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Wei C, Wu H, Yu Y, Li Y, Xiang S, Lian F. Effect of estrogen exposure on pregnancy outcomes in artificial frozen-thawed embryo transfer cycles. Gynecol Endocrinol 2024; 40:2352142. [PMID: 38781518 DOI: 10.1080/09513590.2024.2352142] [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] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
In contemporary times, the employment of vitrification freezing technology has led to the widespread adoption of frozen-thawed embryo transfer (FET) worldwide. Meanwhile, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is a crucial protocol for priming the endometrium during FET cycles. Estrogen is required in HRT cycles for the induction of progesterone receptors and to promote endometrial thickness. However, there is no universal consensus on the treatment duration, dosage regimen, administration route, and target serum estrogen levels. Therefore, this study aimed to offer a comprehensive review of these topics. A shorter duration of estrogen exposure may elevate the risk of early miscarriage, while prolonged exposure to estrogen does not seem to confer advantages to general population and may be attempted in individuals with thin endometrium. Moreover, excessive estrogen levels on the day of progesterone administration may be associated with higher miscarriage rates and lower live birth rates (LBR). To offer more comprehensive guidance for clinical practice, extensive and prospective studies involving a large sample size are warranted to determine the optimal concentration and duration of estrogen exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaofeng Wei
- First College of Clinical Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Haicui Wu
- Integrative Medicine Research Centre of Reproduction and Heredity, The Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Yi Yu
- Integrative Medicine Research Centre of Reproduction and Heredity, The Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Yuan Li
- Integrative Medicine Research Centre of Reproduction and Heredity, The Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Shan Xiang
- First College of Clinical Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Fang Lian
- Integrative Medicine Research Centre of Reproduction and Heredity, The Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
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Pinborg A, Løssl K. Efficiency and drawbacks of frozen embryo transfers from artificial versus natural cycles. Lancet 2024; 404:219-220. [PMID: 38944043 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(24)01137-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 07/01/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Anja Pinborg
- Fertility Clinic, Department of Gynecology, Fertility and Obstetrics, Rigshospitalet-Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen DK-2100, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Kristine Løssl
- Fertility Clinic, Department of Gynecology, Fertility and Obstetrics, Rigshospitalet-Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen DK-2100, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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3
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Ho VNA, Pham TD, Nguyen NT, Wang R, Norman RJ, Mol BW, Ho TM, Vuong LN. Livebirth rate after one frozen embryo transfer in ovulatory women starting with natural, modified natural, or artificial endometrial preparation in Viet Nam: an open-label randomised controlled trial. Lancet 2024; 404:266-275. [PMID: 38944045 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(24)00756-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2023] [Revised: 04/03/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/01/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Use of frozen embryo transfer (FET) in in-vitro fertilisation (IVF) has increased. However, the best endometrial preparation protocol for FET cycles is unclear. We compared natural and modified natural cycle strategies with an artificial cycle strategy for endometrial preparation before FET. METHODS In this randomised, open-label study, we recruited ovulatory women aged 18-45 years at a hospital in Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam, who were randomly allocated (1:1:1) to natural, modified natural, or artificial cycle endometrial preparation using a computer-generated random list and block randomisation. The trial was not masked due to the nature of the study interventions. In natural cycles, no oestrogen, progesterone, or human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) was used. In modified natural cycles, hCG was used to trigger ovulation. In artificial cycles, oral oestradiol valerate (8 mg/day from day 2-4 of menstruation) and vaginal progesterone (800 mg/day starting when endometrial thickness was ≥7 mm) were used. Embryos were vitrified, and then one or two day-3 embryos or one day-5 embryo were warmed and transferred under ultrasound guidance. If the first FET cycle was cancelled, subsequent cycles were performed with artificial endometrial preparation. The primary endpoint was livebirth after one FET. This trial is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT04804020. FINDINGS Between March 22, 2021, and March 14, 2023, 4779 women were screened and 1428 were randomly assigned (476 to each group). 99 first FET cycles were cancelled in each of the natural and modified cycle groups, versus none in the artificial cycle group. The livebirth rate after one FET was 174 (37%) of 476 in the natural cycle strategy group, 159 (33%) of 476 in the modified natural cycle strategy group, and 162 (34%) of 476 in the artificial cycle strategy group (relative risk 1·07 [95% CI 0·87-1·33] for natural vs artificial cycle strategy, and 0·98 [0·79-1·22] for modified natural vs artificial cycle strategy). Maternal and neonatal outcomes did not differ significantly between groups, as the power to detect small differences was low. INTERPRETATION Although the livebirth rate was similar after natural, modified natural, and artificial cycle endometrial preparation strategies in ovulatory women undergoing FET IVF, no definitive conclusions can be made regarding the comparative safety of the three approaches. FUNDING None.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vu N A Ho
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam; IVFMD and HOPE Research Center, My Duc Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Toan D Pham
- IVFMD and HOPE Research Center, My Duc Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Nam T Nguyen
- IVFMD and HOPE Research Center, My Duc Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Rui Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Clinical Sciences at Monash Health, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Robert J Norman
- Robinson Research Institute and Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Ben W Mol
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Clinical Sciences at Monash Health, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
| | - Tuong M Ho
- IVFMD and HOPE Research Center, My Duc Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Lan N Vuong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
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Mao Y, Peng Y, Zheng M, Xiao J, Gong F, Li X, Ouyang Y. First-trimester ultrasound diagnosis and risk factor analysis of cesarean scar pregnancy after in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer. Quant Imaging Med Surg 2024; 14:5028-5039. [PMID: 39022250 PMCID: PMC11250338 DOI: 10.21037/qims-23-1239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024]
Abstract
Background Cesarean scar pregnancy (CSP) is one of the rarest ectopic pregnancies which may be associated with life-threatening complications. Owing to the rarity of CSP, little is known about it. This study aimed to evaluate the value of the first-trimester transvaginal sonography (TVS) diagnosis and the risk factors of CSP after in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer (IVF-ET). Methods This was a retrospective study of women undergoing IVF-ET between January 2013 and December 2018. Women who were diagnosed with a CSP using TVS and confirmed by surgery and histological examination were included. The clinical data and ultrasound findings were collected and analyzed. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed for evaluation of possible influence factors. Diagnostic parameters including sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) of TVS were calculated for the diagnosis of CSP. Results Overall, 75,438 consecutive women who underwent IVF-ET had received TVS during this period. Of these, 4,817 women (6.4%) had a history of cesarean section and 83 cases were found to have a CSP. Due to the absence of histological data, 19 cases treated conservatively were excluded. Finally, 64 cases were included, among whom 63 cases were correctly diagnosed [including 17 cases of heterotopic CSP (HCSP)] and 1 case was missed using TVS. Another 1 case of inevitable miscarriage was misdiagnosed as a CSP. The maternal age at the initial scan [34.0 (range, 26.0-44.0) years], the infertility duration [4.0 (range, 1-12) years], and the initial diagnostic time after ET [27 (range, 20-50) days] were recorded. A gestational sac (GS) was observed in all 63 cases during ultrasound examinations, including 28 with fetal pole, 25 with a yolk sac only, and 10 with an empty sac. The sensitivity and specificity of first-trimester TVS in diagnosing CSP were 98.44% and 99.98%, respectively; the PPV and NPV were 98.44% and 99.98%, respectively. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed thinner endometrial thickness (ET) on transfer day [adjusted odds ratio (aOR): 0.83; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.76-0.93, P<0.001] and multiple ET (aOR 53.60, 95% CI: 5.31-1,736.00, P=0.008) were independent risk factors for CSP and HCSP, respectively. Conclusions First-trimester TVS performed by an experienced sonographer has a high sensitivity for making the correct diagnosis of CSP after IVF-ET, which is helpful for clinical intervention and avoiding severe complications. For patients with a history of cesarean section, thinner ET on the transfer day and bigger body mass index (BMI) seem to be risk factors for CSP; single blastocyst transfer should be recommended to decrease the possibility of HCSP. The clinical significance of this study still needs to be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuyao Mao
- Imaging Department, Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha, China
- Clinical Research Centre for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan Province, Changsha, China
| | - Yangqin Peng
- Clinical Research Centre for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan Province, Changsha, China
- Scientific Research Department, Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha, China
| | - Mingxiang Zheng
- Imaging Department, Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha, China
- Clinical Research Centre for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan Province, Changsha, China
| | - Jingzi Xiao
- Imaging Department, Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha, China
- Clinical Research Centre for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan Province, Changsha, China
| | - Fei Gong
- Clinical Research Centre for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan Province, Changsha, China
- Reproductive Center, Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Hunan Stem Cell and Reproductive Engineering, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Xihong Li
- Imaging Department, Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha, China
- Clinical Research Centre for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan Province, Changsha, China
| | - Yan Ouyang
- Imaging Department, Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha, China
- Clinical Research Centre for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan Province, Changsha, China
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5
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Qi D, Zhang X, Li F, Zhao S, Wang Q, Liu W, Yan L, Du Y. Association Between Pregnancy Outcomes and the Time of Progesterone Exposure of D6 Single-Blastocyst Transfer in Frozen-Thawed Cycles: A Retrospective Cohort Study. Int J Womens Health 2024; 16:1067-1077. [PMID: 38884053 PMCID: PMC11177859 DOI: 10.2147/ijwh.s456706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose The objective of this study was to assess reproductive outcomes of D6 blastocysts transferred on day 6 in comparison to those transferred on day 7 of progesterone exposure in frozen-thawed embryo transfer cycles. Patients and Methods This retrospective cohort study included 2029 D6 single blastocysts from the first frozen-thawed embryo transfer cycles of patients at the Hospital for Reproductive Medicine Affiliated to Shandong University from February 2017 to January 2020. Participants were divided into Group A (blastocyst transferred on the 6th day of progesterone exposure, n=1634) and Group B (blastocyst transferred on the 7th day of progesterone exposure, n=395). Results The live birth rate was comparable between Group A and Group B (38.7% versus 38.7%, P=0.999). Subgroup analysis revealed a significantly higher preterm birth rate in D6 single blastocysts transferred on the 7th day than in those transferred on the 6th day of progesterone exposure for natural cycle frozen-thawed embryo transfer (5.2% versus 11.3%, P=0.020). After adjustment for potential confounders, the differences in the preterm birth rate in natural cycles persisted (adjusted odds ratio 2.347, 95% confidence interval 1.129-4.877, P=0.022). Conclusion In frozen-thawed embryo transfer cycles, transferring on the 6th or 7th day of progesterone exposure of D6 blastocysts did not affect the live birth rate; however, when a natural cycle protocol is adopted, the possible preterm risk of transferring D6 blastocysts on the 7th day of progesterone exposure should be noted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Qi
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Women, Children and Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- Research Unit of Gametogenesis and Health of ART-Offspring, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (No. 2021RU001), Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- Medical Integration and Practice Center, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- Weifang People's Hospital, Weifang, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Xi Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Women, Children and Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- Research Unit of Gametogenesis and Health of ART-Offspring, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (No. 2021RU001), Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- Medical Integration and Practice Center, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Fangli Li
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Public Health Clinical Center Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Shengrui Zhao
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- Research Unit of Gametogenesis and Health of ART-Offspring, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (No. 2021RU001), Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- Medical Integration and Practice Center, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Qiumin Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Women, Children and Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- Research Unit of Gametogenesis and Health of ART-Offspring, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (No. 2021RU001), Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- Medical Integration and Practice Center, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Wen Liu
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- Research Unit of Gametogenesis and Health of ART-Offspring, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (No. 2021RU001), Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- Medical Integration and Practice Center, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Lei Yan
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Women, Children and Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- Research Unit of Gametogenesis and Health of ART-Offspring, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (No. 2021RU001), Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- Medical Integration and Practice Center, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Yanbo Du
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Women, Children and Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- Research Unit of Gametogenesis and Health of ART-Offspring, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (No. 2021RU001), Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- Medical Integration and Practice Center, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
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Castillo J, Kol S. Ideal frozen embryo transfer regime. Curr Opin Obstet Gynecol 2024; 36:148-154. [PMID: 38295043 DOI: 10.1097/gco.0000000000000943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This review aims to compare evidence on four criteria (embryo implantation, obstetric outcomes, patient convenience, and IVF-unit efficiency) by analyzing published research on different endometrial preparation methods for frozen embryo transfer (FET). RECENT FINDINGS While the artificial-FET cycle provides advantages in scheduling and implantation, it falls short in ensuring optimal obstetric outcomes. In contrast, natural-FET ensures embryo implantation conditions if ovulation is correctly identified. Supplementing with exogenous progesterone shields against low corpus luteum progesterone secretion, crucial for positive obstetric outcomes. In mNC-FET, ovulation is hCG-triggered, closely resembling natural cycles and reducing monitoring visits for enhanced patient convenience.Letrozole is a recommended option for anovulatory patients, preserving endometrial thickness. It is cost-effective, less likely to induce multifollicular development than gonadotropins, and better tolerated.In a novel approach, the natural-proliferative-phase-FET initiates progesterone in an unmediated ovulatory cycle at 7 mm endometrial thickness, combining the benefits of a natural proliferative endometrium with the convenience of scheduled artificial cycles. SUMMARY The artificial cycle offers scheduling advantages, but may compromise obstetric outcomes. Natural FET relies on accurate ovulation timing for successful implantation. mNC-FET simplifies the process using hCG induction, minimizing clinic visits for improved convenience. Letrozole is highlighted as a cost-effective and well tolerated option in anovulatory patients. A recent innovative approach combines elements of natural and artificial cycles, showing promise for FET procedures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Castillo
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Instituto Bernabeu, Alicante, Spain
| | - Shahar Kol
- IVF Unit, Elisha Hospital, Haifa, Israel
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Zhang H, Qiu H, Liu Z, Yu S, Chen C, Zeng Y, Li Y. Endometrial preparation protocols did not impact pregnancy outcomes of patients with cured chronic endometritis. Reprod Biomed Online 2024; 48:103753. [PMID: 38520803 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2023.103753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2023] [Revised: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/25/2024]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Do endometrial preparation protocols have an effect on pregnancy outcomes in patients with cured chronic endometritis? DESIGN A retrospective study was conducted on 3721 infertile patients from December 2018 to August 2020. Endometrial tissues obtained during the proliferative phase were immunostained for CD138. The presence of CD138-positive cells within the stromal cells indicated chronic endometritis. All patients diagnosed with chronic endometritis received oral antibiotics. Patients underwent endometrial preparation and frozen embryo transfer once chronic endometritis was cured. This study compared various endometrial preparation protocols to assess their effects on pregnancy outcomes. Additionally, it aimed to investigate differences in pregnancy outcomes between patients without chronic endometritis and patients with cured chronic endometritis while following the same endometrial preparation protocol. RESULTS Almost no differences in pregnancy outcomes were observed between natural cycle, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and gonadotrophin-releasing hormone agonist-HRT (GnRH agonist-HRT) protocols in patients without chronic endometritis and patients with cured chronic endometritis. The only notable difference was that, among women without chronic endometritis, the early miscarriage rate was higher for the GnRH agonist-HRT protocol (25.8%) compared with the natural cycle (17.4%) and HRT (17.7%) protocols (P = 0.025). However, this difference was not significant after adjusting for confounders (adjusted OR 1.383, 95% CI 0.931-2.055). The live birth rate, clinical pregnancy rate, early miscarriage rate, ectopic pregnancy rate and ongoing pregnancy rate did not differ significantly (P > 0.05) between patients without chronic endometritis and patients with cured chronic endometritis who underwent natural cycle, HRT and GnRH agonist-HRT protocols. CONCLUSION Endometrial preparation protocols had no impact on pregnancy outcomes in patients with cured chronic endometritis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongzhan Zhang
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Reproductive Immunology for Peri-implantation, Shenzhen Zhongshan Institute for Reproduction and Genetics, Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China; Guangdong Engineering Technology Research Centre of Reproductive Immunology for Peri-implantation, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Han Qiu
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Reproductive Immunology for Peri-implantation, Shenzhen Zhongshan Institute for Reproduction and Genetics, Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China; Guangdong Engineering Technology Research Centre of Reproductive Immunology for Peri-implantation, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhiqiang Liu
- Guangdong Engineering Technology Research Centre of Reproductive Immunology for Peri-implantation, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Shuyi Yu
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Reproductive Immunology for Peri-implantation, Shenzhen Zhongshan Institute for Reproduction and Genetics, Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China; Guangdong Engineering Technology Research Centre of Reproductive Immunology for Peri-implantation, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Cong Chen
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Reproductive Immunology for Peri-implantation, Shenzhen Zhongshan Institute for Reproduction and Genetics, Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China; Guangdong Engineering Technology Research Centre of Reproductive Immunology for Peri-implantation, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Yong Zeng
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Reproductive Immunology for Peri-implantation, Shenzhen Zhongshan Institute for Reproduction and Genetics, Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China; Guangdong Engineering Technology Research Centre of Reproductive Immunology for Peri-implantation, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuye Li
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Reproductive Immunology for Peri-implantation, Shenzhen Zhongshan Institute for Reproduction and Genetics, Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China; Guangdong Engineering Technology Research Centre of Reproductive Immunology for Peri-implantation, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China.
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Carvalho MOC, Lima SMRR, Glina CG, Tso LDO, Romano RS, Glina S, Busso NE, Busso CE. A randomized clinical trial of transdermal (gel) versus oral estrogen for endometrial preparation in frozen embryo transfer cycle. REVISTA DA ASSOCIACAO MEDICA BRASILEIRA (1992) 2024; 70:e20231548. [PMID: 38775510 PMCID: PMC11111116 DOI: 10.1590/1806-9282.20231548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/24/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to compare endometrial thickness with the use of transdermal estrogen (gel) versus oral estrogen (pills) for endometrial preparation in the frozen embryo transfer cycle and serum estrogen concentrations during the preparation cycle, side effects, and chemical and clinical pregnancy rates. METHODS This was a prospective, randomized controlled trial of women undergoing endometrial preparation for cryopreserved blastocyst transfer. A total of 88 women were randomized, of which 82 completed the study protocol. Of this group, 44 received 6 mg/day of estradiol valerate orally (pills group) and 38 received 4.5 mg/day of estradiol hemihydrate transdermally (gel group). Endometrial thickness was measured using transvaginal ultrasound between the 7 and 10th day of the cycle. Serum estradiol concentrations were measured on the day of initiating the cycle, on control transvaginal ultrasounds, and on the day of embryo transfer. Side effects were documented at each study visit. p<0.05 were adopted as statistically significant. The groups were compared using Student's t-test for continuous variables and chi-square or Fisher's exact test for categorical variables. RESULTS There were no significant group differences (p>0.05) in endometrial thickness, biochemical and clinical pregnancy rates, miscarriage rate, blood estradiol concentrations, duration of estradiol administration, or cycle cancellation rates. CONCLUSION Endometrial preparation with transdermal estrogen yielded similar reproductive outcomes to oral estrogen with fewer side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sônia Maria Rolim Rosa Lima
- Santa Casa de Sao Paulo School of Medical Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology – São Paulo (SP), Brazil
| | - Claudia Godman Glina
- Project Alliance of Assisted Fertility Laboratories/BETA – São Paulo (SP), Brazil
| | | | | | - Sidney Glina
- Project Alliance of Assisted Fertility Laboratories/BETA – São Paulo (SP), Brazil
| | - Newton Eduardo Busso
- Project Alliance of Assisted Fertility Laboratories/BETA – São Paulo (SP), Brazil
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Mendes Godinho C, Soares SR, Nunes SG, Martínez JMM, Santos-Ribeiro S. Natural proliferative phase frozen embryo transfer-a new approach which may facilitate scheduling without hindering pregnancy outcomes. Hum Reprod 2024; 39:1089-1097. [PMID: 38531673 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deae061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2022] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION How does a natural proliferative phase (NPP) strategy for frozen embryo transfer (FET) compare with the conventional artificial (AC) and natural (NC) endometrial preparation protocols in terms of live birth rates (LBR)? SUMMARY ANSWER This study supports the hypothesis that, just as for NC, NPP-FET may be a superior alternative to AC in terms of LBR. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Although FETs are increasing worldwide, the optimal FET protocol is still largely controversial. Despite recent evidence supporting a possibly higher efficacy and safety of NC FETs, their widespread use is limited by the difficulties encountered during cycle monitoring and scheduling. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION In this single center retrospective cohort study, we describe the NPP-FET protocol, in which vaginal progesterone is initiated during the proliferative phase as soon as an endometrium with a thickness of at least 7 mm is identified and ovulation is ruled out, regardless of mean diameter of the dominant follicle. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS For comparison, we considered all blastocyst stage FET cycles preformed at a private infertility center between January 2010 and June 2022, subdivided according to the following subgroups of endometrial preparation: AC, NPP, and NC. We performed multivariable generalized estimating equations regression analysis to account for the following potential confounding variables: oocyte age at retrieval, oocyte source (autologous without preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidies (PGT-A) versus autologous with PGT-A versus donated), number of oocytes retrieved/donated, embryo developmental stage (Day 5 versus Day 6), number of embryos transferred, quality of the best embryo transferred, and year of treatment. The main outcome measure was LBR. The secondary outcomes included hCG positive, clinical pregnancy and miscarriage rates, and the following perinatal outcomes: first trimester bleeding, second/third trimester bleeding, preterm rupture of membranes, gestational diabetes, gestational hypertensive disorders (GHD), and gestational age at delivery. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE A total of 5791 FET cycles were included in this analysis (2226 AC, 349 NPP, and 3216 NC). The LBR for FET was lower in the AC subgroup when compared to the NPP and NC (38.4%, 49.1%, and 45.2%, respectively; P < 0.01 AC versus NPP and AC versus NC). The rates of miscarriage were also lower in the NPP and NC subgroups when compared to AC (19.7%, 25.0%, and 34.9%, respectively; P < 0.01 NPP versus AC and NC versus AC). Considering perinatal outcomes, NPP-FET and NC were associated with a significantly lower first trimester bleeding compared to AC (17.3%, 14.7%, and 37.6%, respectively; P < 0.01 NPP versus AC and NC versus AC). Additionally, NC was associated with a lower rate of GHD when compared with AC (8.6% versus 14.5%, P < 0.01), while the rate following NPP-FET was 9.4%. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION This study is limited by its retrospective design. Moreover, there was also a low number of patients in the NPP subgroup, which may have led the study to be underpowered to detect clinically relevant differences between the subgroups. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Our study posits that the NPP-FET protocol may be an effective and safe alternative to both NC and AC, while still allowing for enhanced practicality in patient follow-up and FET scheduling. Further investigation on NPP-FET is warranted, with prospective studies including a larger and more homogeneous subsets of patients. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This research was supported by the IVI-RMA-Lisbon (2008-LIS-053-CG). The authors did not receive any funding for this study. The authors have no competing interests. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER Not applicable.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Samuel Santos-Ribeiro
- Reproductive Medicine, IVI RMA Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
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Zhang W, Liu Z, Wang B, Liu M, Li J, Guan Y. Comparison of the perinatal outcomes of expected high ovarian response patients and normal ovarian response patients undergoing frozen-thawed embryo transfer in natural/small amount of HMG induced ovulation cycles. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:259. [PMID: 38254007 PMCID: PMC10804831 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-17725-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Due to the high risk of complications in fresh transfer cycles among expected high ovarian response patients, most choose frozen-thawed embryo transfer (FET). There are currently few researches on whether the FET outcomes of expected high ovarian response patients with regular menstrual cycles are similar to those of normal ovarian response. Therefore, our objective was to explore and compare pregnancy outcomes and maternal and neonatal outcomes of natural FET cycles between patients with expected high ovarian response and normal ovarian response with regular menstrual cycles based on the antral follicle count (AFC). METHODS This retrospective cohort study included 5082 women undergoing natural or small amount of HMG induced ovulation FET cycles at the Reproductive Center of the Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University from January 1, 2017, to March 31, 2021. The population was divided into expected high ovarian response group and normal ovarian response group based on the AFC, and the differences in patient characteristics, clinical outcomes and perinatal outcomes between the two groups were compared. RESULTS Regarding clinical outcomes, compared with the normal ovarian response group, patients in the expected high ovarian response group had a higher clinical pregnancy rate (57.34% vs. 48.50%) and live birth rate (48.12% vs. 38.97%). There was no difference in the early miscarriage rate or twin pregnancy rate between the groups. Multivariate logistic regression analysis suggested that the clinical pregnancy rate (adjusted OR 1.190) and live birth rate (adjusted OR 1.171) of the expected high ovarian response group were higher than those of the normal ovarian response group. In terms of maternal and infant outcomes, the incidence of very preterm delivery in the normal ovarian response group was higher than that in the expected high ovarian response group (0.86% vs. 0.16%, adjusted OR 0.131), Other maternal and infant outcomes were not significantly different. After grouping by age (< 30 y, 30-34 y, 35-39 y), there was no difference in the incidence of very preterm delivery among the age subgroups. CONCLUSION For patients with expected high ovarian response and regular menstrual cycles undergoing natural or small amount of HMG induced ovulation FET cycles, the clinical and perinatal outcomes are reassuring. For patients undergoing natural or small amount of HMG induced ovulation FET cycles, as age increases, perinatal care should be strengthened during pregnancy to reduce the incidence of very preterm delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjuan Zhang
- Reproduction Center, The Third Affiliated Hospital of ZhengZhou University, Henan, China
| | - Zhaozhao Liu
- Reproduction Center, The Third Affiliated Hospital of ZhengZhou University, Henan, China
| | - Bijun Wang
- Reproduction Center, The Third Affiliated Hospital of ZhengZhou University, Henan, China
| | - Manman Liu
- Reproduction Center, The Third Affiliated Hospital of ZhengZhou University, Henan, China
| | - Jiaheng Li
- Reproduction Center, The Third Affiliated Hospital of ZhengZhou University, Henan, China
| | - Yichun Guan
- Reproduction Center, The Third Affiliated Hospital of ZhengZhou University, Henan, China.
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Rodriguez-Wallberg KA, Kieler H, Foukakis T, Li J, Gissler M, Oberg AS, Bergh J, Lundberg FE. Gonadotropin Releasing Hormone agonist (GnRHa) during chemotherapy and post-cancer childbirths - a Nationwide population-based cohort study of 24,922 women diagnosed with cancer in Sweden. EClinicalMedicine 2024; 67:102335. [PMID: 38314058 PMCID: PMC10837528 DOI: 10.1016/j.eclinm.2023.102335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Revised: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Worldwide, an increasing number of women with cancer are receiving Gonadotropin Releasing Hormone agonist (GnRHa) co-treatment during chemotherapy aiming at ovarian protection. There is divergence among guidelines, and some have recommended GnRHa co-treatment for women with breast cancer, however, the effect of GnRHa on future fertility is uncertain. Methods In this population-based cohort study we included all women diagnosed with cancer at ages 15-45 between July 2005 and March 2017 in Sweden, identified in the Swedish Cancer Register. Exposure to GnRHa co-treatment was captured using the Prescribed Drug Register. Post-cancer childbirth, extracted from the Medical Birth Register, was the main outcome. Secondary outcomes included childbirths achieved through natural conception (NC), infertility diagnosis and cancer mortality. For each outcome, adjusted hazard ratios (aHR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were estimated using delayed-entry Cox models, stratified by age and cancer site. Findings Among 24,922 women diagnosed with cancer, 1.5% had GnRHa co-treatment. Breast cancer diagnoses were found in 80.2% of GnRHa exposed women and the GnRHa exposure was not associated with higher rates of childbirth (aHR 1.23, 95% CI 0.80-1.89), or NC childbirth (aHR 1.02, 95% CI 0.62-1.67), whereas the rate of infertility was significantly higher (aHR 2.42, 95% CI 1.44-4.08). In women with lymphoma and other cancers, GnRHa exposure was not associated with higher rates of childbirth, NC childbirth or infertility. GnRHa exposure was not associated with higher cancer mortality for any cancer type. Interpretation We did not find evidence of improved or maintained fertility, estimated as childbirth rates post-cancer, in women who received GnRHa during cancer treatment. Funding This study was financed by research grants from The Swedish Cancer Society (CAN 2017/704; 190249Pj, 200170F), The Swedish Research Council (Dnr 2019-00446), the Nordic Cancer Union NCU (Grant 2017), The Swedish Childhood Cancer Fund (KP2016-0031), Radiumhemmets Forskningsfonder (Dnr: 201313), Stockholm County Council (FoUI-953912) and Karolinska Institutet (Dnr 2020-01963).
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenny A. Rodriguez-Wallberg
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Division of Gynecology and Reproduction, Department of Reproductive Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Laboratory of Translational Fertility Preservation, BioClinicum, New Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Helle Kieler
- Department of Medicine, Centre for Pharmacoepidemiology (CPE), Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Theodoros Foukakis
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Breast Cancer Center, Theme Cancer, Karolinska Comprehensive Cancer Center, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Jiong Li
- Department of Clinical Medicine-Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Mika Gissler
- Department of Knowledge Brokers, THL Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, Helsinki, Finland
- Region Stockholm, Academic Primary Health Care Centre, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Anna Sara Oberg
- Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Jonas Bergh
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Breast Cancer Center, Theme Cancer, Karolinska Comprehensive Cancer Center, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Frida E. Lundberg
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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Zhang Y, Fu X, Gao S, Gao S, Gao S, Ma J, Chen ZJ. Letrozole use in vitrified single-blastocyst transfer cycles is associated with lower risk of large for gestational age infants in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome. J Assist Reprod Genet 2023; 40:2885-2894. [PMID: 37815736 PMCID: PMC10656372 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-023-02956-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/11/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate the obstetric and perinatal outcomes of three routine endometrial preparation protocols in women with PCOS who underwent frozen embryo transfer (FET). METHODS This was a retrospective study in women with PCOS who underwent FET in an academic reproductive medical center. A total of 2710 cycles were enrolled and classified into three groups according to different endometrial preparation protocols; human menopausal gonadotropin (HMG), letrozole + HMG, or hormone replacement therapy (HRT). RESULTS The stimulation groups had reduced risks of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP), large for gestational age (LGA) infants, and cesarean delivery than the HRT group. After adjustment for different confounder combinations in the two models, the frequencies of LGA and HDP in the letrozole + HMG group and the HMG group were still significantly lower than those in the HRT group. The letrozole + HMG group exhibited a reduced risk of LGA than HMG group after adjustment of confounders. A trend toward risk reductions in HDP and LGA was observe in turns of HRT, HMG, and letrozole + HMG groups, and the trends were statistically significant (Ptrend = 0.031 and 0.001). CONCLUSION In patients with PCOS, ovarian stimulation protocols for endometrial preparation are associated with reduced risks of HDP and LGA compared to HRT cycles. The use of letrozole could further reduce risk of LGA compared to HMG only protocol. We propose that ovarian stimulation protocols can be used widely for endometrial preparation in FET cycles in women with PCOS, especially with the use of letrozole.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiting Zhang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, the Second Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, No.247 Beiyandajie Road, Jinan, 250000, Shandong, China
- Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Xiao Fu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, the Second Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, No.247 Beiyandajie Road, Jinan, 250000, Shandong, China
- Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Shuli Gao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, the Second Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, No.247 Beiyandajie Road, Jinan, 250000, Shandong, China
- Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Shuzhe Gao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, the Second Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, No.247 Beiyandajie Road, Jinan, 250000, Shandong, China
- Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Shanshan Gao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, the Second Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, No.247 Beiyandajie Road, Jinan, 250000, Shandong, China.
- Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.
- Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.
| | - Jinlong Ma
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, the Second Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, No.247 Beiyandajie Road, Jinan, 250000, Shandong, China
- Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Zi-Jiang Chen
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, the Second Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, No.247 Beiyandajie Road, Jinan, 250000, Shandong, China
- Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, 200135, China
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200135, China
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Huang J, Jiao X, You Y, Wu Y, Lin H, Zhang Q. The effects of different endometrial preparation regimens on pregnancy outcomes in frozen-thawed embryo transfer cycles: a prospective randomized controlled study. Gynecol Endocrinol 2023; 39:2269235. [PMID: 37859610 DOI: 10.1080/09513590.2023.2269235] [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] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE An increasing number of research have emerged to compare the pregnancy outcomes between the natural cycle and the hormone replacement therapy (HRT) cycle in preparing the endometrium for frozen-thawed embryo transfer (FET), but the results are controversial. This prospective randomized controlled study was hence designed to obtain more solid evidence. MATERIALS AND METHODS In this study, patients with regular menstrual cycle length (21-35 days) who underwent FET between January 2010 to December 2017 were recruited for this study. Upon further filtering with the selection criteria of patients being, a total of 405 patients were recruited and randomized. Finally, analysis was performed on 384 patients: 178 belonged to the natural cycle group whereas the remaining 206 were in the HRT group. The primary outcome was live birth rate, while the secondary outcomes were implantation rate, clinical pregnancy rate, early miscarriage rate, late miscarriage rate, multiple birth rate and low birth weight rate. RESULTS The live birth rate (37.6% vs 30.1%, p = 0.119) of natural cycle group were higher than those of the hormone replacement therapy group, although the difference was not significant. The secondary outcomes were not found to differ significantly between the two groups. Nonetheless, the endometrium was found to be thicker in the natural cycle group (10.75 mm) than the HRT group (9.00 mm) (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION No significant differences were observed between the pregnancy outcomes of the natural cycle group and the HRT group which comprised of patients with regular menstrual cycle length.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianyun Huang
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Reproductive Medicine Center, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xuedan Jiao
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Reproductive Medicine Center, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yang You
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Reproductive Medicine Center, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yingchen Wu
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Reproductive Medicine Center, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Haiyan Lin
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Reproductive Medicine Center, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qingxue Zhang
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Reproductive Medicine Center, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
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De la Torre Perez E, Carratalá-Munuera MC, Castillo-Farfán JC, Lledó-Bosch B, Moliner-Renau B, Bernabeu-García A, Bernabeu-Pérez R. Impact of endometrial compaction on reproductive outcomes after cryotransfer of euploid embryos in a modified natural cycle: protocol for a prospective cohort study. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1285040. [PMID: 38027116 PMCID: PMC10666753 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1285040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Embryo implantation is a complex and poorly understood process. Most studies to date have focused on the analysis of the endometrium at the end of the estrogenic phase, while the available data on its importance after secretory transformation are limited and inconsistent. Current evidence does not allow for a conclusive interpretation of the changes observed in the pre-implantation endometrium, whether in the natural or replacement cycle, and their relevance in the development of a pregnancy or the implications for clinical practice. Methods Multicenter prospective observational cohort study. Based on our sample size calculation, the study group will consist of 206 women (exposed or "compaction" group: 103 women with a decrease of ≥ 5% in endometrial thickness between the estrogenic phase and the day of embryo transfer; non-exposed "non-compaction" group: 103 women with similar or greater endometrial thickness between these time points). The main objective of this study is to compare the ongoing pregnancy rates in natural cycles for euploid embryo transfer in patients who present endometrial compaction at the time of transfer versus those who with a stable or greater endometrial thickness with respect to the estrogenic phase. The estimated duration of the study is 30 months. Inclusion criteria are: 18 to 50 years of age, with primary or secondary infertility, subjected to endometrial preparation in a modified natural cycle for transfer of a genetically euploid blastocyst, from their own oocyte or oocyte donation, with a normal uterine cavity. Exclusion criteria are: uterine or endometrial disease (e.g., multiple myomatosis, severe adenomyosis, Asherman syndrome, refractory endometrium), conditions that prevent correct ultrasound assessment (tilted uterus), or a history of recurrent implantation failure or repeated miscarriages. Discussion The findings from this study will provide valuable insights into the potential influence of the "endometrial compaction" phenomenon on reproductive outcomes during natural cycle endometrial preparation. By examining this aspect, we aim to contribute to a better understanding of the factors that may impact successful outcomes in fertility treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Juan Carlos Castillo-Farfán
- Medical Department, Bernabeu Institute, Alicante, Spain
- University Chair of Community Medicine and Reproductive Health, Miguel Hernandez University of Elche, Alicante, Spain
| | | | | | - Andrea Bernabeu-García
- Medical Department, Bernabeu Institute, Alicante, Spain
- University Chair of Community Medicine and Reproductive Health, Miguel Hernandez University of Elche, Alicante, Spain
| | - Rafael Bernabeu-Pérez
- Medical Department, Bernabeu Institute, Alicante, Spain
- University Chair of Community Medicine and Reproductive Health, Miguel Hernandez University of Elche, Alicante, Spain
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Demirel C, Özcan P, Tülek F, Timur HT, Pasin Ö. Initiating luteal phase support with sc progesterone based on low serum progesterone on the transfer day in true natural cycle frozen embryo transfers. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1278042. [PMID: 37937053 PMCID: PMC10627190 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1278042] [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] [Received: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Concerning contemporary in-vitro fertilisation (IVF) practice, the use of frozen embryo transfer (FET) cycles has become more common than fresh transfers. Natural cycle (NC), programmed artificial cycle and mild stimulation cycle are primary endometrium preparation cycles. Monitoring serum progesterone levels in FET cycles are in the scope of current research focus. Low progesterone levels on the day of embryo transfer is presumed to negatively affect pregnancy outcomes, while progesterone supplementation may improve pregnancy rates. The purpose of our trial is to evaluate whether initiating subcutaneous (SC) progesterone supplementation on the day of embryo transfer when serum progesterone levels are below 10 ng/mL in tNC-FET will result in pregnancy rates comparable to those of patients with sufficient serum progesterone. Methods Retrospective single centre study was conducted between August 2022 and April 2023 with 181 tNC-FETs. Patients were separated into groups according to serum progesterone concentrations (≥10 ng/mL and <10 ng/mL) on embryo transfer (ET) day. S.c progesterone (25 mg) was given on the day of ET when serum progesterone was <10 ng/mL, continuing until the 10th gestational week. Blood samples for pregnancy tests were collected 12 days after ET. Outcome parameters were pregnancy rate, clinical pregnancy rate (CPR), miscarriage rate, multiple pregnancy rate, biochemical pregnancy, and ongoing pregnancy rate (OPR). Results About half (49.7%) had adequate progesterone concentrations (≥10ng/mL) on ET day. There was no significant difference between the groups regarding positive pregnancy test, OPR, multiple pregnancies, and miscarriage rates (57.8% versus 52.7%; 34.4% versus 29.7%, 1.1% versus 2.2%; 7.8% versus 5.5%; respectively, for progesterone concentrations on ET day ≥10 ng/mL and <10 ng/mL). With 55.2% of transfers leading to clinical pregnancy, significant differences emerged in biochemical pregnancy and CPR (3.3% vs 12.1%, P=0.02; 54.4% vs 40.7%, P=0.03, for ≥10 ng/mL and <10 ng/mL progesterone concentrations on ET day). Discussion This study indicates that nearly half of the tNC-FETs may need luteal phase support due to low progesterone. However, 25 mc sc progesterone rescued the luteal support and yielded similar OPR as compared to normal progesterone group. Further studies are needed for understanding optimal progesterone levels, supplementation effectiveness, and potential benefits of earlier supplementation in FETs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cem Demirel
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Acibadem University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Pınar Özcan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Bezmialem University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Fırat Tülek
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Acibadem University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Hikmet Tunç Timur
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Dokuz Eylul University School of Medicine, Izmir, Türkiye
| | - Özge Pasin
- Department of Biostatistics and Medical Informatics, Bezmialem University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Türkiye
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Zaat T, de Bruin JP, Goddijn M, van Baal M, Benneheij S, Brandes M, Broekmans F, Cantineau A, Cohlen B, van Disseldorp J, Gielen S, Groenewoud E, van Heusden A, Kaaijk E, Koks C, de Koning C, Klijn N, van der Linden P, Manger P, Moolenaar L, van Oppenraaij R, Pieterse Q, Smeenk J, Visser J, van Wely M, Mol F. Home-based monitoring of ovulation to time frozen embryo transfers in the Netherlands (Antarctica-2): an open-label, nationwide, randomised, non-inferiority trial. Lancet 2023; 402:1347-1355. [PMID: 37678290 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(23)01312-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The growing field of assisted reproductive techniques, including frozen-thawed embryo transfer (FET), should lead the way to the best sustainable health care without compromising pregnancy chances. Correct timing of FET is crucial to allow implantation of the thawed embryo. Nowadays, timing based on hospital-controlled monitoring of ovulation in the natural cycle of a woman is the preferred strategy because of the assumption of favourable fertility prospects. However, home-based monitoring is a simple method to prevent patient travel and any associated environmental concerns. We compared ongoing pregnancy rates after home-based monitoring versus hospital-controlled monitoring with ovulation triggering. METHODS This open-label, multicentre, randomised, non-inferiority trial was undertaken in 23 hospitals and clinics in the Netherlands. Women aged between 18 and 44 years with a regular ovulatory menstrual cycle were randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio via a web-based randomisation program to home-based monitoring or hospital-controlled monitoring. Those who analysed the data were masked to the groups; those collecting the data were not. All endpoints were analysed by intention to treat and per protocol. Non-inferiority was established when the lower limit of the 90% CI exceeded -4%. This study was registered at the Dutch Trial Register (Trial NL6414). FINDINGS 1464 women were randomly assigned between April 10, 2018, and April 13, 2022, with 732 allocated to home-based monitoring and 732 to hospital-controlled monitoring. Ongoing pregnancy occurred in 152 (20·8%) of 732 in the home-based monitoring group and in 153 (20·9%) of 732 in the hospital-controlled monitoring group (risk ratio [RR] 0·99 [90% CI 0·81 to 1·22]; risk difference [RD] -0·14 [90% CI -3·63 to 3·36]). The per-protocol analysis confirmed non-inferiority (152 [21·0%] of 725 vs 153 [21·0%] of 727; RR 1·00 (90% CI 0·81 to 1·23); RD -0·08 [90% CI -3·60 to 3·44]). INTERPRETATION Home-based monitoring of ovulation is non-inferior to hospital-controlled monitoring of ovulation to time FET. FUNDING The Dutch Organisation for Health Research and Development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tjitske Zaat
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands; Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Jan-Peter de Bruin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Jeroen Bosch Ziekenhuis, 's-Hertogenbosch, Netherlands
| | - Mariëtte Goddijn
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands; Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Marchien van Baal
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Flevoziekenhuis, Almere, Netherlands
| | - Sofie Benneheij
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Monique Brandes
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine Nij Geertgen, Elsendorp, Netherlands
| | - Frank Broekmans
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Astrid Cantineau
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, University Medical Centre Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Ben Cohlen
- Isala Fertility Centre, Isala Clinics, Zwolle, Netherlands
| | - Jeroen van Disseldorp
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Sint Antonius Hospital, Nieuwegein, Netherlands
| | - Susanne Gielen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Franciscus Hospital, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Eva Groenewoud
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Noordwest Ziekenhuisgroep, Den Helder, Netherlands
| | | | - Eugenie Kaaijk
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, OLVG, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Carolien Koks
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Maxima Medical Centre, Veldhoven, Netherlands
| | - Corry de Koning
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Tergooi Medical Centre, Blaricum, Netherlands
| | - Nicole Klijn
- Reproductive Centre, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Paul van der Linden
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Deventer Hospital, Deventer, Netherlands
| | - Petra Manger
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Diakonessenhuis, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Lobke Moolenaar
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | | | - Quirine Pieterse
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Haga Ziekenhuis, Den Haag, Netherlands
| | - Jesper Smeenk
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Elisabeth-TweeSteden Ziekenhuis, Tilburg, Netherlands
| | - Jantien Visser
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Amphia Ziekenhuis, Breda, Netherlands
| | - Madelon van Wely
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands; Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Femke Mol
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands; Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Amsterdam, Netherlands.
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Hsueh YW, Huang CC, Hung SW, Chang CW, Hsu HC, Yang TC, Lin WC, Su SY, Chang HM. Finding of the optimal preparation and timing of endometrium in frozen-thawed embryo transfer: a literature review of clinical evidence. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1250847. [PMID: 37711892 PMCID: PMC10497870 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1250847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Frozen-thawed embryo transfer (FET) has been a viable alternative to fresh embryo transfer in recent years because of the improvement in vitrification methods. Laboratory-based studies indicate that complex molecular and morphological changes in endometrium during the window of implantation after exogenous hormones with controlled ovarian stimulation may alter the interaction between the embryo and endometrium, leading to a decreased implantation potential. Based on the results obtained from randomized controlled studies, increased pregnancy rates and better perinatal outcomes have been reported following FET. Compared to fresh embryo transfer, fewer preterm deliveries, and reduced incidence of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome were found after FETs, yet there is a trend of increased pregnancy-related hypertensive diseases in women receiving FET. Despite the increased application of FET, the search for the most optimal priming protocol for the endometrium is still undergoing. Three available FET protocols have been proposed to prepare the endometrium: i) natural cycle (true natural cycle and modified natural cycle) ii) artificial cycle (AC) or hormone replacement treatment cycle iii) mild ovarian stimulation (mild-OS) cycle. Emerging evidence suggests that the optimal timing for FET using warmed blastocyst transfer is the LH surge+6 day, hCG administration+7 day, and the progesterone administration+6 day in the true natural cycle, modified natural cycle, and AC protocol, respectively. Although still controversial, better clinical pregnancy rates and live birth rates have been reported using the natural cycle (true natural cycle/modified natural cycle) compared with the AC protocol. Additionally, a higher early pregnancy loss rate and an increased incidence of gestational hypertension have been found in FETs using the AC protocol because of the lack of a corpus luteum. Although the common clinical practice is to employ luteal phase support (LPS) in natural cycles and mild-OS cycles for FET, the requirement for LPS in these protocols remains equivocal. Recent findings obtained from RCTs do not support the routine application of endometrial receptivity testing to optimize the timing of FET. More RCTs with rigorous methodology are needed to compare different protocols to prime the endometrium for FET, focusing not only on live birth rate, but also on maternal, obstetrical, and neonatal outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya-Wen Hsueh
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Chien-Chu Huang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Shuo-Wen Hung
- Department of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Wei Chang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Hsi-Chen Hsu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Tung-Chuan Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Wu-Chou Lin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Shan-Yu Su
- Department of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Hsun-Ming Chang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
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18
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Nagaraja N, Poddar SD, Rai S, Verma V, Abhisheka K, Khurana A. Improved Pregnancy Outcomes and Endometrial Receptivity by Thawed Frozen Embryo Transfer in Mildly Stimulated Cycles with Letrozole Combined with Estrogen in Women with Unresponsive Thin Endometrium Compared to Standard Endometrial Preparation with Estrogen Alone: A Retrospective Study. J Obstet Gynaecol India 2023; 73:351-357. [PMID: 37701079 PMCID: PMC10492730 DOI: 10.1007/s13224-023-01813-4] [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: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Context Infertile women undergoing frozen embryo transfer (FET) cycles may not show optimal endometrial growth with estrogens alone. Aim To evaluate clinical effect of mild stimulation with letrozole and estrogens on endometrial growth in comparison to standard endometrial preparation with oral and topical estrogens in infertile women with unresponsive thin endometrium undergoing FET. Settings and design Retrospective observational case-control study. Material and methods Forty women unresponsive to first AC-FET cycle were given mild stimulation with letrozole and estrogens as second LE-FET cycle for endometrial preparation (LE-FET study group) and compared with 40 historical controls who had received two cycles of AC-FET (AC-FET control group). Responses were assessed by optimal endometrial thickness (≥ 7 mm) and clinical pregnancy. Statistical analysis Descriptive statistics were elaborated by mean ± SD and percentages. Results were expressed by mean ± SD, unpaired t test for difference in endometrial thickness, chi square and Fisher exact test to compare the difference in pregnancy among both groups. Results Mean endometrial thickness was significantly increased in LE-FET study group (6.68 ± 2.09 mm) versus AC-FET control group (5.35 ± 1.90 mm). Higher clinical pregnancy rate was noted in study group as compared to control group (35% versus 12.5%). Conclusion This study suggests that letrozole with estradiol (LE-FET) compared to estradiol alone (AC-FET) for second cycle significantly increased endometrial thickness and improved clinical pregnancy rates in women with unresponsive thin endometrium after first AC-FET cycle with estradiol alone. Addition of letrozole to estrogen upfront for FET cycles may enhance endometrial receptivity and might improve pregnancy outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Narayana Nagaraja
- Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) Centre, Command Hospital Southern Command, Pune, India
| | - S. D. Poddar
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Command Hospital Southern Command, Pune, India
| | - Seema Rai
- Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) Centre, Command Hospital Southern Command, Pune, India
| | - Vishesh Verma
- Department of Medicine, Armed Forces Medical College, Pune, India
| | - Kumar Abhisheka
- Department of Medicine, Air Force Central Medical Establishment, Delhi, India
| | - Abha Khurana
- Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) Centre, Command Hospital Southern Command, Pune, India
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Carosso AR, Brunod N, Filippini C, Revelli A, Evangelisti B, Cosma S, Borella F, Canosa S, Benedetto C, Gennarelli G. Reproductive and Obstetric Outcomes Following a Natural Cycle vs. Artificial Endometrial Preparation for Frozen-Thawed Embryo Transfer: A Retrospective Cohort Study. J Clin Med 2023; 12:4032. [PMID: 37373725 PMCID: PMC10299226 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12124032] [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: 04/14/2023] [Revised: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: The proportion of frozen embryo transfer cycles has consistently grown in recent decades. Some adverse obstetric outcomes after frozen embryo transfer could possibly be explained by different approaches in endometrial preparation. The aim of the present study was to investigate reproductive and obstetric outcomes after frozen embryo transfer, comparing different endometrial preparation strategies. Methods: This retrospective study included 317 frozen embryo transfer cycles, of which 239 had a natural or modified natural cycle and 78 underwent artificial endometrial preparation. After excluding late abortion and twin pregnancies, the outcomes of 103 pregnancies were analyzed, 75 of which were achieved after a natural cycle/modified natural cycle, and 28 were achieved after an artificial cycle. Results: The overall clinical pregnancy rate/embryo transfer was 39.7%, the miscarriage rate was 10.1%, and the live birth rate/embryo transfer was 32.8%, without significant differences in reproductive outcomes between natural/modified cycle and artificial cycle groups. The risks of pregnancy-induced hypertension and abnormal placental insertion were significantly increased in pregnancies achieved after the artificial preparation of the endometrium (p = 0.0327 and =0.0191, respectively). Conclusions: Our study encourages the use of a natural cycle or modified natural cycle for endometrial preparation for frozen embryo transfer in order to ensure the presence of a corpus luteum able to orchestrate maternal adaptation to pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Roberto Carosso
- Obstetrics and Gynecology 1U, Physiopathology of Reproduction and IVF Unit, Department of Surgical Sciences, Sant’Anna Hospital, University of Torino, 10124 Turin, Italy
| | - Nicole Brunod
- Obstetrics and Gynecology 1U, Physiopathology of Reproduction and IVF Unit, Department of Surgical Sciences, Sant’Anna Hospital, University of Torino, 10124 Turin, Italy
| | - Claudia Filippini
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Clinical Statistics, University of Torino, 10124 Turin, Italy
| | - Alberto Revelli
- Obstetrics and Gynecology 2U, Department of Surgical Sciences, Sant’Anna Hospital, University of Torino, 10124 Turin, Italy
| | - Bernadette Evangelisti
- Obstetrics and Gynecology 1U, Physiopathology of Reproduction and IVF Unit, Department of Surgical Sciences, Sant’Anna Hospital, University of Torino, 10124 Turin, Italy
| | - Stefano Cosma
- Obstetrics and Gynecology 1U, Physiopathology of Reproduction and IVF Unit, Department of Surgical Sciences, Sant’Anna Hospital, University of Torino, 10124 Turin, Italy
| | - Fulvio Borella
- Obstetrics and Gynecology 1U, Physiopathology of Reproduction and IVF Unit, Department of Surgical Sciences, Sant’Anna Hospital, University of Torino, 10124 Turin, Italy
| | - Stefano Canosa
- Obstetrics and Gynecology 1U, Physiopathology of Reproduction and IVF Unit, Department of Surgical Sciences, Sant’Anna Hospital, University of Torino, 10124 Turin, Italy
| | - Chiara Benedetto
- Obstetrics and Gynecology 1U, Physiopathology of Reproduction and IVF Unit, Department of Surgical Sciences, Sant’Anna Hospital, University of Torino, 10124 Turin, Italy
| | - Gianluca Gennarelli
- Obstetrics and Gynecology 1U, Physiopathology of Reproduction and IVF Unit, Department of Surgical Sciences, Sant’Anna Hospital, University of Torino, 10124 Turin, Italy
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20
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Edimiris P, Doehmen C, Baston-Buest DM, Kruessel JS, Bielfeld AP. One center experience with a personalized frozen-thawed embryo transfer in patients with recurrent implantation failure. J Assist Reprod Genet 2023:10.1007/s10815-023-02835-7. [PMID: 37261585 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-023-02835-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Displaced endometrial receptivity has been discussed as a possible cause of recurrent implantation failure in patients undergoing assisted reproductive technology. The aim of this study was to document our experience with the endometrial receptivity analysis in patients with recurrent implantation failure. METHODS This retrospective cohort study, conducted at the Fertility Centre of the University Hospital, Duesseldorf Germany, presents the results of the endometrial receptivity analysis in 67 patients with recurrent implantation failure and compares the clinical outcome between these 67 patients who underwent a personalized frozen-thawed embryo transfer guided by the results of the endometrial receptivity analysis and 32 patients with recurrent implantation failure who performed a standardized frozen-thawed embryo transfer. RESULTS The data analysis revealed a displaced endometrial receptivity in 73% (49/67) of all tested patients. Out of these patients, 24% (12/49) were early receptive, 74% (36/49) were pre-receptive, and 2% (1/49) were post-receptive. Comparison of pregnancy rate, clinical pregnancy rate, and live-birth rate between personalized (49%, 39%, 27%, respectively) and standardized embryo transfer (44%, 31%, 19%, respectively) reveals no statistically significant difference. In both groups, patients had an average of four unsuccessful embryo transfers. CONCLUSION In this cohort of patients with recurrent implantation failure, the endometrial receptivity analysis showed a high incidence of displaced endometrial receptivity. However, a personalized embryo transfer did not increase reproductive outcome. Displaced endometrial receptivity might not be the main cause for recurrent implantation failure in this cohort.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philippos Edimiris
- Department of OB/GYN and REI (UniKiD), Medical Center University of Duesseldorf, Moorenstraße 5, 40225, Duesseldorf, Germany.
| | - Cornelius Doehmen
- Department of OB/GYN and REI (UniKiD), Medical Center University of Duesseldorf, Moorenstraße 5, 40225, Duesseldorf, Germany
- Kinderwunschzentrum Niederrhein, Madrider Str. 6, 41069, Moenchengladbach, Germany
| | - Dunja Maria Baston-Buest
- Department of OB/GYN and REI (UniKiD), Medical Center University of Duesseldorf, Moorenstraße 5, 40225, Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Jan-Steffen Kruessel
- Department of OB/GYN and REI (UniKiD), Medical Center University of Duesseldorf, Moorenstraße 5, 40225, Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Alexandra Petra Bielfeld
- Department of OB/GYN and REI (UniKiD), Medical Center University of Duesseldorf, Moorenstraße 5, 40225, Duesseldorf, Germany
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21
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Wang Z, Zhang Y, Shang X, Miao R, Yin M, Yang H, Yu Y, Wei D. The likelihood of a healthy live birth after frozen embryo transfer with endometrium prepared by natural ovulation regimen vs programmed regimen: a propensity-score matching study. AJOG GLOBAL REPORTS 2023; 3:100210. [PMID: 37275439 PMCID: PMC10236214 DOI: 10.1016/j.xagr.2023.100210] [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: 06/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The number of frozen embryo transfer cycles is increasing, but the optimal method of endometrial preparation for frozen embryo transfer remains controversial. Few studies have investigated the healthy live birth outcome after the natural ovulation regimen vs the programmed regimen. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to explore whether the likelihood of a healthy live birth after frozen embryo transfer differs between the natural ovulation regimen and the programmed regimen. STUDY DESIGN We conducted a retrospective cohort study including 7824 ovulatory women who underwent the first frozen embryo transfer cycle of single-blastocyst transfer with endometrial preparation by natural ovulation regimen vs programmed regimen, between June 2017 and June 2021. Propensity score matching was used to control for confounding variables in a 1:1 ratio. The primary outcome was healthy live birth, defined as birth of a live, singleton infant born at term, with an appropriate birthweight for gestational age. RESULTS The natural ovulation regimen resulted in a higher probability of achieving healthy live birth compared with the programmed regimen (35.8% vs 30.6%; P<.0001). In addition, a higher rate of singleton live birth was observed after the natural ovulation regimen relative to the programmed regimen (49.6% vs 45.7%; P=.003). Women with the natural ovulation regimen were also less likely to experience clinical pregnancy loss (16.0% vs 19.7%; P=.005) and hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (3.9% vs 6.0%; P=.004) compared with women with the programmed regimen. Singletons born after the programmed regimen had greater mean birthweight (3441.50±539.97 vs 3394.96±503.87; P=.020) and higher risk of being large for gestational age (23.3% vs 18.7%; P=.003) than those conceived after the natural ovulation regimen. CONCLUSION The natural ovulation regimen may be superior to the programmed regimen with regard to higher likelihood of healthy live birth and lower risk of pregnancy loss and maternal hypertensive disorders of pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ze Wang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China (Dr Wang, Ms Shang, Dr Miao, Dr Yin, Dr Yang, and Dr Wei)
| | - Yingxin Zhang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China (Dr Zhang)
| | - Xue Shang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China (Dr Wang, Ms Shang, Dr Miao, Dr Yin, Dr Yang, and Dr Wei)
| | - Ruolan Miao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China (Dr Wang, Ms Shang, Dr Miao, Dr Yin, Dr Yang, and Dr Wei)
| | - Mengfei Yin
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China (Dr Wang, Ms Shang, Dr Miao, Dr Yin, Dr Yang, and Dr Wei)
| | - Huiming Yang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China (Dr Wang, Ms Shang, Dr Miao, Dr Yin, Dr Yang, and Dr Wei)
| | - Yunhai Yu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Second Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China (Dr Yu)
| | - Daimin Wei
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China (Dr Wang, Ms Shang, Dr Miao, Dr Yin, Dr Yang, and Dr Wei)
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Rubin SC, Abdulkadir M, Lewis J, Harutyunyan A, Hirani R, Grimes CL. Review of Endometrial Receptivity Array: A Personalized Approach to Embryo Transfer and Its Clinical Applications. J Pers Med 2023; 13:jpm13050749. [PMID: 37240919 DOI: 10.3390/jpm13050749] [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: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Successful outcomes of in vitro fertilization (IVF) rely on both the formation of a chromosomally normal embryo and its implantation in a receptive endometrium. Pre-implantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A) has been widely accepted as a tool to assess the viability of an embryo. In 2011, the endometrial receptivity array (ERA) was first published as a tool to determine when the endometrium is most receptive to an embryo, commonly referred to as the "window of implantation" (WOI). The ERA uses molecular arrays to assess proliferation and differentiation in the endometrium and screens for inflammatory markers. Unlike PGT-A, there has been dissent within the field concerning the efficacy of the ERA. Many studies that contest the success of the ERA found that it did not improve pregnancy outcomes in patients with an already-good prognosis. Alternatively, studies that utilized the ERA in patients with repeated implantation failure (RIF) and transfer of known euploid embryos demonstrated improved outcomes. This review aims to describe the ERA as a novel technique, review the various settings that the ERA may be used in, such as natural frozen embryo transfer (nFET) and hormone replacement therapy frozen embryo transfer (HRT-FET), and provide a summary of the recent clinical data for embryo transfers in patients with RIF utilizing the ERA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah C Rubin
- School of Medicine, New York Medical College, 40 Sunshine Cottage Road, Valhalla, NY 10595, USA
| | - Mawerdi Abdulkadir
- School of Medicine, New York Medical College, 40 Sunshine Cottage Road, Valhalla, NY 10595, USA
| | - Joshua Lewis
- School of Medicine, New York Medical College, 40 Sunshine Cottage Road, Valhalla, NY 10595, USA
| | - Aleksandr Harutyunyan
- School of Medicine, New York Medical College, 40 Sunshine Cottage Road, Valhalla, NY 10595, USA
| | - Rahim Hirani
- School of Medicine, New York Medical College, 40 Sunshine Cottage Road, Valhalla, NY 10595, USA
| | - Cara L Grimes
- School of Medicine, New York Medical College, 40 Sunshine Cottage Road, Valhalla, NY 10595, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Urology, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY 10595, USA
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Holschbach V, Kordes H, Dietrich JE, Bruckner T, Strowitzki T, Germeyer A. Patient- and cycle-specific factors affecting the outcome of frozen-thawed embryo transfers. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2023; 307:2001-2010. [PMID: 37061986 PMCID: PMC10147814 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-023-07019-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 04/17/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study attempted at identifying the main parameters influencing the outcome of frozen embryo transfers. METHODS This is a single-center retrospective cohort study of 830 frozen-embryo-transfer cycles performed at a German university hospital from January 2012 to December 2016. Main outcome parameters were the clinical pregnancy and live birth rate. Twelve patient- and cycle-dependent factors were analyzed in terms of their influence on the outcome of frozen embryo transfers. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used for the modelling of the dependency of the different parameters on outcomes. RESULTS The clinical pregnancy rate in our study was 25.5%, the live birth rate was 16.1% with an average maternal age of 34.2 years at the time of the oocyte retrieval. In the univariate analysis age, number of transferred embryos, blastocyst versus cleavage stage transfer, embryo quality and mode of endometrial preparation affected the birth rate significantly. The birth rate after artificial endometrial preparation was significantly lower than the birth rate after transfers in modified natural cycles (12.8 versus 20.6% with p = 0.031). The multivariate logistic regression analysis showed a significant independent influence of age, number of transferred embryos, culture duration and mode of endometrial preparation on the frozen embryo transfer success rates. Body mass index, nicotine abuse, a history of PCO syndrome or endometriosis and the co-transfer of a second poor-quality embryo to a good-quality embryo appeared to be irrelevant for the outcome in our collective. CONCLUSION Age, number of transferred embryos, embryo culture duration and the mode of endometrial preparation are independent predictive factors of frozen embryo transfer outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Verena Holschbach
- Department of Gynecologic Endocrinology and Fertility Disorders, Heidelberg University Hospital, INF440, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany.
| | - Hannah Kordes
- Department of Gynecologic Endocrinology and Fertility Disorders, Heidelberg University Hospital, INF440, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Jens Erik Dietrich
- Department of Gynecologic Endocrinology and Fertility Disorders, Heidelberg University Hospital, INF440, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Thomas Bruckner
- Institute of Medical Biometry and Informatics, University of Heidelberg, INF 130, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Thomas Strowitzki
- Department of Gynecologic Endocrinology and Fertility Disorders, Heidelberg University Hospital, INF440, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Ariane Germeyer
- Department of Gynecologic Endocrinology and Fertility Disorders, Heidelberg University Hospital, INF440, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
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Lee N, Bhaduri M, El-Toukhy T, Khalaf Y, Kopeika J. Comparing endometrial preparation methods in frozen embryo transfers - Does a previous live birth make a difference? Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2023; 284:52-57. [PMID: 36933459 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2023.03.010] [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: 12/12/2022] [Revised: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Does the outcome of a medicated or natural endometrial preparation for a frozen cycle differ if a patient has previously experienced a failed fresh cycle? DESIGN Retrospective matched case-controlled study to investigate frozen embryo transfer (FET) outcomes in women undergone medicated or natural endometrial preparation, with adjustment to the history of previous live birth. 878 frozen cycles were included for analysis, over a period of 2 years. RESULTS After adjusting for the number of embryos transferred, endometrial thickness and the number of previous embryo transfers, there was no difference in live birth rate (LBR) between medicated-FET and natural-FET groups regardless of the previous fertility outcome (p = 0.08). CONCLUSIONS A previous live birth does not affect the outcome of a subsequent frozen cycle, regardless of whether medicated- or natural endometrial preparation is used.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikki Lee
- Assisted Conception Unit, 11th Floor, Tower Wing, Guy's Hospital, Great Maze Pond, London SE1 9RT, United Kingdom.
| | - Mahua Bhaduri
- Assisted Conception Unit, 11th Floor, Tower Wing, Guy's Hospital, Great Maze Pond, London SE1 9RT, United Kingdom.
| | - Tarek El-Toukhy
- Assisted Conception Unit, 11th Floor, Tower Wing, Guy's Hospital, Great Maze Pond, London SE1 9RT, United Kingdom.
| | - Yacoub Khalaf
- Assisted Conception Unit, 11th Floor, Tower Wing, Guy's Hospital, Great Maze Pond, London SE1 9RT, United Kingdom.
| | - Julia Kopeika
- Assisted Conception Unit, 11th Floor, Tower Wing, Guy's Hospital, Great Maze Pond, London SE1 9RT, United Kingdom.
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Zhou R, Dong M, Huang L, Wang S, Fan L, Liang X, Zhang X, Liu F. Comparison of cumulative live birth rates between progestin-primed ovarian stimulation protocol and gonadotropin-releasing hormone antagonist protocol in different populations. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1117513. [PMID: 37143731 PMCID: PMC10151746 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1117513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective To compare cumulative live birth rate (LBR) between progestin-primed ovarian stimulation (PPOS) and GnRH antagonist protocols of preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) cycles in different populations. Methods This was a retrospective cohort study. A total of 865 patients were enrolled and separate analyses were performed for three populations: 498 patients with predicted normal ovarian response (NOR), 285 patients with PCOS, and 82 patients with predicted poor ovarian response (POR). The primary outcome was cumulative LBR for one oocyte retrieval cycle. The results of response to ovarian stimulation were also investigated, including numbers of oocytes retrieved, MII oocytes, 2PN, blastocysts, good-quality blastocysts, and usable blastocysts after biopsy, as well as rates of oocyte yield, blastocyst formation, good-quality blastocysts, and moderate or severe OHSS. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to identify potential confounders that may be independently associated with cumulative live birth. Results In NOR, the cumulative LBR of PPOS protocol was significantly lower than that of GnRH antagonists (28.4% vs. 40.7%; P=0.004). In multivariable analysis, the PPOS protocol was negatively associated with cumulative LBR (adjusted OR=0.556; 95% CI, 0.377-0.822) compared to GnRH antagonists after adjusting for potential confounders. The number and ratio of good-quality blastocysts were significantly reduced in PPOS protocol compared to GnRH antagonists (2.82 ± 2.83 vs. 3.20 ± 2.79; P=0.032 and 63.9% vs. 68.5%; P=0.021), while numbers of oocytes, MII oocytes and 2PN did not show any significant difference between GnRH antagonist and PPOS protocols. PCOS patients had similar outcomes as NOR. The cumulative LBR of PPOS group appeared to be lower than that of GnRH antagonists (37.4% vs. 46.1%; P=0.151), but not significantly. Meanwhile, the proportion of good-quality blastocysts in PPOS protocol was also lower compared to GnRH antagonists (63.5% vs. 68.9%; P=0.014). In patients with POR, the cumulative LBR of PPOS protocol was comparable to that of GnRH antagonists (19.2% vs. 16.7%; P=0.772). There was no statistical difference in the number and rate of good-quality blastocysts between the two protocols in POR, while the proportion of good-quality blastocysts appeared to be higher in PPOS group compared to GnRH antagonists (66.7% vs. 56.3%; P=0.182). In addition, the number of usable blastocysts after biopsy was comparable between the two protocols in three populations. Conclusion The cumulative LBR of PPOS protocol in PGT cycles is lower than that of GnRH antagonists in NOR. In patients with PCOS, the cumulative LBR of PPOS protocol appears to be lower than that of GnRH antagonists, albeit lacking statistical difference, whereas in patients with diminished ovarian reserve, the two protocols were comparable. Our findings suggest the need for caution when choosing PPOS protocol to achieve live births, especially for normal and high ovarian responders.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Fenghua Liu
- *Correspondence: Fenghua Liu, ; Xiqian Zhang,
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Pabuccu E, Kovanci E, Israfilova G, Tulek F, Demirel C, Pabuccu R. Oral, vaginal or intramuscular progesterone in programmed frozen embryo transfer cycles: a pilot randomized controlled trial. Reprod Biomed Online 2022; 45:1145-1151. [PMID: 36153226 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2022.06.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Revised: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION What should be the optimal route of luteal support in programmed frozen embryo transfer (FET) cycles? DESIGN This was a randomized, parallel, phase IV pilot trial with three groups of women undergoing FET along with hormone replacement therapy for endometrial preparation at a tertiary private IVF centre (NCT03948022). Women with at least one autologous cryopreserved blastocyst were included. After preparing the endometrium with oestradiol, 151 women were randomly assigned to one of the following three progesterone arms before embryo transfer: oral (10 mg) dydrogesterone (DYD), total daily dose 40 mg (n = 52); 8% (90 mg) progesterone vaginal gel (VAG), total daily dose 180 mg (n = 55); or intramuscular progesterone (IMP) 50 mg/ml in oil, total daily dose 100 mg (n = 44). One or two vitrified-warmed blastocysts were transferred after 5 days' progesterone support. RESULTS Baseline demographic features and embryological data were comparable among the groups. Ongoing pregnancy rates (40.4%, 38.2% and 45.5% in the DYD, VAG and IMP arms; P = 0.76) and live birth rates (40.4%, 38.2% and 43.2% in the DYD, VAG and IMP arms, P = 0.61) were statistically similar. Biochemical pregnancy rates and clinical miscarriage rates were also statistically similar among the groups. Significantly more patients with at least one side effect and moderate-to-severe side effects were documented in the IMP arm than the other groups (P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Treatment with 40 mg/day oral DYD, 180 mg/day progesterone VAG gel or 100 mg/day IMP revealed similar reproductive outcomes in programmed FET cycles. Side effects were significantly more frequent in the IMP arm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emre Pabuccu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ufuk University School of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey.
| | | | | | - Fırat Tulek
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Memorial Ataşehir Hospital, İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Cem Demirel
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Memorial Ataşehir Hospital, İstanbul, Turkey
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Early pregnancy complications after frozen-thawed embryo transfer in different cycle regimens: A retrospective cohort study. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2022; 279:102-106. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2022.10.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Revised: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Pregnancy outcomes after frozen-thawed embryo transfer using letrozole ovulation induction, natural, or programmed cycles. Fertil Steril 2022; 118:690-698. [PMID: 35863997 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2022.06.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Revised: 06/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate and compare pregnancy outcomes between letrozole ovulation induction, natural, and programmed frozen-thawed embryo transfer (FET) cycles in a population based in the United States. DESIGN Retrospective cohort study. SETTING Single university-affiliated infertility practice. PATIENT(S) A total of 3,148 FET cycles consisting of patients aged ≤45 years transferring blastocysts that were created from autologous oocytes between January 2015 and July 2021. INTERVENTION(S) None. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) The primary outcome was the ongoing pregnancy rate (OPR) or live birth rate (LBR). The secondary outcomes included clinical pregnancy and clinical loss rates (CLRs). RESULT(S) The OPR/LBR was higher among letrozole FETs than among programmed FETs (adjusted risk ratio [aRR] 1.11, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.02-1.21) but comparable to natural FETs (aRR 1.05, 95% CI 0.96-1.14). The OPR/LBR was comparable between natural and programmed FETs (aRR 1.06, 95% CI 0.99-1.13). The CLR was lower in the natural FET group than in the programmed FET group (aRR 0.62, 95% CI 0.46-0.84). There were no differences in CLRs between letrozole and programmed FETs and between letrozole and natural FETs. Among ovulatory women, the OPR/LBR among letrozole FETs was higher than that among programmed FETs (aRR 1.16, 95% CI 1.05-1.28). The CLR among ovulatory women was significantly lower in both letrozole FETs (aRR 0.44, 95% CI 0.22-0.87) and natural FETs (aRR 0.59, 95% CI 0.43-0.80) than in programmed FETs. Among anovulatory women, the OPR/LBR in the letrozole FET group was similar to that in the programmed FET group (aRR 0.95, 95% CI 0.79-1.13). CONCLUSION(S) Letrozole and natural FET clinical outcomes were improved compared with programmed FET outcomes.
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Jacobs EA, Van Voorhis B, Kawwass JF, Kondapalli LA, Liu K, Dokras A. Endometrial thickness: How thin is too thin? Fertil Steril 2022; 118:249-259. [PMID: 35878944 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2022.05.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Emily A Jacobs
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, Iowa
| | - Brad Van Voorhis
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, Iowa
| | - Jennifer F Kawwass
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Emory Reproductive Center, Atlanta, Georgia
| | | | - Kimberly Liu
- Mount Sinai Fertility, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Anuja Dokras
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
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Fujiwara T, Kusumi M, Utsunomiya T, Nomiyama M, Yanagida K, Watanabe Y, Yamaguchi Y, Tanaka A. Effervescent Progesterone Vaginal Tablet Mono-Administration Demonstrated Comparable Pregnancy Rate Across the Different Serum Progesterone Levels on the Day of Embryo Transfer in SHIFT Study. FERTILITY & REPRODUCTION 2022. [DOI: 10.1142/s2661318222500074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Hormone replacement (HR)-frozen thawed embryo transfer (FET) is preferentially used in Japan. HR-FET needs supplementation of progesterone, but there are few data about the efficacy and safety of vaginal progesterone tablet. The aim of this study is to investigate the efficacy of vaginal progesterone tablet in HR-FET cycle in Japanese patients. Methods: This study was multicenter, single arm, prospective study. Patients with infertility were administered 300 mg/day of vaginal progesterone tablet for luteal phase support in HR-FET cycle from 2015 to 2016. Results: Main outcomes were available for 344 patients, of which 49 in the cleavage stage ET group and 295 in the blastocyst ET group. Ongoing pregnancy rate were 10.2% in cleavage stage ET group and 28.1% in blastocyst ET group. As for the secondary outcomes in the blastocyst ET group, embryo quality of blastocyst, the number of past ET, and maternal age were significantly associated with pregnancy rate at 2 weeks after progesterone administration. Mean serum progesterone level was 12.1 ± 5.3 ng/mL at the day of ET. There was no relationship between the serum progesterone level on ET day and either of pregnancy rates at 2, 4, and 6 weeks after progesterone administration. Conclusions: The efficacy of monotherapy using 300 mg/day of vaginal progesterone tablet in HR-FET was shown and the serum progesterone level on ET day did not affect pregnancy rate. (UMIN000021983)
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Kaoru Yanagida
- International University of Health and Welfare, Tochigi, Japan
| | | | | | - Atsushi Tanaka
- St. Mother Obstetrics & Gynecology Hospital, Fukuoka, Japan
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Li L, Liu L, Kou Z, Huo M, An J, Zhang X. GnRH agonist treatment regulates IL-6 and IL-11 expression in endometrial stromal cells for patients with HRT regiment in frozen embryo transfer cycles. Reprod Biol 2022; 22:100608. [DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2022.100608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2021] [Revised: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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Zaat TR, de Bruin JP, Mol F, van Wely M. Facilitators and barriers for home-based monitoring to time frozen embryo transfers in IVF among women and healthcare providers. Hum Reprod Open 2022; 2022:hoac021. [PMID: 35702341 PMCID: PMC9188296 DOI: 10.1093/hropen/hoac021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Revised: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION What are the facilitators and barriers concerning the implementation of home-based monitoring for natural cycle frozen embryo transfer (NC-FET) from the perspectives of patients and healthcare providers in the Netherlands? SUMMARY ANSWER The most important facilitator was optimal pregnancy chance for both the patients and healthcare providers, and the most important barriers were the risk of missing an ovulation for the patients and laboratory capacity for the healthcare providers. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY The share of FET cycles in IVF treatments is increasing and, therefore, it is important to optimize protocols for FET. Monitoring of ovulation, which is used in NC-FET, can be hospital-based (ultrasounds and ovulation triggering) or home-based (LH urine tests). Home-based monitoring has the advantage of being the most natural protocol for FET and provides the feeling of empowerment and discretion for patients. A systematic approach for the implementation of home-based monitoring has to start with an exploration of the perspectives of all stakeholders. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Stakeholders (patients and healthcare providers) involved in the implementation process in the Netherlands participated in the present study. Patients were represented by the Dutch Patient Organisation for Couples with Fertility Problems (FREYA) and healthcare providers were represented by gynaecologists and their society (The Netherlands Society of Obstetrics and Gynaecology), embryologists and their society (The Dutch Federation of Clinical Embryology) as well as fertility doctors. A panel of experts hypothesized on barriers and facilitators for the implementation of home-based monitoring during the proposal phase of the Antarctica-2 randomized controlled trial (RCT). PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS All stakeholders were represented during the study. Two different questionnaires were developed in order to investigate facilitators and barriers for the patients and for healthcare providers. The facilitators and barriers were ranked on a scale of 1–10 with 10 being the most important. Based on our power analysis, we aimed for a minimum of 300 completed questionnaires for the patients and a minimum of 90 completed questionnaires for the healthcare providers. Facilitators and barriers were analysed using frequencies, mean (SD) and ranking. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE A total of 311 patients filled out the questionnaire of whom 86.8% underwent FET previously. The most important facilitator for the patients was to implement the strategy with the highest chance of pregnancy (mean 9.7; 95% CI 9.6–9.7) and the most important barrier was risk of missing ovulation (mean 8.4; 95% CI 8.2–8.6). A total of 96 healthcare providers filled out the questionnaire. According to healthcare providers, patients would accept the strategy when it causes less interference with their work and private life (mean 7.5; 95% CI 7.1–8.0) and has a low risk of missing the ovulation (mean 7.6; 95% CI 7.1–8.0). The most important facilitator for the implementation of home-based monitoring for healthcare providers was optimizing cumulative pregnancy rates (mean 8.1; 95% CI 7.7–8.4) and the most important barrier was the lack of laboratory capacity and flexibility (mean 6.4; 95% CI 5.8–7.0). LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Facilitators and barriers were selected based on expert opinion. Currently, there are no validated questionnaires that aim to assess facilitators and barriers for the implementation of treatments in fertility care. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS During our study, we gained insight into barriers and facilitators for the implementation of home-based monitoring of NC-FET at an early phase. Early sharing and discussion of the results of this study with all stakeholders involved should stimulate a fast incorporation in guidelines, especially as key professionals in guideline development took part in this study. Also, based on our results, we can advise guideline developers to add tools to the guideline that may help overcome the implementation barriers. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS The Antarctica-2 RCT is supported by a grant from the Netherlands Organisation for Health Research and Development (ZonMw 843002807). No authors have any competing interests to declare. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER Trial NL6414 (NTR6590).
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Affiliation(s)
- T R Zaat
- University of Amsterdam, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute Amsterdam UMC, , Meibergdreef 9, The Netherlands, Amsterdam
| | - J P de Bruin
- Jeroen Bosch Ziekenhuis Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, , Henri Dunantstraat 1, 5223 GZ, The Netherlands, ‘s-Hertogenbosch
| | - F Mol
- University of Amsterdam, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute Amsterdam UMC, , Meibergdreef 9, The Netherlands, Amsterdam
| | - M van Wely
- University of Amsterdam, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute Amsterdam UMC, , Meibergdreef 9, The Netherlands, Amsterdam
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von Versen-Höynck F, Griesinger G. Should any use of artificial cycle regimen for frozen-thawed embryo transfer in women capable of ovulation be abandoned: yes, but what's next for FET cycle practice and research? Hum Reprod 2022; 37:1697-1703. [PMID: 35640158 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deac125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2022] [Revised: 05/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Over the past decade, the use of frozen-thawed embryo transfer (FET) treatment cycles has increased substantially. The artificial ('programmed') cycle regimen, which suppresses ovulation, is widely used for that purpose, also in ovulatory women or women capable of ovulation, under the assumption of equivalent efficacy in terms of pregnancy achievement as compared to a natural cycle or modified natural cycle. The advantage of the artificial cycle is the easy alignment of the time point of thawing and transferring embryos with organizational necessities of the IVF laboratory, the treating doctors and the patient. However, recent data indicate that pregnancy establishment under absence of a corpus luteum as a consequence of anovulation may cause relevant maternal and fetal risks. Herein, we argue that randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are not needed to aid in the clinical decision for or against routine artificial cycle regimen use in ovulatory women. We also argue that RCTs are unlikely to answer the most burning questions of interest in that context, mostly because of lack of power and precision in detecting rare but decisive adverse outcomes (e.g. pre-eclampsia risk or long-term neonatal health outcomes). We pinpoint that, instead, large-scale observational data are better suited for that purpose. Eventually, we propose that the existing understanding and evidence is sufficient already to discourage the use of artificial cycle regimens for FET in ovulatory women or women capable of ovulation, as these may cause a strong deviation from physiology, thereby putting patient and fetus at avoidable health risk, without any apparent health benefit.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Georg Griesinger
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University Hospital of Schleswig-Holstein, Lübeck, Germany
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Kadour-Peero E, Feferkorn I, Bellemare V, Arab S, Buckett W. A comparison of frozen-thawed embryo transfer protocols in 2920 single-blastocyst transfers. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2022; 306:887-892. [PMID: 35543740 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-022-06588-z] [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: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the effect of frozen-thawed embryo transfer (FET) protocol on live-birth rate (LBR) and clinical pregnancy rate (CPR), in single-vitrified-blastocyst transfer MATERIALS AND METHODS: Retrospective cohort study with FET of a single-blastocyst embryos (n = 2920 cycles) thawed 2013-2018. FET protocols were natural cycles (NC-FET) (n = 147), artificial hormone replacement treatment cycles (HRT-FET) (n = 2645), and modified NC (mNC) with hCG triggering (n = 128). Primary outcome was LBR. Adjustment for age, embryo grade, year of freezing\thawing, infertility cause, and endometrial thickness was performed. RESULTS There were no significant differences between the groups with regard to female age, embryo grade, and endometrial thickness. LBR was higher in the mNC compared to HRT-FET cycles (38.3% vs. 20.9% P < 0.0001), and in the NC compared to HRT-FET cycles (34.7% vs. 20.9%, P = 0.0002). CPR was higher in the mNC compared to HRT-FET cycles (46.1% vs. 33.3% P = 0.0003), and in the NC compared to HRT-FET cycles (45.9% vs. 33.3%, P = 0.002). There was no significant difference in LBR or CPR between NC-FET and mNC-FET. Higher LBR with NC-FET and mNC-FET remained significant after adjusting for confounders (aOR 2.42, 95%CI 1.53-3.66, P < 0.0001). CONCLUSION The use of the convenient artificial HRT-FET cycles must be cautiously reconsidered in light of the potential negative effect on LBR when compared with natural cycle FET.
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Affiliation(s)
- Einav Kadour-Peero
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada.
| | - Ido Feferkorn
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Veronique Bellemare
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Suha Arab
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - William Buckett
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
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Youngster M, Avraham S, Yaakov O, Landau Rabbi M, Gat I, Yerushalmi G, Baum M, Maman E, Hourvitz A, Kedem A. The impact of past COVID-19 infection on pregnancy rates in frozen embryo transfer cycles. J Assist Reprod Genet 2022; 39:1565-1570. [PMID: 35525900 PMCID: PMC9078206 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-022-02517-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 05/04/2022] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To study the effect of SARS-CoV-2 infection on pregnancy rates in frozen embryo transfer (FET) cycles. METHODS A retrospective cohort study including women under the age of 42 with documented SARS-CoV-2 infection up to 1 year prior to treatment, undergoing FET cycles in the first half of 2021, with transfer of embryos generated prior to the infection. Controls were SARS-CoV-2 non-diagnosed, non-vaccinated women matched by age, number, and day of embryo transfer. Demographic and cycle characteristics and outcomes were compared. RESULTS Forty-one recovered women and 41 controls were included. Pregnancy rates were 29% and 49% respectively (p = 0.070). Stratification by time from SARS-CoV-2 infection to transfer into ≤ 60 and > 60 days revealed a difference in pregnancy rates, with women in the COVID group having lower pregnancy rates if infected in proximity to the transfer (21% vs. 55%; p = 0.006). In a logistic regression model, infection was a significant variable (p = 0.05, OR 0.325, 95% CI 0.106-0.998). Logistic regression applied on the subgroup of women infected in proximity to the transfer further strengthened the univariate results, with COVID-19 remaining a significant parameter (p = 0.005, OR 0.072, 95% CI 0.012-0.450). CONCLUSIONS In FET cycles of patients with past SARS-CoV-2 infection, in which oocytes were retrieved prior to infection, decreased pregnancy rates were observed, specifically in patients who recovered less than 60 days prior to embryo transfer. Pending further studies, in cases of FET cycles with limited number of embryos, postponing embryo transfer for at least 60 days following recovery from COVID-19 might be considered when feasible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michal Youngster
- IVF Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shamir Medical Center, 70300, Zerifin, Israel. .,Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel. .,IVF Unit, Herzliya Medical Centre, Herzliya, Israel.
| | - Sarit Avraham
- IVF Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shamir Medical Center, 70300, Zerifin, Israel.,Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Odelia Yaakov
- IVF Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shamir Medical Center, 70300, Zerifin, Israel
| | - Moran Landau Rabbi
- IVF Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shamir Medical Center, 70300, Zerifin, Israel
| | - Itai Gat
- IVF Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shamir Medical Center, 70300, Zerifin, Israel.,Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Gil Yerushalmi
- IVF Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shamir Medical Center, 70300, Zerifin, Israel.,Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Micha Baum
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel.,IVF Unit, Herzliya Medical Centre, Herzliya, Israel.,IVF Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sheba Medical Centre, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Ettie Maman
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel.,IVF Unit, Herzliya Medical Centre, Herzliya, Israel.,IVF Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sheba Medical Centre, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Ariel Hourvitz
- IVF Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shamir Medical Center, 70300, Zerifin, Israel.,Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Alon Kedem
- IVF Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shamir Medical Center, 70300, Zerifin, Israel.,Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel.,IVF Unit, Herzliya Medical Centre, Herzliya, Israel
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Comparison of two endometrial preparation methods for frozen-thawed embryo transfer in anovulatory PCOS patients: impact on miscarriage rate. J Gynecol Obstet Hum Reprod 2022; 51:102399. [PMID: 35489711 DOI: 10.1016/j.jogoh.2022.102399] [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: 05/02/2021] [Revised: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 04/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE - Some studies have suggested that patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) are at high risk of miscarriage. However, this still remains controversial. Several potential factors might explain this association: obesity, hyperinsulinemia and hyperandrogenism. Artificial and stimulated cycles appear to be comparable for endometrial preparation in frozen-thawed embryo transfer (FET) in PCOS patients. Only a few studies have assessed miscarriage rates specifically in PCOS. We have evaluated the impact of endometrial preparation on FET outcomes in anovulatory PCOS patients. METHODS - A retrospective cohort study was conducted at the Lille University Hospital, including 255 FET cycles in 134 PCOS patients between January 2011 and December 2017. PCOS was defined by the presence of at least two of the three Rotterdam's criteria. Patients were under 35 years old. Two endometrial preparation protocol were studied: stimulated cycle (gonadotropins on the second day of the cycle and luteal phase support including natural progesterone 600 mg/day) and artificial cycle (6 mg oral estradiol valerate and 800 mg micronized vaginal progesterone daily). RESULTS - 137 FET were performed under stimulated cycle and 118 FET under artificial cycle. Early pregnancy rates (30% versus 37.3%, p = NS), miscarriage rates (22% versus 25%, p = NS) and live birth rates (23.4% versus 26.3%, p = NS) were similar. CONCLUSIONS - In anovulatory PCOS women, the type of endometrial preparation does not influence FET outcomes, specifically regarding the miscarriage rate.
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Gan J, Rozen G, Polyakov A. Treatment outcomes of blastocysts thaw cycles, comparing the presence and absence of a corpus luteum: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e051489. [PMID: 35473741 PMCID: PMC9045106 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-051489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aims to review the literature and perform a meta-analysis to determine if the presence of a corpus luteum has an impact on treatment outcomes in thaw cycles, where blastocyst embryos are transferred. METHOD PUBMED, EMBASE, CENTRAL and CINAHL were searched for papers published between January 2017 and 27 July 2020. Additional articles were selected from the reference list of the results and previous reviews. Three reviewers independently reviewed and extracted data. The meta-analysis was conducted though RevMan V.5.4.1. Studies were quality assessed with the Cochrane risk of bias tool and the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. RESULTS Nine publications were included for data extraction and subsequent meta-analysis. Two studies were randomised controlled trials, and seven were cohort studies. Subgroup analysis of the different study designs was performed. While the rates of positive human chorionic gonadotropin results (relative risk, RR 1.0, 95% CI 0.95 to 1.05) and clinical pregnancies (RR 1.06, 95% CI 0.96 to 1.18) were comparable between the two groups, the rates of live births were higher in thaw cycles with a corpus luteum (RR 1.14, 95% CI 1.06 to 1.22). Analysis of pregnancy losses demonstrated that both biochemical pregnancy (early miscarriage) (RR 0.71, 95% CI 0.62 to 0.82) and miscarriages (RR 0.72, 95% CI 0.62 to 0.83) were increased in cycles without a corpus luteum. CONCLUSION Where clinically appropriate, the use of cycle types that have a functional corpus luteum should be favoured. There were several limitations to this study, including the quality of studies and the inherent bias of retrospective cohort studies. Further, high-quality research, particularly randomised controlled trials with blastocysts embryos, is required to further explore these findings. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD42020209583.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joscelyn Gan
- Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Genia Rozen
- Reproductive Services, Royal Women's Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Melbourne IVF, East Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Alex Polyakov
- Reproductive Services, Royal Women's Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Melbourne IVF, East Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Is duration of estrogen supplementation associated with clinical outcomes in frozen-thawed autologous single-blastocyst transfer cycles? J Assist Reprod Genet 2022; 39:1087-1094. [PMID: 35389156 PMCID: PMC9107546 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-022-02481-5] [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: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate the relationship between different duration of estrogen administration and live birth rate (LBR) after autologous single frozen blastocyst transfer with hormone replacement therapy. METHODS A total of 2026 frozen blastocyst transfer cycles in the assisted reproductive center of northwest women and children's hospital from January, 2017, to August, 2020, were retrospectively analyzed. All the cycles were allocated into 3 groups according to the duration of estrogen administration: group A, 11-14 days (n = 346); group B, 15-18 days (n = 1191), and group C, ≥ 19 days (n = 489). Baseline data, clinical, and perinatal outcomes of the three groups were compared. A multivariate regression model was constructed to analyze the association between duration of estradiol administration and clinical outcomes. RESULTS We did not observe a significant association between duration of estrogen supplementation and LBR in group B (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.14; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.89-1.45) or group C (aOR 1.16; 95% CI, 0.86-1.56) patients with group A as the reference group, through logistic regression analysis. No statistical differences were observed in perinatal outcomes among the three groups. CONCLUSION The duration of estrogen administration was not associated with the likelihood of live birth in women undergoing frozen-thawed autologous single-blastocyst transfer.
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Zhang Y, Wu L, Li TC, Wang CC, Zhang T, Chung JPW. Systematic review update and meta-analysis of randomized and non-randomized controlled trials of ovarian stimulation versus artificial cycle for endometrial preparation prior to frozen embryo transfer in women with polycystic ovary syndrome. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2022; 20:62. [PMID: 35366912 PMCID: PMC8976372 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-022-00931-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to compare the short-term reproductive and long-term obstetric outcomes after endometrial preparations by ovarian stimulation protocols and hormone replacement therapy (HRT) in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) prior to frozen embryo transfer (FET). METHOD PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science and the Cochrane Library were searched to identify relevant studies. Primary outcome was live birth rate, secondary outcomes included the rates of clinical pregnancy, miscarriage, implantation and hCG-postive, cycle cancellation, ectopic pregnancy, preterm birth, preeclampsia, gestational hypertension, gestational diabetes mellitus and abnormal placentation. RESULTS Nine studies, including 8327 patients with PCOS, were identified. Live birth rate was significantly higher (RR = 1.11, 95% CI = 1.03-1.19) and miscarriage rate (RR = 0.60, 95% CI = 0.46-0.78) was significantly lower in stimulated protocol compared to the rates in HRT. While the rates of ongoing pregnancy, clinical pregnancy, implantation, hCG-positive, cycle cancellation and ectopic pregnancy showed no significant difference between the two protocols. Compared HRT with different stimulation protocols, significantly higher clinical pregnancy rate (RR = 1.54, 95% CI = 1.20-1.98) were found in letrozole group, but not in the other subgroups. For the obstetric outcomes, the preterm birth and preeclampsia rates were significantly lower in the stimulated group compared to that in the HRT group (RR = 0.85, 95% CI = 0.74-0.98; RR = 0.57, 95% CI = 0.40-0.82, respectively), while gestational hypertension, gestational diabetes mellitus and abnormal placentation rates showed no significant difference. CONCLUSIONS The present data suggest that ovarian stimulation protocol as an endometrial preparation regimen prior to FET might be superior to HRT protocol with a significantly higher rate of live birth, lower risk of miscarriage, preterm birth and preeclampsia. Our study showed stimulated protocol is better than HRT regimen as an endometrial preparation for women with PCOS. However, quality of the evidence is low, more well-designed RCT studies are still needed to confirm the results before clinical recommendation, particularly direct comparisons between letrozole and other stimulated regimens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingying Zhang
- grid.10784.3a0000 0004 1937 0482Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Ling Wu
- grid.10784.3a0000 0004 1937 0482Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Tin Chiu Li
- grid.10784.3a0000 0004 1937 0482Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Chi Chiu Wang
- grid.10784.3a0000 0004 1937 0482Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, School of Biomedical Sciences, Chinese University of Hong Kong -Sichuan University Joint Laboratory in Reproductive Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Tao Zhang
- grid.10784.3a0000 0004 1937 0482Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Jacqueline Pui Wah Chung
- grid.10784.3a0000 0004 1937 0482Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
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Demirdağ E, Güler İ, Cevher Akdulum MF, Şahin E, Tufan AD, Erdem A, Erdem M. Comparison of natural and artificial cycles in frozenthawed embryo transfer: A retrospective analysis of 1696 cycles. Turk J Obstet Gynecol 2022; 19:28-34. [PMID: 35343217 PMCID: PMC8966319 DOI: 10.4274/tjod.galenos.2021.17981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
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Jiang WJ, Song JY, Sun ZG. Short (seven days) versus standard (fourteen days) oestrogen administration in a programmed frozen embryo transfer cycle: a retrospective cohort study. J Ovarian Res 2022; 15:36. [PMID: 35313944 PMCID: PMC8939227 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-022-00967-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Research question What influence does seven days of oestrogen administration versus fourteen days have on the reproductive outcomes of frozen-thawed embryo transfer (FET) in programmed endometrial preparation cycles? Design In a retrospective study, conducted at a university-affiliated tertiary hospital, a total of 2628 infertile patients (4142 FET cycles) were divided into one of two groups between January 2014 and December 2020: group A (n = 1406, seven days of oestrogen before progesterone (P4) supplementation) and group B (n = 2716, fourteen days of oestrogen before P4 supplementation). The primary outcome was cumulative live birth rate (CLBR). Secondary outcomes were other pregnancy-related outcomes, maternal and neonatal complications. Results No significant difference in CLBR was observed when comparing seven versus fourteen days of oestrogen administration before starting P4 supplementation (47.6% vs. 48.8%, P = 0.537). Furthermore, multivariable logistic regression analysis revealed that oestrogen administration in programmed FET cycles (7 days vs. 14 days) was not significantly associated with CLBR (OR 1.04, 95% CI 0.89–1.23). The risks of maternal and neonatal complications were comparable between the two groups. Conclusions Variation in the duration of oestradiol supplementation before P4 initiation does not impact FET reproductive outcomes. For infertile women who desire to conceive as soon as feasible, short (seven days) oestrogen administration in a programmed FET cycle may be a suitable alternative. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13048-022-00967-5.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Jing Jiang
- The First Clinical College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Jing-Yan Song
- The First Clinical College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China.
| | - Zhen-Gao Sun
- The First Clinical College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China. .,Reproductive and Genetic Centre of Integrated Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China.
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Li J, Sun Q, Zhang M, Fu X, Zhang Y, Gao S, Ma J. Natural cycles achieve better pregnancy outcomes than artificial cycles in non-PCOS women undergoing vitrified single-blastocyst transfer: a retrospective cohort study of 6840 cycles. J Assist Reprod Genet 2022; 39:639-646. [PMID: 35122175 PMCID: PMC8995231 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-022-02424-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To identify the optimal method for endometrial preparation in vitrified single-blastocyst transfer (VSBT) cycles. METHODS This was a retrospective cohort study for non-PCOS patients who underwent VSBT cycles from March 2015 to November 2019 in an academic reproductive medical center. A total of 6840 VSBT cycles were enrolled and classified into two groups according to different endometrial preparation methods. RESULTS The non-PCOS patients who underwent VSBT showed a significantly higher clinical pregnancy rate (61.96% vs 56.85%, p < 0.001) and live birth rate (49.09% vs 39.86%, p < 0.001), as well as a statistically lower early miscarriage rate (12.02% vs 18.08%, p < 0.001) in the natural cycle (NC) group compared with the artificial cycle (AC) group. Multivariable analysis further confirmed that NC was associated with an increased likelihood of clinical pregnancy (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 0.852, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.765-0.949, p = 0.004) and live birth (aOR 0.746, 95% CI 0.669-0.832, p < 0 .001), but decreased early miscarriage occurrence (aOR 1.447, 95% CI 1.215-1.724, p < 0.001) compared to AC. CONCLUSIONS Our study demonstrated that non-PCOS patients could benefit from NC in vitrified blastocyst transfer. Increased clinical pregnancy rate and decreased early miscarriage rate led to a significantly higher live birth rate in NC patients compared with AC with our present protocol.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Li
- grid.27255.370000 0004 1761 1174Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012 China ,grid.27255.370000 0004 1761 1174Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012 China ,grid.27255.370000 0004 1761 1174Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, Shandong 250012 China ,Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Jinan, Shandong 250012 China ,grid.27255.370000 0004 1761 1174National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012 China
| | - Qian Sun
- grid.27255.370000 0004 1761 1174Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012 China ,grid.27255.370000 0004 1761 1174Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012 China ,grid.27255.370000 0004 1761 1174Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, Shandong 250012 China ,Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Jinan, Shandong 250012 China ,grid.27255.370000 0004 1761 1174National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012 China
| | - Meng Zhang
- grid.27255.370000 0004 1761 1174Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012 China ,grid.27255.370000 0004 1761 1174Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012 China ,grid.27255.370000 0004 1761 1174Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, Shandong 250012 China ,Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Jinan, Shandong 250012 China ,grid.27255.370000 0004 1761 1174National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012 China
| | - Xiao Fu
- grid.27255.370000 0004 1761 1174Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012 China ,grid.27255.370000 0004 1761 1174Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012 China ,grid.27255.370000 0004 1761 1174Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, Shandong 250012 China ,Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Jinan, Shandong 250012 China ,grid.27255.370000 0004 1761 1174National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012 China
| | - Yiting Zhang
- grid.27255.370000 0004 1761 1174Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012 China ,grid.27255.370000 0004 1761 1174Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012 China ,grid.27255.370000 0004 1761 1174Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, Shandong 250012 China ,Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Jinan, Shandong 250012 China ,grid.27255.370000 0004 1761 1174National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012 China
| | - Shanshan Gao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China. .,Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China. .,Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China. .,Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China. .,National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China. .,Center for Reproductive Medicine, The Second Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China.
| | - Jinlong Ma
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China. .,Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China. .,Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China. .,Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China. .,National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China.
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Lee JC, Badell ML, Kawwass JF. The impact of endometrial preparation for frozen embryo transfer on maternal and neonatal outcomes: a review. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2022; 20:40. [PMID: 35227270 PMCID: PMC8883648 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-021-00869-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The use of frozen embryo transfer in assisted reproductive technology (ART) has steadily increased since development in the early 1980's. While there are many benefits to delayed frozen embryo transfer, certain adverse perinatal outcomes are noted to be more common in these transfers when compared to fresh transfers, specifically hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. Frozen embryo transfers require coordination between the embryo's developmental stage and the endometrial environment and can occur in either ovulatory or programmed cycles. Though there is no consensus on the ideal method of endometrial preparation prior to frozen embryo transfer, emerging data suggests differences in maternal and neonatal outcomes, specifically increased rates of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy in programmed cycles. Other reported differences include an increased risk of cesarean delivery, placenta accreta, postpartum hemorrhage, low birthweight, preterm birth, post term delivery, macrosomia, large for gestational age, and premature rupture of membranes in programmed cycles. The mechanism by which these differences exist could reflect inherent differences in groups selected for each type of endometrial preparation, the role of super physiologic hormone environments in programmed cycles, or the unique contributions of the corpus luteum in ovulatory cycles that are not present in programmed cycles. Given that existing studies are largely retrospective and have several key limitations, further investigation is needed. Confirmation of these findings has implications for current practice patterns and could enhance understanding of the mechanisms behind important adverse perinatal outcomes in those pursuing assisted reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacqueline C Lee
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Emory University School of Medicine, Emory Reproductive Center, 550 Peachtree Street, 18th Floor, Atlanta, GA, 30308, USA.
| | - Martina L Badell
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Emory University School of Medicine, Emory Perinatal Center, 550 Peachtree Street, 15th floor, Atlanta, GA, 30308, USA
| | - Jennifer F Kawwass
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Emory University School of Medicine, Emory Reproductive Center, 550 Peachtree Street, 18th Floor, Atlanta, GA, 30308, USA
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Zhou R, Zhang X, Huang L, Wang S, Li L, Dong M, Zhu X, Liu F. The impact of different cycle regimens on birthweight of singletons in frozen-thawed embryo transfer cycles of ovulatory women. Fertil Steril 2022; 117:573-582. [PMID: 35120746 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2021.09.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2021] [Revised: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate whether different endometrial preparation regimens affect neonatal outcomes after frozen-thawed embryo transfer (FET). DESIGN Retrospective cohort study. SETTING Tertiary care academic medical center. PATIENTS A total of 3,639 patients with live-born singletons were categorized into three groups on the basis of the type of endometrial preparation regimens. Of these, 1,225, 2,136, and 278 live-born singletons were conceived through natural cycle FET, artificial cycle FET, and stimulated cycle FET, respectively. INTERVENTION(S) None. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES The main outcomes were the measures of birthweight including the absolute mean birthweight, Z-score, low birthweight, high birthweight (HBW), small for gestational age, and large for gestational age (LGA). RESULTS After controlling for a variety of covariates, singletons from the artificial cycle FET group had a higher mean birthweight and Z-score than those from the natural cycle FET group and stimulated cycle FET group. The risk of LGA infants significantly increased in the artificial cycle group (14.0%) than that in the natural cycle group (10.3%) and stimulated cycle group (7.6%). The risk of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy in the artificial cycle group (4.4%) was significantly higher than that in the natural cycle group (2.5%). The stimulated cycle FET singletons had a higher risk of low birthweight than the natural cycle FET singletons. The other perinatal outcomes, including the incidence of preterm birth, small for gestational age, and gestational diabetes mellitus, were comparable between the groups before or after adjustment for confounders. CONCLUSIONS Singletons from artificial cycle FET were associated with a higher risk of LGA infants, and natural cycle FET may be a better regimen for ovulatory women. Our results indicate a link between the absence of the corpus luteum and adverse perinatal outcomes, and further studies are needed to detect the underlying mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruiqiong Zhou
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Guangdong Women and Children Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiqian Zhang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Guangdong Women and Children Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Li Huang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Guangdong Women and Children Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Songlu Wang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Guangdong Women and Children Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Li Li
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Guangdong Women and Children Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Mei Dong
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Guangdong Women and Children Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiulan Zhu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Guangdong Women and Children Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Fenghua Liu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Guangdong Women and Children Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China.
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45
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Mensing L, Dahlberg ES, Bay B, Gabrielsen A, Knudsen UB. Endometrial preparation methods prior to frozen embryo transfer: A retrospective cohort study comparing true natural cycle, modified natural cycle and artificial cycle. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2022; 306:1381-1388. [PMID: 35094106 PMCID: PMC9470615 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-021-06371-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Purpose The aim of this study was to compare the outcomes of three endometrial preparation methods prior to frozen embryo transfer (FET): Natural cycle (NC), modified natural cycle (mNC), and programmed/artificial cycle (AC) protocols. Primary outcomes investigated were clinical pregnancy rate (CPR) and live birth rate (LBR). Methods A retrospective study on 2080 FET cycles including patients ≤ 35 years with a BMI ≤ 30 who underwent FET with a single autologous blastocyst stage embryo at Aarhus University Hospital or Horsens Regional Hospital in the period 2013–2019. Only blastocysts frozen by vitrification were included. No luteal phase support (LPS) was used in natural cycles. Results In NC, mNC and AC, CPRs were 34.9%, 40.6% and 32.0%, while LBRs were 32.3%, 36.3% and 26.6%, respectively. There were no significant differences in main outcomes when comparing AC with NC [LBR: OR = 0.9 (0.6; 1.2), p = 0.4]. Compared to NC, mNC-FET displayed significantly higher positive hCG, implantation rate, CPR and LBR [LBR: OR = 1.4 (1.0; 1.9), p = 0.03]. An analysis with mNC as reference group demonstrated significantly better outcomes in the mNC group compared to AC [LBR: OR 0.6 (0.5; 0.8), p = < 0.01]. Conclusion The present study overall demonstrated better outcomes including LBR with mNC protocol as compared to NC and AC protocol, while comparison of AC and NC showed both protocols to be equally effective. A programmed cycle may be necessary for women with anovulatory cycles; however, normo-ovulating women may be offered a natural cycle protocol. Trial registration number 3-3013-3047/1 and 31-1522-44. Date of registration: June 24, 2019 and April 23, 2020.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lena Mensing
- Fertility Clinic, Horsens Regional Hospital, Sundvej 30, 8700, Horsens, Denmark.
| | - Emilie S Dahlberg
- Fertility Clinic, Horsens Regional Hospital, Sundvej 30, 8700, Horsens, Denmark
| | - Bjørn Bay
- Fertility Clinic, Horsens Regional Hospital, Sundvej 30, 8700, Horsens, Denmark
| | - Anette Gabrielsen
- Fertility Clinic, Horsens Regional Hospital, Sundvej 30, 8700, Horsens, Denmark
| | - Ulla B Knudsen
- Fertility Clinic, Horsens Regional Hospital, Sundvej 30, 8700, Horsens, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 82, Aarhus N, 8200, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aarhus University Hospital, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 99, Aarhus N, 8200, Aarhus, Denmark
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46
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Eleftheriadou A, Francis A, Wilcox M, Jayaprakasan K. Frozen Blastocyst Embryo Transfer: Comparison of Protocols and Factors Influencing Outcome. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11030737. [PMID: 35160185 PMCID: PMC8836366 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11030737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Revised: 12/19/2021] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Various factors, including treatment protocols, can influence the outcomes of frozen embryo transfers (FETs). The study objectives were to compare different endometrial preparation protocols of FET cycles and to evaluate the factors, including the endometrial thickness (ET), that affect outcomes. Methods: This observational cohort study involved 5037 women undergoing FETs at eight tertiary clinics in the UK between January 2016 and March 2019. The endometrial preparation protocols used were natural cycle (NC-FETs), artificial hormone support cycle with oestradiol valerate but without pituitary downregulation (AC-FETs) and artificial hormone support cycle with agonist downregulation (ACDR-FETs). Results: The mean (±SD) ages across NC-FET, AC-FET and ACDR-FET groups were 36.5 (±4.2), 35.9 (±5.0) and 36.4(±4.9) years, respectively. LBRs were comparable (40.7%, 175/430; 36.8%, 986/2658; and 36.7%, 716/1949, respectively) across the three groups. Clinical pregnancy, implantation, multiple pregnancies, miscarriage and ectopic pregnancy rates were also similar. In the regression analysis of variables including age, duration of infertility, number of embryos transferred, protocol type and endometrial thickness, age was the only significant predictor of LBRs, although its predictive ability was poor (AUC: 0.55). With the overall LBR of the study population being 37.1%, the post-test probability of a live birth at an ET of <5 mm was 0%, and at 5–5.9, 6–6.9, 7–7.9 and 8–8.9 mm, the probabilities were 16.7%, 33.8%, 36.7% and 37.7%, respectively. The LBR remained above 35% up to the 14–14.9 mm range and then declined gradually to 23% for the 17–25 mm range. Conclusions: The FET outcomes were similar for the three protocols used for endometrial preparation. The protocol type and endometrial thickness were not predictive of FET outcomes; age was the only predictive variable, despite its low predictive ability.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Mark Wilcox
- CARE Fertility, Nottingham NG8 6PZ, UK; (A.F.); (M.W.)
| | - Kanna Jayaprakasan
- School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK;
- CARE Fertility, Nottingham NG8 6PZ, UK; (A.F.); (M.W.)
- Correspondence:
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Haiyan L, Gang Y, Yu L, Lin L, Xiaoli C, Qingxue Z. Does serum progesterone level impact the ongoing pregnancy rate in frozen embryo transfer under artificial preparation with vaginal progesterone? Study protocol for a randomized controlled trial. Trials 2022; 23:3. [PMID: 34980220 PMCID: PMC8722157 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-021-05953-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In previous retrospective studies, low serum progesterone level on the embryo transfer day is associated with lower clinical pregnancy and ongoing pregnancy rates. Whether adding progesterone in low serum progesterone patients can rescue the outcome, there is no sufficient evidence from randomized controlled studies. METHODS This trial is a clinical randomized controlled study (high serum progesterone vs low serum progesterone 1:1, 1:1 randomization ratio of intervention vs the control group with low serum progesterone). The eligible hormone replacement therapy-frozen embryo transfer (HRT-FET) cycles, will be recruited and randomly assigned to two parallel groups when serum progesterone is < 7.24μg/l on the day of embryo transfer for D3. The intervention group will be extrally given intramuscular progesterone 40 mg per day from D3 to 8 weeks of gestation if clinical pregnancy. The primary outcome is the ongoing pregnancy (beyond 12 weeks of gestation) rate. DISCUSSION The findings of this study will provide strong evidence for whether the progesterone addition from the D3 in low serum progesterone patients can improve the outcome in the HRT-FET cycle. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04248309 . Registered on January 28, 2020.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Haiyan
- Reproductive Center of Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yang Gang
- Reproductive Center of Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Li Yu
- Reproductive Center of Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Li Lin
- Reproductive Center of Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chen Xiaoli
- Reproductive Center of Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhang Qingxue
- Reproductive Center of Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.
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Yu J, Chen P, Luo Y, Lv M, Lou L, Xiao Q, Wang L, Chen J, Bai M, Zhang Z. GnRH-agonist pretreatment in hormone replacement therapy improves pregnancy outcomes in women with male-factor infertility. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:1014558. [PMID: 36213273 PMCID: PMC9540000 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.1014558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to examine the efficacy of HRT with gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist (GnRH-a) pre-treatment in women with male-factor infertility who underwent a frozen embryo transfer (FET) programme. DESIGN Between January 2016 and October 2020, 2733 women with male-factor infertility who underwent the HRT protocol as the endometrial preparation method were enrolled at two Reproductive Medicine Centres. Patients were divided into two groups based on whether they had GnRH-a pre-treatment before HRTs: the GnRHa-HRT group and the HRT group. The inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW) method was conducted to balance patient baseline characteristics between treatment cohorts to reduce selection bias. The live birth rate was considered regarded as the primary pregnancy outcome. RESULTS Multivariate logistic regression adjusted for confounding factors, the GnRHa-HRT group showed a notably higher rate of live birth (OR 2.154, 95% CI 1.636~2.835, P<0.001) when compared to the HRT group. Additionally, the rate of miscarriage was significantly lower in the GnRHa-HRT group. The GnRHa-HRT group had significantly higher rates of biochemical pregnancy, clinical pregnancy, multiple pregnancy, and term birth. CONCLUSION The endometrial preparation protocol of HRT with GnRH-a pre-treatment could obviously increase the live birth rate for women with male-factor infertility undergoing the FET programme.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juanjuan Yu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Medicine Centre, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Peiqin Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Medicine Centre, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the International Peace Maternity & Child Health Hospital of China Welfare Institute, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yifan Luo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Medicine Centre, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Mu Lv
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Medicine Centre, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Liqun Lou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Medicine Centre, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qimeng Xiao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Medicine Centre, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Luxia Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Zhongshan Wusong Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Juan Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Zhongshan Wusong Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Mingzhu Bai
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Xuzhou Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Jiangsu, China
- *Correspondence: Mingzhu Bai, ; Zhenbo Zhang,
| | - Zhenbo Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Medicine Centre, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Mingzhu Bai, ; Zhenbo Zhang,
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Niu Y, Zhao D, Wang Y, Suo L, Zou J, Wei D. Ovulation induction regimens are associated with a higher rate of livebirth after frozen single-blastocyst transfer among women with polycystic ovary syndrome. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:987813. [PMID: 36046783 PMCID: PMC9423737 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.987813] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) regimen was suggested to be associated with a decreased rate of livebirth and a higher risk of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) after frozen cleavage stage embryo transfer in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). With the dramatically increased use of elective single embryo transfer, there is great need to explore the impacts of different endometrial preparation regimens on frozen single-blastocyst transfer in women with PCOS. METHODS In this study, a total of 3941 women who diagnosed with PCOS and underwent single-blastocyst transfer during their first cycles of frozen embryo transfer (FET) between March 2012 and December 2020 were included. We retrospectively compared the pregnancy and neonatal outcomes after frozen single-blastocyst transfer with endometrial preparation by HRT regimen (n = 3540), ovulation induction by human menopausal gonadotropin (hMG) regimen (n = 226), and ovulation induction by letrozole regimen (n = 175). RESULTS After adjustment for confounders with multivariable logistic regression, the hMG regimen group [(58.4% vs. 49.6%; adjusted odds ratio (aOR): 1.43; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.09-1.89)] and letrozole regimen group (58.9% vs. 49.6%; aOR: 1.42; 95% CI: 1.04-1.93) were associated with a higher rate of livebirth (primary outcome), compared with the group with HRT regimen. As to the secondary outcomes, the rate of pregnancy loss in the hMG regimen group (22.8% vs. 30.3%; aOR: 0.69; 95% CI: 0.48-1.00) and letrozole regimen group (16.9% vs. 30.3%; aOR: 0.48; 95% CI: 0.30-0.78) was also lower than that in the HRT regimen group. The pregnancy outcomes between the hMG regimen group and the letrozole regimen group were similar. We did not observe significant difference in the incidences of maternal and neonatal complications among these three groups. CONCLUSION Ovulation induction regimen with letrozole or hMG for endometrial preparation was associated with a higher livebirth rate and a lower pregnancy loss rate in frozen single-blastocyst transfer cycles among women with PCOS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Niu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Medical Integration and Practice Center, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Dingying Zhao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Medical Integration and Practice Center, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Yuhuan Wang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Medical Integration and Practice Center, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Lu Suo
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Medical Integration and Practice Center, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Jialin Zou
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Medical Integration and Practice Center, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Daimin Wei
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Medical Integration and Practice Center, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- *Correspondence: Daimin Wei,
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50
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Li X, Gao Y, Shi J, Shi W, Bai H. Natural cycle increases the live-birth rate compared with hormone replacement treatment for frozen-thawed single euploid blastocyst transfer. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:969379. [PMID: 36387864 PMCID: PMC9650322 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.969379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A number of studies have compared the clinical outcomes between the two endometrial preparation methods: natural cycles (NCs) and hormone replacement treatment (HRT) before frozen embryo transfer, but the results were conflicting. In order to mitigate the potential effect of embryos per se, several researchers have worked on this subject for euploid blastocyst transfer, but the results were still inconsistent. Therefore, the present study was aimed to investigate the clinical outcomes between HRT and NC for autologous single vitrified-warmed euploid blastocyst transfer based on our data. METHODS A total of 598 frozen-thawed single euploid blastocyst transfer cycles in the assisted reproductive center of Northwest Women's and Children's Hospital from January 2014 to May 2021 were retrospectively analyzed. Women were stratified into the NC (n = 125) or HRT (n = 473) group according to the patient's preference and the physician's guidance. Multivariate regression models and subgroup analysis were constructed to analyze the association between endometrial preparation and live birth. RESULTS Women in the NC group had a higher live birth rate (68.80% versus 58.35%, P = 0.034) and a lower risk of total pregnancy loss (8.51% versus 21.14%, P = 0.005) when compared with women in the HRT group. The biochemical pregnancy rate (75.20% versus 74.00%, P = 0.784) and clinical pregnancy rate (74.40% versus 69.98%, P = 0.334) were similar between the two groups (NC versus HRT). NC was associated with an increased odds of live birth compared with HRT by different multivariable analysis models (Model 1: adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.57, 0.36 - 0.90; Model 2: aOR, 95%CI: 0.57, 0.35 - 0.92). In addition, the increased chance of live birth in the NC group was found in all subgroups. No major obstetrical complications and two malformation livebirths were reported. CONCLUSIONS In women undergoing single euploid frozen blastocyst transfers, the NC group was associated with a lower pregnancy loss rate and an ultimately higher live birth rate than the HRT group. Although HRT is convenient for both clinicians and patients, the lower live birth rate should be taken into account and NC might be the first choice of endometrial preparation method.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaofang Li
- Assisted Reproduction Center, Northwest Women’s and Children’s Hospital, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yan’e Gao
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Juanzi Shi
- Assisted Reproduction Center, Northwest Women’s and Children’s Hospital, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Wenhao Shi
- Assisted Reproduction Center, Northwest Women’s and Children’s Hospital, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
- *Correspondence: Wenhao Shi, ; Haiyan Bai,
| | - Haiyan Bai
- Assisted Reproduction Center, Northwest Women’s and Children’s Hospital, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
- *Correspondence: Wenhao Shi, ; Haiyan Bai,
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