION DATE 1 July 2013. DATE OF FIRST PATIENT’S ENROLMENT The first patient was randomized at 27 August 2013.
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Affiliation(s)
- N A Danhof
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Academic Medical Centre, Meiberg dreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - M van Wely
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Academic Medical Centre, Meiberg dreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - S Repping
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Academic Medical Centre, Meiberg dreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - C Koks
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Máxima Medical Centre, Postbus 7777, 5500 MB, Veldhoven, The Netherlands
| | - H R Verhoeve
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, OLVG oost, Oosterpark 9, 1091 AC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - J P de Bruin
- Jeroen Bosch Hospital, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Postbus 90153, 5200 ME, 's-Hertogenbosch, The Netherlands
| | - M F G Verberg
- Fertility Clinic Twente, Demmersweg 66, 7556 BN, Hengelo, The Netherlands
| | - M H A van Hooff
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Sint Franciscus Gasthuis, Kleiweg 500, 3045 PM, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - B J Cohlen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Isala Hospital, Postbus 10400, 8000 GK, Zwolle, The Netherlands
| | - C F van Heteren
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Canisius Wilhelmina Hospital, Postbus 9015, 6500 GS, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - K Fleischer
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Radboud University Medical Centre, Geert Grooteplein Zuid 10, 6525 GA, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - J Gianotten
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Spaarne Gasthuis, Postbus 417, 2000 AK, Haarlem, The Netherlands
| | - J van Disseldorp
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, St. Antonius hospital Nieuwegein, Koekoekslaan 1, 3435 CM, Nieuwegein, The Netherlands
| | - J Visser
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Amphia, Postbus 90157, 4800 RL, Breda, The Netherlands
| | - F J M Broekmans
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Postbus 85500, 3508 GA, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - B W J Mol
- Monash University, Monash Medical Centre, 246 Clayton Rd, Clayton VIC 3168, Australia
| | - F van der Veen
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Academic Medical Centre, Meiberg dreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - M H Mochtar
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Academic Medical Centre, Meiberg dreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Bahadur G, Homburg R. Growing body of evidence supports intrauterine insemination as first line treatment and rejects unfounded concerns about its efficacy, risks and cost effectiveness. JBRA Assist Reprod 2019; 23:62-67. [PMID: 30277707 PMCID: PMC6364272 DOI: 10.5935/1518-0557.20180073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
IUI has been practiced for five decades but only three unconvincing trials attempted to demonstrate the superiority of IUI over sexual intercourse (SI). In the absence of evidence of its effectiveness, the National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) recommended IVF over IUI after 2 years of unprotected SI. High-quality recent data in well-constructed studies suggest that biases against IUI procedures and in favour of IVF are invalid. It is unethical to continue to misinform patients and stakeholders. The well-constructed randomised controlled trials (RCT) show IUI procedure to be efficient, with minimal risk, and above all improved cost-effectiveness when compared to IVF for live birth. IUI as first-line treatment should be offered to most patients, while funding agencies and stakeholders need to be urgently informed of the cost-benefit in offering IUI. Fertility clinics, IVF interest groups, and regulatory bodies should amend their patient information and guidance to state that IUI should be the first line treatment and that IVF should be offered only when essential. Reappraising and promoting IUI based on evidence enhances patient autonomy, choices, and trust, while allowing the fertility industry to operate within an ethical and acceptable framework not seen as exploitative toward vulnerable patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gulam Bahadur
- Reproductive Medicine Unit, North Middlesex University Hospital, Old Admin Block, Sterling Way, London N18 1QX, UK.,Homerton Fertility Unit, Homerton University Hospital, Homerton Row, London E9 6SR,UK
| | - Roy Homburg
- Homerton Fertility Unit, Homerton University Hospital, Homerton Row, London E9 6SR,UK
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Cohlen B, Bijkerk A, Van der Poel S, Ombelet W. IUI: review and systematic assessment of the evidence that supports global recommendations. Hum Reprod Update 2018; 24:300-319. [PMID: 29452361 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmx041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2017] [Accepted: 12/19/2017] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND IUI with or without ovarian stimulation (OS) has become a first-line treatment option for many infertile couples, worldwide. The appropriate treatment modality for couples and their clinical management through IUI or IUI/OS cycles must consider maternal and perinatal outcomes, most notably the clinical complication of higher-order multiple pregnancies associated with IUI-OS. With a current global emphasis to continue to decrease maternal and perinatal mortality and morbidity, the World Health Organization (WHO) had established a multi-year project to review the evidence for the establishment of normative guidance for the implementation of IUI as a treatment to address fertility problems, and to consider its cost-effectiveness for lower resource settings. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE The objective of this review is to provide a review of the evidence of 13 prioritized questions that cover IUI with and without OS. We provide summary recommendations for the development of global, evidence-based guidelines based upon methodology established by the WHO. SEARCH METHODS We performed a comprehensive search using question-specific relevant search terms in May 2015. For each PICO (Population, Intervention, Comparison and Outcomes) drafted by WHO, specific search terms were used to find the available evidence in MEDLINE (1950 to May 2015) and The Cochrane Library (until May 2015). After presentation to an expert panel, a further hand search of references in relevant reviews was performed up to January 2017. Articles that were found to be relevant were read and analysed by two investigators and critically appraised using the Cochrane Collaboration's tool for assessing risk of bias, and AMSTAR in case of systematic reviews. The quality of the evidence was assessed using the GRADE system. An independent expert review process of our analysis was conducted in November 2016. OUTCOMES This review provides an assessment and synthesis of the evidence that covers 13 clinical questions including the indications for the use of IUI versus expectant management, the sperm parameters required, the best and optimal method of timing and number of inseminations per cycle, prevention strategies to decrease multiple gestational pregnancies, and the cost-effectiveness of IUI versus IVF. We provide an evidence-based formulation of 20 recommendations, as well as two best practice points that address the integration of methods for the prevention of infection in the IUI laboratory. The quality of the evidence ranges from very low to high, with evidence that may be decades old but of high quality, however, we further discuss where critical research gaps in the evidence remain. WIDER IMPLICATIONS This review presents an evidence synthesis assessment and includes recommendations that will assist health care providers worldwide with their decision-making when considering IUI treatments, with or without OS, for their patients presenting with fertility problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben Cohlen
- Isala Fertility Center, Isala, Dr van Heesweg 2, 8025 AB Zwolle, The Netherlands
| | - Aartjan Bijkerk
- Isala Fertility Center, Isala, Dr van Heesweg 2, 8025 AB Zwolle, The Netherlands
| | - Sheryl Van der Poel
- WHO/HRP (the UNDP/UNFPA/UNICEF/WHO/World Bank Special Programme of Research, Development and Research Training in Human Reproduction), Avenue Appia 20, 1202 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Willem Ombelet
- Genk Institute for Fertility Technology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Ziekenhuis Oost-Limburg, Schiepse Bos 6, 3600 Genk, Belgium.,Department of Physiology, Hasselt University, Martelarenlaan 42, 3500 Hasselt, Belgium
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Di Paola R, Garzon S, Giuliani S, Laganà AS, Noventa M, Parissone F, Zorzi C, Raffaelli R, Ghezzi F, Franchi M, Zaffagnini S. Are we choosing the correct FSH starting dose during controlled ovarian stimulation for intrauterine insemination cycles? Potential application of a nomogram based on woman's age and markers of ovarian reserve. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2018; 298:1029-1035. [PMID: 30242498 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-018-4906-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2018] [Accepted: 09/12/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate the potential application of a nomogram based on woman's age and ovarian reserve markers as a tool to optimize the follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) starting dose in intrauterine insemination (IUI) cycles. METHODS We conducted a retrospective analysis enrolling 179 infertile women undergoing controlled ovarian stimulation (COS), followed by IUI. Each woman received an FSH starting dose according to clinical decision. After collecting data about COS and IUI procedures, we calculated the FSH starting dose according to the nomogram. The main outcomes measured were women's baseline characteristics, COS, and clinical outcomes. RESULTS The FSH starting dose calculated by the nomogram was significantly lower than the one actually prescribed (p < 0.001), in only 14.8% of the cycles nomogram calculated a higher starting dose. When gonadotropin dose was decreased during COS, and similarly in case of hyper-response (more than two follicles ≥ 16 mm retrieved), the FSH starting dose calculated by the nomogram would have been lower in most of the cases (81.8% and 48.8%, respectively). Conversely, when gonadotropin dose was increased during COS and in case of low ovarian response (no follicle ≥ 16 mm retrieved), the FSH starting dose calculated by the nomogram would have been lower in most of the cases (64.7% and 100%, respectively); in these groups median anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) level was 5.62 ng/mL. CONCLUSIONS The application of this nomogram in IUI cycles would lead to a more tailored FSH starting dose and improved cost-effectiveness, although in PCOS women, particularly the ones with high AMH, it does not seem adequate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rossana Di Paola
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, AOUI Verona, University of Verona, Piazzale Aristide Stefani 1, 37126, Verona, VR, Italy
| | - Simone Garzon
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, AOUI Verona, University of Verona, Piazzale Aristide Stefani 1, 37126, Verona, VR, Italy.
| | - Sara Giuliani
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, AOUI Verona, University of Verona, Piazzale Aristide Stefani 1, 37126, Verona, VR, Italy
| | - Antonio Simone Laganà
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, "Filippo Del Ponte" Hospital, University of Insubria, Piazza Biroldi 1, 21100, Varese, VA, Italy
| | - Marco Noventa
- Department of Woman and Child Health, University of Padua, Via Nicolò Giustiniani, 3, 35128, Padua, PD, Italy
| | - Francesca Parissone
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, AOUI Verona, University of Verona, Piazzale Aristide Stefani 1, 37126, Verona, VR, Italy
| | - Carlotta Zorzi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, AOUI Verona, University of Verona, Piazzale Aristide Stefani 1, 37126, Verona, VR, Italy
| | - Ricciarda Raffaelli
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, AOUI Verona, University of Verona, Piazzale Aristide Stefani 1, 37126, Verona, VR, Italy
| | - Fabio Ghezzi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, "Filippo Del Ponte" Hospital, University of Insubria, Piazza Biroldi 1, 21100, Varese, VA, Italy
| | - Massimo Franchi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, AOUI Verona, University of Verona, Piazzale Aristide Stefani 1, 37126, Verona, VR, Italy
| | - Stefano Zaffagnini
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, AOUI Verona, University of Verona, Piazzale Aristide Stefani 1, 37126, Verona, VR, Italy
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20
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Vitagliano A, Saccone G, Noventa M, Borini A, Coccia ME, Nardelli GB, Saccardi C, Bifulco G, Litta PS, Andrisani A. Pituitary block with gonadotrophin-releasing hormone antagonist during intrauterine insemination cycles: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials. BJOG 2018; 126:167-175. [PMID: 29862633 DOI: 10.1111/1471-0528.15269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/02/2018] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Several randomised controlled trials (RCTs) have investigated the usefulness of pituitary block with gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonists during intrauterine insemination (IUI) cycles, with conflicting results. OBJECTIVE The aim of the present systematic review and meta-analysis of RCTs was to evaluate the effectiveness of GnRH antagonist administration as an intervention to improve the success of IUI cycles. SEARCH STRATEGY Electronic databases (MEDLINE, Scopus, EMBASE, Sciencedirect) and clinical registers were searched from their inception until October 2017. SELECTION CRITERIA Randomised controlled trials of infertile women undergoing one or more IUI stimulated cycles with GnRH antagonists compared with a control group. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS The primary outcomes were ongoing pregnancy/live birth rate (OPR/LBR) and clinical pregnancy rate (CPR). Pooled results were expressed as odds ratio (OR) or mean differences with 95% confidence interval (95% CI). Sources of heterogeneity were investigated through sensitivity and subgroups analysis. The body of evidence was rated using GRADE methodology. Publication bias was assessed with funnel plot, Begg's and Egger's tests. MAIN RESULTS Fifteen RCTs were included (3253 IUI cycles, 2345 participants). No differences in OPR/LBR (OR 1.14, 95% CI 0.82-1.57, P = 0.44) and CPR (OR 1.28, 95% CI 0.97-1.69, P = 0.08) were found. Sensitivity and subgroup analyses did not provide statistical changes in pooled results. The body of evidence was rated as low (GRADE 2/4). No publication bias was detected. CONCLUSION Pituitary block with GnRH antagonists does not improve OPR/LBR and CPR in women undergoing IUI cycles. TWEETABLE ABSTRACT Pituitary block with GnRH antagonists does not improve the success of IUI cycles.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Vitagliano
- Department of Women and Children's Health, Unit of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - G Saccone
- Department of Neuroscience Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, School of Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - M Noventa
- Department of Women and Children's Health, Unit of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - A Borini
- 9.Baby, Family and Fertility Centre Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - M E Coccia
- Department of Biomedical, Experimental and Clinical Sciences, Division of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Careggi University Hospital, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - G B Nardelli
- Department of Women and Children's Health, Unit of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - C Saccardi
- Department of Women and Children's Health, Unit of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - G Bifulco
- Department of Neuroscience Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, School of Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - P S Litta
- Department of Women and Children's Health, Unit of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - A Andrisani
- Department of Women and Children's Health, Unit of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
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Ammar IMM, Salem MAA. Effect of oral Tadalafil on endometrial thickness in patients receiving Clomiphene citrate for ovulation induction. MIDDLE EAST FERTILITY SOCIETY JOURNAL 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mefs.2017.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
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D'Hooghe T. Transparent collaboration between industry and academia can serve unmet patient need and contribute to reproductive public health. Hum Reprod 2018; 32:1549-1555. [PMID: 28854594 PMCID: PMC5850474 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dex230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2017] [Accepted: 06/07/2017] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The pharmaceutical and device industry has greatly contributed to diagnostic and therapeutic approaches in reproductive medicine in a very highly regulated environment, ensuring that development and manufacturing follow the highest standards. In spite of these achievements, collaboration between industry and physicians/academia is often presented in a negative context. However, today more than ever, partnership between industry and academia is needed to shorten the timeline between innovation and application, and to achieve faster access to better diagnostics, drugs and devices for the benefit of patients and society, based on complementary knowledge, skills and expertise. Such partnerships can include joined preclinical/clinical and post-marketing research and development, joint intellectual property, and joint revenue. In Europe, the transparency of this collaboration between pharmaceutical industry and medical doctors has been made possible by the Compliance and Disclosure Policy published by the European Federation of Pharmaceutical Industries and Associations (EFPIA), which represents the major pharmaceutical companies operating in Europe, and includes as members some but not all companies active in infertility and women's health. Under the EFPIA Disclosure Code of conduct, companies need to disclose transfers of value including amounts, activity type and the names of the recipient Health Care Professionals and Organizations. EFPIA member companies have also implemented very strict internal quality control processes and procedures in the design, statistical analysis, reporting, publication and communication of clinical research, according to Good Clinical Practice and other regulations, and are regularly inspected by competent authorities such as the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or European Medicines Agency (EMA) for all trials used in marketing authorization applications. The risk of scientific bias exists not only in the pharmaceutical industry but also in the academic world. When academics believe in a hypothesis, they may build their case by emphasizing the arguments supporting their case, and either refute, refuse, oppose or ignore arguments that challenge their assumptions. A possible solution to reduce this bias is international consensus on study design, data collection, statistical analysis and reporting of outcomes, especially in the area of personalized reproductive medicine, e.g. to demonstrate superiority or non-inferiority of personalized ovarian stimulation using biomarkers. Equally important is that declarations of interest are reported transparently and completely in scientific abstracts and publications, and that ghost authorship is replaced by proactive and clear co-authorship for experts from industry where such co-authorship is required based on the prevailing ICMJE criteria. In that context, however, reviewers should stop believing that publications by industry authors only, or by mixed groups of co-authors from industry and academia, are more prone to bias than papers from academic groups only. Instead, the scientific quality of the work should be the only relevant criterion for acceptance of papers or abstracts, regardless of the environment where the work was done. In the end, neutrality does not exist and different beliefs and biases exist within and between healthcare professionals and organizations and pharmaceutical industries. The challenge is to be transparent about this reality at all times, and to behave in an informed, balanced and ethical way as medical and scientific experts, taking into account compliance and legal regulations of both industry and academic employers, in the best interest of patients and society.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas D'Hooghe
- Global Medical Affairs Fertility, Merck KGaA, Frankfurter Str. 250, Post Code F135/002, 64293 Darmstadt, Germany.,Department of Development and Regeneration, Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Endometrium and Endometriosis, p/a Dept Obstetrics Gynecology, University Hospital Gasthuisberg, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium.,Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Farnum Memorial Building 330 Cedar Street, 3rd Floor New Haven, CT 06520, USA
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[First line management without IVF of infertility related to endometriosis: Result of medical therapy? Results of ovarian superovulation? Results of intrauterine insemination? CNGOF-HAS Endometriosis Guidelines]. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018; 46:331-337. [PMID: 29551300 DOI: 10.1016/j.gofs.2018.02.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2017] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Using the structured methodology of French guidelines (HAS-CNGOF), the aim of this chapter was to formulate good practice points (GPP), in relation to optimal non-ART management of endometriosis related to infertility, based on the best available evidence in the literature. MATERIALS AND METHODS This guideline was produced by a group of experts in the field including a thorough systematic search of the literature (from January 1980 to March 2017). Were included only women with endometriosis related to infertility. For each recommendation, a grade (A-D, where A is the highest quality) was assigned based on the strength of the supporting evidence. RESULTS Management of endometriosis related to infertility should be multidisciplinary and take account into the pain, the global evaluation of infertile couple and the different phenotypes of endometriotic lesions (good practice point). Hormonal treatment for suppression of ovarian function should not prescribe to improve fertility (grade A). After laproscopy for endometriosis related to infertility, the Endometriosis Fertility Index should be used to counsel patients regarding duration of conventional treatments before undergoing ART (grade C). After laparoscopy surgery for infertile women with AFS/ASRM stage I/II endometriosis or superficial peritoneal endometriosis, controlled ovarian stimulation with or without intrauterine insemination could be used to enhance non-ART pregnancy rate (grade C). Gonadotrophins should be the first line therapy for the stimulation (grade B). The number of cycles before referring ART should not exceed up to 6 cycles (good practice point). No recommendation can be performed for non-ART management of deep infiltrating endometriosis or endometrioma, as suitable evidence is lacking. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION Non-ART management is a possible option for the management of endometriosis related to infertility. Endometriosis Fertilty Index could be a useful tool for subsequent postoperative fertility management. Controlled ovarian stimulation can be proposed.
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Peeraer K, Luyten J, Tomassetti C, Verschueren S, Spiessens C, Tanghe A, Meuleman C, Debrock S, Dancet E, D'Hooghe T. Cost-effectiveness of ovarian stimulation with gonadotrophin and clomiphene citrate in an intrauterine insemination programme for subfertile couples. Reprod Biomed Online 2018; 36:302-310. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2017.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2017] [Revised: 11/29/2017] [Accepted: 12/08/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Banker M, Patel A, Deshmukh A, Shah S. Comparison of Effectiveness of Different Protocols Used for Controlled Ovarian Hyperstimulation in Intrauterine Insemination Cycle. J Obstet Gynaecol India 2018; 68:65-69. [PMID: 29391678 DOI: 10.1007/s13224-017-1054-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2017] [Accepted: 09/12/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is one of the most commonly performed procedure of assisted reproductive technology, for the treatment of infertility. Controlled ovarian hyperstimulation is an important first step while performing IUI. This study aims at establishing a relationship between stimulation protocol and pregnancy outcome following IUI. Methods This is a retrospective study of 1001 cycles of IUI in which the patients were divided into two groups: Group A Clomiphene citrate (CC only) and Group B Clomiphene citrate and Gonadotropin or Gonadotropin alone(CC+GN OR GN alone). The primary outcome assessed was clinical pregnancy rates (CPRs), and the secondary outcomes were miscarriage rate (MR), multiple pregnancy rates (MPRs), follicle numbers and endometrial thickness (ET). Results Significantly, higher CPR was observed in Group B in comparison with Group A (14.55 vs. 7.82%; p = 0.05). MR was much higher in Group A in comparison with Group B, (14.29 vs. 5.43%; p = 0.94), but it was non-significant. The follicle number and the ET of the Group A versus Group B are (1.54 ± 0.69 vs. 1.90 ± 1.04; p = 0.0003) and (8.56 ± 1.33 vs. 8.39 ± 1.29; p = 0.1784), respectively; and for subgroups, Group B1 and Group B2 are 1.92 ± 0.99 versus 1.65 ± 0.92; p = 0.0008 and 8.32 ± 1.27 vs. 8.69 ± 1.24; p = 0.0004, respectively. Conclusion GN, either alone or the combination with CC, gives a higher CPR and a lower abortion rate following IUI, thus increasing the multiple pregnancy rate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manish Banker
- Nova IVI Fertility Clinic, 108, Swastik Society, Behind St. Xavier's Ladies Hostel, Navrangpura, Ahmedabad, 380009 India
| | - Azadeh Patel
- Nova IVI Fertility Clinic, 108, Swastik Society, Behind St. Xavier's Ladies Hostel, Navrangpura, Ahmedabad, 380009 India
| | - Ashwini Deshmukh
- Nova IVI Fertility Clinic, 108, Swastik Society, Behind St. Xavier's Ladies Hostel, Navrangpura, Ahmedabad, 380009 India
| | - Sandeep Shah
- Nova IVI Fertility Clinic, 108, Swastik Society, Behind St. Xavier's Ladies Hostel, Navrangpura, Ahmedabad, 380009 India
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Vitagliano A, Noventa M, Saccone G, Gizzo S, Vitale SG, Laganà AS, Litta PS, Saccardi C, Nardelli GB, Di Spiezio Sardo A. Endometrial scratch injury before intrauterine insemination: is it time to re-evaluate its value? Evidence from a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Fertil Steril 2018; 109:84-96.e4. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2017.09.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2017] [Revised: 09/11/2017] [Accepted: 09/18/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Nandi A, Bhide P, Hooper R, Gudi A, Shah A, Khan K, Homburg R. Intrauterine insemination with gonadotropin stimulation or in vitro fertilization for the treatment of unexplained subfertility: a randomized controlled trial. Fertil Steril 2017; 107:1329-1335.e2. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2017.03.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2016] [Revised: 03/23/2017] [Accepted: 03/27/2017] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Geisler ME, Ledwidge M, Bermingham M, McAuliffe M, McMenamin MB, Waterstone JJ. Intrauterine insemination-No more Mr. N.I.C.E. guy? Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2017; 210:342-347. [PMID: 28122315 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2017.01.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2016] [Revised: 01/12/2017] [Accepted: 01/14/2017] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the per cycle chance of a live birth and to identify factors that may support a more individualised application of IUI in view of National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) updated guideline on fertility 2013. STUDY DESIGN A retrospective, cohort study of 851 couples (1688 cycles) with unexplained, mild endometriosis, one patent Fallopian tube (with ovulation occurring in the corresponding ovary), mild male factor or ovulatory dysfunction, who initiated their first cycle of IUI/COH during the study period 2009-2013 and completed up to 3 cycles. Exclusion criteria included donor sperm and diminished ovarian reserve. Success factors and probabilities were determined based on live birth rates. RESULTS Mean age was 33.8±3.3years and mean duration of subfertility was 2.28±1.47years. Independent associates of successful outcome factors were lower age (AOR 0.93; 95%CI 0.89-0.98, p=0.007) and multiparity (AOR 1.72; 95%CI 1.17-2.52). Live-birth rates declined independently of other factors from 15.3% (n=130/851) in cycle 1-7.0% (n=19/273) in cycle 3 (AOR 0.76; 95%CI, 0.62-0.93, p=0.008). Per cycle probabilities of live birth ranged from 21.4% to 5.1% dependent on age, cycle number and previous parity. The unadjusted cumulative pregnancy rate for live birth per cycle started, over three cycles, was 34.9% with a multiple live birth rate per cycle started of 5.4%. The associates of live birth amongst those with unexplained sub-fertility only (n=632, first cycle attempt) were also analysed, yielding similar results. CONCLUSIONS IUI/COH is a simple treatment that produces good live birth rates, especially in younger patients and/or those with previous parity. More than 90% of total live births with IUI/COH is achieved during the first two cycles. As a retrospective, observational study, there is no comparator group and therefore we cannot comment on the relative efficacy of up to three IUI cycles over expectant management in a similar cohort. Our study suggests that probabilities of success can be used to individualise treatment decisions and that there is merit in continuing to offer IUI before resorting to IVF for certain patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minna E Geisler
- Cork Fertility Centre, Fernhurst Clinic, College Road, Cork, Ireland.
| | - Mark Ledwidge
- University College Dublin, School of Medicine and Medical Science, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Margaret Bermingham
- University College Dublin, School of Medicine and Medical Science, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Mary McAuliffe
- Cork Fertility Centre, Fernhurst Clinic, College Road, Cork, Ireland
| | - Moya B McMenamin
- Cork Fertility Centre, Fernhurst Clinic, College Road, Cork, Ireland
| | - John J Waterstone
- Cork Fertility Centre, Fernhurst Clinic, College Road, Cork, Ireland
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Atasever M, Kalem MN, Hatırnaz Ş, Hatırnaz E, Kalem Z, Kalaylıoğlu Z. Factors affecting clinical pregnancy rates after IUI for the treatment of unexplained infertility and mild male subfertility. J Turk Ger Gynecol Assoc 2016; 17:134-8. [PMID: 27651720 PMCID: PMC5019828 DOI: 10.5152/jtgga.2016.16056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2016] [Accepted: 07/25/2016] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of the present retrospective study was to evaluate intrauterine insemination (IUI) clinical experiences and to define the variables for predicting success. MATERIAL AND METHODS The present study was an observational trial performed in a private IVF center on subfertile couples who had applied for treatment between 2002 and 2012, in which the data of 503 IUI cases were retrospectively reviewed. Couples who had been diagnosed with unexplained and mild male subfertility were included. The primary outcome measure was the clinical pregnancy rate in an attempt to form a predictive model for the odds of a clinical pregnancy. Recorded parameters were used to determine the prediction model. RESULTS Utilizing univariate logistic regression analysis, clinical pregnancy was positively associated with the duration of infertility (OR=1.09, p=0.089), secondary infertility (OR=1.77, p=0.050), and +4 sperm motility after preparation (OR=1.03, p=0.091). Following an adjustment analysis involving a multivariate logistic regression, clinical pregnancy was still found to positively associate with secondary infertility (OR=2.51, p=0.008). CONCLUSION IUI success in secondary infertile couples who were in the unexplained infertility and mild male subfertility groups was higher than that in primary infertile couples, and the chances of pregnancy increased as sperm numbers with +4 motility increased. It is difficult to concomitantly evaluate all these parameters and to determine a predictive parameter in IUI independent from other factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melahat Atasever
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Giresun University School of Medicine, Giresun, Turkey
| | - Müberra Namlı Kalem
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Turgut Özal University School of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
| | | | | | - Ziya Kalem
- Gürgan Clinic IVF Center, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Zeynep Kalaylıoğlu
- Department of Statistics, Middle East Technical University, Ankara, Turkey
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Impact of luteal phase support with vaginal progesterone on the clinical pregnancy rate in intrauterine insemination cycles stimulated with gonadotropins: a randomized multicenter study. Fertil Steril 2016; 106:1490-1495. [PMID: 27565253 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2016.07.1096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2016] [Revised: 06/30/2016] [Accepted: 07/18/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the effect of luteal phase support (LPS) in intrauterine insemination (IUI) cycles stimulated with gonadotropins. DESIGN Randomized multicenter trial. SETTING Academic tertiary care centers and affiliated secondary care centers. PATIENT(S) Three hundred and ninety-three normo-ovulatory patients, <43 years, with body mass index ≤30 kg/m2, in their first IUI cycle, with at least one patent tube, a normal uterine cavity, and a male partner with total motile sperm count ≥5 million after capacitation. INTERVENTION(S) Gonadotropin stimulation, IUI, randomization to LPS using vaginal progesterone gel (n = 202) or no LPS (n = 191). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Clinical pregnancy rate, live-birth rate, miscarriage rate, and duration of the luteal phase. RESULT(S) The primary outcome, the clinical pregnancy rate, was not statistically different between the treatment group (16.8%) and the control group (11%) (relative risk [RR] 1.54; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.89-2.67). Similarly, the secondary outcome, the live-birth rate, was 14.9% in the treatment group and 9.4% in the control group (RR 1.60; 95% CI, 0.89-2.87). The mean duration of the luteal phase was about 2 days longer in the treatment group (16.6 ± 2.2 days) compared with the control group (14.6 ± 2.5 days) (mean difference 2.07; 95% CI, 1.58-2.56). CONCLUSION(S) Although a trend toward a higher clinical pregnancy rate as well as live-birth rate was observed in the treatment group, the difference with the control group was not statistically significant. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT01826747.
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Bahadur G, Homburg R, Al-Habib A. A New Dawn for Intrauterine Insemination: Efficient and Prudent Practice will Benefit Patients, the Fertility Industry and the Healthcare Bodies. J Obstet Gynaecol India 2016; 67:79-85. [PMID: 28405113 DOI: 10.1007/s13224-016-0928-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2016] [Accepted: 07/28/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
This review addresses the misplaced facts about the IUI procedure within a lucrative fertility industry. Evidence suggests IUI must be a first-line treatment option for most couples except in cases of bilateral tubal blockage and severe oligozoospermia. We introduce the concept of using 'consecutive ejaculation' in men with subfertility and one which can radically alter the male infertility definition, thereby providing a new approach to examining and managing male factor infertility. The review also explores various aspects affecting the IUI procedure, its determinants of success, risks and areas for future improvements. Areas such as choice of patients, clinical management of patients, the type of stimulation regime, timing and the management of sperm usage have significant bearing to whether IUI will succeed. The paper asserts that IUI should be the first choice of fertility treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gulam Bahadur
- Reproductive Medicine Unit, North Middlesex University Hospital, Old Admin Block, Sterling Way, London, N18 1QX UK.,Homerton Fertility Unit, Homerton University Hospital, Homerton Row, London, E9 6SR UK.,Chelsea and Westminster NHS Foundation Trust/West Middlesex University Hospital, Twickenham Road, Isleworth, London, TW7 6AF UK
| | - Roy Homburg
- Homerton Fertility Unit, Homerton University Hospital, Homerton Row, London, E9 6SR UK
| | - Ansam Al-Habib
- Reproductive Medicine Unit, North Middlesex University Hospital, Old Admin Block, Sterling Way, London, N18 1QX UK
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Amita M, Takahashi T, Igarashi H, Nagase S. Clomiphene citrate down-regulates estrogen receptor-α through the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway in a human endometrial cancer cell line. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2016; 428:142-7. [PMID: 27033325 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2016.03.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2015] [Revised: 03/21/2016] [Accepted: 03/22/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
We examined how clomiphene citrate (CC) reduces estrogen receptor-α (ERα) in a human endometrial cancer cell line. Ishikawa human endometrial cancer cells were treated with ERα ligands such as 17β-estradiol (E2), CC, and the pure antiestrogen, ICI 182,780 (ICI). Thereafter, the expression levels of ERα protein and mRNA were analyzed by western blot and real-time quantitative PCR, respectively, and those of ubiquitinated ERα were analyzed by immunoprecipitation of ERα followed by immunoblotting with an anti-ubiquitin antibody. The expression levels of ERα protein after treatment with E2, CC, and ICI were significantly decreased compared to pre-treatment levels without a corresponding decrease in ERα mRNA. These ligands significantly increased the levels of ubiquitinated ERα compared to vehicle treatment. Co-treatment with the proteasome inhibitor, MG132, abrogated the decrease in ERα levels caused by treatment with the ligands only. We demonstrated, for the first time, a CC-induced decrease in ERα mediated by the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway in human endometrial cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mitsuyoshi Amita
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yamagata University Faculty of Medicine, Yamagata 990-9585, Japan
| | - Toshifumi Takahashi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yamagata University Faculty of Medicine, Yamagata 990-9585, Japan.
| | - Hideki Igarashi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yamagata University Faculty of Medicine, Yamagata 990-9585, Japan
| | - Satoru Nagase
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yamagata University Faculty of Medicine, Yamagata 990-9585, Japan
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Bahadur G, Almossawi O, IIlahibuccus A, Al-Habib A, Okolo S. Factors Leading to Pregnancies in Stimulated Intrauterine Insemination Cycles and the Use of Consecutive Ejaculations Within a Small Clinic Environment. J Obstet Gynaecol India 2016; 66:513-20. [PMID: 27651655 DOI: 10.1007/s13224-016-0876-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2016] [Accepted: 03/19/2016] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Understanding and improving IUI pregnancy rates has enormous global appeal and application. This pilot study goes one step further by utilising consecutive ejaculates from men with oligozoospermia and comparing with normozoospermic male group. MATERIALS AND METHODS A retrospective analysis was performed on 117 IUI-stimulated treatment cycles in a small fertility clinic in North Middlesex University Hospitals Trust, UK, within a NHS setting. Risks of OHSS and multiple births are carefully controlled. RESULTS In our cohort, several factors are associated with positive IUI pregnancies and these were: age of the woman, inseminating with ≥5 total progressive motile sperm; having ≥50 % Grade A sperm progression and having ≥1 follicle achieved with a realistic hMG dosage, hCG trigger and IUI of 29.7 h (2.5-38.4 h), with an endometrial thickness of 10.7 mm (6.6-13.4 mm). Bifollicular presence in at least half the cases along with hMG protocols added usefully to the pregnancy outcomes. CONCLUSIONS The pregnancy rates per cycle were 19 and 23 % in the consecutive ejaculates and non-consecutive ejaculate groups, respectively, P = 0.59. For the whole cohort, the pregnancy rate was 20.51 % per cycle and 33.8 % per women. This approach if validated with large RCT will have universally beneficial effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gulam Bahadur
- Reproductive Medicine Unit, North Middlesex University Hospital, Old Admin Block, Sterling Way, London, N18 1QX UK
| | - Ofran Almossawi
- Reproductive Medicine Unit, North Middlesex University Hospital, Old Admin Block, Sterling Way, London, N18 1QX UK
| | - Afeeza IIlahibuccus
- Reproductive Medicine Unit, North Middlesex University Hospital, Old Admin Block, Sterling Way, London, N18 1QX UK
| | - Ansam Al-Habib
- Reproductive Medicine Unit, North Middlesex University Hospital, Old Admin Block, Sterling Way, London, N18 1QX UK
| | - Stanley Okolo
- Reproductive Medicine Unit, North Middlesex University Hospital, Old Admin Block, Sterling Way, London, N18 1QX UK
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Woodward B, Tomlinson M, Kirkman-Brown J. Replacing IUI with IVF for initial treatment of unexplained infertility: why this NICE recommendation is cause for concern. HUM FERTIL 2016; 19:80-4. [PMID: 27174661 DOI: 10.1080/14647273.2016.1182220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
The latest guidelines from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) for assisted conception recommend that people experiencing unexplained infertility should no longer be offered stimulated intra-uterine insemination (IUI) as a first-line treatment, but rather be directed towards IVF or alternatively be left to expectant management. NICE has acknowledged that the cited evidence leading to this decision was not sufficiently robust. As such, we are concerned that accordance with these new NICE guidelines may result in people with no identifiable cause of their infertility being prematurely referred for IVF treatment. Since IVF constitutes a more invasive and expensive treatment process, which also represents an additional and unnecessary cost pressure to the National Health Service, there is a longstanding need for a robust clinical trial to resolve the uncertainty as to whether one treatment is more appropriate than another. Until such data is available, we suggest that provision of stimulated IUI, in centres achieving a satisfactory live birth rate, represents a significant cost-saving to those commissioning fertility services, with lower risks to people treated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bryan Woodward
- a Fertility Unit, Nottingham University Hospital , Nottingham , UK
| | - Mathew Tomlinson
- a Fertility Unit, Nottingham University Hospital , Nottingham , UK
| | - Jackson Kirkman-Brown
- b School of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Birmingham , Birmingham , UK ;,c Birmingham Women's Hospital Centre for Human Reproductive Science , Birmingham , UK
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Bahadur G, Homburg R, Muneer A, Racich P, Alangaden T, Al-Habib A, Okolo S. First line fertility treatment strategies regarding IUI and IVF require clinical evidence. Hum Reprod 2016; 31:1141-6. [PMID: 27076499 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dew075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2016] [Accepted: 03/14/2016] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The advent of intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) has contributed to a significant growth in the delivery of assisted conception technique, such that IVF/ICSI procedures are now recommended over other interventions. Even the UK National Institute for Health Care Excellence (NICE) guidelines controversially recommends against intrauterine insemination (IUI) procedures in favour of IVF. We reflect on some of the clinical, economic, financial and ethical realities that have been used to selectively promote IVF over IUI, which is less intrusive and more patient friendly, obviates the need for embryo storage and has a global application. The evidence strongly favours IUI over IVF in selected couples and national funding strategies should include IUI treatment options. IUI, practised optimally as a first line treatment in up to six cycles, would also ease the pressures on public funds to allow the provision of up to three IVF cycles for couple who need it. Fertility clinics should also strive towards ISO15189 accreditation standards for basic semen diagnosis for male infertility used to triage ICSI treatment, to reduce the over-diagnosis of severe male factor infertility. Importantly, there is a need to develop global guidelines on inclusion policies for IVF/ICSI procedures. These suggestions are an ethically sound basis for constructing the provision of publicly funded fertility treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Bahadur
- Reproductive Medicine Unit, North Middlesex University Hospital, Old Admin Block, Sterling Way, London N18 1QX, UK Homerton Fertility Unit, Homerton University Hospital, Homerton Row, London E9 6SR, UK
| | - R Homburg
- Homerton Fertility Unit, Homerton University Hospital, Homerton Row, London E9 6SR, UK
| | - A Muneer
- University College London Hospital, 250 Euston Road, London NW1 2BU, UK
| | - P Racich
- Linacre College, Oxford University, St. Cross Road, Oxford OX1 3JA, UK
| | - T Alangaden
- Subfertility Unit, Chelsea and Westminster Hospital & West Middlesex University Hospital, Twickenham Road, Isleworth, Middlesex TW7 6AF, UK
| | - A Al-Habib
- Reproductive Medicine Unit, North Middlesex University Hospital, Old Admin Block, Sterling Way, London N18 1QX, UK
| | - S Okolo
- Reproductive Medicine Unit, North Middlesex University Hospital, Old Admin Block, Sterling Way, London N18 1QX, UK
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Peeraer K, Couck I, Debrock S, De Neubourg D, De Loecker P, Tomassetti C, Laenen A, Welkenhuysen M, Meeuwis L, Pelckmans S, Meuleman C, D'Hooghe T. Frozen-thawed embryo transfer in a natural or mildly hormonally stimulated cycle in women with regular ovulatory cycles: a RCT. Hum Reprod 2015; 30:2552-62. [PMID: 26364081 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dev224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2015] [Accepted: 08/10/2015] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Can ovarian stimulation with low dose hMG improve the implantation rate (IR) per frozen-thawed embryo transferred (FET) when compared with natural cycle in an FET programme in women with a regular ovulatory cycle? SUMMARY ANSWER Both IR and live birth rate (LBR) per FET were similar in the group with mild ovarian stimulation and the natural cycle group. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Different cycle regimens for endometrial preparation are used prior to FET: spontaneous ovulatory cycles, cycles with artificial endometrial preparation using estrogen and progesterone hormones, and cycles stimulated with gonadotrophins or clomiphene citrate. At present, it is not clear which regimen results in the highest IR or LBR. More specifically, there are no RCTs in ovulatory women comparing reproductive outcome after FET during a natural cycle and during a hormonally stimulated cycle. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION A total of 410 women scheduled for FET during 579 cycles (December 2003-September 2013) were enrolled in an open-label RCT to natural cycle (NC FET group, n = 291) or to a cycle hormonally stimulated with s.c. gonadotrophins (hMG FET group, 37.5-75 IU per day, n = 288). A total of 672 embryos were transferred during 434 cycles (332 embryos and 213 cycles in the NC FET group; 340 embryos and 221 cycles in the hMG FET group). Assuming a = 0.05 and 80% power, it was calculated that 219 frozen-thawed embryos were required for transfer in each group to demonstrate a difference of 10% in IR. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Women were eligible according to the following inclusion criteria: regular ovulatory cycle, female age ≥21 years and ≤45 years, informed consent. FET cycles with preimplantation genetic screening were excluded. The primary outcome was IR per embryo transferred. Secondary outcomes included IR with fetal heart beat (FHB), LBR per embryo transferred and endometrial thickness on the day of hCG administration. Statistical analysis was by intention to treat and controlled for the presence of multiple measures, as eligible women could be randomized in more than one cycle. Chi-square and independent t-test were used to compare categorical and continuous variables. The relative risk (RR) was estimated using a Poisson model with log link. Hierarchical models with random intercepts for patient and cycle were considered to account for clustering of cycles within patients and of embryos within cycles. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE The primary outcome, IR per embryo transferred, was not statistically different between the NC FET group (41/332 (12.35%)) and in the hMG FET group (55/340 (16.18%)) (RR 1.3 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.9-2.0), P = 0.19). Similarly, the secondary outcome, IR with FHB per embryo transferred, was 34/332 (10.24%) in the NC FET group and 48/340 (14.12%) in the hMG FET group (RR 1.4 (95% CI 0.9-2.1), P = 0.15). The LBR per embryo transferred was 32/332 (9.64%) in the NC FET group and 45/340 (13.24%) in the hMG FET group (RR 1.4 (95% CI 0.9-2.2), P = 0.17). Endometrial thickness was also similar in both groups [8.9 (95% CI 8.7-9.1) in the NC FET group and 8.9 (95% CI 8.7-9.1) in the hMG FET group]. The duration of the follicular phase was significantly shorter (P < 0.001) in the hMG FET group [13.7 days (95% CI 13.2-14.2)] than in the NC FET group [15.4 days (95% CI 14.8-15.9)]. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Randomization of cycles instead of patients; open-label design; relatively long period of recruitment. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Our observation that the IR per embryo transferred is not significantly increased after FET during natural or gonadotrophin stimulated cycle, suggests that the effect of mild hormonal stimulation with gonadotrophins is smaller than what was considered clinically relevant with respect to reproductive outcome after FET. These data suggest that endometrial receptivity is not relevantly improved, but also not impaired after hormonal stimulation with gonadotrophins. Since FET during a natural cycle is cheaper and more patient-friendly, we recommend this regimen as the treatment of choice for women with regular cycles undergoing FET. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER clinicaltrials.gov NCT00492934. TRIAL REGISTRATION DATE 26 June 2007. DATE OF FIRST PATIENT'S ENROLMENT 1 December 2003.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen Peeraer
- Leuven University Fertility Center, UZ Leuven Campus Gasthuisberg, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Isabelle Couck
- Leuven University Fertility Center, UZ Leuven Campus Gasthuisberg, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Sophie Debrock
- Leuven University Fertility Center, UZ Leuven Campus Gasthuisberg, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Diane De Neubourg
- Leuven University Fertility Center, UZ Leuven Campus Gasthuisberg, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Peter De Loecker
- Leuven University Fertility Center, UZ Leuven Campus Gasthuisberg, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Carla Tomassetti
- Leuven University Fertility Center, UZ Leuven Campus Gasthuisberg, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Annouschka Laenen
- Leuven Biostatistics and Statistical Bioinformatics Centre, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Myriam Welkenhuysen
- Leuven University Fertility Center, UZ Leuven Campus Gasthuisberg, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Luc Meeuwis
- Leuven University Fertility Center, UZ Leuven Campus Gasthuisberg, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Sofie Pelckmans
- Leuven University Fertility Center, UZ Leuven Campus Gasthuisberg, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Christel Meuleman
- Leuven University Fertility Center, UZ Leuven Campus Gasthuisberg, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Thomas D'Hooghe
- Leuven University Fertility Center, UZ Leuven Campus Gasthuisberg, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
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Bahadur G, Homburg R, Ilahibuccus A, Al-Habib A, Okolo S. Letter: IVF and intrauterine insemination cannot be compared. Reprod Biomed Online 2015; 31:246-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2015.04.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2015] [Accepted: 04/29/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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