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Li S, Girgla S, Sherman A, Alpay-Savasan Z, Mehta N. Atrial fibrillation considerations in the fourth trimester (postpartum period). J Interv Card Electrophysiol 2024; 67:901-914. [PMID: 38363430 DOI: 10.1007/s10840-023-01611-y] [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: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
Postpartum atrial fibrillation is an uncommon but increasingly prevalent tachyarrhythmia that merits special management considerations with regards to the safety and efficacy of anticoagulation, rate and rhythm control as well as drug exposure to infants throughout breastfeeding. In this state-of-the-art review, we examine the demographics of postpartum atrial fibrillation with its associated risk factors, describe the safety of commonly used atrial fibrillation therapies, and discuss important considerations for women considering subsequent pregnancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuo Li
- Internal Medicine Residency, Beaumont Hospital Royal Oak, Royal Oak, MI, USA
| | - Saavia Girgla
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Beaumont Hospital Royal Oak, Royal Oak, MI, USA
| | - Andrew Sherman
- Internal Medicine Residency, Beaumont Hospital Royal Oak, Royal Oak, MI, USA
| | - Zeynep Alpay-Savasan
- Division of Maternal and Fetal Medicine, Beaumont Hospital Royal Oak, Royal Oak, MI, USA
| | - Nishaki Mehta
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Beaumont Hospital Royal Oak, Royal Oak, MI, USA.
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Mitta K, Tsakiridis I, Giougi E, Mamopoulos A, Kalogiannidis I, Dagklis T, Athanasiadis A. Comparison of Fetal Crown-Rump Length Measurements between Thawed and Fresh Embryo Transfer. J Clin Med 2024; 13:2575. [PMID: 38731104 PMCID: PMC11084813 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13092575] [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: 03/12/2024] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Neonates born from thawed embryo transfers tend to have a significantly higher birthweight compared to those from fresh embryo transfers. The aim of this study was to compare the crown-rump length (CRL) between thawed and fresh embryos to investigate the potential causes of different growth patterns between them. Materials and Methods: This was a retrospective study (July 2010-December 2023) conducted at the Third Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece. In total, 3082 assisted reproductive technology (ART) pregnancies (4044 embryos) underwent a routine scan at 11+0-13+6 gestational weeks and were included in the study. Maternal age, the type of embryo transfer (thawed vs. fresh, donor vs. their own oocytes), CRL, twin and singleton gestations were analyzed. Results: The mean maternal age in thawed was significantly higher than in fresh embryos (39.8 vs. 35.8 years, p-value < 0.001). The mean CRL z-score was significantly higher in thawed compared to fresh embryo transfers (0.309 vs. 0.199, p-value < 0.001). A subgroup analysis on singleton gestations showed that the mean CRL z-score was higher in thawed blastocysts compared to fresh (0.327 vs. 0.215, p-value < 0.001). Accordingly, an analysis on twins revealed that the mean CRL z-score was higher in thawed blastocysts (0.285 vs. 0.184, p-value: 0.015) and in oocytes' recipients compared to own oocytes' cases (0.431 vs. 0.191, p-value: 0.002). Conclusions: The difference in CRL measurements between thawed and fresh embryos may be a first indication of the subsequent difference in sonographically estimated fetal weight and birthweight. This finding highlights the need for additional research into the underlying causes, including maternal factors and the culture media used.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ioannis Tsakiridis
- Third Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54642 Thessaloniki, Greece; (K.M.); (E.G.); (A.M.); (I.K.); (T.D.); (A.A.)
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Conrad KP, von Versen-Höynck F, Baker VL. Pathologic maternal and neonatal outcomes associated with programmed embryo transfer: potential etiologies and strategies for prevention. J Assist Reprod Genet 2024; 41:843-859. [PMID: 38536596 PMCID: PMC11052758 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-024-03042-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE In the first of two companion papers, we comprehensively reviewed the recent evidence in the primary literature, which addressed the increased prevalence of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, late-onset or term preeclampsia, fetal overgrowth, postterm birth, and placenta accreta in women conceiving by in vitro fertilization. The preponderance of evidence implicated frozen embryo transfer cycles and, specifically, those employing programmed endometrial preparations, in the higher risk for these adverse maternal and neonatal pregnancy outcomes. Based upon this critical appraisal of the primary literature, we formulate potential etiologies and suggest strategies for prevention in the second article. METHODS Comprehensive review of primary literature. RESULTS Presupposing significant overlap of these apparently diverse pathological pregnancy outcomes within subjects who conceive by programmed autologous FET cycles, shared etiologies may be at play. One plausible but clearly provocative explanation is that aberrant decidualization arising from suboptimal endometrial preparation causes greater than normal trophoblast invasion and myometrial spiral artery remodeling. Thus, overly robust placentation produces larger placentas and fetuses that, in turn, lead to overcrowding of villi within the confines of the uterine cavity which encroach upon intervillous spaces precipitating placental ischemia, oxidative and syncytiotrophoblast stress, and, ultimately, late-onset or term preeclampsia. The absence of circulating corpus luteal factors like relaxin in most programmed cycles might further compromise decidualization and exacerbate the maternal endothelial response to deleterious circulating placental products like soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 that mediate disease manifestations. An alternative, but not mutually exclusive, determinant might be a thinner endometrium frequently associated with programmed endometrial preparations, which could conspire with dysregulated decidualization to elicit greater than normal trophoblast invasion and myometrial spiral artery remodeling. In extreme cases, placenta accreta could conceivably arise. Though lower uterine artery resistance and pulsatility indices observed during early pregnancy in programmed embryo transfer cycles are consistent with this initiating event, quantitative analyses of trophoblast invasion and myometrial spiral artery remodeling required to validate the hypothesis have not yet been conducted. CONCLUSIONS Endometrial preparation that is not optimal, absent circulating corpus luteal factors, or a combination thereof are attractive etiologies; however, the requisite investigations to prove them have yet to be undertaken. Presuming that in ongoing RCTs, some or all adverse pregnancy outcomes associated with programmed autologous FET are circumvented or mitigated by employing natural or stimulated cycles instead, then for women who can conceive using these regimens, they would be preferable. For the 15% or so of women who require programmed FET, additional research as suggested in this review is needed to elucidate the responsible mechanisms and develop preventative strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirk P Conrad
- Departments of Physiology and Aging and of Obstetrics and Gynecology, D.H. Barron Reproductive and Perinatal Biology Research Program, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL, USA.
| | - Frauke von Versen-Höynck
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Medicine, Division of Gynecologic Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Valerie L Baker
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Lutherville, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Parisi F, Fenizia C, Introini A, Zavatta A, Scaccabarozzi C, Biasin M, Savasi V. The pathophysiological role of estrogens in the initial stages of pregnancy: molecular mechanisms and clinical implications for pregnancy outcome from the periconceptional period to end of the first trimester. Hum Reprod Update 2023; 29:699-720. [PMID: 37353909 PMCID: PMC10628507 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmad016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Estrogens regulate disparate female physiological processes, thus ensuring reproduction. Altered estrogen levels and signaling have been associated with increased risks of pregnancy failure and complications, including hypertensive disorders and low birthweight babies. However, the role of estrogens in the periconceptional period and early pregnancy is still understudied. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE This review aims to summarize the current evidence on the role of maternal estrogens during the periconceptional period and the first trimester of pregnancies conceived naturally and following ART. Detailed molecular mechanisms and related clinical impacts are extensively described. SEARCH METHODS Data for this narrative review were independently identified by seven researchers on Pubmed and Embase databases. The following keywords were selected: 'estrogens' OR 'estrogen level(s)' OR 'serum estradiol' OR 'estradiol/estrogen concentration', AND 'early pregnancy' OR 'first trimester of pregnancy' OR 'preconceptional period' OR 'ART' OR 'In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)' OR 'Embryo Transfer' OR 'Frozen Embryo Transfer' OR 'oocyte donation' OR 'egg donation' OR 'miscarriage' OR 'pregnancy outcome' OR 'endometrium'. OUTCOMES During the periconceptional period (defined here as the critical time window starting 1 month before conception), estrogens play a crucial role in endometrial receptivity, through the activation of paracrine/autocrine signaling. A derailed estrogenic milieu within this period seems to be detrimental both in natural and ART-conceived pregnancies. Low estrogen levels are associated with non-conception cycles in natural pregnancies. On the other hand, excessive supraphysiologic estrogen concentrations at time of the LH peak correlate with lower live birth rates and higher risks of pregnancy complications. In early pregnancy, estrogen plays a massive role in placentation mainly by modulating angiogenic factor expression-and in the development of an immune-tolerant uterine micro-environment by remodeling the function of uterine natural killer and T-helper cells. Lower estrogen levels are thought to trigger abnormal placentation in naturally conceived pregnancies, whereas an estrogen excess seems to worsen pregnancy development and outcomes. WIDER IMPLICATIONS Most current evidence available endorses a relation between periconceptional and first trimester estrogen levels and pregnancy outcomes, further depicting an optimal concentration range to optimize pregnancy success. However, how estrogens co-operate with other factors in order to maintain a fine balance between local tolerance towards the developing fetus and immune responses to pathogens remains elusive. Further studies are highly warranted, also aiming to identify the determinants of estrogen response and biomarkers for personalized estrogen administration regimens in ART.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Parisi
- Department of Woman, Mother and Neonate, 'V. Buzzi' Children Hospital, ASST Fatebenefratelli Sacco, Milan, via L. Castelvetro 32, Milan, Italy
| | - C Fenizia
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, University of Milan, Milan, via F. Sforza 35, Milan 20122, Italy
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, "L.Sacco" Hospital, University of Milan, Milan, via G.B. Grassi 74, Milan 20157, Italy
| | - A Introini
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine Solna, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Nobels väg 5, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - A Zavatta
- Department of Woman, Mother and Neonate, 'V. Buzzi' Children Hospital, ASST Fatebenefratelli Sacco, Milan, via L. Castelvetro 32, Milan, Italy
| | - C Scaccabarozzi
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, "L.Sacco" Hospital, University of Milan, Milan, via G.B. Grassi 74, Milan 20157, Italy
| | - M Biasin
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, "L.Sacco" Hospital, University of Milan, Milan, via G.B. Grassi 74, Milan 20157, Italy
| | - V Savasi
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, "L.Sacco" Hospital, University of Milan, Milan, via G.B. Grassi 74, Milan 20157, Italy
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5
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Zaat TR, Kostova EB, Korsen P, Showell MG, Mol F, van Wely M. Obstetric and neonatal outcomes after natural versus artificial cycle frozen embryo transfer and the role of luteal phase support: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Hum Reprod Update 2023; 29:634-654. [PMID: 37172270 PMCID: PMC10477943 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmad011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2022] [Revised: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The number of frozen embryo transfers (FET) has increased dramatically over the past decade. Based on current evidence, there is no difference in pregnancy rates when natural cycle FET (NC-FET) is compared to artificial cycle FET (AC-FET) in subfertile women. However, NC-FET seems to be associated with lower risk of adverse obstetric and neonatal outcomes compared with AC-FET cycles. Currently, there is no consensus about whether NC-FET needs to be combined with luteal phase support (LPS) or not. The question of how to prepare the endometrium for FET has now gained even more importance and taken the dimension of safety into account as it should not simply be reduced to the basic question of effectiveness. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE The objective of this project was to determine whether NC-FET, with or without LPS, decreases the risk of adverse obstetric and neonatal outcomes compared with AC-FET. SEARCH METHODS A systematic review and meta-analysis was carried out. A literature search was performed using the following databases: CINAHL, EMBASE, and MEDLINE from inception to 10 October 2022. Observational studies, including cohort studies, and registries comparing obstetric and neonatal outcomes between singleton pregnancies after NC-FET and those after AC-FET were sought. Risk of bias was assessed using the ROBINS-I tool. The quality of evidence was evaluated using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation approach. We calculated pooled odds ratios (ORs), pooled risk differences (RDs), pooled adjusted ORs, and prevalence estimates with 95% CI using a random effect model, while heterogeneity was assessed by the I2. OUTCOMES The conducted search identified 2436 studies, 890 duplicates were removed and 1546 studies were screened. Thirty studies (NC-FET n = 56 445; AC-FET n = 57 231) were included, 19 of which used LPS in NC-FET. Birthweight was lower following NC-FET versus AC-FET (mean difference 26.35 g; 95% CI 11.61-41.08, I2 = 63%). Furthermore NC-FET compared to AC-FET resulted in a lower risk of large for gestational age (OR 0.88, 95% 0.83-0.94, I2 = 54%), macrosomia (OR 0.81; 95% CI 0.71-0.93, I2 = 68%), low birthweight (OR 0.81, 95% CI 0.77-0.85, I2 = 41%), early pregnancy loss (OR 0.73; 95% CI 0.61-0.86, I2 = 70%), preterm birth (OR 0.80; 95% CI 0.75-0.85, I2 = 20%), very preterm birth (OR 0.66, 95% CI 0.53-0.84, I2 = 0%), hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (OR 0.60, 95% CI 0.50-0.65, I2 = 61%), pre-eclampsia (OR 0.50; 95% CI 0.42-0.60, I2 = 44%), placenta previa (OR 0.84, 95% CI 0.73-0.97, I2 = 0%), and postpartum hemorrhage (OR 0.43; 95% CI 0.38-0.48, I2 = 53%). Stratified analyses on LPS use in NC-FET suggested that, compared to AC-FET, NC-FET with LPS decreased preterm birth risk, while NC-FET without LPS did not (OR 0.75, 95% CI 0.70-0.81). LPS use did not modify the other outcomes. Heterogeneity varied from low to high, while quality of the evidence was very low to moderate. WIDER IMPLICATIONS This study confirms that NC-FET decreases the risk of adverse obstetric and neonatal outcomes compared with AC-FET. We estimate that for each adverse outcome, use of NC-FET may prevent 4 to 22 cases per 1000 women. Consequently, NC-FET should be the preferred treatment in women with ovulatory cycles undergoing FET. Based on very low quality of evidence, the risk of preterm birth be decreased when LPS is used in NC-FET compared to AC-FET. However, because of many uncertainties-the major being the debate about efficacy of the use of LPS-future research is needed on efficacy and safety of LPS and no recommendation can be made about the use of LPS.
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Affiliation(s)
- T R Zaat
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - E B Kostova
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - P Korsen
- University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - M G Showell
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - F Mol
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - M van Wely
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Niu Y, Suo L, Zhao D, Wang Y, Miao R, Zou J, Han X, Chen ZJ, Li Y, Wei D. Is artificial endometrial preparation more associated with early-onset or late-onset preeclampsia after frozen embryo transfer? J Assist Reprod Genet 2023; 40:1045-1054. [PMID: 37000343 PMCID: PMC10239427 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-023-02785-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 04/01/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To explore whether the risks of early- or late-onset preeclampsia vary among frozen embryo transfer (FET) with different regimens for endometrial preparation and fresh embryo transfer (FreET). METHODS We retrospectively included a total of 24129 women who achieved singleton delivery during their first cycles of in vitro fertilization (IVF) between January 2012 and March 2020. The risks of early- and late-onset preeclampsia after FET with endometrial preparation by natural ovulation cycles (FET-NC) or by artificial cycles (FET-AC) were compared to that after FreET. RESULTS After adjustment via multivariable logistic regression, the total risk of preeclampsia was higher in the FET-AC group compared to the FreET group [2.2% vs. 0.9%; adjusted odds ratio (aOR): 2.00; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.45-2.76] and FET-NC group (2.2% vs. 0.9%; aOR: 2.17; 95% CI: 1.59-2.96).When stratified by the gestational age at delivery based on < 34 weeks or ≥ 34 weeks, the risk of late-onset preeclampsia remained higher in the FET-AC group than that in the and FreET group (1.8% vs. 0.6%; aOR: 2.56; 95% CI: 1.83-3.58) and the FET-NC group (1.8% vs. 0.6%; aOR: 2.63; 95% CI: 1.86-3.73). We did not find a statistically significant difference in the risk of early-onset preeclampsia among the three groups. CONCLUSIONS An artificial regimen for endometrial preparation was more associated with an increased risk of late-onset preeclampsia after FET. Given that FET-AC is widely used in clinical practice, the potential maternal risk factors for late-onset preeclampsia when using the FET-AC regimen should be further explored, considering the maternal origin of late-onset preeclampsia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Niu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- Medical Integration and Practice Center, Shandong University, No. 44 Wenhua Xi Rd, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Lu Suo
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- Medical Integration and Practice Center, Shandong University, No. 44 Wenhua Xi Rd, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Dingying Zhao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- Medical Integration and Practice Center, Shandong University, No. 44 Wenhua Xi Rd, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Yuhuan Wang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- Medical Integration and Practice Center, Shandong University, No. 44 Wenhua Xi Rd, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Ruolan Miao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- Medical Integration and Practice Center, Shandong University, No. 44 Wenhua Xi Rd, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Jialin Zou
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- Medical Integration and Practice Center, Shandong University, No. 44 Wenhua Xi Rd, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Xinwei Han
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- Medical Integration and Practice Center, Shandong University, No. 44 Wenhua Xi Rd, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Zi-Jiang Chen
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- Medical Integration and Practice Center, Shandong University, No. 44 Wenhua Xi Rd, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Yan Li
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.
- Medical Integration and Practice Center, Shandong University, No. 44 Wenhua Xi Rd, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.
| | - Daimin Wei
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.
- Medical Integration and Practice Center, Shandong University, No. 44 Wenhua Xi Rd, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.
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Zhang WY, Gardner RM, Johal JK, Beshar IE, Bavan B, Milki AA, Lathi RB, Aghajanova L. Pregnancy and neonatal outcomes of letrozole versus natural cycle frozen embryo transfer of autologous euploid blastocyst. J Assist Reprod Genet 2023; 40:873-881. [PMID: 36849755 PMCID: PMC10224882 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-023-02759-2] [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: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/01/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate the pregnancy and neonatal outcomes of letrozole-stimulated frozen embryo transfer (LTZ-FET) cycles compared with natural FET cycles (NC-FET). METHODS Our retrospective cohort included all LTZ-FET (n = 161) and NC-FET (n = 575) cycles that transferred a single euploid autologous blastocyst from 2016 to 2020 at Stanford Fertility Center. The LTZ-FET protocol entailed 5 mg of daily letrozole for 5 days starting on cycle day 2 or 3. Outcomes were compared using absolute standardized differences (ASD), in which a larger ASD signifies a larger difference. Multivariable regression models adjusted for confounders: maternal age, BMI, nulliparity, embryo grade, race, infertility diagnosis, and endometrial thickness. RESULTS The demographic and clinical characteristics were overall similar. A greater proportion of the letrozole cohort was multiparous, transferred high-graded embryos, and had ovulatory dysfunction. The cohorts had similar pregnancy rates (67.1% LTZ vs 62.1% NC; aOR 1.31, P = 0.21) and live birth rates (60.9% LTZ vs 58.6% NC; aOR 1.17, P = 0.46). LTZ-FET neonates on average were born 5.7 days earlier (P < 0.001) and had higher prevalence of prematurity (18.6% vs. 8.0%NC, ASD = 0.32) and low birth weight (10.4% vs. 5.0%, ASD = 0.20). Both cohorts' median gestational ages (38 weeks and 1 day for LTZ; 39 weeks and 0 day for NC) were full term. CONCLUSION There were similar rates of pregnancy and live birth between LTZ-FET and NC-FET cycles. However, there was a higher prevalence of prematurity and low birth weight among LTZ-FET neonates. Reassuringly, the median gestational age in both cohorts was full term, and while the difference in gestational length of almost 6 days does not appear to be clinically significant, this warrants larger studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wendy Y Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA.
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA.
| | - Rebecca M Gardner
- Department of Medicine, Quantitative Sciences Unit, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Jasmyn K Johal
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Isabel E Beshar
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Brindha Bavan
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Amin A Milki
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Ruth B Lathi
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Lusine Aghajanova
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
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Løssl K, Spangmose AL, Asserhøj LL, Dam TV, Pinborg A. The future of frozen-thawed embryo transfer in hormone replacement therapy cycles. Curr Opin Obstet Gynecol 2023; 35:200-209. [PMID: 37185352 DOI: 10.1097/gco.0000000000000867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/07/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This review focuses on the efficacy of letrozole stimulated frozen-thawed embryo transfer (FET) compared to hormone replacement therapy (HRT) FET in women with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and/or oligo-anovulation. Further, obstetric and perinatal risks in HRT FET are summarized. RECENT FINDINGS The presence of a corpus luteum seems to reduce the risk of pregnancy-related hypertension and preeclampsia after FET. As a natural cycle (NC) FET is not an option for women with oligo-/amenorrhea these women may benefit from FET with mild stimulation compared to HRT FET. The intention of mild stimulation in anovulatory women is to induce (mono) ovulation to mimic the endocrine profiles of the natural cycle and the early pregnancy after natural conception. Mild stimulation by letrozole is patient friendly and cheap compared to gonadotropin stimulated FET and has been increasingly used in recent years. Although the quality of evidence is low, the pregnancy outcomes after letrozole FET seems similar or even better compared to HRT FET in women with PCOS and/or oligo-anovulation. SUMMARY Natural and modified NC FET should be used whenever possible to mitigate adverse obstetric and perinatal outcomes after HRT FET. For anovulatory women, whenever ovulation can be induced, we advocate the use of mild stimulation FET to create a corpus luteum awaiting results from RCTs limited to oligo-anovulatory women.
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Yin R, Dang Y, Ma Z, Sun M. The effects of unexpected follicular growth and ovulation in artificial cycles: a retrospective cohort study of frozen, single-blastocyst transfer. Fertil Steril 2023; 119:985-993. [PMID: 36805040 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2023.02.011] [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: 09/15/2022] [Revised: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/21/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To study the effects of unexpected follicular development and ovulation in artificial cycles (ACs) on pregnancy outcomes. DESIGN A retrospective cohort study. SETTING A university-affiliated fertility center. PATIENT(S) A total of 1,427 patients who underwent a single, frozen-thawed blastocyst transfer with AC regimens from January 2014 to December 2020 at a university-affiliated fertility center were included. INTERVENTION(S) Unexpected follicular development and ovulation in ACs. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Live birth rate (LBR), biochemical pregnancy rate, clinical pregnancy rate, and ongoing pregnancy rate. RESULT(S) A total of 161 patients with unexpected follicular development and ovulation in ACs (ovulation group) and 1,266 patients without growing follicles in ACs (control group) were enrolled. The patients in the ovulation group were older and had higher levels of serum follicle-stimulating hormone and lower levels of serum antimüllerian hormone. After propensity score matching, the baseline characteristics between the 2 groups were comparable and no significant difference was observed in the LBR (ovulation group, 39.0% vs. control group, 39.0%), biochemical pregnancy rate (ovulation group, 60.3% vs. control group, 58.2%), clinical pregnancy rate (ovulation group, 53.4% vs. control group, 50.7%), or ongoing pregnancy rate (ovulation group, 42.5% vs. control group, 40.4%). Moreover, the patients in the ovulation group showed a lower risk of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) (1.6% vs. 15.3%). A subgroup analysis of women who delivered singleton live-born babies also demonstrated that unexpected follicular development and ovulation in ACs was associated with a decreased risk of HDP (adjusted odds ratio, 0.070; 95% confidence interval, 0.007-0.712) and an increased risk of large-for-gestational-age infants (adjusted odds ratio, 4.046; 95% confidence interval, 1.319-12.414). CONCLUSION(S) Women with unexpected follicular development and ovulation during single frozen-thawed blastocyst transfer with AC regimens had a similar LBR and a reduced risk of HDP compared with those with routine AC regimens, and singleton neonates had an increased risk of being large for gestational age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rusha Yin
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Yujie Dang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China; Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China; Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China; Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, China; National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Zengxiang Ma
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China; Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China; Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China; Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, China; National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Mei Sun
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China; Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China; Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China; Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, China; National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China.
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10
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Wei X, Qiaoli W, Mingzhi L, Chuang L, Qianqian Z, Xiaoyu C, Zhiwei Z, Xiaohuan F, Sa L, Xiaolei Z, Weidong H, Jianzhi P, Jianhui T, Junjie L. Effect of fixed-time artificial insemination on corpus luteum gene expression at the day 16 and 25 pregnancy of gilt. Anim Biotechnol 2022; 33:1510-1518. [PMID: 33941027 DOI: 10.1080/10495398.2021.1914068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Utilization of female livestock can be optimized by application of Fixed-Time Artificial Insemination (FTAI), which plays an important role in large-scale livestock production. However, molecular mechanism of FTAI affecting reproductive performance remains unclear. To investigate the effects of FTAI on corpus luteum in 16 and 25 days of pregnancy gilts, 12 pregnancy gilts were selected from Altrenogest + PMSG + GnRH (APG) group and control group. The number of left and right CL in APG group were significantly higher than control (p < 0.05). Furthermore, result showed the number of differentially expressed genes between 16APG group and 16 C group was obviously larger than that between 25APG and 25 C group (2394 vs. 1476). Up regulated genes in APG were mainly associated with cytokine production and secretion, cell communication and transport (day 16) and angiogenesis, cell cycle and cell-cell signaling (day 25). The expression of differentially expressed genes (RPL10, CYP17A1, DCN, IL18, LDLR and PRLR) in luteal tissue were verified by real-time PCR. In summary, APG program significantly improve reproductive efficiency of gilts through up regulation of cytokine production/secretion, cell communication and transport in Day 16 pregnancy and angiogenesis, cell cycle and cell-cell signaling at Day 25 pregnancy in porcine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xia Wei
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, China.,College of Life Science and Technology, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu, China
| | - Wei Qiaoli
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, China
| | - Liu Mingzhi
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, China
| | - Liu Chuang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, China
| | - Zhao Qianqian
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, China
| | - Chen Xiaoyu
- Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Science, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zhu Zhiwei
- Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Science, Hangzhou, China
| | - Fang Xiaohuan
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, China
| | - Li Sa
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, China
| | - Zhang Xiaolei
- College of Life Science and Technology, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu, China
| | - Hua Weidong
- Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Science, Hangzhou, China
| | - Pan Jianzhi
- Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Science, Hangzhou, China
| | - Tian Jianhui
- College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Li Junjie
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, China.,Research Center of Cattle and Sheep Embryo Engineering Technique of Hebei Province, Baoding, China
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11
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Bortoletto P, Prabhu M, Baker VL. Association between programmed frozen embryo transfer and hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. Fertil Steril 2022; 118:839-848. [PMID: 36171152 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2022.07.025] [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: 07/03/2022] [Revised: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 07/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Dissociation of embryo transfer from the ovarian stimulation cycle has afforded patients increased flexibility for genetic testing and fertility preservation. Although frozen embryo transfer (FET) has largely been demonstrated to be safe and effective compared with fresh transfer, programmed FET cycles, where a corpus luteum is absent, have come under increasing scrutiny. In observational trials, programmed FET protocols appear to be associated with an increased risk of ineffective decidualization and impaired placental function. Together with the appropriate preexisting risk factors, this additive risk may potentiate hypertensive disorders of pregnancy later in gestation. Efforts to understand the reasons for this apparent risk may afford us opportunities to better individualize the FET cycle type offered to patients with cryopreserved embryos. Randomized controlled trials will help us to understand whether the apparent risk is due to patient factors, which influence protocol choice, or a characteristic of the protocol itself, such as the absence of the corpus luteum or suboptimal replacement of estradiol and progesterone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pietro Bortoletto
- Boston IVF, Waltham, Massachusetts; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts; Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.
| | - Malavika Prabhu
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts; Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Valerie L Baker
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
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12
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Liu X, Wen W, Wang T, Sun T, Wang T, Zhang N, Pan D, Cai H, Xie J, Liu X, Shi Z, Wang R, Li X, Lu N, Pan R, Tian L, Meng B, Bai H, Zhou H, Qu P, Zhao D, Mol BW, Li W, Shi J. Comparison of endometrial preparation protocols (natural cycle versus hormone replacement cycle) for frozen embryo transfer (COMPETE): a study protocol for a randomised controlled trial. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e063981. [PMID: 36241349 PMCID: PMC9577921 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-063981] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Natural cycle (NC) and hormone replacement treatment (HT) are frequently used endometrial preparation protocols prior to frozen-thawed embryo transfer in ovulatory women. It is not clear which protocol results in a higher live birth rate. It has been suggested that there is an increased risk in maternal and perinatal morbidity following HT protocol due to the lack of corpus luteum. The objective of this trial is to compare the clinical outcomes of NC and HT protocols in frozen embryo transfer. METHODS AND ANALYSIS COMPETE is an open-label, single-centre, randomised controlled trial targeting to recruit 888 women, with 444 women each in two arms (1:1 treatment ratio). Women undergoing in vitro fertilisation scheduled for a frozen embryo transfer and have a regular menstrual cycle are eligible. Exclusion criteria include ovulation disorders and intrauterine adhesions. The primary outcome is live birth resulting from the first frozen embryo transfer after randomisation. Secondary outcomes include biochemical pregnancy, clinical pregnancy, multiple pregnancy, ongoing pregnancy, miscarriage, endometrial thickness, cycle cancellation, gestational diabetes mellitus, hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, antepartum haemorrhage, preterm birth, birth weight, large for gestational age, congenital anomaly and perinatal mortality. The data analysis will be following the intention-to-treat principle. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION This study has been approved by the Institutional Review Board of Northwest women's and children's hospital (2020008). Written informed consent will be obtained from each participant before randomisation. The results of the trial will be presented via publications. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER ChiCTR2000040640.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xitong Liu
- Assisted reproduction center, Northwest Women and Children's Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - Wen Wen
- Assisted reproduction center, Northwest Women and Children's Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - Tao Wang
- Assisted reproduction center, Northwest Women and Children's Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - Ting Sun
- Assisted reproduction center, Northwest Women and Children's Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - Ting Wang
- Assisted reproduction center, Northwest Women and Children's Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - Na Zhang
- Assisted reproduction center, Northwest Women and Children's Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - Dan Pan
- Assisted reproduction center, Northwest Women and Children's Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - He Cai
- Assisted reproduction center, Northwest Women and Children's Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - Jinlin Xie
- Assisted reproduction center, Northwest Women and Children's Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - Xiaojuan Liu
- Assisted reproduction center, Northwest Women and Children's Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - Zan Shi
- Assisted reproduction center, Northwest Women and Children's Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - Rui Wang
- Assisted reproduction center, Northwest Women and Children's Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - Xiaofang Li
- Assisted reproduction center, Northwest Women and Children's Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - Na Lu
- Assisted reproduction center, Northwest Women and Children's Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - Rong Pan
- Assisted reproduction center, Northwest Women and Children's Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - Li Tian
- Assisted reproduction center, Northwest Women and Children's Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - Bin Meng
- Assisted reproduction center, Northwest Women and Children's Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - Haiyan Bai
- Assisted reproduction center, Northwest Women and Children's Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - Hanying Zhou
- Assisted reproduction center, Northwest Women and Children's Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - Pengfei Qu
- Translational Medicine Center, Northwest Women and Children's Hospital, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Doudou Zhao
- Assisted reproduction center, Northwest Women and Children's Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - Ben W Mol
- Aberdeen Centre for Women's Health Research, School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Wentao Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Juanzi Shi
- Assisted reproduction center, Northwest Women and Children's Hospital, Xi'an, China
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13
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Validation of Non-invasive Measurement of Cardiac Output: Using Whole-Body Bio-impedance Versus Inert Gas Rebreathing in Healthy Women Undergoing In Vitro Fertilisation. Artery Res 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s44200-022-00019-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Haemodynamic assessment in and before pregnancy is becoming increasingly important in relation to pregnancy complications and outcomes. Different methodologies exist but there is no gold-standard technique for non-invasive measurement of cardiac output (CO). We sought to assess two methods of CO measurement in healthy women undergoing in vitro fertilisation cycles (IVF). This was a prospective longitudinal study of 71 women aged 18–44 years planning IVF undergoing CO measurements obtained via inert gas rebreathing (IGR) using Innocor™ and whole-body bio-impedance (WBI) using Nicas™ to assess the reproducibility between the methods. Four visits occurred at which both techniques were used: initial assessment, embryo transfer, day of pregnancy test and 4 weeks post-transfer (regardless of whether conception occurred). Cross-sectional agreement of the methods was assessed using the calculation of bias, percentage error and limits of agreement (LOA) via the Bland–Altman analysis. Longitudinal agreement of the methods was assessed using a 4-quadrant plot with concordance rate, angular bias and radial limits of agreement (%).
Results
One hundred and thirteen measurements from 44 participants were suitable for cross-sectional (Bland–Altman) analysis. IGR (Innocor™) Mean CO was 4.61 L/min and 5.05 L/min with WBI (Nicas™). The bias was 0.44 L/min. The percentage error was 76% and intra-correlation coefficient was 0.135 (95% CI −0.43–0.306). Fifty-nine measurements from 28 participants were suitable for longitudinal (4Q-plot) analysis. The concordance rate was 64.4%, angular bias – 0.14, and radial limits of agreement + − 13.25°.
Conclusion
There was poor cross-sectional and longitudinal agreement between inert gas rebreathing and whole-body bio-impedance techniques. These techniques cannot be used interchangeably when measuring CO in women undergoing IVF, and these results may be more generalizable, to women in the peri-conception period.
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14
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He M, Sun X, Wang C, Sui Y. Analysis of the risk of complications during pregnancy in pregnant women with assisted reproductive technology: a retrospective study using registry linkage from 2013 to 2018 in Shanghai, China. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2022; 22:526. [PMID: 35764962 PMCID: PMC9241204 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-022-04846-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2021] [Accepted: 06/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background To evaluate the differences in pregnancy outcomes between assisted reproductive technology (ART) patients and natural pregnant women in Shanghai, China in the past 6 years objectively. And to assess the feasibility of the research method of registry-database linkage in mainland China. Methods This retrospective study was conducted using registry-database linkage. A total of 8102 pregnancies with ART and 8096 parturients with spontaneous conception (SC) from 10 reproductive centers and 111 hospitals composed our retrospective study. The primary outcomes were the rates of obstetric complications (pregnancy-induced hypertention [PIH], gestational diabetes mellitus [GDM], placenta previa, mode of delivery, preterm birth [PTB], low birth weight [LBW], and macrosomia). The prenatal outcomes were compared between ART and SC parturients, frozen-thawed embryo transfer (FET) and fresh embryo transfer, and in vitro fertilization (IVF) and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). We calculated odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Results The final matching rate of the target population was 92% by using registry linkage. ART resulted in a higher rate of multiple birth, PTB, LBW, cesarean section, placenta previa and GDM compared with SC in the singleton cohort. In ART patients, pregnant women with FET had a significantly higher risk of PIH than those with fresh embryo transfer (14.1% Vs 9.3%, AOR1.528, 95% CI 1.303–1.793), but there was no difference between IVF and ICSI. FET is also related to the severity of PIH. Conclusions ART increased the rate of complications during pregnancy, the risk and severity of PIH in patients with FET was higher than that in patients with fresh embryo transfer. The registry-database linkage study is an objective and feasible research method in mainland China. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12884-022-04846-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mulan He
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, 352#, Dalin Road, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Xiaoxi Sun
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, 352#, Dalin Road, Shanghai, 200011, China. .,Shanghai JiAi Genetics & IVF Institute, Shanghai, 200011, China. .,Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Shanghai, 200011, China.
| | - Chunfang Wang
- Vital Statistical Department, Institute of Health Information, Shanghai Municipal Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shanghai, China
| | - Yilun Sui
- Shanghai JiAi Genetics & IVF Institute, Shanghai, 200011, China
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15
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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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16
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Guan L, Wu H, Wei C, Pang C, Liu D, Yu X, Xiang S, Lian F. The effect of mildly stimulated cycle versus artificial cycle on pregnancy outcomes in overweight/obese women with PCOS prior to frozen embryo transfer: a retrospective cohort study. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2022; 22:394. [PMID: 35525951 PMCID: PMC9080216 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-022-04728-6] [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: 12/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Previous studies have shown that frozen embryo transfer (FET) resulted in increased live birth rates (LBR) and reduced the risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) than did fresh embryo transfer in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). In addition, overweight/obese women with PCOS are at increased risk of subfertility and complications of pregnancy, compared with normal-weight women. The ovarian stimulation and artificial hormone regimes are the two more commonly used endometrial preparation protocols in PCOS patients.This retrospective study aims to compare the pregnancy outcomes of mildly stimulated cycles (mSTC) and artificial cycles (AC) prior to FET in overweight/obese women with PCOS. Methods A retrospective analysis was conducted in overweight/obese women with PCOS who underwent their first FET cycles from January 2018 to December 2020. Two endometrial preparation protocols were used: the mildly stimulated cycles (N = 173) and the artificial cycles (N = 507). All pregnancy outcomes were analyzed by Student’s t-test, Chi-square (χ2) statistics and multivariable logistic regression analyses. Results This study enrolled 680 cases of FET cycles. The mSTC group exhibited significantly higher LBR compared with the AC group (49.7% vs. 41.0%; P = 0.046), while the rate of miscarriage was significantly lower (6.4% vs. 23.0%; P < 0.001). No statistically significant differences were observed in positive pregnancy rate (57.8% vs. 60.0%, P = 0.618), clinical pregnancy rate (54.3% vs. 55.6%, P = 0.769), and ectopic pregnancy rate (2.1% vs. 3.2%, P = 0.860) between two groups. After adjusting for possible confounding factors, multivariate logistic regression analysis also yielded similar results. Conclusions For overweight/obese women with PCOS, mSTC-FET demonstrated a higher LBR and a lower pregnancy loss rate than that in the AC-FET. When considering the most cost-effective treatment with the least adverse effects on patients, the mSTC for FET endometrial preparation may be considered. To corroborate our findings, additional prospective randomized clinical trials with larger sample sizes are required. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12884-022-04728-6.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Guan
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Haicui Wu
- Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Chaofeng Wei
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Conghui Pang
- Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Danqi Liu
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Xiaona Yu
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Shan Xiang
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China.
| | - Fang Lian
- Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China.
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17
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Conrad KP, von Versen-Höynck F, Baker VL. Potential role of the corpus luteum in maternal cardiovascular adaptation to pregnancy and preeclampsia risk. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2022; 226:683-699. [PMID: 34437863 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2021.08.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2021] [Revised: 08/17/2021] [Accepted: 08/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
Studies in the gravid rat model revealed a key role for the corpus luteal hormone, relaxin, in the maternal circulatory changes of early pregnancy epitomized by profound systemic vasodilation and increased arterial compliance. To determine whether the corpus luteum may play a similar role in human pregnancy, women who conceived by in vitro fertilization were studied. Implementation of artificial (programmed) cycles for embryo transfers, which precluded the formation of a corpus luteum, was associated with notable attenuation of the gestational rise in cardiac output and fall in carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (reflecting impairment of arterial dilation and increased compliance, respectively) and deficiencies in other cardiovascular changes normally observed during the first trimester. Cardiac output and carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity were restored after the first trimester of pregnancy, consistent with rescue by placental vasodilators, such as placental growth factor. In addition, a potential role of corpus luteal factors in reducing the risk of developing preeclampsia was hypothesized. In most single and multiple center, prospective and retrospective cohort (and registry) studies, the risk of developing preeclampsia and preeclampsia with severe features was increased specifically in women undergoing autologous frozen embryo transfer in artificial cycles without the formation of a corpus luteum relative to natural, modified natural, stimulated, or controlled ovarian stimulation cycles and spontaneous pregnancies-all associated with the formation of at least 1 corpus luteum. Taken together, these observational studies are sufficiently compelling to warrant randomized clinical trials comparing preeclampsia risk in autologous frozen embryo transfer in natural vs artificial cycles. Impaired endometrial function because of suboptimal hormonal administration is an alternative but not mutually exclusive explanation for increased preeclampsia risk in autologous frozen embryo transfer in artificial cycles. Potential mechanisms by which the corpus luteum may reduce the risk of developing preeclampsia and whether autologous frozen embryo transfer in artificial cycles is associated with increased risk of preterm preeclampsia, term preeclampsia, or both are discussed. Last, suggestions for future investigations are noted.
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18
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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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19
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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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20
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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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21
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Wiegel RE, Fares DA, Willemsen SP, Steegers EA, Danser AJ, Steegers-Theunissen RP. First-trimester maternal renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system activation and fetal growth and birth weight: The Rotterdam Periconceptional Cohort. Reprod Biomed Online 2022; 44:1110-1122. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2021.12.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2021] [Revised: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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22
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Roelens C, Racca A, Mackens S, Van Landuyt L, Gucciardo L, Tournaye H, De Vos M, Blockeel C. Artificially prepared frozen embryo transfer cycles are associated with an increased risk of preeclampsia. Reprod Biomed Online 2021; 44:915-922. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2021.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2021] [Revised: 09/21/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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23
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Mackens S, Drakopoulos P, Moeykens MF, Mostinckx L, Boudry L, Segers I, Tournaye H, Blockeel C, De Vos M. Cumulative live birth rate after ovarian stimulation with freeze-all in women with polycystic ovaries: does the polycystic ovary syndrome phenotype have an impact? Reprod Biomed Online 2021; 44:565-571. [PMID: 35039225 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2021.11.009] [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: 07/20/2021] [Revised: 10/12/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Do cumulative live birth rates (CLBR) differ between polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) phenotypes when a freeze-all strategy is used to prevent OHSS after ovarian stimulation? DESIGN A single-centre, retrospective cohort study of 422 women with PCOS or polycystic ovarian morphology (PCOM), in whom a freeze-all strategy was applied after GnRH agonist triggering because of hyper-response in their first or second IVF/ICSI. Primary outcome was CLBR; multivariate logistic regression analysis was used. RESULTS Phenotype A (hyperandrogenism + ovulation disorder + PCOM [HOP]) (n = 91/422 [21.6%]); phenotype C (hyperandrogenism + PCOM [HP]) (33/422 [7.8%]; phenotype D (ovulation disorder + PCOM [OP]) (n = 161/422 [38.2%]); and PCOM (n = 137/422 [32.5%]. Unadjusted CLBR was similar among the groups (69.2%, 69.7%, 79.5% and 67.9%, respectively; P = 0.11). According to multivariate logistic regression analysis, the phenotype did not affect CLBR (OR 0.72, CI 0.24 to 2.14 [phenotype C]; OR 1.55, CI 0.71 to 3.36 [phenotype D]; OR 0.84, CI 0.39 to 1.83 [PCOM]; P = 0.2, with phenotype A as reference). CONCLUSIONS In women with PCOS, hyper-response after ovarian stimulation confers CLBR of around 70%, irrespective of phenotype, when a freeze-all strategy is used. This contrasts with unfavourable clinical outcomes in women with hyperandrogenism and women with PCOS who underwent mild ovarian stimulation targeting normal ovarian response and fresh embryo transfer. The results should be interpreted with caution because the study is retrospective and cannot be generalized to all cycles as they pertain to those in which hyper-response is observed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shari Mackens
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel (UZ Brussel), Laarbeeklaan 101, Jette Brussels 1090, Belgium
| | - Panagiotis Drakopoulos
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel (UZ Brussel), Laarbeeklaan 101, Jette Brussels 1090, Belgium; IVF Athens Centre, Kolonaki Athens, Greece; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Margot Fauve Moeykens
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel (UZ Brussel), Laarbeeklaan 101, Jette Brussels 1090, Belgium
| | - Linde Mostinckx
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel (UZ Brussel), Laarbeeklaan 101, Jette Brussels 1090, Belgium
| | - Liese Boudry
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel (UZ Brussel), Laarbeeklaan 101, Jette Brussels 1090, Belgium
| | - Ingrid Segers
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel (UZ Brussel), Laarbeeklaan 101, Jette Brussels 1090, Belgium
| | - Herman Tournaye
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel (UZ Brussel), Laarbeeklaan 101, Jette Brussels 1090, Belgium; Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, Perinatology and Reproductology, Institute of Professional Education, Sechenov University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Christophe Blockeel
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Michel De Vos
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel (UZ Brussel), Laarbeeklaan 101, Jette Brussels 1090, Belgium; Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, Perinatology and Reproductology, Institute of Professional Education, Sechenov University, Moscow, Russia; Follicle Biology Laboratory (FOBI), UZ Brussel, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels 1090, Belgium.
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24
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Albertini DF. From accepting oversight to being overlooked: the devilish details of controlled ovarian stimulation. J Assist Reprod Genet 2021; 38:2225-2226. [PMID: 34585314 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-021-02333-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
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25
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Waschkies F, Kroning L, Schill T, Chandra A, Schippert C, Töpfer D, Ziert Y, von Versen-Höynck F. Pregnancy Outcomes After Frozen-Thawed Embryo Transfer in the Absence of a Corpus Luteum. Front Med (Lausanne) 2021; 8:727753. [PMID: 34568385 PMCID: PMC8460906 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2021.727753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2021] [Accepted: 08/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Nowadays, frozen-thawed embryo transfer (FET) cycles represent a high proportion of fertility treatments worldwide. Recent studies suggest differences in pregnancy outcomes depending on the FET treatment protocol used. The reason for this is still unclear, but the number of corpora lutea (CL) at conception is discussed as a possible factor. This study aims to investigate whether maternal and neonatal outcomes for pregnancies following FET lacking a CL differ from FET with one or more CL in order to explore a potential link between CL absence and adverse pregnancy outcomes. Methods: The study was designed as a retrospective, multi-center observational study with two cohorts after singleton live birth [0 CL cohort (FET in a programmed cycle, n = 114) and ≥ 1 CL cohort (FET in a natural or stimulated cycle, n = 68)]. Participants completed a questionnaire on the outcome of pregnancy and birth records were analyzed in a descriptive way. Multivariable logistic and linear regressions were performed in order to explore associations between CL absence and pregnancy outcomes. The strength of the agreement between the information in the survey and the diagnoses extracted from the files was assessed by Cohen's Kappa. Results: The risk of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy was higher after FET in the absence of a CL compared to FET with CL presence (aOR 5.56, 95% CI 1.12 – 27.72). Birthweights and birthweight percentiles were significantly higher in the 0 CL group. CL absence was a predictor of higher birthweight (adjusted coefficient B 179.74, 95% CI 13.03 – 346.44) and higher birthweight percentiles (adjusted coefficient B 10.23, 95%, 95% CI 2.28 – 18.40) particularly in female newborns of the 0 CL cohort. While the strength of the agreement between the reported information in the survey and the actual diagnoses extracted from the files was good for the majority of outcomes of interest it was fair in terms of hypertension (κ = 0.38). Conclusion: This study supports observations suggesting a potential link between a lack of CL at conception and adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes. Further investigations on causes and pathophysiological relationships are yet to be conducted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Freya Waschkies
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Luka Kroning
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Thilo Schill
- Fertility Center Langenhagen, Langenhagen, Germany
| | | | - Cordula Schippert
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Dagmar Töpfer
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Yvonne Ziert
- Institute of Biostatistics, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
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26
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Toner JP. The corpus luteum is more than progesterone. Fertil Steril 2021; 115:1432. [PMID: 34053514 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2021.04.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2021] [Accepted: 04/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- James P Toner
- Gynecology & Obstetrics Department, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
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27
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Conrad KP, Taher S, Chi YY, Qiu Y, Li M, Lingis M, Williams RS, Rhoton-Vlasak A, Keller-Wood M, Segal MS. Relationships between reproductive hormones and maternal pregnancy physiology in women conceiving with or without in vitro fertilization. Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol 2021; 321:R454-R468. [PMID: 34346723 DOI: 10.1152/ajpregu.00174.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
We evaluated maternal pregnancy adaptations and their relationships with circulating hormones in women who conceived with or without in vitro fertilization (IVF). Pregnancies were grouped by corpus luteum (CL) number: 1 CL with physiological plasma relaxin concentration (PRLN; spontaneous pregnancies); 0 CL without circulating RLN (programmed cycles); >1 CL with elevated PRLN (ovarian stimulation). Major findings were that declines in plasma osmolality (Posm) and plasma sodium concentration ([Formula: see text]) were comparable in the 1 CL and 0 CL cohorts, correlated with plasma estradiol and progesterone concentrations but not PRLN; gestational declines in plasma uric acid (UA) concentration (PUA) were attenuated after IVF, especially programmed cycles, partly because of subdued increases of renal UA clearance; and PRLN and cardiac output (CO) were inversely correlated when plasma estradiol concentration was below ∼2.5 ng/mL but positively correlated above ∼2.5 ng/mL. Unexpectedly, PRLN and plasma sFLT1 (PsFLT1) were directly correlated. Although PsFLT1 and CO were not significantly associated, CO was positively correlated with plasma placental growth factor (PLGF) concentration after the first trimester, particularly in women who conceived with 0 CL. Major conclusions are that 1) circulating RLN was unnecessary for gestational falls in Posm and [Formula: see text]; 2) PRLN and CO were inversely correlated during early gestation, suggesting that PRLN in the lower range may have contributed to systemic vasodilation, whereas at higher PRLN RLN influence became self-limiting; 3) evidence for cooperativity between RLN and estradiol on gestational changes in CO was observed; and 4) after the first trimester in women who conceived without a CL, plasma PLGF concentration was associated with recovery of CO, which was impaired during the first trimester in this cohort.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirk P Conrad
- Department of Physiology and Functional Genomics and D.H. Barron Reproductive and Perinatal Biology Research Program, grid.15276.37University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
| | - Shèdy Taher
- Department of Physiology and Functional Genomics and D.H. Barron Reproductive and Perinatal Biology Research Program, grid.15276.37University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
| | - Yueh-Yun Chi
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California.,Department of Biostatistics, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
| | - Yingjie Qiu
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
| | - Mingyue Li
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
| | - Melissa Lingis
- Division of Nephrology, Hypertension, and Renal Transplantation, Department of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
| | - R Stan Williams
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
| | - Alice Rhoton-Vlasak
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
| | | | - Mark S Segal
- Division of Nephrology, Hypertension, and Renal Transplantation, Department of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida.,Nephrology and Hypertensive Section, Medical Service, North Florida/South Georgia Veterans Health System, Gainesville, Florida
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28
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Zhang J, Wei M, Bian X, Wu L, Zhang S, Mao X, Wang B. Letrozole-induced frozen embryo transfer cycles are associated with a lower risk of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy among women with polycystic ovary syndrome. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2021; 225:59.e1-59.e9. [PMID: 33529574 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2021.01.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2020] [Revised: 01/10/2021] [Accepted: 01/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Observational retrospective data suggest that an artificial cycle frozen embryo transfer may be associated with a higher risk of hypertensive disorder of pregnancy than a natural cycle frozen embryo transfer among women with regular ovulatory cycles. The corpus luteum, which is not present in the artificial frozen cycles, is at least partly responsible for this poor obstetrical outcome. However, an artificial cycle is the most frequently used regimen for women with polycystic ovary syndrome undergoing frozen embryo transfer. Whether the risk of hypertensive disorder of pregnancy could be mitigated by employing physiological frozen embryo transfer protocols that lead to the development of a corpus luteum in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome remains unknown. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to investigate the impact of letrozole use during frozen embryo transfer cycles on obstetrical and perinatal outcomes of singleton and twin pregnancies compared with artificial frozen cycles among women with polycystic ovary syndrome. STUDY DESIGN This retrospective cohort study involved women with polycystic ovary syndrome who had undergone artificial frozen cycles or letrozole-stimulated frozen cycles during the period from 2010 to 2018 at a tertiary care center. The primary outcome was the incidence of hypertensive disorder of pregnancy. A multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to control for the relevant confounders. RESULTS A total of 2427 women with polycystic ovary syndrome were included in the final analysis. Of these women, 1168 underwent artificial cycles and 1259 underwent letrozole treatment, of which 25% of women treated with letrozole alone and 75% of women receiving letrozole combined with gonadotropins. After controlling for maternal characteristics and treatment variables, no significant difference was noticed regarding gestational diabetes mellitus, abnormal placentation, and preterm premature rupture of membranes between groups in both singleton and twin pregnancies. For birth outcomes, the prevalence rates of preterm birth, perinatal death, and birthweight outcomes were all comparable between groups in both singletons and twins. However, singleton pregnancies resulting from letrozole-stimulated cycles had a lower risk of hypertensive disorder of pregnancy than those conceived by artificial cycles (adjusted odds ratio, 0.63; 95% confidence interval, 0.40-0.98). Furthermore, a decreased risk of hypertensive disorder of pregnancy was seen among women with twin deliveries resulting from letrozole-stimulated cycles vs artificial cycles (adjusted odds ratio, 0.52; 95% confidence interval, 0.30-0.87). In addition, the cesarean delivery rate was significantly lower for singletons but not for twins in the letrozole group compared with pregnancies from the artificial cycle group (adjusted odds ratio, 0.63; 95% confidence interval, 0.50-0.78, and adjusted odds ratio, 1.20; 95% confidence interval, 0.65-2.23, respectively). CONCLUSION In women with polycystic ovary syndrome undergoing frozen embryo transfer, letrozole use for endometrial preparation was associated with a lower risk of hypertensive disorder of pregnancy than artificial cycles for endometrial preparation. Our findings provided a foundation that the increased risk of hypertensive disorder of pregnancy associated with frozen embryo transfer might be mitigated by utilizing physiological endometrial preparation protocols that lead to the development of a corpus luteum, such as a mild ovarian stimulation cycle for oligo- or anovulatory women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Zhang
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Mengjie Wei
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xuejiao Bian
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Ling Wu
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Shuo Zhang
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaoyan Mao
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Bian Wang
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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29
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Pereira MM, Mainigi M, Strauss JF. Secretory products of the corpus luteum and preeclampsia. Hum Reprod Update 2021; 27:651-672. [PMID: 33748839 PMCID: PMC8222764 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmab003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2020] [Revised: 01/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite significant advances in our understanding of the pathophysiology of preeclampsia (PE), there are still many unknowns and controversies in the field. Women undergoing frozen-thawed embryo transfer (FET) to a hormonally prepared endometrium have been found to have an unexpected increased risk of PE compared to women who receive embryos in a natural FET cycle. The differences in risk have been hypothesized to be related to the absence or presence of a functioning corpus luteum (CL). OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE To evaluate the literature on secretory products of the CL that could be essential for a healthy pregnancy and could reduce the risk of PE in the setting of FET. SEARCH METHODS For this review, pertinent studies were searched in PubMed/Medline (updated June 2020) using common keywords applied in the field of assisted reproductive technologies, CL physiology and preeclampsia. We also screened the complete list of references in recent publications in English (both animal and human studies) on the topics investigated. Given the design of this work as a narrative review, no formal criteria for study selection or appraisal were utilized. OUTCOMES The CL is a major source of multiple factors regulating reproduction. Progesterone, estradiol, relaxin and vasoactive and angiogenic substances produced by the CL have important roles in regulating its functional lifespan and are also secreted into the circulation to act remotely during early stages of pregnancy. Beyond the known actions of progesterone and estradiol on the uterus in early pregnancy, their metabolites have angiogenic properties that may optimize implantation and placentation. Serum levels of relaxin are almost undetectable in pregnant women without a CL, which precludes some maternal cardiovascular and renal adaptations to early pregnancy. We suggest that an imbalance in steroid hormones and their metabolites and polypeptides influencing early physiologic processes such as decidualization, implantation, angiogenesis and maternal haemodynamics could contribute to the increased PE risk among women undergoing programmed FET cycles. WIDER IMPLICATIONS A better understanding of the critical roles of the secretory products of the CL during early pregnancy holds the promise of improving the efficacy and safety of ART based on programmed FET cycles.
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Affiliation(s)
- María M Pereira
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, 23298, USA
| | - Monica Mainigi
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
- Centre for Research on Reproduction and Women’s Health, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA,19104 USA
| | - Jerome F Strauss
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, 23298, USA
- Centre for Research on Reproduction and Women’s Health, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA,19104 USA
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30
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Wiegel RE, von Versen-Höynck F, Steegers-Theunissen RPM, Steegers EAP, Danser AHJ. Prorenin periconceptionally and in pregnancy: Does it have a physiological role? Mol Cell Endocrinol 2021; 529:111281. [PMID: 33878417 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2021.111281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2020] [Revised: 11/24/2020] [Accepted: 12/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Pregnancy demands major cardiovascular, renal and endocrine changes to provide an adequate blood supply for the growing fetus. The renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system plays a key role in this adaptation process. One of its components, prorenin, is released in significant amounts from the ovary and uteroplacental unit. This review describes the sources of prorenin in the periconception period and in pregnancy, including its modulation by in-vitro fertilization protocols, and discusses its potential effects, among others focusing on preeclampsia. It ends with discussing the long-term consequences, even in later life, of inappropriate renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system activity in pregnancy and offers directions for future research. Ultimately, a full understanding of the role of prorenin periconceptionally and during pregnancy will help to develop tools to diagnose and/or prevent reproductive complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosalieke E Wiegel
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | | | | | - Eric A P Steegers
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - A H Jan Danser
- Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, the Netherlands.
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Assisted Reproductive Technologies and Their Association With Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes and Long-Term Cardiovascular Disease: Implications for Counseling Patients. CURRENT TREATMENT OPTIONS IN CARDIOVASCULAR MEDICINE 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s11936-021-00932-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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32
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Severino AI, Póvoa AM. Frozen Embryo Transfer and Preeclampsia Risk. J Gynecol Obstet Hum Reprod 2021; 50:102167. [PMID: 34015549 DOI: 10.1016/j.jogoh.2021.102167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2021] [Revised: 05/04/2021] [Accepted: 05/13/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Worldwide, the use of Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) has been steadily rising over recent years. With the continuous improvements in cryopreservation techniques and the growing practice of single embryo transfer, the proportion of frozen embryo transfer (FET) cycles has been increasing, therefore raising concern about the safety of this ART technique to both mothers and infants. This review aims to summarize the current evidence regarding the risk of preeclampsia in singleton pregnancies achieved by autologous FET compared to fresh embryo transfer, and to discuss the influence of different protocols used for endometrium preparation in frozen cycles on the risk of this obstetric complication. Several studies have reported a higher risk of hypertensive disorders, including preeclampsia, in pregnancies following FET compared with fresh embryo transfer. Recently, artificial FET cycles, which preclude the development of a corpus luteum, were shown to be associated with an increased preeclampsia risk in comparison with natural and stimulated cycles. Importantly, no difference was found between FET in a modified natural cycle and spontaneous conception. It has been proposed that the absence of the corpus luteum in artificial cycles may, at least partly, contribute to the observed increased risk of preeclampsia. Indeed, the corpus luteum secretes vasoactive hormones, such as relaxin, which are not replaced in artificial cycles, thereby compromising maternal cardiovascular adaptations to pregnancy, resulting in an increased risk of preeclampsia. If these findings are confirmed by a randomized controlled trial, natural, modified natural or stimulated cycles might be preferred over artificial cycles in eligible patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Isabel Severino
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Alameda Prof. Hernâni Monteiro, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal.
| | - Ana Margarida Póvoa
- Department of Gynecology, Unit of Reproductive Medicine, Universitary Hospitalar Center São João, Alameda Prof. Hernâni Monteiro, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal; Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Alameda Prof. Hernâni Monteiro, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal; Institute for Investigation and Innovation in Health, University of Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen 208, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
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33
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Mackens S, Mostinckx L, Drakopoulos P, Segers I, Santos-Ribeiro S, Popovic-Todorovic B, Tournaye H, Blockeel C, De Vos M. Early pregnancy loss in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome after IVM versus standard ovarian stimulation for IVF/ICSI. Hum Reprod 2021; 35:2763-2773. [PMID: 33025015 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deaa200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2020] [Revised: 07/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Is the incidence of early pregnancy loss (EPL) in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) higher after IVM of oocytes than after ovarian stimulation (OS) for IVF/ICSI? SUMMARY ANSWER Women with PCOS who are pregnant after fresh embryo transfer have a higher probability of EPL following IVM, but after frozen embryo transfer (FET), no significant difference in the incidence of EPL was observed following IVM compared to OS. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY There is conflicting evidence in the current literature with regard to the risk of EPL after IVM of oocytes when compared with OS. Because of the limited sample size in previous studies, the use of different IVM systems and the possible bias introduced by patient characteristics and treatment type, firm conclusions cannot be drawn. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This was a retrospective cohort study evaluating 800 women, with a diagnosis of infertility and PCOS as defined by Rotterdam criteria, who had a first positive pregnancy test after fresh or FET following IVM or OS between January 2010 and December 2017 in a tertiary care academic medical centre. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Pregnancies after non-hCG triggered IVM following a short course of highly purified human menopausal gonadotropin were compared with those after conventional OS. The primary outcome was EPL, defined as a spontaneous pregnancy loss before 10 weeks of gestation. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE In total, 329 patients with a positive pregnancy test after IVM and 471 patients with a positive pregnancy test after OS were included. Women who were pregnant after IVM were younger (28.6 ± 3.4 years vs 29.3 ± 3.6 years, P = 0.005) and had higher serum anti-Mullerian hormone levels (11.5 ± 8.1 ng/ml vs 7.2 ± 4.1 ng/ml, P < 0.001) compared to those who were pregnant after OS. The distribution of PCOS phenotypes was significantly different among women in the IVM group compared to those in the OS group and women who were pregnant after OS had previously suffered EPL more often (28% vs 17.6%, P = 0.003). EPL was significantly higher after fresh embryo transfer following IVM compared to OS (57/122 (46.7%) vs 53/305 (17.4%), P < 0.001), while the results were comparable after FET (63/207 (30.4%) vs 60/166 (36.1%), respectively, P = 0.24). In the multivariate logistic regression analysis evaluating fresh embryo transfer cycles, IVM was the only independent factor (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 4.24, 95% CI 2.44-7.37, P < 0.001)) significantly associated with increased odds of EPL. On the other hand, when the same model was applied to FET cycles, the type of treatment (IVM vs OS) was not significantly associated with EPL (aOR 0.73, 95% CI 0.43-1.25, P = 0.25). LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION The current data are limited by the retrospective nature of the study and the potential of bias due to unmeasured confounders. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS The increased risk of EPL after fresh embryo transfer following IVM may point towards inadequate endometrial development in IVM cycles. Adopting a freeze-all strategy after IVM seems more appropriate. Future studies are needed to ascertain the underlying cause of this observation. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) The Clinical IVM research has been supported by research grants from Cook Medical and Besins Healthcare. All authors declared no conflict of interest. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Mackens
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, UZ Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - L Mostinckx
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, UZ Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - P Drakopoulos
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, UZ Brussel, Brussels, Belgium.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Crete University, Crete, Greece
| | - I Segers
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, UZ Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | | | | | - H Tournaye
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, UZ Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - C Blockeel
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, UZ Brussel, Brussels, Belgium.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Zagreb-School of Medicine, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - M De Vos
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, UZ Brussel, Brussels, Belgium.,Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, Perinatology and Reproductology, Institute of Professional Education, Sechenov University, Moscow, Russia
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Pereira MM, Torrado J, Sosa C, Zócalo Y, Bia D. Role of arterial impairment in preeclampsia: should the paradigm shift? Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2021; 320:H2011-H2030. [PMID: 33797272 DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.01005.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Preeclampsia is a worldwide pregnancy complication with serious short- and long-term maternal and neonatal consequences. Our understanding of preeclampsia pathophysiology has significantly evolved over the last decades with the recognition that impaired arterial function and structure may occur early in the course of pregnancy, preceding the clinic-humoral syndrome and driving long-term cardiovascular disease risk in the future of these patients. Although an early abnormal placentation may be the inciting event for a large proportion of cases, there is growing evidence that challenges the placental hypothesis in all affected women, since placental histopathology lesions thought to be characteristic are neither sensitive nor specific markers for the disorder. Recent hemodynamic investigations and studies on left ventricular function and structure in women with preeclampsia further challenge this universal paradigm and propose that placental dysfunction could be secondary to a maternal cardiovascular maladaptation to pregnancy in certain patients. Supporting this hypothesis, certain vascular features, which are characteristically enhanced in normal pregnancy allowing a healthy vascular adaptation, are absent in preeclampsia and comparable to the nonpregnant population. However, arterial biomechanics in preeclampsia may only not cope with hemodynamic demands of pregnancy but also impose additional detrimental loads to the maternal heart ("impaired left-ventricle-aorta coupling") and transmit pressure and flow disturbances into the fetoplacental circulation ("impaired large arteries-microcirculation coupling"). In this review, we analyze the major role of the arterial dysfunction in the cardiovascular maladaptation hypothesis of preeclampsia, shed light on its potential etiopathogenic link, and discuss the complementary nature of the placental and cardiovascular theories.
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Affiliation(s)
- María M Pereira
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Juan Torrado
- Jacobi Medical Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York
| | - Claudio Sosa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology "C", Pereira-Rossell Hospital, School of Medicine, Republic University, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Yanina Zócalo
- Centro Universitario de Investigación, Innovación y Diagnóstico Arterial, Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Republic University, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Daniel Bia
- Centro Universitario de Investigación, Innovación y Diagnóstico Arterial, Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Republic University, Montevideo, Uruguay
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35
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Moreno-Sepulveda J, Espinós JJ, Checa MA. Lower risk of adverse perinatal outcomes in natural versus artificial frozen-thawed embryo transfer cycles: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Reprod Biomed Online 2021; 42:1131-1145. [PMID: 33903031 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2021.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2020] [Revised: 02/23/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
This systematic review of literature and meta-analysis of observational studies reports on perinatal outcomes after frozen embryo transfer (FET). The aim was to determine whether natural cycle frozen embryo transfer (NC-FET) in singleton pregnancies conceived after IVF decreased the risk of adverse perinatal outcomes compared with artificial cycle frozen embryo transfer (AC-FET). Thirteen cohort studies, including 93,201 cycles, met the inclusion criteria. NC-FET was associated with a lower risk of hypertensive disorders in pregnancy (HDP) (RR 0.61, 95% CI 0.50 to 0.73), preeclampsia (RR 0.47, 95% CI 0.42 to 0.53), large for gestational age (LGA) (RR 0.93, 95% CI 0.90 to 0.96) and macrosomia (RR 0.82, 95% CI 0.69 to 0.97) compared with AC-FET. No significant difference was found in the risk of gestational hypertension and small for gestational age. Secondary outcomes assessed were the risk of preterm birth (RR 0.83, 95% CI 0.79 to 0.88); post-term birth (RR 0.48, 95% CI 0.29 to 0.80); low birth weight (RR 0.84, 95% CI 0.80 to 0.89); caesarean section (RR 0.84, 95% CI 0.77 to 0.91); postpartum haemorrhage (RR 0.39, 95% CI 0.35 to 0.45); placental abruption (RR 0.61, 95% CI 0.38 to 0.98); and placenta accreta (RR 0.18, 95% CI 0.10 to 0.33). All were significantly lower with NC-FET compared with AC-FET. In assessing safety, NC-FET significantly decreased the risk of HDP, preeclampsia, LGA, macrosomia, preterm birth, post-term birth, low birth weight, caesarean section, postpartum haemorrhage, placental abruption and placenta accreta. Further randomized controlled trials addressing the effect of NC-FET and AC-FET on maternal and perinatal outcomes are warranted. Clinicians should carefully monitor pregnancies achieved by FET in artificial cycles prenatally, during labour and postnatally.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Moreno-Sepulveda
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Campus Universitario UAB, Bellaterra Cerdanyola del Vallès 08193, Spain; Clínica de la Mujer Medicina Reproductiva, Alejandro Navarrete 2606, Viña del Mar, Chile.
| | - Juan Jose Espinós
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Campus Universitario UAB, Bellaterra Cerdanyola del Vallès 08193, Spain; Fertty International, Carrer d'Ausiàs Marc, 25, Barcelona 08010, Spain; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Carrer de Sant Quintí, 89 Barcelona 08041, Spain
| | - Miguel Angel Checa
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Campus Universitario UAB, Bellaterra Cerdanyola del Vallès 08193, Spain; Fertty International, Carrer d'Ausiàs Marc, 25, Barcelona 08010, Spain; GRI-BCN, Barcelona Infertility Research Group, IMIM, Institut Hospital del Mar d'Investigacions Mèdiques, Carrer del Dr. Aiguader, 88, Barcelona 08003, Spain
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36
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Wiegel RE, von Versen-Höynck F, Steegers-Theunissen RPM, Steegers EAP, Danser AHJ. Prorenin periconceptionally and in pregnancy: Does it have a physiological role? Mol Cell Endocrinol 2021; 522:111118. [PMID: 33340569 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2020.111118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2020] [Revised: 11/24/2020] [Accepted: 12/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Pregnancy demands major cardiovascular, renal and endocrine changes to provide an adequate blood supply for the growing fetus. The renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system plays a key role in this adaptation process. One of its components, prorenin, is released in significant amounts from the ovary and uteroplacental unit. This review describes the sources of prorenin in the periconception period and in pregnancy, including its modulation by in-vitro fertilization protocols, and discusses its potential effects, among others focusing on preeclampsia. It ends with discussing the long-term consequences, even in later life, of inappropriate renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system activity in pregnancy and offers directions for future research. Ultimately, a full understanding of the role of prorenin periconceptionally and during pregnancy will help to develop tools to diagnose and/or prevent reproductive complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosalieke E Wiegel
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | | | | | - Eric A P Steegers
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - A H Jan Danser
- Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, the Netherlands.
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Cavoretto PI, Farina A, Girardelli S, Gaeta G, Spinillo S, Morano D, Amodeo S, Galdini A, Viganò P, Candiani M. Greater fetal crown-rump length growth with the use of in vitro fertilization or intracytoplasmic sperm injection conceptions after thawed versus fresh blastocyst transfers: secondary analysis of a prospective cohort study. Fertil Steril 2021; 116:147-156. [PMID: 33500139 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2020.11.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2020] [Revised: 11/14/2020] [Accepted: 11/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To compare first-trimester fetal crown-rump length (CRL) measurements in pregnancies obtained after thawed blastocyst transfer versus fresh blastocyst transfer after in vitro fertilization (IVF)/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). DESIGN Prospective longitudinal cohort study of CRL Z scores with adjustment for major confounders. SETTING University-affiliated obstetrics, fetal medicine, and fertility units. PATIENT(S) Singleton gestations conceived via IVF/ICSI and fresh or thawed blastocyst transfer with ultrasound performed at 6-14 weeks of gestational age. INTEVENTION None. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) CRL Z scores. RESULT(S) A total of 365 IVF/ICSI pregnancies were recruited (fresh: 161; thawed: 204). The mean CRL Z score at 6-14 weeks was significantly greater in thawed versus fresh transfers. Different growth trajectories between thawed and fresh transfers were detected: Mean CRL Z score was 0 at 65 days in fresh versus 80 days in frozen. Comparisons of both fresh and thawed transfers with reference values from the general population confirmed significantly lower CRL Z scores in both IVF/ICSI groups (P<.001). The risks of CRL <5th percentile in fresh versus thawed were, respectively 68% vs. 40% at 6 weeks and 2% vs. 1% at 14 weeks. A significant positive correlation between CRL Z scores and birth weight Z scores was found only for fresh transfers, not for thawed. CONCLUSION(S) At 6-14 weeks, thawed blastocyst transfers after IVF/ICSI conceptions present greater CRLs compared with fresh, and both IVF/ICSI groups show smaller CRLs than the general population. This effect is particularly evident before 9 weeks and it may favor birth weight difference of thawed versus fresh BT pregnancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Ivo Cavoretto
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Scientific Institute for Research, Hospitalization and Healthcare, San Raffaele Hospital, University Vita e Salute, Milan, Italy.
| | - Antonio Farina
- Division of Obstetrics and Prenatal Medicine, Department of Medicine and Surgery, Sant'Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Serena Girardelli
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Scientific Institute for Research, Hospitalization and Healthcare, San Raffaele Hospital, University Vita e Salute, Milan, Italy
| | - Gerarda Gaeta
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Scientific Institute for Research, Hospitalization and Healthcare, San Raffaele Hospital, University Vita e Salute, Milan, Italy
| | - Silvia Spinillo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Scientific Institute for Research, Hospitalization and Healthcare, San Raffaele Hospital, University Vita e Salute, Milan, Italy
| | - Danila Morano
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sant'Anna University Hospital, Cona, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Silvia Amodeo
- Division of Obstetrics and Prenatal Medicine, Department of Medicine and Surgery, Sant'Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Alessandro Galdini
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Scientific Institute for Research, Hospitalization and Healthcare, San Raffaele Hospital, University Vita e Salute, Milan, Italy
| | - Paola Viganò
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Scientific Institute for Research, Hospitalization and Healthcare, San Raffaele Hospital, University Vita e Salute, Milan, Italy
| | - Massimo Candiani
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Scientific Institute for Research, Hospitalization and Healthcare, San Raffaele Hospital, University Vita e Salute, Milan, Italy
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Man Y, Bian Y, Zhao S, Zhao R, Xu X, Wei D, Li L, Chen ZJ, Zhao H. The effect of different endometrial preparations on women with polycystic ovary syndrome undergoing initial frozen embryo transfer: A historical cohort analysis. Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand 2021; 100:1116-1123. [PMID: 33616957 DOI: 10.1111/aogs.14058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2020] [Revised: 12/02/2020] [Accepted: 12/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Frozen embryo transfer is associated with a higher rate of live birth and a lower risk for ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) compared with fresh embryo transfer. The aim of this study is to assess the optimal endometrial preparation protocol for women with PCOS undergoing frozen embryo transfer. MATERIAL AND METHODS We conducted a historical cohort analysis of 1720 women with PCOS who underwent the "freeze-all" strategy between August 2014 and August 2017 because of their high risk for ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome. Three endometrial preparation protocols were used: natural cycle (NC; n = 191), which relies on the dominant follicle to secrete estrogen that then promotes endometrial growth; ovarian stimulation (OS; n = 96), which induces follicle growth using low doses of human menopausal gonadotropin; and hormone replacement (HRT; n = 1433), which uses exogenous estradiol to promote endometrial growth. The primary outcome was live birth. RESULTS For women who received a single embryo transfer, the live birth rates for the NC, OS, and HRT groups were 62.4%, 65.0%, and 52.2%, respectively. The live birth rate in the HRT group was significantly lower than that seen in the OS and NC groups (P = .009). The clinical pregnancy rates of the three groups were 72.3%, 73.8%, and 64.9%, respectively; this difference did not reach statistical significance (P = .071). CONCLUSIONS The rate of live birth with the NC and OS regimens was higher than with the HRT protocol in women with PCOS who undergo single-blastocyst frozen embryo transfer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanyuan Man
- 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.,Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, China.,Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, China.,National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Yuehong Bian
- 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.,Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, China.,Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, China.,National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Shigang 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.,Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, China.,Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, China.,National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Rusong 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.,Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, China.,Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, China.,National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Xin Xu
- 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.,Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, China.,Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, China.,National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, 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.,Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, China.,Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, China.,National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Lei Li
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN, USA
| | - Zi-Jiang Chen
- 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.,Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, China.,Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, China.,National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China.,Center for Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Han 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.,Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, China.,Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, China.,National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, China
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Abstract
We are now in the beginning of the fifth decade of in vitro fertilization (IVF) with more than ten million children born and an annual growth rate of half a million. It was recently found that there is a sevenfold increase in the incidence of pulmonary embolism (PE) during the first trimester of an IVF pregnancy as compared to spontaneous pregnancy. PE is a major cause of maternal mortality, and it is thus of outmost importance to understand the pathophysiological mechanism. The oestrogen surge during the ovarian stimulation has been hypothesized to be the initiating pathophysiological event. A support of this is a current report showing that embryo transfer performed directly after ovarian stimulation increased the risk of PE more than eightfold, whereas no such increase was noted after delayed embryo transfer. This increased risk coincides with a persisting increased oestrogen level. Further reported cardiovascular problems are arterial thromboses, pre-eclampsia and gestational hypertension. Global haemostasis tests change in the direction of increased coagulability, but mostly within normal limits. Cell-bound haemostasis and in particular platelet activation are less studied. However, a major increase in the number of microvesicles (MVs) and markers indicating platelet activation was reported during ovarian stimulation. We now need longitudinal data concerning haemostatic variables that extends into the first trimester. A major research focus should be to identify biomarkers that could be used already before instigation of IVF. Another way to avoid risk could be to delay embryo transfer by adapting a freeze-all strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Henriksson
- From the, Department of Clinical Sciences, Danderyd Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Cardiology, Danderyd University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
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40
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Conrad KP. Evidence for Corpus Luteal and Endometrial Origins of Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes in Women Conceiving with or Without Assisted Reproduction. Obstet Gynecol Clin North Am 2020; 47:163-181. [PMID: 32008666 DOI: 10.1016/j.ogc.2019.10.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Preeclampsia may arise from impaired decidualization in some women. Transcriptomics of mid-secretory biopsy endometrial stromal cells decidualized in vitro and of early gestation choriodecidua from women who experienced preeclampsia with severe features overlapped significantly with the classical endometrial disorders giving rise to the concept of "endometrium spectrum disorders". That is, recurrent implantation failure and miscarriage, endometriosis, normotensive intrauterine growth restriction, preeclampsia and preterm birth may all lie on a continuum of decidual dysregulation, in which phenotypic expression is determined by the specific molecular pathway(s) disrupted and severity of disruption. Women conceiving by programmed IVF protocols showed widespread dysregulation of cardiovascular function and increased rates of adverse pregnancy outcomes including preeclampsia. Programmed cycles preclude development of a corpus luteum (CL), a major regulator of endometrial function. Lack of circulating CL product(s) that are not replaced in programmed cycles (eg, relaxin) could adversely impact the maternal cardiovascular system directly and/or compromise decidualization, thereby increasing preeclampsia risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirk P Conrad
- Department of Physiology and Functional Genomics, D.H. Barron Reproductive and Perinatal Biology Research Program, University of Florida College of Medicine, 1600 Southwest Archer RD, PO Box 100274, M552, Gainesville, FL 32610-0274, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Florida College of Medicine, 1600 Southwest Archer RD, PO Box 100294, N3-9, Gainesville, FL 32610-0274, USA.
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Wiegel RE, Jan Danser AH, Steegers-Theunissen RPM, Laven JSE, Willemsen SP, Baker VL, Steegers EAP, von Versen-Höynck F. Determinants of Maternal Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone-System Activation in Early Pregnancy: Insights From 2 Cohorts. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2020; 105:5898239. [PMID: 32853347 PMCID: PMC7494245 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgaa582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2020] [Accepted: 08/26/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT The corpus luteum (CL) secretes prorenin, renin's inactive precursor. It may thus contribute to the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone-system (RAAS) activation that is required for maternal adaptation in pregnancy. Whether this activation is disturbed in pregnancies lacking a CL is unknown. OBJECTIVE The objective of this work is to investigate maternal RAAS determinants in early pregnancy. DESIGN AND SETTING Two observational prospective cohort studies. TOOK PLACE AT 2 tertiary referral hospitals. PATIENTS AND INTERVENTION(S) Pregnancies (n = 277) were stratified by CL number and in vitro fertilization (IVF) protocol: 0 CL (programmed cycle frozen embryo transfer [FET], n = 28), 1 CL (natural cycle FET, n = 41 and spontaneous conceptions, n = 139), and more than 1 CL (ovarian stimulation and fresh embryo transfer, n = 69). METHODS Quantification was performed for maternal prorenin, renin, and aldosterone blood levels at 5, 9, and 11 weeks of gestation. RESULTS Prorenin and renin were lower in the absence of a CL at all time points when compared to 1 CL, whereas prorenin, renin, and aldosterone were higher in the presence of more than 1 CL vs 1 CL (P < .05). Ovarian stimulation with menopausal gonadotropin resulted in higher prorenin, renin, and aldosterone concentrations during the late first trimester than recombinant follicle-stimulating hormone (P < .05). Prorenin, and to a lesser degree renin, correlated positively with serum progesterone and relaxin, but not serum estradiol. Total follicle diameter, body mass index (BMI), polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and antimüllerian hormone (AMH) were additional determinants of circulating prorenin. Finally, pregnancies conceived in the absence of a CL were more disposed to develop preeclampsia. CONCLUSIONS CL number, IVF protocol, BMI, PCOS, and AMH affect maternal RAAS activation in early pregnancy, and may thus contribute to pregnancy complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosalieke E Wiegel
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, CA Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - A H Jan Danser
- Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, CA Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Régine P M Steegers-Theunissen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, CA Rotterdam, the Netherlands
- Correspondence and Reprint Requests: R.P.M. Steegers-Theunissen, MD, PhD, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Room EE-2271a, PO Box 2040, 3000 CA Rotterdam, the Netherlands. E-mail:
| | - Joop S E Laven
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, CA Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Sten P Willemsen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, CA Rotterdam, the Netherlands
- Department of Biostatistics, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, CA Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Valerie L Baker
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Lutherville, Maryland, USA
| | - Eric A P Steegers
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, CA Rotterdam, the Netherlands
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Cavoretto PI, Farina A, Gaeta G, Sigismondi C, Spinillo S, Casiero D, Pozzoni M, Vigano P, Papaleo E, Candiani M. Uterine artery Doppler in singleton pregnancies conceived after in-vitro fertilization or intracytoplasmic sperm injection with fresh vs frozen blastocyst transfer: longitudinal cohort study. ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY 2020; 56:603-610. [PMID: 31909549 DOI: 10.1002/uog.21969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2019] [Revised: 12/18/2019] [Accepted: 12/20/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Pregnancies conceived by frozen blastocyst transfer (FBT) have higher gestational age and weight at birth as compared to those derived by fresh blastocyst transfer. The aim of this study was to evaluate uterine artery pulsatility index (UtA-PI) in pregnancies conceived by in-vitro fertilization (IVF) or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) techniques using fresh vs cryopreserved blastocysts. METHODS This was a prospective longitudinal study of viable singleton IVF/ICSI pregnancies conceived after FBT or fresh blastocyst transfer, that underwent serial ultrasound assessment at San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, Italy at 7-37 gestational weeks. We excluded pregnancies conceived using other assisted reproductive techniques such as egg donation, twin gestation, pregnancy with abnormality and those resulting in miscarriage. Pregnant women underwent ultrasound assessment at 7-10, 11-14, 18-25 and 26-37 weeks' gestation. Mean UtA-PI was measured using Doppler ultrasound according to The Fetal Medicine Foundation criteria. Pregnancy outcomes were recorded. The primary outcome was mean UtA-PI measurement and secondary outcomes were gestational age at birth, birth weight and fetal and maternal complications, including small-for-gestational age (SGA), pre-eclampsia and large-for-gestational age. UtA-PI values were made Gaussian after log10 transformation. Analysis of repeated measures using a multilevel linear mixed model (fixed effects and random effects) was performed. The possible effect of other covariates on UtA-PI Doppler values, including body mass index, SGA and pre-eclampsia, was also evaluated. RESULTS A total of 367 IVF/ICSI cycles, comprising 164 with fresh blastocyst transfer and 203 with FBT, were included and a total of 625 observations (median, 2.5 (range, 1-4)) were collected and analyzed. The FBT group had on average 14% lower UtA-PI compared with the fresh-blastocyst-transfer group. In pregnancies with SGA fetuses, UtA-PI was 18% higher compared to pregnancies without, irrespective of the study group. Pregnancies that underwent fresh blastocyst transfer had significantly lower birth-weight centile (43.4 ± 23.3 vs 50.0 ± 23.1; P = 0.007) and a higher rate of SGA (7.9% vs 2.0%; P = 0.008) compared to those that underwent FBT. No significant differences were found between the two groups with respect to gestational age at birth and rates of preterm birth, pre-eclampsia, gestational diabetes mellitus and large-for-gestational age. CONCLUSION UtA-PI and the proportion of SGA are lower in IVF/ICSI pregnancies conceived after FBT as compared to fresh blastocyst transfer. Copyright © 2020 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
- P I Cavoretto
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, University Vita-Salute, Milan, Italy
| | - A Farina
- Division of Obstetrics and Prenatal Medicine, Department of Medicine and Surgery (DIMEC), Sant'Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - G Gaeta
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, University Vita-Salute, Milan, Italy
| | - C Sigismondi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, University Vita-Salute, Milan, Italy
| | - S Spinillo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, University Vita-Salute, Milan, Italy
| | - D Casiero
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, University Vita-Salute, Milan, Italy
| | - M Pozzoni
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, University Vita-Salute, Milan, Italy
| | - P Vigano
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, University Vita-Salute, Milan, Italy
| | - E Papaleo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, University Vita-Salute, Milan, Italy
| | - M Candiani
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, University Vita-Salute, Milan, Italy
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Conrad KP, Lingis M, Sautina L, Li S, Chi YY, Qiu Y, Li M, Williams RS, Rhoton-Vlasak A, Segal MS. Maternal endothelial function, circulating endothelial cells, and endothelial progenitor cells in pregnancies conceived with or without in vitro fertilization. Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol 2020; 318:R1091-R1102. [PMID: 32349514 DOI: 10.1152/ajpregu.00015.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
In women who conceived with or without assisted reproduction, we evaluated endothelial function by EndoPAT [reactive hyperemia index (RHI)], circulating numbers of endothelial cells (CEC) and endothelial progenitor cells (EPC), and their function before during and after pregnancy. In vitro fertilization (IVF) pregnancies were stratified by method of conception and corpus luteum (CL) number-controlled ovarian stimulation (>1 CL) or programmed (0 CL) cycles and spontaneous singleton pregnancies (1 CL). We observed 1) comparable gestational decline of RHI in the three participant groups secondary to gestational rise of baseline preocclusion pulse-wave amplitude (PWA) incorporated into the RHI calculation by EndoPAT software; 2) progressive rise in "normalized" RHI throughout pregnancy (calculated by substituting prepregnancy baseline preocclusion PWA into the RHI equation), greater in spontaneous conception vs. IVF cohorts; 3) similar gestational increase of maximum PWA and time to maximum PWA after the ischemia stimulus among the three participant groups; 4) modest gestational increase of ischemia response (reactive hyperemia) in the spontaneous conception group and no change or significant decline, respectively, in women who conceived using programmed or controlled ovarian stimulation cycles; 5) enhanced basal nitric oxide production by early (primitive) outgrowth EPC during pregnancy in women who conceived spontaneously, but not through IVF; and 6) gestational increase in CEC in all three participant cohorts, more pronounced in women who conceived by IVF using programmed cycles. On balance, the evidence supported enhanced endothelial function during pregnancy in spontaneous conceptions but less so in IVF pregnancies using either controlled ovarian stimulation or programmed cycles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirk P Conrad
- Department of Physiology and Functional Genomics, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida.,D. H. Barron Reproductive and Perinatal Biology Research Program, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
| | - Melissa Lingis
- Division of Nephrology, Hypertension, and Renal Transplantation, Department of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
| | - Larysa Sautina
- Division of Nephrology, Hypertension, and Renal Transplantation, Department of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
| | - Shiyu Li
- Division of Nephrology, Hypertension, and Renal Transplantation, Department of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
| | - Yueh-Yun Chi
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
| | - Yingjie Qiu
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
| | - Mingyue Li
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
| | - R Stan Williams
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
| | - Alice Rhoton-Vlasak
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
| | - Mark S Segal
- Division of Nephrology, Hypertension, and Renal Transplantation, Department of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida.,Nephrology and Hypertensive Section, Medical Service, North Florida/South Georgia Veterans Health System, Gainesville, Florida
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Evaluation of Uterine Artery Doppler and Estrogen Milieu in Oocyte Donation Pregnancies-A Pilot Study. Diagnostics (Basel) 2020; 10:diagnostics10050254. [PMID: 32357488 PMCID: PMC7277459 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics10050254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2020] [Revised: 04/22/2020] [Accepted: 04/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Oocyte donations (OD) represent 4.5% of all in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycles. While OD pregnancies face increased risks of obstetrical complications, especially pregnancy-induced hypertension and pre-eclampsia (PE), little is known about the physiology and the physiopathology of placentation. We performed a prospective case-control study to analyze uterine artery Doppler pulsatility index (UtA-PI) and serum maternal 17β-estradiol (17β-E) at 11 + 0 to 13 + 6 weeks' gestation in singleton pregnancies with different modes of conception. Study groups were: 55 OD, 48 IVF with autologous oocytes from fresh cycles (Autologous-Fresh IVF), 10 IVF with autologous oocytes from frozen cycles (Autologous-Frozen IVF) and 122 spontaneously conceived pregnancies (SC). The mean UtA-PI and serum maternal 17β-E at 11 to 13 + 6 weeks were significantly lower in OD as compared to SC and autologous IVF, either from fresh or frozen cycles. Oocyte donation presents lower UtA-PI and lower serum 17β-E in the first trimester of pregnancy. The etiology of these particularr differences is likely multifactorial and deserves further investigation.
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Mizrachi Y, Weissman A, Buchnik Fater G, Torem M, Horowitz E, Schreiber L, Raziel A, Bar J, Kovo M. Placental histopathology in IVF pregnancies resulting from the transfer of frozen-thawed embryos compared with fresh embryos. J Assist Reprod Genet 2020; 37:1155-1162. [PMID: 32189181 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-020-01741-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2019] [Accepted: 03/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To study whether placentas of singleton pregnancies conceived after fresh embryo transfer (ET) contain more histopathological lesions compared with placentas of singleton pregnancies conceived after frozen-thawed embryo transfer (FET). METHODS A prospective cohort study of placental histopathology in 131 women with singleton IVF pregnancies who delivered at a single medical center, between December 2017 and May 2019. The prevalence of different placental histopathology lesions was compared between women who conceived after fresh ET and FET. RESULTS Women who conceived after fresh ET (n = 74) did not differ from women who conceived after FET (n = 57) with regard to maternal age, BMI, nulliparity, or infertility diagnosis. Gestational week at delivery was lower in pregnancies conceived after fresh ET (38.5 vs. 39.2 weeks, respectively, p = 0.04), and a trend for a lower birthweight following fresh ET was noted (3040 vs. 3216 g, respectively, p = 0.053). However, placental histopathology analysis from pregnancies conceived after fresh ET was comparable to pregnancies conceived after FET, with regard to the prevalence of maternal vascular malperfusion lesions (45.9% vs. 50.9%, respectively, p = 0.57), fetal vascular malperfusion lesions (17.6% vs. 21.1, p = 0.61), acute inflammatory response lesions (28.4% vs. 28.1%, respectively, p = 0.96), and chronic inflammatory response lesions (13.5% vs. 8.8%, respectively, p = 0.48). CONCLUSION Placental histopathology did not differ between IVF pregnancies conceived after fresh and frozen ET. These results are reassuring for clinicians and patients who wish to pursue with transferring fresh embryos.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yossi Mizrachi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Edith Wolfson Medical Center, Holon, Israel. .,Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel.
| | - Ariel Weissman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Edith Wolfson Medical Center, Holon, Israel.,Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Gili Buchnik Fater
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Edith Wolfson Medical Center, Holon, Israel.,Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Maya Torem
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Edith Wolfson Medical Center, Holon, Israel.,Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Eran Horowitz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Edith Wolfson Medical Center, Holon, Israel.,Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Letizia Schreiber
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel.,Department of Pathology, EdithWolfson Medical Center, Holon, Israel
| | - Arieh Raziel
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Edith Wolfson Medical Center, Holon, Israel.,Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Jacob Bar
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Edith Wolfson Medical Center, Holon, Israel.,Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Michal Kovo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Edith Wolfson Medical Center, Holon, Israel.,Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
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von Versen-Höynck F, Häckl S, Tierney ESS, Conrad KP, Baker VL, Winn VD. Maternal Vascular Health in Pregnancy and Postpartum After Assisted Reproduction. Hypertension 2020; 75:549-560. [PMID: 31838910 PMCID: PMC7491550 DOI: 10.1161/hypertensionaha.119.13779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Although most pregnancies after assisted reproduction are associated with a favorable outcome for the mother and infant, reports of abnormal vascular adaptation in early pregnancy and emerging maternal and perinatal pathology warrant further investigations. Herein we extended our previous work and further examined whether perturbations of blood pressure and endothelial function during the first trimester in conceptions with nonphysiological corpus luteum (CL) numbers would persist through the third trimester of pregnancy and into the postpartum period. We investigated both maternal and perinatal outcomes. Participants were grouped according to CL number and method of conception: 0 CL (programmed autologous frozen-thawed embryo transfer, N=10-18); 1 CL (spontaneous conception [N=16] and natural cycle frozen-thawed embryo transfer [N=12]); or >3 CL associated with autologous fresh embryo transfer [N=8-12]. Augmentation index was higher during the third trimester in the absence of a CL compared to 1 CL (P=0.03) and in frozen-thawed embryo transfer in a programmed compared to a natural cycle (P=0.02). Moreover, baseline pulse-wave amplitude was higher in >3 CL conceptions at all time points (all P<0.05). The incidence of preeclampsia and preeclampsia with severe features was significantly higher in the absence of a CL compared to the presence of one or >3 CL (P=0.045 and P=0.03). Infants from conceptions with >3 CL had lower birth weights (P=0.02) and a higher rate of low birth weight offspring (P=0.008). Deficient vascular adaptation during early gestation in conceptions with nonphysiological CL numbers might predispose women to adverse pregnancy outcomes, for example, preeclampsia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frauke von Versen-Höynck
- Stanford University Medical Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, 1195 West Fremont Avenue, Sunnyvale, CA 94087, United States of America
- Hannover Medical School, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Lower Saxony, Germany
| | - Sebastian Häckl
- Hannover Medical School, Department of Biometry, Lower Saxony, Germany
| | - Elif Seda Selamet Tierney
- Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital, Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Cardiology, Stanford University, Palo Alto, USA, 750 Welch Road, Suite 325, Heart Center
| | - Kirk P Conrad
- Departments of Physiology and Functional Genomics, and of Obstetrics and Gynecology, D. H. Barron Reproductive and Perinatal Biology Research Program, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL 32610, United States of America
| | - Valerie L. Baker
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Lutherville, MD 21093
| | - Virginia D Winn
- Stanford University Medical Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 300 Pasteur Drive, HG332, Stanford CA 94035
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Albertini DF. Connecting the dots between ARTs and live birth outcomes. J Assist Reprod Genet 2019; 36:2193-2194. [PMID: 31749024 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-019-01637-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
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49
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Conrad KP, Graham GM, Chi YY, Zhai X, Li M, Williams RS, Rhoton-Vlasak A, Segal MS, Wood CE, Keller-Wood M. Potential influence of the corpus luteum on circulating reproductive and volume regulatory hormones, angiogenic and immunoregulatory factors in pregnant women. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 2019; 317:E677-E685. [PMID: 31408378 PMCID: PMC6842916 DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.00225.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Cardiovascular function is impaired and preeclampsia risk elevated in women conceiving by in vitro fertilization (IVF) in the absence of a corpus luteum (CL). Here, we report the serial evaluation of hormones and other circulating factors in women who conceived with (or without) IVF. After a prepregnancy baseline, the study participants (n = 19-24/cohort) were evaluated six times during pregnancy and once postpartum (~1.6 yr). IVF pregnancies were stratified by protocol and CL number, i.e., ovarian stimulation (>1 CL) or hypothalamic-pituitary suppression (0 CL) versus spontaneous conceptions (1 CL). Results include the following: 1) relaxin was undetectable throughout pregnancy (including late gestation) in the 0 CL cohort, but markedly elevated in ~50% of women in the >1 CL cohort; 2) progesterone, plasma renin activity, and aldosterone transiently surged at 5-6 gestational weeks in the >1 CL group; 3) soluble vascular endothelial growth factor-1 (sFLT-1) abruptly increased between 5-6 and 7-9 gestational weeks in all three participant cohorts, producing a marked elevation in sFLT-1/PLGF (placental growth factor) ratio exceeding any other time point during pregnancy; 4) sFLT-1 was higher throughout most of gestation in both IVF cohorts with or without abnormal obstetrical outcomes; 5) during pregnancy, C-reactive protein (CRP) increased in 0 and 1 CL, but not >1 CL cohorts; and 6) plasma protein, but not hemoglobin, was lower in the >1 CL group throughout gestation. The findings highlight that, compared with spontaneously conceived pregnancy, the maternal milieu of IVF pregnancy is not physiologic, and the specific perturbations vary according to IVF protocol and CL status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirk P Conrad
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
- Department of Physiology and Functional Genomics, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
- D. H. Barron Reproductive and Perinatal Biology Research Program, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
| | - Georgia M Graham
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
| | - Yueh-Yun Chi
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
| | - Xiaoman Zhai
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
| | - Minjie Li
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
| | - R Stan Williams
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
| | - Alice Rhoton-Vlasak
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
| | - Mark S Segal
- Division of Nephrology, Hypertension, and Renal Transplantation, Department of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
- Nephrology and Hypertensive Section, Medical Service, North Florida/South Georgia Veterans Health System, Gainesville, Florida
| | - Charles E Wood
- Department of Physiology and Functional Genomics, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
- D. H. Barron Reproductive and Perinatal Biology Research Program, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
| | - Maureen Keller-Wood
- D. H. Barron Reproductive and Perinatal Biology Research Program, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
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Affiliation(s)
- Basky Thilaganathan
- From the Vascular Biology Research Centre, Molecular and Clinical Sciences Research Institute, St George’s University of London, Cranmer Terrace, United Kingdom; and Fetal Medicine Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, St. George’s University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Blackshaw Road, London, United Kingdom
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