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Song JY, Sun ZG, Ma YX. Efficacy and safety of Shen Que (RN8) moxibustion on reproductive outcomes in unexpected poor ovarian responders: a randomized controlled trial. J Ovarian Res 2024; 17:177. [PMID: 39210342 PMCID: PMC11363657 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-024-01493-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2024] [Accepted: 08/12/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Managing infertility patients with poor ovarian response (POR) to ovarian stimulation remains unmet clinically. Besides economic burdens, patients with POR have a poor prognosis during in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer (IVF-ET). In this study, we assessed the efficacy and safety of Shen Que (RN8) moxibustion on reproductive outcomes in POSEIDON patients (Group 2a). METHODS Women eligible for IVF were invited to participate in this randomized, open-label, superiority trial at an academic fertility center from January 2022 to December 2023. One hundred patients ≤ 44 years old equally divided between Shen Que moxibustion (SQM) and control groups were randomized. These patients must meet the POSEIDON criteria, Group 2a, which requires antral follicle count (AFC) ≥ 5 or anti-müllerian hormone (AMH) ≥ 1.2ng/ml, and a previous unexpected POR (< 4 oocytes). Twelve moxibustion sessions were conducted in the SQM group prior to oocyte retrieval, while only IVF treatment was performed in the control group. The primary outcome was the number of oocytes retrieved. RESULTS As compared with the IVF treatment alone, the SQM + IVF treatment significantly increased the number of retrieved oocytes (4.7 vs. 5.8, p = 0.012), mature oocytes (3.0 vs. 5.0, p = 0.008), and available embryos (2.0 vs. 4.0, p = 0.014) in unexpected poor ovarian responders aged more than 35 years. In the SQM group, the cumulative live birth rate was 27.3% (9/33) in comparison to 13.3% (4/30) in the control group, whereas no statistical significance was detected (p = 0.172). During the study, no significant adverse effects were observed. CONCLUSIONS Women with unexpected POR who meet POSEIDON Group 2a can benefit from Shen Que (RN8) moxibustion treatment. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT05653557.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing-Yan Song
- The First Clinical College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
- Reproductive Center of Integrated Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
- College of Acupuncture and Massage, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Zhen-Gao Sun
- The First Clinical College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China.
- Reproductive Center of Integrated Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China.
| | - Yu-Xia Ma
- College of Acupuncture and Massage, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China.
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Hochberg A, Dahan MH, Yarali H, Vuong LN, Esteves SC. Clinical factors associated with unexpected poor or suboptimal response in Poseidon criteria patients. Reprod Biomed Online 2024; 49:103852. [PMID: 38657290 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2024.103852] [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: 09/23/2023] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION What clinical factors are associated with 'unexpected' poor or suboptimal responses to IVF ovarian stimulation per POSEIDON's criteria, and which AMH and AFC threshold values distinguish this population? DESIGN Tri-centre retrospective cohort study (2015-2017) involving first-time IVF and ICSI cycles with conventional ovarian stimulation (≥150 IU/day of FSH). Eligibility criteria included sufficient ovarian reserve markers according to POSEIDON's classification (AMH ≥1.2 ng/ml; AFC ≥5). Ovarian response categories were poor (<4 oocytes), suboptimal (4-9 oocytes) and normal (≥9 oocytes). Primary outcomes included clinical factors associated with an unexpected poor or suboptimal response to conventional ovarian stimulation using logistic regression analyses, and the threshold values of AMH and AFC predicting increased risk of such responses using ROC curves. RESULTS A total of 7625 patients met the inclusion criteria: 204 (9.3%) were poor and 1998 (90.7%) were suboptimal responders. Logistic regression identified significant clinical predictors for a poor or suboptimal response, including AFC, AMH, total gonadotrophin dose, gonadotrophin type and trigger type (P ≤ 0.02). The ROC curves indicated that AMH 2.87 ng/ml (AUC 0.740) and AFC 12 (AUC 0.826) were the threshold values predicting a poor or suboptimal response; AMH 2.17 ng/ml (AUC 0.741) and AFC 9 (AUC 0.835) predicted a poor response; and AMH 2.97 ng/ml (AUC 0.722) and AFC 12 (AUC 0.801) predicted a suboptimal response. CONCLUSIONS The threshold values of AMH and AFC predicting 'unexpected' poor or suboptimal response were higher than expected. These findings have critical implications for tailoring IVF stimulation regimens and dosages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alyssa Hochberg
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.; The Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel..
| | - Michael H Dahan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Hakan Yarali
- Anatolia IVF, Ankara, Turkey.; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Lan N Vuong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.; IVFMD, My Duc Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.; HOPE Research Center, My Duc Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Sandro C Esteves
- ANDROFERT, Andrology and Human Reproduction Clinic, Campinas, Brazil
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Conforti A, Iorio GG, Di Girolamo R, Rovetto MY, Picarelli S, Cariati F, Gentile R, D'Amato A, Gliozheni O, Fioretti B, Alviggi C. The impact of resveratrol on the outcome of the in vitro fertilization: an exploratory randomized placebo-controlled trial. J Ovarian Res 2024; 17:81. [PMID: 38622741 PMCID: PMC11020196 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-024-01391-7] [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: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Resveratrol is a natural polyphenolic compound present in plants and red wine with many potential health benefits. This compound has various anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor properties and can improve cellular mitochondrial activity. This trial was designed to evaluate the effect on the outcome of IVF of Resveratrol supplementation in women > 35 years with good ovarian reserve (AMH > 1.2 ng/ml). Women were randomized to receive or placebo or Resveratrol (150 mg per day) for three months preceding the ovarian stimulation (OS). All patients were stimulated with a starting dose of recombinant FSH ranging between 150 and 300 IU according to age and ovarian reserve. GnRH antagonist flexible protocol was adopted for pituitary suppression. Triggering was performed with urinary hCG (10.000 IU). RESULTS The study was conducted between January 2019 and December 2022 with aa total of 37 cases and 33 controls were recruited. No statistically significant differences in the number of oocytes retrieved, biochemical pregnancy, clinical pregnancy and live birth rates were observed between women treated with resveratrol and control group. A statistically significant increase in the follicle output rate (FORT) and follicle-to oocyte index (FOI) was observed in women treated with resveratrol-based nutraceutical (0.92 versus 0.77 [p = 0.02], and 0.77 versus 0.64 [p = 0.006], respectively). CONCLUSIONS Preliminary results from this study indicate that pre-treatment with resveratrol may improve ovarian sensitivity to exogenous FSH, which in turn may decrease the risk of hypo-response to OS in advanced reproductive age women.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Conforti
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Science and Odontostomatology, School of Medicine, University of Naples "Federico II, Naples, Italy, Via Sergio Pansini, 5, 80131
| | - G G Iorio
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Science and Odontostomatology, School of Medicine, University of Naples "Federico II, Naples, Italy, Via Sergio Pansini, 5, 80131.
| | - R Di Girolamo
- Department of Public Health. School of Medicine, University of Naples "Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - M Y Rovetto
- Department of Public Health. School of Medicine, University of Naples "Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - S Picarelli
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Science and Odontostomatology, School of Medicine, University of Naples "Federico II, Naples, Italy, Via Sergio Pansini, 5, 80131
| | - F Cariati
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Science and Odontostomatology, School of Medicine, University of Naples "Federico II, Naples, Italy, Via Sergio Pansini, 5, 80131
| | - R Gentile
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnologies, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - A D'Amato
- Department of Interdisciplinary Medicine, University of Bari, 1St Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Bari, Italy
| | - O Gliozheni
- Head of Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital for Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Medicine of Tirana, KocoGliozheni", Tirana, Albania
| | - B Fioretti
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnologies, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - C Alviggi
- Department of Public Health. School of Medicine, University of Naples "Federico II, Naples, Italy
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Horowitz E, Mizrachi Y, Barber E, Shimshy M, Levitas-Djerbi T, Finkelstein M, Shalev A, Farhi J, Raziel A, Esteves SC, Weissman A. High prevalence of low prognosis by the POSEIDON criteria in women undergoing planned oocyte cryopreservation. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2024; 295:42-47. [PMID: 38335583 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2024.01.025] [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: 10/28/2023] [Revised: 01/13/2024] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Planned oocyte cryopreservation (OC) is being increasingly utilized worldwide. However, some women cannot accumulate sufficient oocytes because of poor response to stimulation. The POSEIDON classification is a novel system to classify patients with 'expected' or 'unexpected' inappropriate ovarian response to exogenous gonadotropins. Our study aimed to examine the prevalence of POSEIDON patients among women undergoing planned OC. STUDY DESIGN We retrospectively reviewed the first cycles of 160 consecutive patients undergoing planned OC. Patients were classified into the four POSEIDON groups or as 'non-POSEIDON' based on age, AMH level and the number of oocytes retrieved. The primary outcome measure was the prevalence of POSEIDON patients. RESULTS Overall, 63 patients (39.4 %) were classified as POSEIDON patients, 12 in group 1, 12 in group 2, 8 in group 3, and 31 in group 4. Compared to non-POSEIDON patients, POSEIDON patients had increased basal FSH levels and reduced serum AMH levels and antral follicle counts, required higher FSH starting doses and increased gonadotropin requirements and reached lower peak serum estradiol levels. Additionally, POSEIDON patients had a lower number of oocytes retrieved (7.6 ± 3.1 vs.20.2 ± 9.9, p < 0.001) and vitrified (5.8 ± 2.9 vs.14.7 ± 6.8, p < 0.001) than non-POSEIDON counterparts, respectively. CONCLUSION We found a high prevalence of patients being classified as low prognosis according to the POSEIDON criteria among patients seeking planned OC. POSEIDON patients had increased gonadotropin requirements and a significantly lower number of oocytes retrieved and vitrified. This novel, unexpected finding adds clinically relevant information for counselling and management of patients undergoing planned OC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eran Horowitz
- In Vitro Fertilization Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Edith Wolfson Medical Center, Holon, and Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Yossi Mizrachi
- In Vitro Fertilization Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Edith Wolfson Medical Center, Holon, and Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Elad Barber
- In Vitro Fertilization Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Edith Wolfson Medical Center, Holon, and Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Miriam Shimshy
- In Vitro Fertilization Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Edith Wolfson Medical Center, Holon, and Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Talia Levitas-Djerbi
- In Vitro Fertilization Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Edith Wolfson Medical Center, Holon, and Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Maya Finkelstein
- In Vitro Fertilization Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Edith Wolfson Medical Center, Holon, and Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Amir Shalev
- In Vitro Fertilization Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Edith Wolfson Medical Center, Holon, and Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Jacob Farhi
- In Vitro Fertilization Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Edith Wolfson Medical Center, Holon, and Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Arieh Raziel
- In Vitro Fertilization Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Edith Wolfson Medical Center, Holon, and Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel.
| | - Sandro C Esteves
- ANDROFERT, Andrology and Human Reproduction Clinic, Campinas, Brazil.
| | - Ariel Weissman
- In Vitro Fertilization Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Edith Wolfson Medical Center, Holon, and Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel.
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Uncu G, Aslan K, Cakir C, Avci B, Kasapoglu I, Alviggi C. Do we overlook predictive factors in Poseidon 1 patients? A retrospective analysis co-evaluating antral follicle counts & diameters. J Ovarian Res 2024; 17:1. [PMID: 38169411 PMCID: PMC10759700 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-023-01323-x] [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: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND An unexpected impaired ovarian response pertains to an insufficient reaction to controlled ovarian hyperstimulation. This deficient reaction is identified by a reduced count of mature follicles and retrieved oocytes during an IVF cycle, potentially diminishing the likelihood of a successful pregnancy. This research seeks to examine whether the characteristics of antral follicles can serve as predictive indicators for the unexpected impaired ovarian response to controlled ovarian stimulation (COS). METHODS This retrospective cohort study was conducted at a tertiary university hospital. The electronic database of the ART (assisted reproductive technologies) center was screened between the years 2012-2022. Infertile women under 35 years, with normal ovarian reserve [anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) > 1.2 ng/ml, antral follicle count (AFC) > 5] who underwent their first controlled ovarian stimulation (COS) cycle were selected. Women with < 9 oocytes retrieved (group 1 of the Poseidon classification) constituted the group A, whereas those with ≥ 9 oocytes severed as control (normo-responders) one (group B). Demographic, anthropometric and hormonal variables together with COS parameters of the two groups were compared. RESULTS The number of patients with < 9 oocytes (group A) was 404, and those with ≥ 9 oocytes were 602 (group B). The mean age of the group A was significantly higher (30.1 + 2.9 vs. 29.4 + 2.9, p = 0.01). Group A displayed lower AMH and AFC [with interquartile ranges (IQR); AMH 1.6 ng/ml (1-2.6) vs. 3.5 ng/ml (2.2-5.4) p < 0.01, AFC 8 (6-12) vs. 12 (9-17), p < 0.01]. The number of small antral follicles (2-5 mm) of the group A was significantly lower [6 (4-8) vs. 8 (6-12) p < 0.01), while the larger follicles (5-10 mm) remained similar [3 (1-5) vs. 3(1-6) p = 0.3] between the groups. CONCLUSION The propensity of low ovarian reserve and higher age are the main risk factors for the impaired ovarian response. The proportion of the small antral follicles may be a predictive factor for ovarian response to prevent unexpected poor results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gürkan Uncu
- Faculty of Medicine, Dept. of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Bursa Uludag University, Bursa, Turkey.
| | - Kiper Aslan
- Faculty of Medicine, Dept. of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Bursa Uludag University, Bursa, Turkey
| | - Cihan Cakir
- Faculty of Medicine, Dept of Histology and Embryology, Bursa Uludag University, Bursa, Turkey
| | - Berrin Avci
- Faculty of Medicine, Dept of Histology and Embryology, Bursa Uludag University, Bursa, Turkey
| | - Isil Kasapoglu
- Faculty of Medicine, Dept. of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Bursa Uludag University, Bursa, Turkey
| | - Carlo Alviggi
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Science and Odontostomatology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
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Mandelbaum RS. Follicular versus luteal stimulation in suboptimal responders: Maybe timing isn't everything? F S Rep 2023; 4:343. [PMID: 38204955 PMCID: PMC10774895 DOI: 10.1016/j.xfre.2023.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Rachel S Mandelbaum
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine, Los Angeles, California
- HRC Fertility an affiliate of Keck School of Medicine at USC, Pasadena, California
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Han QS, Wu ZJ, Zhou Y, Liang JN, Jin QM, Song JY, Sun ZG. Effectiveness of oestrogen pretreatment in patients with expected poor ovarian response (POSEIDON groups 3 and 4) undergoing GnRH antagonist protocol: study protocol for a randomised controlled trial. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e069840. [PMID: 37558441 PMCID: PMC10414096 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-069840] [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: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Women characterised by diminished ovarian reserve are considered to have poor ovarian response (POR) according to Patient-Oriented Strategies Encompassing IndividualizeD Oocyte Number (POSEIDON) criteria. Patients in this population often have a poor prognosis for treatment with assisted reproductive technology. In previous studies, oestrogen pretreatment before ovarian stimulation has been shown to have a beneficial effect. However, recent studies presented conflicting conclusions. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of oestrogen pretreatment in patients with expected POR (POSEIDON groups 3 and 4) undergoing gonadotrophin releasing hormone antagonist (GnRH-ant) protocol. METHODS AND ANALYSIS A prospective superiority randomised parallel controlled trial will be conducted at a tertiary university-affiliated hospital. A total of 316 patients will be randomly divided into two groups at a ratio of 1:1. In the intervention group, oral oestrogen pretreatment will be administered from day 7 after ovulation until day 2 of the next menstrual cycle. Afterwards, a flexible GnRH-ant protocol will be initiated. The control group will receive no additional intervention beyond routine ovarian stimulation. The primary outcome is the number of oocytes retrieved. Secondary outcomes include the total number of retrieved metaphase II oocytes, average daily dose of gonadotropin, total gonadotropin dose and duration of ovarian stimulation, cycle cancellation rate, top quality embryos rate, blastocyst formation rate, embryo implantation rate, clinical pregnancy rate, early miscarriage rate and endometrial thickness on trigger day. All data will be analysed according to the intention-to-treat and per-protocol principles. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION The ethical approval has been confirmed by the reproductive ethics committee of the affiliated hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine (SDUTCM/2022.9.20). In addition, written informed consent will be obtained from all the participants before the study. The results will be disseminated via publications. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER ChiCTR2200064812.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiao-Song Han
- The First Clinical College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Zhi-Juan Wu
- The First Clinical College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Yue Zhou
- The College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Jing-Nan Liang
- The College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Qing-Mei Jin
- The College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Jing-Yan Song
- The First Clinical College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Reproductive Center of Integrated Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated Hospital, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Zhen-Gao Sun
- The First Clinical College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Reproductive Center of Integrated Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated Hospital, Jinan, Shandong, China
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Majumdar A, Majumdar G, Tiwari N, Singh A, Gupta SM, Satwik R. Luteal Phase Stimulation in the Same Cycle Is an Effective Strategy to Rescue POSEIDON Poor Responders with No Embryos after the First Follicular Stimulation. J Hum Reprod Sci 2023; 16:218-226. [PMID: 38045502 PMCID: PMC10688278 DOI: 10.4103/jhrs.jhrs_76_23] [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: 06/25/2023] [Revised: 08/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Poor responders may benefit from recruiting a 'second wave' of antral follicles within the same cycle. This concept forms the basis of double stimulation which has been named as 'DuoStim'. This protocol involves ovarian stimulation in both follicular and luteal phases with egg retrieval in each phase, respectively, to increase the number of oocytes and embryos in one menstrual cycle. This can be considered a potentially valuable option for women with poor ovarian reserve/response to maximise the number of oocytes retrieved in a single ovarian cycle in the shortest possible time. Aims The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of the DuoStim protocol in women classified as POSEIDON poor responders undergoing in vitro fertilization by comparing the embryological outcomes between the follicular and luteal phase stimulations in the same menstrual cycle. Settings and Design This was a retrospective cohort study of 131 patients who enrolled to undergo DuoStim cycles from January 2021 to Sept. 2022, at a IVF center in a tertiary care hospital. Materials and Methods The follicular phase stimulation used a standard antagonist protocol for the first oocyte retrieval. Thereafter, the luteal phase stimulation was started 3 days after the first retrieval, with the same dose of gonadotropin along with a daily 10 mg medroxyprogesterone acetate tablet, followed by a second oocyte retrieval. Blastocysts produced in both the phases were subsequently vitrified. Statistical Analysis Used The paired t-test was used for comparing means and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for different parameters. McNemar's test was used to compare paired proportions. The analysis was conducted using R statistical environment 4.2. Results The mean number of oocytes retrieved and the mean number of utilizable blastocysts frozen per stimulation cycle were found to be significantly higher in the luteal phase as compared to the follicular phase (5.71 ± 3.95 vs. 4.87 ± 2.79, P = 0.02, and 1.43 ± 1.22 vs. 0.95 ± 1, P = 0.001, respectively). However, the mean fertilization rate and the mean blastocyst utilization rate were found to be similar between both the phases. The length of stimulation was found to be approximately 3 days longer in the luteal phase (12.63 ± 2.43 vs. 9.75 ± 1.85, P = 0.001). Overall, the odds of obtaining a usable blastocyst in the luteal phase was found to be significantly higher than in the paired follicular phase (73.9% vs. 57.7%, P = 0.012, odds ratio: 2.286 [95% CI: 1.186-4.636]). Also importantly, the luteal phase stimulation was able to rescue 68% (32/47) of patients where no blastocysts were formed in the follicular phase. Conclusion Our data demonstrate that in women with poor reserve, the addition of luteal stimulation could increase the chances of achieving a pregnancy by significantly increasing the number of eggs and transferable embryos per menstrual cycle compared to follicular stimulation alone. Furthermore, luteal phase stimulation in the same cycle proved to be an effective strategy to rescue POSEIDON poor responders with no embryos after the first stimulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abha Majumdar
- Centre of IVF and Human Reproduction, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, New Delhi, India
| | - Gaurav Majumdar
- Centre of IVF and Human Reproduction, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, New Delhi, India
| | - Neeti Tiwari
- Centre of IVF and Human Reproduction, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, New Delhi, India
| | - Anu Singh
- Centre of IVF and Human Reproduction, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, New Delhi, India
| | - Shweta Mittal Gupta
- Centre of IVF and Human Reproduction, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, New Delhi, India
| | - Ruma Satwik
- Centre of IVF and Human Reproduction, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, New Delhi, India
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Baukloh V, Figueira RC, Bento FC, Nakano FY, Zabaglia SF, Esteves SC, Fischer R. The Fischer protocol for Assisted Reproductive Technology treatment: real-world data experience comparing elective single versus double embryo transfer with or without comprehensive chromosome screening. Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol 2023:102325. [PMID: 37045689 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2023.102325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2022] [Revised: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2023]
Abstract
High rates of multiple implantation after assisted reproductive technology (ART) treatment represent one of the major problems for both mothers and their fetuses. Given the availability of techniques intended to identify embryos with the highest chance for development to term, such as comprehensive chromosome screening (CCS) and blastocyst transfer, the decision on the number of embryos to transfer deserves careful consideration. This report presents real-life data from two clinics using the Fischer protocol for cycle programming in patients undergoing ART. Our data indicate that ovarian stimulation using the Fischer protocol provides consistent and optimal ART outcomes in centers following strict quality management standards. However, high multiple implantation rates were observed in fresh and frozen transfer cycles after transferring two embryos - even in patients aged over 39 years. The live birth rates after CCS were superior to those using untested embryos. These findings were held for the three age groups irrespective of the CCS culture day (D1 = PN stages, or D5 = blastocysts). Our results support a single embryo transfer policy, particularly in women under 34 years of age with favorable conditions during ART treatment, i.e., a high number of available fertilized oocytes.
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Male infertility and gonadotropin treatment: What can we learn from real-world data? Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol 2023; 86:102310. [PMID: 36682942 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2022.102310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Revised: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Gonadotropin therapy to treat specific male infertility disorders associated with hypogonadotropic hypogonadism is evidence-based and effective in restoring spermatogenesis and fertility. In contrast, its use to improve fertility in men with idiopathic oligozoospermia or nonobstructive azoospermia remains controversial, despite being widely practiced. The existence of two major inter-related pathways for spermatogenesis, including FSH and intratesticular testosterone, provides a rationale for empiric hormone stimulation therapy in both eugonadal and hypogonadal males with idiopathic oligozoospermia or nonobstructive azoospermia. Real-world data (RWD) on gonadotropin stimulating for these patient subsets, mainly using human chorionic gonadotropin and follicle-stimulating hormone, accumulated gradually, showing a positive therapeutic effect in some patients, translated by increased sperm production, sperm quality, and sperm retrieval rates. Although more evidence is needed, current insights from RWD research indicate that selected male infertility patients might be managed more effectively using gonadotropin therapy, with potential gains for all parties involved.
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Esteves SC, Yarali H, Vuong LN, Conforti A, Humaidan P, Alviggi C. POSEIDON groups and their distinct reproductive outcomes: Effectiveness and cost-effectiveness insights from real-world data research. Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol 2022; 85:159-187. [PMID: 35725717 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2022.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Revised: 05/04/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The Patient-Oriented Strategies Encompassing IndividualizeDOocyte Number (POSEIDON) criteria identify and classify the so-called 'low-prognosis' patients undergoing assisted reproductive technology (ART). Recent large-scale studies using real-world data (RWD) have shown that patients classified under this system have distinct reproductive outcomes. Moreover, these studies also confirm that POSEIDON patients are commonly found in fertility centers. RWD has substantiated the validity of the POSEIDON biomarkers' thresholds (antral follicle count [AFC] and/or anti-Müllerian hormone [AMH]) for patient classification. Lastly, a predictive model has been developed and validated to estimate the POSEIDON metric of success (i.e., number of oocytes needed to achieve at least one euploid blastocyst). Although more evidence is needed in this area, current insights from RWD research indicate that infertility patients can be counseled and managed more effectively under the POSEIDON scope, with potential gains for all parties involved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandro C Esteves
- Andrology and Human Reproduction Clinic, Av. Dr. Heitor Penteado, 1464, Campinas, Brazil; Faculty of Health, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.
| | - Hakan Yarali
- Anatolia IVF and Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Lan N Vuong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam; IVFMD, My Duc Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam; HOPE Research Center, My Duc Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam
| | - Alessandro Conforti
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Science and Odontostomatology, University of Naples, Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Peter Humaidan
- Faculty of Health, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark; Fertility Clinic Skive, Skive Regional Hospital, Skive & Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Carlo Alviggi
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Science and Odontostomatology, University of Naples, Federico II, Naples, Italy
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Evolution of the World Health Organization semen analysis manual: where are we? Nat Rev Urol 2022; 19:439-446. [PMID: 35523961 DOI: 10.1038/s41585-022-00593-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The WHO (World Health Organization) manuals provide state-of-the-art guidance on how a semen analysis should be carried out. The much anticipated sixth edition of the WHO semen analysis manual has been released 10 years after its previous version and includes essential updates, such as new reference standards for semen volume and microscopic sperm characteristics of recent fathers. A well-conducted semen analysis remains an essential foundation of the infertility evaluation process and affects patient referral, diagnosis and treatment. However, a male infertility work-up primarily based on routine semen analysis does not provide men with an optimal fertility pathway; the primary reasons for routine semen analysis inadequacy in this context include its low predictive value for natural and assisted conception success, its inability to detect sperm DNA and epigenetic deficiencies that might negatively affect embryo development, implantation and offspring well-being, and the substantial overlap between semen parameters of fertile and subfertile individuals. Ideally, a full andrological assessment should be carried out by reproductive urologists in all men dealing with couple infertility and should include a detailed history analysis, physical examination, semen analysis, endocrine assessment and other tests as needed. Only through a complete male infertility work-up will relevant underlying medical and infertility conditions be revealed and potentially treated or alleviated. The ultimate goals of a comprehensive andrological assessment are to positively influence overall male health, pregnancy prospects and offspring well-being.
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Esteves SC. Intracytoplasmic sperm injection versus conventional IVF. Lancet 2021; 397:1521-1523. [PMID: 33894819 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(21)00843-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 04/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sandro C Esteves
- ANDROFERT, Andrology and Human Reproduction Clinic, Campinas, 13075-460, Brazil; Department of Surgery, Division of Urology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, Brazil; Faculty of Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.
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