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Martínez-Varea A, Martínez-Gómez M, Novillo B, Domenech J, Morales-Roselló J, Diago-Almela V. Perinatal Outcomes of Monochorionic Twin Pregnancies Conceived Naturally Versus through Assisted Reproductive Techniques. J Clin Med 2023; 12:6097. [PMID: 37763036 PMCID: PMC10531548 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12186097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2023] [Revised: 09/09/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective: It has been reported that monochorionic twin pregnancies conceived through assisted reproductive techniques (ART) display a higher risk of second-trimester miscarriage, cesarean delivery, and neonatal death than those conceived naturally. The aim of this study was to compare the perinatal outcomes of monochorionic diamniotic (MCDA) twin pregnancies conceived naturally and through ART in a tertiary hospital. Methods: This was a retrospective cohort study of all MCDA twin pregnancies that received obstetric care and delivered at La Fe University and Polytechnic Hospital between 2015 and 2021. MCDA pregnancies that were referred to the tertiary hospital for specialized management, follow-up, and delivery were also included. The study was approved by The Health Research Institute Hospital La Fe (IIS La Fe). Results: Among the 184 MCDA pregnancies, 149 (81%) had a natural conception, and 35 (19%) were conceived through ART. Patients with an MCDA pregnancy who conceived through ART had a significantly older maternal age (38.0 [35.5-42.5] vs. 32.0 [29.0-36.0], p < 0.001) and an elevated rate of nulliparity (80.0% vs. 50.3%, p = 0.001). Regarding pregnancy complications, MCDA pregnancies through ART were associated with a significantly higher incidence of gestational diabetes (22.9% vs. 2.7%, p < 0.001), hypertensive disorders during pregnancy (22.9% vs. 9.4%, p = 0.04), and other pregnancy complications such as threatened labor or preterm prelabor rupture of membranes (14.3% vs. 36.2%, p = 0.015), than naturally conceived MCDA pregnancies. No differences were found in the incidence of twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome (20% vs. 33.6%, p = 0.155). MCDA pregnancies through natural conception had a greater rate of vaginal delivery than MCDA through ART (16.8% vs. 2.9%, p = 0.032). When adjusted for confounding factors, MCDA pregnancies through ART were only more likely to develop gestational diabetes than those naturally conceived (aOR 7.86, 95% CI 1.55-39.87). No differences were found regarding neonatal outcomes between groups. Conclusions: Compared with naturally conceived MCDA twin pregnancies, those conceived through ART displayed a significantly higher risk of developing gestational diabetes. No differences regarding other pregnancy complications, mode of delivery, or neonatal outcomes were found between groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alicia Martínez-Varea
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, La Fe University and Polytechnic Hospital, Avenida Fernando Abril Martorell 106, 46026 Valencia, Spain; (M.M.-G.); (B.N.); (J.M.-R.); (V.D.-A.)
| | - Martha Martínez-Gómez
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, La Fe University and Polytechnic Hospital, Avenida Fernando Abril Martorell 106, 46026 Valencia, Spain; (M.M.-G.); (B.N.); (J.M.-R.); (V.D.-A.)
| | - Blanca Novillo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, La Fe University and Polytechnic Hospital, Avenida Fernando Abril Martorell 106, 46026 Valencia, Spain; (M.M.-G.); (B.N.); (J.M.-R.); (V.D.-A.)
| | - Josep Domenech
- Department of Economics and Social Sciences, Universitat Politècnica de València, Camí de Vera s/n, 46022 Valencia, Spain;
| | - José Morales-Roselló
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, La Fe University and Polytechnic Hospital, Avenida Fernando Abril Martorell 106, 46026 Valencia, Spain; (M.M.-G.); (B.N.); (J.M.-R.); (V.D.-A.)
- Department of Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Valencia, Avenida Blasco Ibáñez 15, 46010 Valencia, Spain
| | - Vicente Diago-Almela
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, La Fe University and Polytechnic Hospital, Avenida Fernando Abril Martorell 106, 46026 Valencia, Spain; (M.M.-G.); (B.N.); (J.M.-R.); (V.D.-A.)
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Nancarrow L, Tempest N, Lane S, Homburg R, Russell R, Hapangama DK. Four-dimensional ultrasound guided embryo transfers improve live birth rates when compared to the clinical touch technique: a randomised controlled trial. Sci Rep 2023; 13:14875. [PMID: 37684296 PMCID: PMC10491625 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-41313-z] [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: 03/26/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Most aspects of in-vitro fertilisation (IVF) have changed dramatically since introduction, but embryo transfer (ET) technique remains largely unaltered. We aimed to determine whether four-dimensional ultrasound guided embryo transfers (4D UGET) could improve pregnancy rates when compared with clinical touch technique (CTT). This was a single centre open labelled randomised controlled trial in a tertiary fertility centre in the UK. 320 women were randomised on the day of single ET. The primary outcome was clinical pregnancy rate (CPR), secondary outcomes included live birth rate (LBR), biochemical pregnancy rate (BPR), miscarriage, pregnancy of unknown location (PUL) and ectopic pregnancy. 4D-UGET resulted in significantly higher CPR [50% vs 36% p = 0.02, OR 1.78 (1.12-2.84)] and LBR [41% vs 28%, p = 0.02, OR 1.77 (1.09-2.87)] when compared to CTT technique. Miscarriage (p = 0.49), PUL (p = 0.14) and ectopic pregnancy (p = 0.96) were similar between the two groups. LBR, from this trial, are significantly higher than the current UK average (41% vs 24%). 4D UGET allows for superior imaging of the uterine cavity, whilst tailoring the embryo deposition point specifically to the patient. Further RCTs are required to determine if these results can be replicated in other units and whether 4D UGET is superior to 2D UGET.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Nancarrow
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, Centre for Women's Health Research, Member of Liverpool Health Partners, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, L8 7SS, UK
- Hewitt Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Liverpool Women's NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, L8 7SS, UK
| | - Nicola Tempest
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, Centre for Women's Health Research, Member of Liverpool Health Partners, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, L8 7SS, UK.
- Hewitt Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Liverpool Women's NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, L8 7SS, UK.
- Liverpool Women's NHS Foundation Trust, Member of Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool, L8 7SS, UK.
| | - S Lane
- Department of Biostatistics, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, Member of Liverpool Health Partners, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - R Homburg
- Hewitt Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Liverpool Women's NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, L8 7SS, UK
| | - R Russell
- Hewitt Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Liverpool Women's NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, L8 7SS, UK
- Liverpool Women's NHS Foundation Trust, Member of Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool, L8 7SS, UK
| | - D K Hapangama
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, Centre for Women's Health Research, Member of Liverpool Health Partners, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, L8 7SS, UK
- Liverpool Women's NHS Foundation Trust, Member of Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool, L8 7SS, UK
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Hiadzi RA, Woodward B, Akrong GB. Ethical issues surrounding the use of assisted reproductive technologies in Ghana: An analysis of the experiences of clients and service providers. Heliyon 2023; 9:e13767. [PMID: 36865469 PMCID: PMC9970979 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e13767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2022] [Revised: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Since the advent of Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART) in Ghana about three decades ago, IVF and ICSI treatments have enabled infertile Ghanaian couples to fulfill their aspirations and dreams of having children. In this extremely pronatalist society, ART has provided relief to many childless couples by reducing, if not eliminating, the shame of childlessness that they would otherwise have to suffer. However, as the provision and utilization of ART continue to increase, so do worries regarding the ethical difficulties surrounding this field of medicine, which challenge cultural ideals and personal desires. The study explores client and service provider experiences with ART in urban Ghana. Observation and in-depth interviews were employed to collect data, and the ethical dimensions of people's experiences relative to Ghanaian cultural and ethical values were analyzed. The results show that the provision of ART services for heterosexual couples in marital unions, the availability of PGT for sickle cell clients, the preference for multiple births emerging from embryo transfers, the lower preference for cryopreservation, the high cost of ART treatment, and the need for regulation of the provision of ART services in Ghana were some of the ethical concerns expressed by both clients and service providers.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Godwin Banafo Akrong
- School of Management and Economics, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, 611731, China,Corresponding author.
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Shen L, Zhang Y, Chen W, Yin X. The Application of Artificial Intelligence in Predicting Embryo Transfer Outcome of Recurrent Implantation Failure. Front Physiol 2022; 13:885661. [PMID: 35846016 PMCID: PMC9280084 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.885661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Recurrent implantation failure (RIF) refers to that infertile patients have undergone multiple in vitro fertilization (IVF) or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) cycles and transferred multiple embryos without embryo implantation or clinical pregnancy. Due to the lack of clear evidence-based medical guidelines for the number of embryos to be transferred in RIF patients, how to obtain the highest single cycle pregnancy success rate with as few embryos transferred as possible while avoiding multiple pregnancy as much as possible, that is, how to balance the pregnancy success rate and multiple pregnancy rate, is a great challenge for clinicians and RIF patients. We urgently need an effective and reliable assisted decision-making method to help clinicians find this balance, and an artificial intelligence (AI) system will provide an efficient solution. Design and Methods: In this research, we filtered out the RIF data set (n = 45,921) from the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA) database from 2005 to 2016. The data set was divided into two groups according to the number of embryos transferred, Group A and B. Group A included 34,175 cycles with two embryos transferred, while Group B included 11,746 cycles with only one embryo transferred, each containing 44 features and a prediction label (pregnancy). Four machine learning algorithms (RF, GBDT, AdaBoost, and MLP) were used to train Group A and Group B data set respectively and 10-folder cross validation method was used to validate the models. Results: The results revealed that the AdaBoost model of Group A obtained the best performance, while the GBDT model in Group B was proved to be the best model. Both models had been proved to provide accurate prediction of transfer outcome. Conclusion: Our research provided a new approach for targeted and personalized treatment of RIF patients to help them achieve efficient and reliable pregnancy. And an AI-assisted decision-making system will be designed to help clinicians and RIF patients develop personalized transfer strategies, which not only guarantees efficient and reliable pregnancy, but also avoids the risk of multiple pregnancy as much as possible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Shen
- College of Computer and Information, Hohai University, Nanjing, China
- Nanjing Marine Radar Institute, Nanjing, China
- *Correspondence: Lei Shen, ; Yanran Zhang,
| | - Yanran Zhang
- International Department of Jinling High School, Hexi Campus, Nanjing, China
- *Correspondence: Lei Shen, ; Yanran Zhang,
| | | | - Xinghui Yin
- College of Computer and Information, Hohai University, Nanjing, China
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Jurado-García E, Botello-Hermosa A, Fernández-Carrasco FJ, Gómez-Salgado J, Navas-Rojano N, Casado-Mejía R. Multiple Gestations and Assisted Reproductive Technologies: Qualitative Study of the Discourse of Health Professionals in Spain. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18116031. [PMID: 34205229 PMCID: PMC8200015 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18116031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Revised: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Multiple gestations have become an increasing phenomenon that has impacted public health globally, largely due to the application of assisted reproductive technologies. The objective of this work was to find out the discourse that the health professionals involved in its follow-up have in our context. For this, a qualitative methodology was chosen, with semi-structured interviews recorded in audio, prior authorisation, and transcribed verbatim. It was based on a script designed for this purpose, with the following analysis categories: the current trend of multiple gestations, impact, and follow-up. The content analysis was based on the experiences, knowledge, and perceptions of the professionals interviewed. Professionals stated that the current socioeconomic and legal context hinders a single embryo transfer policy that decreases multiple gestation rates. They emphasised the importance of the psychic impact of such gestations on the couple, on the mother in particular, as well as the economic effect on families, health, and society in general. They expressed the need to create specific protocols to assist these gestations. Midwives, in particular, demanded that the health administration recognise and support the differentiated care they perform with this type of gestation. Work on specific models is needed to adequately size the impact of multiple gestations, as well as to generate social health policies that lead to co-responsible reconciliation measures that favour women having one pregnancy at a time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Estefanía Jurado-García
- Department of Nursing, Escuela Universitaria de Osuna, University of Seville, 41640 Sevilla, Spain
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-955820289
| | - Alicia Botello-Hermosa
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Physiotherapy and Podiatry, University of Seville, 41009 Sevilla, Spain; (A.B.-H.); (R.C.-M.)
| | - Francisco Javier Fernández-Carrasco
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Punta de Europa Hospital, 11207 Cádiz, Spain;
- Department of Nursing and Physiotherapy, Faculty of Nursing, University of Cadiz, 11009 Cádiz, Spain
| | - Juan Gómez-Salgado
- Department of Sociology, Social Work and Public Health, Faculty of Labour Sciences, University of Huelva, 21007 Huelva, Spain;
- Safety and Health Postgraduate Programme, Espíritu Santo University, Guayaquil 092301, Ecuador
| | - Nazaret Navas-Rojano
- EIS Methods, Empresa de Base Tecnológica (Spin Off), University of Huelva, 21007 Huelva, Spain;
| | - Rosa Casado-Mejía
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Physiotherapy and Podiatry, University of Seville, 41009 Sevilla, Spain; (A.B.-H.); (R.C.-M.)
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Rao DG, Mantravadi KC, Sharanappa VK. Euploid Day-5 Blastocysts Versus Euploid Day-6 Blastocysts — Will the Reproductive Outcomes Differ? An Observational Study. FERTILITY & REPRODUCTION 2021. [DOI: 10.1142/s2661318221500055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and objective: Day-5 blastocyst embryos are usually chosen for assisted reproductive therapy. We compared the reproductive outcomes of the euploid blastocysts developed on Day 5 versus Day 6. Methods: This single-center, retrospective observational study analyzed patients aged 25–45 years, who underwent intracytoplasmic sperm injection from December 2014 to November 2018. Depending on the day of trophectoderm biopsy, patients were categorized into Day-5 and Day-6 groups. Percentages of euploid embryos were calculated for both groups, and elective single euploid blastocysts were transferred in a frozen embryo transfer (FET) cycles. The study endpoints were the comparisons of the reproductive outcomes including clinical pregnancy rate (CPR), implantation rate (IR), miscarriage rate (MR), and live birth rate (LBR) between Day-5 and Day-6 euploid FET groups. Results: A total of 801 embryos from 184 patients were evaluated [Day 5 ([Formula: see text]=769); Day 6 ([Formula: see text]=32); 42.45% were euploid] with the rate of euploidy in Day-5 and Day-6 groups at 42.52% and 40.62%, respectively. A total of 126 patients underwent FET with 126 elective single euploid embryos (Day 5: 117; Day 6: 9). For Day-5 versus Day-6 groups, a significantly higher IR (61.54% vs. 44.44%; [Formula: see text] = 0.0531), CPR (61.54% vs. 44.44%; [Formula: see text] = 0.0531), and LBR (61.54% vs. 33.33%; [Formula: see text] = 0.0014) were reported. Multivariate analysis on ANOVA suggested, comparable pregnancy rates at Day 5 and Day 6 ([Formula: see text] = 0.728). Conclusions: Day-5 euploid blastocysts seem to offer better reproductive outcomes than Day-6 euploid blastocysts. Further research is recommended to evaluate the reproductive outcomes of Day-6 blastocysts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Durga Gedela Rao
- Oasis Fertility, Reproductive Medicine, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
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Reimundo P, Gutiérrez Romero JM, Rodríguez Pérez T, Veiga E. Single-embryo transfer: a key strategy to reduce the risk for multiple pregnancy in assisted human reproduction. ADVANCES IN LABORATORY MEDICINE 2021; 2:179-198. [PMID: 37363329 PMCID: PMC10197809 DOI: 10.1515/almed-2021-0013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Accepted: 12/05/2020] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
In the early days of assisted reproductive technology (ART), the main target was achieving gestation. Success rates were low, and multiple embryo transfers became common practice, with multiple pregnancies being 20 times higher than in natural conception. Multiple pregnancy is associated with a higher risk of complications for the mother and the baby than a singleton pregnancy. Added to healthcare costs, multiple pregnancy also involves other costs and psychosocial risks, with a high social and health costs. At present, success rates of assisted human reproduction (AHR) have improved dramatically, partially due to advances in laboratory techniques such as culture of blastocyst-stage embryos and vitrification. Additionally, there is a wide range of counseling, health and economic policies that have demonstrated being effective in increasing single-embryo transfer (SET) practices and reducing multiple pregnancies, which ensures satisfactory success rates. Therefore, single-embryo transfer emerges as the approach of choice for AHR to result in a full-term healthy newborn.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pilar Reimundo
- Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction and Andrology, Area of Clinical Biochemistry, Vall d’Hebron Clinical Laboratories, Vall d’Hebron University Hospital, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Tamara Rodríguez Pérez
- Laboratory of Andrology and Assisted Reproduction Techniques, Service of Clinical Biochemistry, La Paz University Hospital, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ernesto Veiga
- Unit of Assisted Human Reproduction, Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Santiago de Compostela (CHUS), SERGAS, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
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Makhijani R, Coulter M, Taggar A, Godiwala P, O'Sullivan D, Nulsen J, Engmann L, Benadiva C, Grow D. Reduction in multiple pregnancy rate in donor oocyte-recipient gestational carrier (GC) in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycles in the USA with single-embryo transfer and preimplantation genetic testing. J Assist Reprod Genet 2021; 38:1441-1447. [PMID: 33709344 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-021-02112-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate the utilization of single-embryo transfer (SET) and preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) in gestational carrier IVF cycles in the USA with donor oocyte and examine the impact on live birth and multiple gestation. METHODS Retrospective cohort study using the Society of Assisted Reproductive Technology (SART) clinic database of 4776 donor oocyte-recipient IVF cycles in which a GC was used. The cycles were separated into 4 groups by use of PGT and number of embryos transferred as follows: (1) PGT and single-embryo transfer (PGT-SET); (2) PGT and multiple embryo transfer (PGT-MET); (3) no PGT and SET (NoPGT-SET); (4) no PGT and MET (NoPGT-MET). Primary outcomes were live birth rate (LBR) and multiple pregnancy rate (MPR). RESULTS More than one blastocyst was transferred in 48.7% (2323/4774) of the cycles. When ≥1 blastocyst was transferred, with or without the use of PGT, the MPR was 45.5% and 42.0%, respectively. In comparison, in the PGT-SET and NoPGT-SET groups, the MPR was 1.4% (8/579) and 3.3% (29/883), respectively. Live birth rates increased with the use of PGT-A and with MET. CONCLUSION This study shows that SET, with or without PGT, is associated with a significantly reduced MPR in donor oocyte-recipient GC IVF cycles while maintaining high LBR. It also demonstrates that many infertility centers in the USA are not adhering to ASRM embryo transfer guidelines. Our findings highlight an opportunity to increase GC safety, which ultimately may lead to widened access to this increasingly restricted service outside the USA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reeva Makhijani
- Center for Advanced Reproductive Services, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, 2 Batterson Park Road, Farmington, CT, 06032, USA
| | - Madeline Coulter
- Center for Advanced Reproductive Services, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, 2 Batterson Park Road, Farmington, CT, 06032, USA
| | - Arti Taggar
- Center for Advanced Reproductive Services, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, 2 Batterson Park Road, Farmington, CT, 06032, USA
| | - Prachi Godiwala
- Center for Advanced Reproductive Services, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, 2 Batterson Park Road, Farmington, CT, 06032, USA
| | - David O'Sullivan
- Center for Advanced Reproductive Services, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, 2 Batterson Park Road, Farmington, CT, 06032, USA
| | - John Nulsen
- Center for Advanced Reproductive Services, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, 2 Batterson Park Road, Farmington, CT, 06032, USA
| | - Lawrence Engmann
- Center for Advanced Reproductive Services, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, 2 Batterson Park Road, Farmington, CT, 06032, USA
| | - Claudio Benadiva
- Center for Advanced Reproductive Services, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, 2 Batterson Park Road, Farmington, CT, 06032, USA
| | - Daniel Grow
- Center for Advanced Reproductive Services, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, 2 Batterson Park Road, Farmington, CT, 06032, USA.
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Chen S, Du H, Liu J, Liu H, Li L, He Y. Live birth rate and neonatal outcomes of different quantities and qualities of frozen transferred blastocyst in patients requiring whole embryo freezing stratified by age. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2020; 20:655. [PMID: 33121448 PMCID: PMC7596959 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-020-03353-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2020] [Accepted: 10/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Multiple pregnancies are associated with significant complications and health risks for both mothers and infants. Single blastocyst transfer (SBT) is a logical and effective measure to reduce the incidence of multiple pregnancy with assisted reproductive technology (ART). Whether it is suitable for everyone undergoing SBT was inconclusive, in view of the consideration of embryo quality and patients’ age. Therefore, this study aimed to explore live birth rate (LBR) and neonatal outcomes of different quantities and qualities of blastocysts in patients stratified by age, using a cutoff of 35 years, who required whole embryo freezing and underwent a subsequent frozen thawed transfer (FET) cycle. Methods Atotal of 3,362 patients were divided into five groups: group A (n=1569) received a single good-quality blastocyst, group B (n=1113) received two good-quality blastocysts, group C (n=313) received one good-and one average-quality blastocyst, group D (n=222) received two average-quality blastocysts, and group E (n=145) received one average-quality blastocyst. Results For patients who received good-quality blastocysts, irrespective of age, the LBR of double blastocyst transfer (DBT) was about 50–65% and the multiple pregnancy rate (MPR) was 40–60%; however, the LBR of SBT was 40–55%, and the MPR was 3.5–6.3%. For patients who only had average-quality blastocysts, the MPR of double average-quality blastocyst transfer was as high as 30–50%. Moreover, about 70–90% of preterm births resulted from multiple pregnancies, and about 85–95% of low birth weight babies come from multiple pregnancies. The neonatal outcomes (gestational age, birth weight, and birth height) of DBT were significantly lower than those of SBT regardless of age, and this statistical difference disappeared if the patients were subgrouped by singleton or twin. There is no significant difference in neonatal outcomes between single good-quality blastocyst and single average-quality blastocyst transfer. Conclusions SBT is a preferable option for patients regardless of age when good-quality blastocysts are available. For patients who only had average-quality blastocysts, they should be informed that DBT was associated with higher multiple pregnancy and adverse neonatal outcomes when compared with SBT regardless of age, suggesting that the practice of SBT is also feasible for these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiping Chen
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, 63 Duobao Road, Liwan District, Guangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine of Guangdong Province, Guangdong, Guangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.,Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Hongzi Du
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, 63 Duobao Road, Liwan District, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jianqiao Liu
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, 63 Duobao Road, Liwan District, Guangzhou, China
| | - Haiying Liu
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, 63 Duobao Road, Liwan District, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lei Li
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, 63 Duobao Road, Liwan District, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuxia He
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, 63 Duobao Road, Liwan District, Guangzhou, China.
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Le KD, Vuong LN, Ho TM, Dang VQ, Pham TD, Pham CT, Norman RJ, Mol BWJ. A cost-effectiveness analysis of freeze-only or fresh embryo transfer in IVF of non-PCOS women. Hum Reprod 2019; 33:1907-1914. [PMID: 30239784 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dey253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2018] [Accepted: 06/28/2018] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Is a freeze-only strategy more cost-effective from a patient perspective than fresh embryo transfer (ET) after one completed In Vitro Fertilization/ Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (IVF/ICSI) cycle in women without polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)? SUMMARY ANSWER There is a low probability of the freeze-only strategy being cost-effective over the fresh ET strategy for non-PCOS women undergoing IVF/ICSI. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Conventionally, IVF embryos are transferred in the same cycle in which oocytes are collected, while any remaining embryos are frozen and stored. We recently evaluated the effectiveness of a freeze-only strategy compared with a fresh ET strategy in a randomized controlled trial (RCT). There was no difference in live birth rate between the two strategies. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION A cost-effectiveness analysis (CEA) was performed alongside the RCT to compare a freeze-only strategy with a fresh ET strategy in non-PCOS women undergoing IVF/ICSI. The effectiveness measure for the CEA was the live birth rate. Data on the IVF procedure, pregnancy outcomes and complications were collected from chart review; additional information was obtained using patient questionnaires, by telephone. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS For all patients, we measured the direct medical costs relating to treatment (cryopreservation, pregnancy follow-up, delivery), direct non-medical costs (travel, accommodation) and indirect costs (income lost). The direct cost data were calculated from resources obtained from patient records and prices were applied based on a micro-costing approach. Indirect costs were calculated based on responses to the questionnaire. Patients were followed until all embryos obtained from a single controlled ovarian hyperstimulation cycle were used or a live birth was achieved. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) was based on the incremental cost per couple and the incremental live birth rate of the freeze-only strategy compared with the fresh ET strategy. Probabilistic sensitivity analysis (PSA) and a cost-effectiveness acceptability curve (CEAC) were also performed. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Between June 2015 and April 2016, 782 couples were randomized to a freeze-only (n = 391) or a fresh ET strategy (n = 391). Baseline characteristics including mean age, Body Mass Index (BMI), anti-Mullerian hormone, total dose of Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH), number of oocytes obtained, good quality Day 3 embryos, fertility outcomes and treatment complications were comparable between the two groups. The live birth rate (48.6% vs. 47.3%, respectively; risk ratio, 1.03; 95% Confidence Interval [CI], 0.89, 1.19; P = 0.78) and the average cost per couple (3906 vs. 3512 EUR, respectively; absolute difference 393.6, 95% CI, -76.2, 863.5; P = 0.1) were similar in the freeze-only group versus fresh ET. Corresponding costs per live birth were 8037 EUR versus 7425 EUR in the freeze-only versus fresh ET group, respectively. The incremental cost for the freeze-only strategy compared with fresh ET was 30 997 EUR per 1% additional live birth rate. The direct non-medical costs and indirect costs of infertility treatment strategies represented ~45-52% of the total cost. PSA shows that the 95% CI of ICERs was -263 901 to 286 681 EUR. Out of 1000 simulations, 44% resulted in negative ICERs, including 13.0% of simulations in which the freeze-only strategy was dominant (more effective and less costly than fresh ET), and 31% of simulations in which the fresh embryo strategy was dominant. In the other 560 simulations with positive ICERs, the 95% CI of ICERs ranged from 2155 to 471 578 EUR. The CEAC shows that at a willingness to pay threshold of 300 000 EUR, the probability of the freeze-only strategy being cost-effective over the fresh ET strategy would be 58%. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Data were collected from a single private IVF center study in Vietnam where there is no public or insurance funding of IVF. Unit costs obtained might not be representative of other settings. Data obtained from secondary sources (medical records, financial and activity reports) could lack authenticity, and recall bias may have influenced questionnaire responses on which direct costs were based. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS In non-PCOS women undergoing IVF/ICSI, the results suggested that the freeze-only strategy was not cost-effective compared with fresh ET from a patient perspective. These findings indicate that other factors could be more important in deciding whether to use a freeze-only versus fresh ET strategy in this patient group. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This study was funded by My Duc Hospital; no external funding was received. Ben Willem J. Mol is supported by an NHMRC Practioner Fellowship (GNT 1082548) and reports consultancy for Merck, ObsEva and Guerbet. Robert J. Norman has shares in an IVF company and has received support from Merck and Ferring. All other authors have no conflicts of interest to declare. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER Not applicable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khoa D Le
- IVFMD, My Duc Hospital, 4 Nui Thanh Street, Tan Binh District, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam
| | - Lan N Vuong
- IVFMD, My Duc Hospital, 4 Nui Thanh Street, Tan Binh District, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Tuong M Ho
- IVFMD, My Duc Hospital, 4 Nui Thanh Street, Tan Binh District, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam
| | - Vinh Q Dang
- IVFMD, My Duc Hospital, 4 Nui Thanh Street, Tan Binh District, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam
| | - Toan D Pham
- IVFMD, My Duc Hospital, 4 Nui Thanh Street, Tan Binh District, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam
| | - Clarabelle T Pham
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, School of Public Health, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Robert J Norman
- The Robinson Research Institute, School of Medicine, The University of Adelaide, North Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.,Fertility SA, Level 9 431 King William Street, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Ben Willem J Mol
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Monash University, Monash Medical Centre, 246 Clayton Road, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
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11
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Freeman MR, Hinds MS, Howard KG, Howard JM, Hill GA. Guidance for elective single-embryo transfer should be applied to frozen embryo transfer cycles. J Assist Reprod Genet 2019; 36:939-946. [PMID: 30859416 PMCID: PMC6541681 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-019-01433-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2018] [Accepted: 02/28/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To provide clinicians with data showing the benefits of transferring a single blastocyst in frozen embryo transfer (FET) cycles so that they may counsel their patients accordingly. METHODS This is a closed cohort study of 678 FET cycles occurring between January 2011 and December 2017 in a private IVF laboratory and associated physicians' practice. Patients included in the analysis were less than 38 years of age at oocyte collection, had at least two vitrified blastocysts, and were undergoing their first autologous FET cycle. The patients were categorized into four groups after they had chosen either elective single-embryo transfer (eSET) or double-embryo transfer (eDET). Outcomes for eSET and eDET were compared within groups of patients having freeze-all IVF cycles (PGT-A patient vs. non-PGT-A patient) and fresh IVF transfer groups (negative outcome vs. pregnant/delivered in fresh cycle). Main outcome measures of the study were live birth, multiple pregnancy, and implantation rates. RESULTS There were no statistically significant differences observed in live birth rates for eSET (54-62%) vs. eDET (54-66%) (P = 0.696-1.000) in the four patient groups evaluated. Multiple pregnancy rates were significantly decreased in all eSET groups (0-3%), compared with eDET groups (24-65%) (P = 0.0001-0.037). CONCLUSIONS This data shows that transfer of a single vitrified-warmed blastocyst maintains live birth rates, while decreasing multiple pregnancies, and may become more acceptable to physicians and patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - M. Shaun Hinds
- Ovation Fertility, 345 23rd Ave. N, Suite 401, Nashville, TN 37203 USA
| | - Kay G. Howard
- Ovation Fertility, 345 23rd Ave. N, Suite 401, Nashville, TN 37203 USA
| | - Julie M. Howard
- Ovation Fertility, 345 23rd Ave. N, Suite 401, Nashville, TN 37203 USA
| | - George A. Hill
- Nashville Fertility Center, 345 23rd Ave. N., Suite 401, Nashville, TN 37203 USA
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12
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Meldrum DR, Adashi EY, Garzo VG, Gleicher N, Parinaud J, Pinborg A, Van Voorhis B. Prevention of in vitro fertilization twins should focus on maximizing single embryo transfer versus twins are an acceptable complication of in vitro fertilization. Fertil Steril 2018; 109:223-229. [PMID: 29447664 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2017.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2017] [Accepted: 12/05/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- David R Meldrum
- Reproductive Partners San Diego, San Diego, California; Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, University of California, San Diego, California.
| | - Eli Y Adashi
- Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island
| | - V Gabriel Garzo
- Reproductive Partners San Diego, San Diego, California; Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, University of California, San Diego, California
| | | | - Jean Parinaud
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Paule de Viguier Hospital, Toulouse Teaching Hospital Group, Toulouse, France
| | - Anja Pinborg
- Fertility Clinic, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hvidovre University Hospital, Hvidovre, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Brad Van Voorhis
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, Iowa
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13
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Monteleone PAA, Peregrino PFM, Baracat EC, Serafini PC. Transfer of 2 Embryos Using a Double-Embryo Transfer Protocol Versus 2 Sequential Single-Embryo Transfers: The Impact on Multiple Pregnancy. Reprod Sci 2018; 25:1501-1508. [DOI: 10.1177/1933719118756750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Pedro A. A. Monteleone
- Disciplina de Ginecologia, Departamento de Obstetrícia e Ginecologia, Hospital das Clinicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, Centro de Reprodução Humana Governador Mario Covas, Universidade de Sao Paulo (HCFMUSP), Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Pedro F. M. Peregrino
- Disciplina de Ginecologia, Departamento de Obstetrícia e Ginecologia, Hospital das Clinicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, Centro de Reprodução Humana Governador Mario Covas, Universidade de Sao Paulo (HCFMUSP), Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Edmund C. Baracat
- Disciplina de Ginecologia, Departamento de Obstetrícia e Ginecologia, Hospital das Clinicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, Centro de Reprodução Humana Governador Mario Covas, Universidade de Sao Paulo (HCFMUSP), Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Paulo C. Serafini
- Disciplina de Ginecologia, Departamento de Obstetrícia e Ginecologia, Hospital das Clinicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, Centro de Reprodução Humana Governador Mario Covas, Universidade de Sao Paulo (HCFMUSP), Sao Paulo, Brazil
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