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Adriaenssens T, Van Vaerenbergh I, Van Landuyt L, Verheyen G, De Brucker M, Camus M, Platteau P, De Vos M, Reis M, Van Hecke E, Rosenthal A, Smitz J. Non-invasive cumulus cell analysis can be applied for oocyte ranking and is useful for countries with legal restrictions on embryo generation or freezing. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0297040. [PMID: 38295095 PMCID: PMC10830053 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0297040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/02/2024] Open
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Can a strategy for scoring oocyte quality, based on cumulus cell (CC) gene expression, prioritize oocytes with the highest implantation potential, while limiting the number of embryos to be processed in culture and the number of supernumerary embryos to be vitrified? DESIGN An interventional, blinded, prospective cohort study was retrospectively analyzed. In the original study, patients underwent a fresh Day3 single embryo transfer with embryos ranked based on morphology and CC gene expression (Aurora Test). The additional ranking of the embryos with the Aurora Test resulted in significant higher clinical pregnancy and live birth rates. Now it is investigated if the Aurora Test ranking could be applied to select oocytes. The effect of an Aurora Test based restriction to 2 and 3 2PN or MII oocytes on clinical pregnancy and other outcomes, was analyzed in two subsets of patients with all 2PN (n = 83) or all MII oocytes (n = 45) ranked. RESULTS Considering only the top three ranked 2PN oocytes, 95% of the patients would have received a fresh SET on Day3 resulting in 65% clinical pregnancies. This was not different from the pregnancy rate obtained in a strategy using all oocytes but significantly reduced the need for vitrification of supernumerary embryos by 3-fold. Considering only top-ranked MII oocytes gave similar results. CONCLUSIONS In countries with legal restrictions on freezing of embryos, gene expression of CC can be used for the selective processing of oocytes and would thus decrease the twin pregnancy rate and workload, especially for embryo morphology scoring and transfers as the handling and processing of lower competence oocytes is prevented, while improving the ART outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Greta Verheyen
- Brussels IVF, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | | | - Michel Camus
- Brussels IVF, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Peter Platteau
- Brussels IVF, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Michel De Vos
- Brussels IVF, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | | | | | | | - Johan Smitz
- Fertiga, Brussels, Belgium
- Follicle Biology Laboratory, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
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2
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Bartolacci A, dell'Aquila M, Coticchio G, Intra G, Parodi F, Patria G, Zacà C, Borini A. Endometriosis affects the number of retrieved oocytes but not early embryonic development and live birth: a retrospective analysis of 716 IVF cycles. HUM FERTIL 2023; 26:1469-1476. [PMID: 37139851 DOI: 10.1080/14647273.2023.2200979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2022] [Accepted: 01/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
To investigate the potential effect of endometriosis on embryo development and clinical outcomes, a retrospective analysis of 716 women undergoing their first standard in vitro fertilization (sIVF) cycles (205 endometriosis and 511 with tubal factor infertility) was performed. The endometriosis group included women with an ultrasonographic or surgical diagnosis. Control subjects were women diagnosed with tubal factor infertility by laparoscopy or hysterosalpingogram. The primary outcome of the study was live birth. Cumulative live birth was also assessed in a subgroups analysis. After adjusting for confounders we found no significant difference in fertilization rate, blastulation, top-quality blastocyst, live birth, cumulative live birth (subgroups analysis) and miscarriage rate. In the endometriosis group, the number of retrieved oocytes was smaller (6.94 ± 4.06 Vs 7.50 ± 4.6, adjusted p < 0.05). We observed a statistically significant difference in the percentage of day-3 embryos with ≥8 blastomeres (33.12 ± 22.72 endometriosis vs, 40.77 ± 27.62 tubal factor, adjusted p < 0.01) and a negative correlation between the presence of endometriomas and a number of retrieved oocytes [B coefficient =-1.41, 95%CI (-2.31-0.51), adjusted p = 0.002]. Our results suggest that endometriosis affects the number of retrieved oocytes but not embryo development and live birth.
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3
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Neves AR, Montoya-Botero P, Sachs-Guedj N, Polyzos NP. Association between the number of oocytes and cumulative live birth rate: A systematic review. Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol 2023; 87:102307. [PMID: 36707342 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2022.102307] [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: 08/02/2022] [Revised: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
The available literature is controversial regarding the association between the number of oocytes retrieved and the cumulative live birth rate (CLBR). Although some authors report a continuous increase in the CLBR with the number of oocytes retrieved, others have found a plateau. A systematic review was conducted, including all eligible studies published until June 2022, to determine the optimal number of oocytes retrieved to maximize the CLBR. We found a positive association between the number of oocytes and the CLBR. However, this association varies according to patients' age. While in patients younger than 35 years, little benefit is derived from increasing the number of oocytes above 25-30, in patients older than 35 years, the number of oocytes seems to improve the CLBR until the extreme of reproductive age is reached. In women aged 44 years or older, the CLBR will be consistently low, independent of the number of oocytes retrieved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Raquel Neves
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Dexeus University Hospital, 08028 Barcelona, Spain; IVI-RMA Lisboa, Portugal; Autonomous University of Barcelona, 08193, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Barcelona, Spain.
| | | | - Noemie Sachs-Guedj
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Dexeus University Hospital, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Nikolaos P Polyzos
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Dexeus University Hospital, 08028 Barcelona, Spain; Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University (UZ Gent), 9000 Gent, Belgium
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4
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Drakopoulos P, Khalaf Y, Esteves SC, Polyzos NP, Sunkara SK, Shapiro D, Rizk B, Ye H, Costello M, Koloda Y, Salle B, Lispi M, D'Hooghe T, La Marca A. Treatment algorithms for high responders: What we can learn from randomized controlled trials, real-world data and models. Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol 2023; 86:102301. [PMID: 36646567 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2022.102301] [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: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
A high ovarian response to conventional ovarian stimulation (OS) is characterized by an increased number of follicles and/or oocytes compared with a normal response (10-15 oocytes retrieved). According to current definitions, a high response can be diagnosed before oocyte pick-up when >18-20 follicles ≥11-12 mm are observed on the day of ovulation triggering; high response can be diagnosed after oocyte pick-up when >18-20 oocytes have been retrieved. Women with a high response are also at high risk of early ovarian hyper-stimulation syndrome (OHSS)/or late OHSS after fresh embryo transfers. Women at risk of high response can be diagnosed before stimulation based on several indices, including ovarian reserve markers (anti-Müllerian hormone [AMH] and antral follicle count [AFC], with cutoff values indicative of a high response in patients with PCOS of >3.4 ng/mL for AMH and >24 for AFC). Owing to the high proportion of high responders who are at the risk of developing OHSS (up to 30%), this educational article provides a framework for the identification and management of patients who fall into this category. The risk of high response can be greatly reduced through appropriate management, such as individualized choice of the gonadotropin starting dose, dose adjustment based on hormonal and ultrasound monitoring during OS, the choice of down-regulation protocol and ovulation trigger, and the choice between fresh or elective frozen embryo transfer. Appropriate management strategies still need to be defined for women who are predicted to have a high response and those who have an unexpected high response after starting treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Panagiotis Drakopoulos
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Alexandria, Alexandria, 21526, Egypt.
| | - Yakoub Khalaf
- Reproductive Medicine and Surgery, Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Sandro C Esteves
- ANDROFERT, Andrology and Human Reproduction Clinic, Campinas, Brazil; Faculty of Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Nikolaos P Polyzos
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Dexeus University Hospital, 08028, Barcelona, Spain; Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Ghent (UZ Gent), 9000, Gent, Belgium
| | - Sesh K Sunkara
- Department of Women's Health, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, Great Maze Pond, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Botros Rizk
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, 36604, USA
| | - Hong Ye
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Human Embryo Engineering, Chongqing, China; Chongqing Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Chongqing, China; Reproductive and Genetic Institute, Chongqing Health Center for Women and Children, No. 64 Jin Tang Street, Yu Zhong District, Chongqing, 400013, China
| | - Michael Costello
- Division of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, School of Women's and Children's Health, UNSW and Royal Hospital for Women and Monash IVF, Sydney, Australia
| | - Yulia Koloda
- Center of Reproduction "Life Line", Moscow, Russia; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Russian Medical Academy of Continuous Professional Education, Moscow, Russia
| | - Bruno Salle
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, CHU Lyon, Hôpital Femme Mère Enfant, 59 Bd Pinel, 69500, Bron, France; Université Claude Bernard, Faculté de Médecine Lyon Sud, 165 Chemin Du Petit Revoyet, Oullins, France; INSERM Unité, 1208, 18 Avenue Doyen Lépine, Bron, France
| | - Monica Lispi
- Merck Healthcare KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany; PhD School of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Unit of Endocrinology, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Thomas D'Hooghe
- Merck Healthcare KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany; Department of Development and Regeneration, Laboratory of Endometrium, Endometriosis & Reproductive Medicine, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium; Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University Medical School, New Haven, USA
| | - Antonio La Marca
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Mother, Child and Adult, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, and Clinica Eugin, Modena, Italy
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5
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Ata B. Why ovarian stimulation should be aimed to maximize oocyte yield. Reprod Biomed Online 2023; 46:655-658. [PMID: 36746705 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2023.01.016] [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: 01/01/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
The ultimate measure of success of assisted reproductive technology (ART) is the cumulative live birth rate (CLBR) per ovarian stimulation cycle, which increases with every oocyte collected. However, the adverse effects of ovarian stimulation on endometrial receptivity, as well as the risks of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) and adverse obstetric and neonatal outcomes, are observed to increase with ovarian response to stimulation. To mitigate these risks, mild stimulation has been hailed as the safer patient-friendly approach with the additional benefit of cutting the cost of gonadotrophins. Yet accumulating data demonstrate the absence of an adverse effect of ovarian stimulation on oocytes as well as on obstetric and neonatal outcomes, and multiple preventive strategies have been introduced for OHSS. The widespread use of vitrification revolutionized ART by enabling the liberal use of cycle segmentation to minimize the risk of OHSS and avoid impaired endometrial receptivity due to ovarian stimulation. Vitrification also allowed every oocyte to contribute to the CLBR. Thus, it is questionable whether the cost savings from gonadotrophins during the index ovarian stimulation offset the cost saving by preventing repeat ovarian stimulation and repeat laboratory procedures per live birth. This paper aims to prove by contradiction that ovarian stimulation should be aimed to maximize oocyte yield.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baris Ata
- ART Fertility Clinics, Dubai, United Arab Emirates; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Koc University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkish Republic.
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6
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Santi D, Spaggiari G, Morini D, Melli B, Dalla Valentina L, Aguzzoli L, Simoni M, Villani MT. Which sperm parameter limits could really guide the clinical decision in assisted reproduction? Andrology 2023; 11:143-154. [PMID: 36251334 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13323] [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: 07/04/2022] [Revised: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 10/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The predictive role of sperm motility and morphology was recently detected in a large sample of more than 20000 assisted reproductive technology (ART) fresh cycles. However, the complete ART procedure consisted of both fresh and frozen-embryos transfers and only a comprehensive evaluation of the entire process could really confirm if these parameters really predict the ART success. The aim of the study was to evaluate which sperm parameter could predict the success of ART. METHODS A retrospective, real-world data analysis was performed, enrolling all couples attending ART from 2008 to 2021, including both fresh and frozen cycles and both in vitro fertilization (IVF) and intra-cytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) procedures. RESULTS Fresh cycles success (considering live birth rate) was predicted by female age (1.04 [1.02-1.06]), injected oocytes (0.96 [0.93-0.99]), embryo number (0.79 [0.75-0.83]) and progressive sperm motility (0.98 [0.97-0.99]). On the contrary, frozen cycle outcomes were predicted only by sperm motility (0.97 [0.95-0.99]). This prediction was confirmed in IVF but not in ICSI cycles. CONCLUSION Both female and male parameters predicted the ART success considering the entire path. However, frozen cycle success was predicted only by progressive sperm motility in IVF cycles, suggesting that the potential amelioration of this male parameter is relevant to improve ART success. Those couples expected to obtain the highest embryos after fertilization (low female age and better semen parameters) will have more attempts with frozen cycles and thus would benefit from a potential treatment focused to improve sperm parameters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniele Santi
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, Ospedale Civile of Baggiovara, Modena, Italy.,Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Giorgia Spaggiari
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, Ospedale Civile of Baggiovara, Modena, Italy
| | - Daria Morini
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Fertility Centre, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Arcispedale Santa Maria Nuova, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Beatrice Melli
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Fertility Centre, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Arcispedale Santa Maria Nuova, Reggio Emilia, Italy.,Clinical and Experimental Medicine PhD Program, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Leonardo Dalla Valentina
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, Ospedale Civile of Baggiovara, Modena, Italy.,Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Aguzzoli
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Fertility Centre, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Arcispedale Santa Maria Nuova, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Manuela Simoni
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, Ospedale Civile of Baggiovara, Modena, Italy.,Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Maria Teresa Villani
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Fertility Centre, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Arcispedale Santa Maria Nuova, Reggio Emilia, Italy
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7
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Santi D, Spaggiari G, Granata ARM, Simoni M. Real-world evidence analysis of the follicle-stimulating hormone use in male idiopathic infertility. Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol 2022; 85:121-133. [PMID: 35618626 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2022.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Revised: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Male idiopathic infertility remains a therapeutic challenge in the couple infertility management. In this setting, an empirical treatment with follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) is allowed, although not recommended. Twenty-one clinical trials and four meta-analyses highlighted an overall increased pregnancy rate in case of FSH administration, but the indiscriminate FSH prescription is still unsupported by clinical evidence in idiopathic infertility. This context could represent an example in which real-world data (RWD) could add useful information. From a nationwide clinical practice survey performed in Italy, emerged the clinicians' attitude to prescribe FSH in the case of impaired semen with a significant improvement of semen parameters, identifying FSH treatment as a therapeutic card in the real-life management. Although more robust data are still needed to optimize FSH treatment in male idiopathic infertility, RWD should be included in the body of evidence considered in healthcare decision-making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniele Santi
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, Ospedale Civile of Baggiovara, Via Giardini 1355, 41126 Modena, Italy; Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via Campi 287, 41125, Modena, Italy.
| | - Giorgia Spaggiari
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, Ospedale Civile of Baggiovara, Via Giardini 1355, 41126 Modena, Italy
| | - Antonio R M Granata
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, Ospedale Civile of Baggiovara, Via Giardini 1355, 41126 Modena, Italy
| | - Manuela Simoni
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, Ospedale Civile of Baggiovara, Via Giardini 1355, 41126 Modena, Italy; Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via Campi 287, 41125, Modena, Italy
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8
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Scaravelli G, Pisaturo V, Levi Setti PE, Ubaldi FM, Livi C, Borini A, Greco E, Villani MT, Coccia ME, Revelli A, Ricci G, Fusi F, Costa M, Migliorati E, De Luca R, Vigiliano V, Bolli S, Reschini M. Monozygotic twin rate among ART centers: a multicenter analysis of data from 18 Italian units. J Assist Reprod Genet 2022; 39:2349-2354. [PMID: 36053372 PMCID: PMC9596663 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-022-02603-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: 05/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 10/14/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The risk of monozygotic twins (MZTs) is increased in couples undergoing assisted reproductive technology (ART) treatments. Several systematic reviews have investigated the possible determinants linked to ART, but results obtained have not been conclusive. The study aims to investigate whether the incidence of MZT differed among ART centers. METHODS This is a multicenter retrospective cohort study using the Italian ART National Registry database and involving the centers reporting data from individual ART cycles from 2015 to 2019. To investigate the incidence of MZT, only single embryo transfer cycles were considered. Women who had sex-discordant deliveries were excluded. MZT rate was calculated as the number of multiple pregnancies (more than one gestational sac at first ultrasound) out of the total number of clinical pregnancies. A binomial distribution model was used to determine the 95% CI of the frequency of MZT. RESULTS Eighteen centers were included, and they provided data on 10,433 pregnancies. The total number of MZT was 162, corresponding to an incidence of 1.5% (95% CI: 1.3-1.8%). The rate of MZT among centers varied between 0% (95% CI: 0.0-25.9%) and 3.2% (95% CI: 1.3-8.1%). All the 95% CIs included 1.5%, rejecting the hypothesis that the MZT rate may significantly differ among centers. CONCLUSIONS The rate of MZT did not significantly vary among ART centers. Local factors are unlikely to explain the increased rate of MZT in ART pregnancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Scaravelli
- ART Italian National Register, National Center for Diseases Prevention and Health Promotion, National Health Institute, Rome, Italy
| | - Valerio Pisaturo
- Infertility Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via M. Fanti 6, 20122, Milan, Italy.
| | - Paolo Emanuele Levi Setti
- Department of Gynecology, Division of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Fertility Center, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano (Milan), Italy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Claudia Livi
- Demetra GeneraLife Assisted Procreation Center, Florence, Italy
| | | | - Ermanno Greco
- Villa Mafalda, Rome, Italy
- UniCamillus, International Medical University, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Teresa Villani
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Fertility Centre, Arcispedale Santa Maria Nuova, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | | | - Alberto Revelli
- Gynecology and Obstetrics 1U/2U, Physiopathology of Reproduction and IVF Unit, Sant'Anna Hospital, University of Torino, Turin, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Ricci
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute for Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS Burlo Garofolo, Trieste, Italy
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Francesco Fusi
- Department of Maternal Fetal and Pediatric Medicine, ASST, Papa Giovanni XXIII, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Mauro Costa
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Ospedale Evangelico Internazionale, Genoa, Italy
| | - Emanuela Migliorati
- Surgery for Gynecology and Obstetrics, Genera Umbria S.R.L, Umbertide, Perugia, Italy
| | - Roberto De Luca
- ART Italian National Register, National Center for Diseases Prevention and Health Promotion, National Health Institute, Rome, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Vigiliano
- ART Italian National Register, National Center for Diseases Prevention and Health Promotion, National Health Institute, Rome, Italy
| | - Simone Bolli
- ART Italian National Register, National Center for Diseases Prevention and Health Promotion, National Health Institute, Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Reschini
- Infertility Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via M. Fanti 6, 20122, Milan, Italy
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9
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Cirillo F, Grilli L, Ronchetti C, Paladino I, Morenghi E, Busnelli A, Levi-Setti PE. Retrospective comparison of pregnancy outcomes of fresh and frozen-warmed single blastocyst transfer: a 5-year single-center experience. J Assist Reprod Genet 2022; 39:201-209. [PMID: 34837160 PMCID: PMC8866619 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-021-02362-3] [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: 08/28/2021] [Accepted: 11/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To assess whether live birth rates (LBR) and maternal/neonatal complications differed following single fresh and frozen-warmed blastocyst transfer. METHODS The present retrospective observational study analyzed 4,613 single embryo transfers (SET) (646 fresh and 3,967 frozen) from January 1, 2014, to December 31, 2018. Fresh embryo transfer at blastocyst stage was considered according to the age of the patient and her prognosis. In case of the risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, premature progesterone rise, non-optimal endometrial growth, or supernumerary embryos, cryopreservation with subsequent frozen embryo transfer (FET) was indicated. RESULTS No differences in LBR were recorded. Fresh embryo transfers yielded an increase both in neonatal complications OR 2.15 (95% CI 1.20-3.86, p 0.010), with a higher prevalence of singletons weighting below the 5th percentile (p 0.013) and of intrauterine growth retardation (p 0.015), as well as maternal complications, with a higher placenta previa occurrence OR 3.58 (95% CI 1.54-8.28, p 0.003), compared to FET. CONCLUSION LBR appears not to be affected by the transfer procedure preferred. Fresh embryo transfer is associated with higher risk of neonatal complications (specifically a higher prevalence of singletons weighting below the 5th percentile and of intrauterine growth retardation) and placenta previa. Reflecting on the increased practice of ART procedures, it is imperative to understand whether a transfer procedure yields less complications than the other and if it is time to switch to a "freeze-all" procedure as standard practice. TRIAL REGISTRATION Clinical Trial Registration Number: NCT04310761. Date of registration: March 17, 2020, retrospectively registered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federico Cirillo
- grid.417728.f0000 0004 1756 8807Division of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology, Fertility Center, Humanitas Research Hospital, IRCCS, Via Manzoni 56, 20089 Rozzano, Milan Italy
| | - Leonora Grilli
- grid.452490.eDepartment of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Via Rita Levi Montalcini 4Pieve Emanuele, 20090 Milan, Italy
| | - Camilla Ronchetti
- grid.417728.f0000 0004 1756 8807Division of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology, Fertility Center, Humanitas Research Hospital, IRCCS, Via Manzoni 56, 20089 Rozzano, Milan Italy ,grid.452490.eDepartment of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Via Rita Levi Montalcini 4Pieve Emanuele, 20090 Milan, Italy
| | - Ilaria Paladino
- grid.452490.eDepartment of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Via Rita Levi Montalcini 4Pieve Emanuele, 20090 Milan, Italy
| | - Emanuela Morenghi
- grid.417728.f0000 0004 1756 8807Biostatistics Unit, Humanitas Research Hospital, IRCCS, 20089 Rozzano, Milan Italy
| | - Andrea Busnelli
- grid.417728.f0000 0004 1756 8807Division of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology, Fertility Center, Humanitas Research Hospital, IRCCS, Via Manzoni 56, 20089 Rozzano, Milan Italy ,grid.452490.eDepartment of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Via Rita Levi Montalcini 4Pieve Emanuele, 20090 Milan, Italy
| | - Paolo Emanuele Levi-Setti
- grid.417728.f0000 0004 1756 8807Division of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology, Fertility Center, Humanitas Research Hospital, IRCCS, Via Manzoni 56, 20089 Rozzano, Milan Italy ,grid.452490.eDepartment of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Via Rita Levi Montalcini 4Pieve Emanuele, 20090 Milan, Italy
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10
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Biphasic (5-2%) oxygen concentration strategy significantly improves the usable blastocyst and cumulative live birth rates in in vitro fertilization. Sci Rep 2021; 11:22461. [PMID: 34789773 PMCID: PMC8599669 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-01782-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2021] [Accepted: 11/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Oxygen (O2) concentration is approximately 5% in the fallopian tube and 2% in the uterus in humans. A "back to nature" approach could increase in vitro fertilization (IVF) outcomes. This hypothesis was tested in this monocentric observational retrospective study that included 120 couples who underwent two IVF cycles between 2014 and 2019. Embryos were cultured at 5% from day 0 (D0) to D5/6 (monophasic O2 concentration strategy) in the first IVF cycle, and at 5% O2 from D0 to D3 and 2% O2 from D3 to D5/6 (biphasic O2 concentration strategy) in the second IVF cycle. The total and usable blastocyst rates (44.4% vs. 54.8%, p = 0.049 and 21.8% vs. 32.8%, p = 0.002, respectively) and the cumulative live birth rate (17.9% vs. 44.1%, p = 0.027) were significantly higher with the biphasic (5%-2%) O2 concentration strategy. Whole transcriptome analysis of blastocysts donated for research identified 707 RNAs that were differentially expressed in function of the O2 strategy (fold-change > 2, p value < 0.05). These genes are mainly involved in embryo development, DNA repair, embryonic stem cell pluripotency, and implantation potential. The biphasic (5-2%) O2 concentration strategy for preimplantation embryo culture could increase the "take home baby rate", thus improving IVF cost-effectiveness and infertility management.
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Johnson S, Vandromme J, Larbuisson A, Raick D, Delvigne A. Does the freeze-all strategy improve the cumulative live birth rate and the time to become pregnant in IVF cycles? Arch Gynecol Obstet 2021; 305:1203-1213. [PMID: 34762187 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-021-06306-1] [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: 12/13/2020] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The freeze-all strategy is widely used for ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) prevention. Indeed, it increases live birth rates among high responders and prevents preterm birth and small for gestational age. Why should not we extend it to all? METHODS A retrospective and monocentric study was conducted between January 2008 and January 2018 comparing the cumulative live birth rates (CLBR) between patients having undergone FAS and a control group using fresh embryo transfer (FET) and having at least one frozen embryo available. Analyses were made for the entire cohort (population 1) and for different subgroups according to confounding factors selected by a logistic regression (population 3), and to the BELRAP (Belgian Register for Assisted Procreation) criteria (population 2). RESULTS 2216 patients were divided into two groups: Freeze all (FA), 233 patients and control (C), 1983 patients. The CLBR was 50.2% vs 58.1% P = 0.021 for population 1 and 53.2% vs 63.3% P = 0.023 for population 2, including 124 cases and 1241 controls. The CLBR stayed in favour of the C group: 70.1% vs 55.9% P = 0.03 even when confounding variables were excluded (FA and C group, respectively, 109 and 770 patients). The median time to become pregnant was equally in favour of the C group with a median of 5 days against 61 days. CONCLUSION CLBR is significantly lower in the FA group compared to the C group with a longer time to become pregnant. Nevertheless, the CLBR in the FA group remains superior to that observed in previous studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Johnson
- ART Center, CHC Montlégia, Liège, Belgium.
| | - J Vandromme
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, CHU Saint-Pierre, Brussels, Belgium
| | | | - D Raick
- ART Center, CHC Montlégia, Liège, Belgium
| | - A Delvigne
- ART Center, CHC Montlégia, Liège, Belgium
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Levi-Setti PE, Busnelli A, Bodina A, De Luca R, Scaravelli G. 2017–2018 Assisted Reproduction Cost Analysis Performance Indexes: Lombardy County Case Study. FRONTIERS IN REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2021; 3:693715. [PMID: 36303956 PMCID: PMC9580757 DOI: 10.3389/frph.2021.693715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: The aim of the present study was to analyze the IVF success rates and the economic cost per delivery in all the public funded IVF Units in Lombardy in the 2017–2018 period and to assess any significant difference in ART outcomes among the enrolled centers. Methods: Analysis of costs for the 2017 and 2018 fresh transfer delivery rate (DR) and Cumulative delivery rate (CDR) considering both fresh and frozen cycles were extracted from the ART Italian Registry on oocytes retrievals, fresh and frozen embryos and oocytes embryo transfer performed in 22 Lombardy IVF Units. Results: In 2017, 29,718 procedures were performed, resulting in 4,543 pregnancies and 3,253 deliveries. In 2018, there were 29,708 procedures, 4,665 pregnancies and 3,348 deliveries. Pregnancies lost to follow up were 5.0% with a (range of 0–67.68%) in 2017 and 3.4% (range of 0–45.1%) in 2018. The cost reimbursement for the cycles were €2,232 ($2,611) for oocyte retrieval and €2,194 ($2,567) for embryo transfer, excluding ovarian stimulation therapy and luteal phase support. 19.33 (5.80). The DR was 13.23 ± 5.69% (range 2.86–29.11%) in 2017 and 19.33 ± 5.80% in 2018 (range 11.82–34.98 %) and the CDR was 19.86 ± 9.38% (range 4.43–37.88%) in 2017 and 21.32 ± 8.84% (range 4.24–37.11%). The mean multiple pregnancy delivery rate (MDR) was 11.08 ± 5.55% (range 0.00–22.73%) in 2017 and 10.41 ± 4.99% (range 1.33–22.22%) in 2018. The mean CDR cost in euros was 26,227 ± 14,737 in 2017 and 25,018 ± 16,039 in 2018. The mean CDR cost among centers was 12,480 to 76,725 in 2017 and 12,973 to 86,203 in 2018. Conclusions: Our findings show impressive differences in the DR and CDR among centers and the importance of cryopreservation in patients' safety and economic cost reduction suggesting the formulation of specific KPI's (Key performance indexes) and minimal performance indexes (PI) as a basis for the allocation of public or insurance resources. In particular, the reduction of multiple pregnancy rates costs, may lead to a more widespread use of ART even in lower resources countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Emanuele Levi-Setti
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Milan, Italy
- Division of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynaecology, Fertility Center, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Milan, Italy
- *Correspondence: Paolo Emanuele Levi-Setti
| | - Andrea Busnelli
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Milan, Italy
- Division of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynaecology, Fertility Center, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Roberto De Luca
- Assisted Reproduction Techniques Italian National Register, National Centre for Diseases, Prevention and Health Promotion, National Health Institute, Rome, Italy
| | - Giulia Scaravelli
- Assisted Reproduction Techniques Italian National Register, National Centre for Diseases, Prevention and Health Promotion, National Health Institute, Rome, Italy
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Levi Setti PE, Cirillo F, De Cesare R, Morenghi E, Canevisio V, Ronchetti C, Baggiani A, Smeraldi A, Albani E, Patrizio P. Seven Years of Vitrified Blastocyst Transfers: Comparison of 3 Preparation Protocols at a Single ART Center. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2020; 11:346. [PMID: 32547496 PMCID: PMC7272701 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2020.00346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2020] [Accepted: 05/04/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Frozen-thawed embryo transfers (FET) have become a standard practice to increase cumulative pregnancy rates, however, the choice of the best preparation protocol remains a matter of debate. Design: Retrospective analysis of clinical pregnancy (CPR) and live birth rate (LBR) of FET in natural cycles (NC-FET), modified natural cycles with hCG-triggered ovulation (mNC-FET), and hormonal artificial replacement (AR-FET). Materials and Methods: For natural cycles, patients were monitored by ultrasound to evaluate the dominant follicle and by urinary LH kits (NC-FET). When the endometrial thickness reached at least 7 mm and the dominant follicle 16-20 mm, hCG was administered in absence of urinary LH surge (mNC-FET). Embryo thawing and transfer was planned 7 days after LH surge or hCG administration. For the AR-FET, oral estradiol valerate was administered from day 2 of menstrual cycle until endometrial thickness reached at least 7 mm and transfer was planned after 5 days of vaginal progesterone start. Only single vitrified blastocyst transfers were included. Results: In total 2,895 transfers were performed of which 561 (19.4%) carried out with NC-FET, 1,749 (60.4%) with mNC-FET and 585 (20.2%) with AR-FET. CPRs were 32.62, 43.05, and 37.26%, respectively. LBR were 24.06, 33.56, and 25.81%, respectively. A statistically significant (p < 0.001) higher LBR for mNC-FET vs. NC-FET (OR 0.49-0.78) and AR-FET (OR 0.47-0.74) was observed. A higher ectopic pregnancy rate (p = 0.002) was observed in NC-FET (3.28%) than in AR-FET (1.83%) and mNC-FET (0.40%). A higher abortion rate (p = 0.031) in pregnancies <12 weeks was observed in AR-FET (27.52%) than in NC-FET (19.67%) and in mNC-FET (19.39%). At Post hoc analysis only female age (OR 0.91-0.95), antimullerian hormone (AMH) (OR 1.01-1.07) and mNC-FET (OR 1.39-1.98) were statically significant prognostic factors for LBRs. Conclusions: These results demonstrate a superior CPR and LBR following FET in hCG-triggered ovulation cycles compared to NC and AR-FET, a higher ectopic pregnancy rate in NC-FET and a higher abortion rate in pregnancies <12 weeks in AR-FET. However, these data need to be confirmed in randomized and prospective studies before definitive conclusions can be drawn. Clinicaltrials.gov ID: NCT03581422.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Emanuele Levi Setti
- Division of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology, Fertility Center, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center (IRCCS), Milan, Italy
- *Correspondence: Paolo Emanuele Levi Setti
| | - Federico Cirillo
- Division of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology, Fertility Center, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center (IRCCS), Milan, Italy
| | - Raffaella De Cesare
- Division of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology, Fertility Center, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center (IRCCS), Milan, Italy
| | - Emanuela Morenghi
- Biostatistics Unit, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center (IRCCS), Milan, Italy
| | - Valentina Canevisio
- Division of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology, Fertility Center, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center (IRCCS), Milan, Italy
| | - Camilla Ronchetti
- Division of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology, Fertility Center, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center (IRCCS), Milan, Italy
| | - Annamaria Baggiani
- Division of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology, Fertility Center, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center (IRCCS), Milan, Italy
| | - Antonella Smeraldi
- Division of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology, Fertility Center, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center (IRCCS), Milan, Italy
| | - Elena Albani
- Division of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology, Fertility Center, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center (IRCCS), Milan, Italy
| | - Pasquale Patrizio
- Yale University Fertility Center, New Haven, CT, USA
- Yale University Fertility Center, New Haven, CT, United States
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De Cesare R, Morenghi E, Cirillo F, Ronchetti C, Canevisio V, Persico P, Baggiani A, Sandri MT, Levi-Setti PE. The Role of hCG Triggering Progesterone Levels: A Real-World Retrospective Cohort Study of More Than 8000 IVF/ICSI Cycles. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2020; 11:547684. [PMID: 33071968 PMCID: PMC7538643 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2020.547684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2020] [Accepted: 08/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: To assess the association between serum ovulation trigger progesterone (P) levels and the outcome of in vitro fertilization cycles. Design Setting: Real world single-center retrospective cohort study. Patient Intervention(s): All fresh cleavage and blastocyst-stage embryo transfers (ETs) performed from January 2012 to December 2016. Main outcome Measure(s): The impact of premature high serum P levels cycles in terms of clinical pregnancy rates (CPRs) and live birth rates (LBRs). Results: 8,034 ETs were performed: 7,597 cleavage-stage transfers and 437 blastocyst transfers. Serum P levels demonstrated to be inversely related to CPR (OR 0.72, p < 0.001) and LBR (OR 0.73, p < 0.001). The progressive decrease of LBR and CPR started when P levels were >1 ng/ml in a good prognosis cleavage ET subgroup, whereas in patients with worse prognosis only for P ≥ 1.75 ng/ml. In the blastocyst ET subgroup, the negative effect of P elevation was reported only if P was >1.75 ng/ml. CPR (OR 0.71 (0.62-0.80), p < 0.001) and LBR (OR 0.73 (0.63-0.84), p < 0.001) in thawed cycles resulted statistically significantly higher than in fresh cycles in the cleavage-stage subgroup. In the blastocyst group, no significant difference resulted between thawed and fresh cycles, independently of P levels [CPR OR 0. 37 (0.49-1.09), p = 0.123; LBR OR 0.71 (0.46-1.10), p = 0.126]. Conclusion: High P levels decrease CPR as well as LBR in both cleavage and blastocyst ET. In the cleavage group, for P levels below 1.75 ng/ml, our data suggest the possibility to wait until day 5 for ET, and if P level is ≥1.75 ng/ml, it should be considered to freeze all embryos and postpone the ET. Clinical Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov, ID: NCT04253470.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raffaella De Cesare
- Division of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology, Fertility Center, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center—IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Emanuela Morenghi
- Biostatistics Unit, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Federico Cirillo
- Division of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology, Fertility Center, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center—IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Camilla Ronchetti
- Division of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology, Fertility Center, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center—IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Valentina Canevisio
- Division of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology, Fertility Center, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center—IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Paola Persico
- Division of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology, Fertility Center, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center—IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Annamaria Baggiani
- Division of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology, Fertility Center, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center—IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Maria Teresa Sandri
- Clinical Analysis Laboratory, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Paolo Emanuele Levi-Setti
- Division of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology, Fertility Center, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center—IRCCS, Milan, Italy
- *Correspondence: Paolo Emanuele Levi-Setti
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