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Alsbjerg B, Jensen MB, Elbaek HO, Laursen R, Povlsen BB, Anderson R, Yarali H, Humaidan P. Midluteal serum estradiol levels are associated with live birth rates in hormone replacement therapy frozen embryo transfer cycles: a cohort study. Fertil Steril 2024; 121:1000-1009. [PMID: 38604265 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2024.04.006] [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: 12/19/2023] [Revised: 04/03/2024] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To study whether midluteal serum estradiol (E2) levels are associated with the live birth rate in hormone replacement therapy frozen embryo transfer (HRT-FET) cycles in patients with optimal midluteal serum progesterone (P4) levels. DESIGN Observational prospective cohort study. SETTING Public fertility clinic. PATIENTS A total of 412 women had an HRT-FET cycle single blastocyst transfer from January 2020 to November 2022. INTERVENTION The HRT-FET cycle priming regimen included oral E2 (6mg/24 h) administered in the evening, followed by vaginal P4 (400mg/12 h). Serum E2 and P4 levels were measured using a standardized method, 2-4 hours after the latest P4 administration and 9-14 hours after E4 administration on the day of blastocyst transfer, day 6 of P4 administration. Patients with serum P4 levels (<11 ng/mL [35 nmol/L]) on the day of transfer received additional rectal P4 (400mg/12 h). No additional E2 dose was administered. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES The primary outcome was the live birth rate (LBR) in relation to E2 levels at blastocyst transfer day. RESULTS The optimal serum E2 levels correlating with ongoing pregnancy were ≥292 pg/mL and <409 pg/mL (≥1,070 pmol/L and <1,500 pmol/L). The LBR was 59% (60/102) when E2 levels were within this range, whereas a significantly lower LBR of 39% (101/260) was seen in patients when E2 levels were <292 pg/mL (<1,070 pmol/L) and of 28% (14/50) when E2 levels were ≥409 pg/mL (≥1,500 pg/mL). In a logistic regression analysis, adjusting for serum P4 level ≥11 ng/mL or <11 ng/mL (≥35 nmol or <35 nmol/L) on the day of transfer, body mass index, age at oocyte retrieval, day 5 or 6 vitrified blastocysts, and blastocyst score, the adjusted risk difference of live birth was -0.21 (-0.32; -0.10) when the E2 level was <292 pg/mL (<1,070 pmol/L) and -0.31 (-0.45; -0.18) when the E2 level was ≥409 pg/mL (≥1,500 pmol/L) compared with E2 levels ≥292 pg/mL and <409 pg/mL (≥1,070 and <1,500 pmol/L). Importantly, only 25% of patents had optimal levels. CONCLUSION The study shows a significant association between serum E2 levels and reproductive outcomes in an HRT-FET cohort in which optimal serum P4 levels were secured. Midluteal serum E2 levels are associated with the LBR in HRT-FET cycles, and E2 levels should neither be too high nor too low. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER EudraCT No.: 2019-001539-29.
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Affiliation(s)
- Birgit Alsbjerg
- The Fertility Clinic, Skive Regional Hospital, Skive, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.
| | | | | | - Rita Laursen
- The Fertility Clinic, Skive Regional Hospital, Skive, Denmark
| | | | - Richard Anderson
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Institute for Repair and Regeneration, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Harkan Yarali
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Hacettepe University School of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey; Anatolia IVF and Women Health Centre, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Peter Humaidan
- The Fertility Clinic, Skive Regional Hospital, Skive, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
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Mendes Godinho C, Soares SR, Nunes SG, Martínez JMM, Santos-Ribeiro S. Natural proliferative phase frozen embryo transfer-a new approach which may facilitate scheduling without hindering pregnancy outcomes. Hum Reprod 2024; 39:1089-1097. [PMID: 38531673 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deae061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2022] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION How does a natural proliferative phase (NPP) strategy for frozen embryo transfer (FET) compare with the conventional artificial (AC) and natural (NC) endometrial preparation protocols in terms of live birth rates (LBR)? SUMMARY ANSWER This study supports the hypothesis that, just as for NC, NPP-FET may be a superior alternative to AC in terms of LBR. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Although FETs are increasing worldwide, the optimal FET protocol is still largely controversial. Despite recent evidence supporting a possibly higher efficacy and safety of NC FETs, their widespread use is limited by the difficulties encountered during cycle monitoring and scheduling. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION In this single center retrospective cohort study, we describe the NPP-FET protocol, in which vaginal progesterone is initiated during the proliferative phase as soon as an endometrium with a thickness of at least 7 mm is identified and ovulation is ruled out, regardless of mean diameter of the dominant follicle. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS For comparison, we considered all blastocyst stage FET cycles preformed at a private infertility center between January 2010 and June 2022, subdivided according to the following subgroups of endometrial preparation: AC, NPP, and NC. We performed multivariable generalized estimating equations regression analysis to account for the following potential confounding variables: oocyte age at retrieval, oocyte source (autologous without preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidies (PGT-A) versus autologous with PGT-A versus donated), number of oocytes retrieved/donated, embryo developmental stage (Day 5 versus Day 6), number of embryos transferred, quality of the best embryo transferred, and year of treatment. The main outcome measure was LBR. The secondary outcomes included hCG positive, clinical pregnancy and miscarriage rates, and the following perinatal outcomes: first trimester bleeding, second/third trimester bleeding, preterm rupture of membranes, gestational diabetes, gestational hypertensive disorders (GHD), and gestational age at delivery. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE A total of 5791 FET cycles were included in this analysis (2226 AC, 349 NPP, and 3216 NC). The LBR for FET was lower in the AC subgroup when compared to the NPP and NC (38.4%, 49.1%, and 45.2%, respectively; P < 0.01 AC versus NPP and AC versus NC). The rates of miscarriage were also lower in the NPP and NC subgroups when compared to AC (19.7%, 25.0%, and 34.9%, respectively; P < 0.01 NPP versus AC and NC versus AC). Considering perinatal outcomes, NPP-FET and NC were associated with a significantly lower first trimester bleeding compared to AC (17.3%, 14.7%, and 37.6%, respectively; P < 0.01 NPP versus AC and NC versus AC). Additionally, NC was associated with a lower rate of GHD when compared with AC (8.6% versus 14.5%, P < 0.01), while the rate following NPP-FET was 9.4%. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION This study is limited by its retrospective design. Moreover, there was also a low number of patients in the NPP subgroup, which may have led the study to be underpowered to detect clinically relevant differences between the subgroups. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Our study posits that the NPP-FET protocol may be an effective and safe alternative to both NC and AC, while still allowing for enhanced practicality in patient follow-up and FET scheduling. Further investigation on NPP-FET is warranted, with prospective studies including a larger and more homogeneous subsets of patients. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This research was supported by the IVI-RMA-Lisbon (2008-LIS-053-CG). The authors did not receive any funding for this study. The authors have no competing interests. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER Not applicable.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Samuel Santos-Ribeiro
- Reproductive Medicine, IVI RMA Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
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He S, Bao H, Lai S, Li J, Dai H, Wang X, Lv N. Clinical outcomes of frozen-thawed embryo transfer in natural cycles with luteinized unruptured follicles. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2024; 296:366-370. [PMID: 38552505 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2024.03.018] [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: 06/16/2023] [Revised: 01/14/2024] [Accepted: 03/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the effect of luteinized unruptured follicles (LUF) on frozen-thawed embryo transfer cycles performed in natural cycles (FET-NC). METHODS Retrospective cohort study, held in a university hospital with 3415 cycles for frozen-thawed embryo transfer, performed between June 2019 and September 2022. Using propensity score matching, 242 patients with a diagnosis of LUF (LUF group) were matched with 484 ovulated patients (ovulation group). Stratified by the type of embryo transferred, the LUF group included 168 blastocyst transfer patients (blastocyst group) and 74 cleavage-stage embryo transfer patients (cleavage-embryo group). The ovulation group included 324 patients with blastocyst transfer (blastocyst group) and 160 patients with transferred cleavage-stage embryos. Clinical pregnancy rate was retrospectively analyzed between the LUF and ovulation groups, as well as between each subgroup. RESULTS After using propensity score matching, the general characteristics of the LUF and ovulation groups were similar. The implantation and clinical pregnancy rates in the LUF group were not significantly different from those in the ovulation group (44.98 % vs. 45.29 %, p = 0.93; 53.72 % vs. 52.48 %, p = 0.75). The implantation and pregnancy rates of transferred cleavage-stage embryos in the LUF group were also not significantly different from those in the ovulation group (32.39 % vs. 36.40 %, p = 0.42; 47.30 % vs. 47.50 %, p = 0.98). The implantation and pregnancy rates of transferred blastocysts in the LUF group were also not significantly different from those in the ovulation group (53.11 % vs. 52.03 %, p = 0.82; 56.55 % vs. 54.94 %, p = 0.73). There was also no significant difference in the miscarriage rate between the groups. CONCLUSION In the natural cycle, LUF does not affect the clinical pregnancy outcomes of FET. If adequate luteal support is given, the clinical pregnancy outcomes were similar between the LUF group and ovulation group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shunzhi He
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai, Shandong 264000, PR China
| | - Hongchu Bao
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai, Shandong 264000, PR China
| | - Shoucui Lai
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai, Shandong 264000, PR China
| | - Jing Li
- Electrocardiogram Room,The Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai, Shandong 264000, PR China
| | - Huangguan Dai
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai, Shandong 264000, PR China
| | - Xingrong Wang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai, Shandong 264000, PR China
| | - Na Lv
- Laboratory Department, The Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai, Shandong 264000, PR China.
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Labarta E, Rodríguez-Varela C, Salvaleda-Mateu M, Kohls G, Bosch E. Luteal phase support using micronized vaginal progesterone as pessaries or capsules in artificial cycles: is there any difference? Reprod Biomed Online 2024; 48:103638. [PMID: 38484430 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2023.103638] [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: 07/14/2023] [Revised: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Is there a difference between the proportion of patients with serum progesterone <8.8 ng/ml on the day of embryo transfer when micronized vaginal progesterone (MVP) for luteal phase support (LPS) is given as pessaries versus capsules? DESIGN This retrospective, matched-cohort, single-centre study compared pessaries (Cyclogest) versus capsules (Utrogestan, Progeffik) for LPS in hormone replacement treatment-embryo transfer (HRT-ET) cycles. Patients under 50 years old with a triple-layer endometrial thickness of ≥6.5 mm underwent transfer of one or two blastocysts. Serum progesterone concentrations were measured on the day of transfer; patients with concentrations <8.8 ng/ml received a single 'rescue' dose of additional progesterone by subcutaneous injection. RESULTS In total 2665 HRT-ET cycles were analysed; 663 (24.9%) used pessaries for LPS and 2002 (75.1%) used capsules. Mean serum progesterone concentrations with standard deviations on the day of embryo transfer were significantly higher in the group using MVP pessaries compared with those using capsules (14.5 ± 5.1 versus 13.0 ± 4.8 ng/ml; P = 0.000). The percentage of participants with suboptimal serum progesterone concentrations on the day of embryo transfer (<8.8 ng/ml) was significantly lower in the pessary group than the capsule group (10.3%, 95% confidence interval [CI] 7.9-12.6% versus 17.9%, 95% CI 16.2-19.6%; adjusted odds ratio 0.426, 95% CI 0.290-0.625; P = 0.000). No differences in pregnancy outcome were observed between the groups. CONCLUSIONS Using MVP pessaries rather than capsules for LPS resulted in significantly fewer patients having suboptimal serum progesterone concentrations on the day of embryo transfer. Consequently, almost 50% fewer patients in the pessary group needed rescue treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Labarta
- IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Valencia, Spain.; Human Reproduction Department, IVI RMA Valencia, Valencia, Spain..
| | | | | | - Graciela Kohls
- Human Reproduction Department, IVI RMA Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ernesto Bosch
- IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Valencia, Spain.; Human Reproduction Department, IVI RMA Valencia, Valencia, Spain
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Bourdon M, Guihard C, Maignien C, Patrat C, Guibourdenche J, Chapron C, Santulli P. Intra-individual variability of serum progesterone levels on the day of frozen blastocyst transfer in hormonal replacement therapy cycles. Hum Reprod 2024; 39:742-748. [PMID: 38332539 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deae015] [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: 10/05/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Is there a significant intra-individual variability of serum progesterone levels on the day of single blastocyst Hormone Replacement Therapy-Frozen Embryo Transfer (HRT-FET) between two consecutive cycles? SUMMARY ANSWER No significant intra-individual variability of serum progesterone (P) levels was noted between two consecutive HRT-FET cycles. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY In HRT-FET cycles, a minimum P level on the day of embryo transfer is necessary to optimise reproductive outcomes. In a previous study by our team, a threshold of 9.8 ng/ml serum P was identified as significantly associated with the live birth rates in single autologous blastocyst transfers under HRT using micronized vaginal progesterone (MVP). Such patients may benefit from an intensive luteal phase support (LPS) using other routes of P administration in addition to MVP. A crucial question in the way towards individualising LPS is whether serum P measurements are reproducible for a given patient in consecutive HRT-FET cycles, using the same LPS. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION We conducted an observational cohort study at the university-based reproductive medicine centre of our institution focusing on women who underwent at least two consecutive single autologous blastocyst HRT-FET cycles between January 2019 and March 2020. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Patients undergoing two consecutive single autologous blastocyst HRT-FET cycles using exogenous oestradiol and vaginal micronized progesterone for endometrial preparation were included. Serum progesterone levels were measured on the morning of the Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET), by a single laboratory. The two measurements of progesterone levels performed on the day of the first (FET1) and the second FET (FET2) were compared to evaluate the intra-individual variability of serum P levels. Paired statistical analyses were performed, as appropriate. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Two hundred and sixty-four patients undergoing two consecutive single autologous blastocyst HRT-FET were included. The mean age of the included women was 35.0 ± 4.2 years. No significant intra-individual variability was observed between FET1 and FET2 (mean progesterone level after FET1: 13.4 ± 5.1 ng/ml vs after FET2: 13.9 ± 5.0; P = 0.08). The characteristics of the embryo transfers were similar between the first and the second FET. Forty-nine patients (18.6%) had discordant progesterone levels (defined as one progesterone measurement > and one ≤ to the threshold of 9.8 ng/ml) between FET1 and FET2. There were 37/264 women (14.0%) who had high intra-individual variability (defined as a difference in serum progesterone values >75th percentile (6.0 ng/ml)) between FET1 and FET2. No specific clinical parameter was associated with a high intra-individual variability nor a discordant P measurement. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION This study is limited by its retrospective design. Moreover, only women undergoing autologous blastocyst HRT-FET with MVP were included, thereby limiting the extrapolation of the study findings to other routes of P administration and other kinds of endometrial preparation for FET. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS No significant intra-individual variability was noted. The serum progesterone level appeared to be reproducible in >80% of cases. These findings suggest that the serum progesterone level measured on the day of the first transfer can be used to individualize luteal phase support in subsequent cycles. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) No funding or competing interests. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Bourdon
- Faculté de Médecine, Université de Paris Cité, Paris, France
- Department of Gynecology Obstetrics II and Reproductive Medicine (Professor Chapron), Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Hôpital Universitaire Paris Centre (HUPC), Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) Cochin, Paris, France
- Department "Development, Reproduction and Cancer", Cochin Institute, INSERM U1016, Paris, France
| | - C Guihard
- Faculté de Médecine, Université de Paris Cité, Paris, France
- Department of Gynecology Obstetrics II and Reproductive Medicine (Professor Chapron), Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Hôpital Universitaire Paris Centre (HUPC), Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) Cochin, Paris, France
| | - C Maignien
- Faculté de Médecine, Université de Paris Cité, Paris, France
- Department of Gynecology Obstetrics II and Reproductive Medicine (Professor Chapron), Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Hôpital Universitaire Paris Centre (HUPC), Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) Cochin, Paris, France
| | - C Patrat
- Faculté de Médecine, Université de Paris Cité, Paris, France
- Department "Development, Reproduction and Cancer", Cochin Institute, INSERM U1016, Paris, France
- Department of Reproductive Biology-CECOS (Professor Patrat), Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Hôpital Universitaire Paris Centre (HUPC), Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) Cochin, Paris, France
| | - J Guibourdenche
- Faculté de Médecine, Université de Paris Cité, Paris, France
- Department of Biological Endocrinology, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Hôpital Universitaire Paris Centre (HUPC), Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) Cochin, Paris, France
| | - C Chapron
- Faculté de Médecine, Université de Paris Cité, Paris, France
- Department of Gynecology Obstetrics II and Reproductive Medicine (Professor Chapron), Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Hôpital Universitaire Paris Centre (HUPC), Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) Cochin, Paris, France
- Department "Development, Reproduction and Cancer", Cochin Institute, INSERM U1016, Paris, France
| | - P Santulli
- Faculté de Médecine, Université de Paris Cité, Paris, France
- Department of Gynecology Obstetrics II and Reproductive Medicine (Professor Chapron), Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Hôpital Universitaire Paris Centre (HUPC), Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) Cochin, Paris, France
- Department "Development, Reproduction and Cancer", Cochin Institute, INSERM U1016, Paris, France
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Lawrenz B, Kalafat E, Ata B, Del Gallego R, Melado L, Elkhatib I, Fatemi H. The combination of dydrogesterone and micronized vaginal progesterone can render serum progesterone level measurements on the day of embryo transfer and rescue attempts unnecessary in an HRT FET cycle. J Assist Reprod Genet 2024; 41:885-892. [PMID: 38372882 PMCID: PMC11052972 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-024-03049-1] [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: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate the role of serum progesterone (P4) on the day of embryo transfer (ET) when dydrogesterone (DYD) and micronized vaginal progesterone (MVP) are combined as luteal phase support (LPS) in a hormone replacement therapy (HRT) frozen ET (FET) cycles. METHODS Retrospective study, including single euploid HRT FET cycles with DYD and MVP as LPS and P4 measurement on ET day. Initially, patients with P4 levels < 10 ng/ml increased MVP to 400 mg/day; this "rescue" was abandoned later. RESULTS 560 cycles of 507 couples were included. In 275 women, serum P4 level was < 10 ng/ml on the ET day. Among those with low P4 levels, MVP dose remained unchanged in 65 women (11.6%) and was increased in 210 women (37.5%). Women with P4 levels ≥ 10 ng/ml continued LPS without modification. Overall pregnancy rates in these groups were 61.5% (40/65), 54.8% (115/210), and 48.4% (138/285), respectively (p = n.s.). Association of serum P4 levels with ongoing pregnancy rates was analyzed in women without any additional MVP regardless of serum P4 levels (n = 350); multivariable analysis (adjusted for age, BMI, embryo quality (EQ)) did not show a significant association of serum P4 levels with OPR (OR 0.96, 95% CI 0.90-1.02; p = 0.185). Using inverse probability treatment weights, regression analysis in the weighted sample showed no significant association between P4 treatment groups and OP. Compared to fair EQ, the transfer of good EQ increased (OR 1.61, 95% CI 1.22-2.15; p = 0.001) and the transfer of a poor EQ decreased the odds of OP (OR 0.73, 95% CI 0.55-0.97; p = 0.029). CONCLUSION In HRT FET cycle, using LPS with 300 mg/day MVP and 30 mg/day DYD, it appears that serum P4 measurement and increase of MVP in patients with P4 < 10 ng/ml are not necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Lawrenz
- ART Fertility Clinic, Royal Marina Village, B22-23, POB: 60202, Abu Dhabi, UAE.
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, UZ Gent, Gent, Belgium.
| | - E Kalafat
- ART Fertility Clinic, Royal Marina Village, B22-23, POB: 60202, Abu Dhabi, UAE
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Koc University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - B Ata
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Koc University, Istanbul, Turkey
- ART Fertility Clinic, Jumeirah St-Umm Suqeim-Umm Suqeim 3, Dubai, UAE
| | - R Del Gallego
- ART Fertility Clinic, Royal Marina Village, B22-23, POB: 60202, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - L Melado
- ART Fertility Clinic, Royal Marina Village, B22-23, POB: 60202, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - I Elkhatib
- ART Fertility Clinic, Royal Marina Village, B22-23, POB: 60202, Abu Dhabi, UAE
- School of Biosciences, University of Kent, Canterbury, UK
| | - H Fatemi
- ART Fertility Clinic, Royal Marina Village, B22-23, POB: 60202, Abu Dhabi, UAE
- ART Fertility Clinic, Jumeirah St-Umm Suqeim-Umm Suqeim 3, Dubai, UAE
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Yang WJ, Lu F, Wang CY, Hong JJ, Wang T, Yang PE, Huang JYJ. Different Dosages of Progesterone in Luteal Phase Support Reflect Varying Endometrial microRNA Expression in Frozen Embryo Transfer Cycles. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:3670. [PMID: 38612482 PMCID: PMC11011508 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25073670] [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: 02/23/2024] [Revised: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 03/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Despite serum progesterone being a widely accepted method for luteal phase support during embryo transfer cycles, debates persist regarding the optimal strategy for guiding clinical decisions on progesterone dosages to maximize reproductive outcomes. This retrospective study explored the utility of microRNA (miRNA) biomarkers in guiding personalized progesterone dosage adjustments for frozen embryo transfer (FET) cycles in 22 in vitro fertilization (IVF) patients undergoing hormone replacement therapy. Utilizing MIRA, an miRNA-based endometrial receptivity test, we analyzed patients' miRNA expression profiles before and after progesterone dosage adjustments to determine suitable dosages and assess endometrial status. Despite patients receiving identical progesterone dosages, variations in miRNA profiles were observed in the initial cycle, and all patients presented a displaced window of implantation. Following dosage adjustments based on their miRNA profiles, 91% of patients successfully transitioned their endometrium towards the receptive stages. However, two patients continued to exhibit persistent displaced receptivity despite the adjustments. Given the evident variation in endometrial status and serum progesterone levels among individuals, analyzing miRNA expression profiles may address the challenge of inter-personal variation in serum progesterone levels, to deliver more personalized dosage adjustments and facilitate personalized luteal phase support in IVF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Jui Yang
- Department of Infertility and Reproductive Medicine, Taiwan IVF Group Center, Hsinchu 30274, Taiwan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
| | - Farn Lu
- Department of Infertility and Reproductive Medicine, Taiwan IVF Group Center, Hsinchu 30274, Taiwan
| | - Cai-Yun Wang
- Inti Labs, Hsinchu 30261, Taiwan; (C.-Y.W.); (T.W.)
| | - Jun-Jie Hong
- Inti Labs, Hsinchu 30261, Taiwan; (C.-Y.W.); (T.W.)
| | - Tiffany Wang
- Inti Labs, Hsinchu 30261, Taiwan; (C.-Y.W.); (T.W.)
| | | | - Jack Yu-Jen Huang
- Department of Infertility and Reproductive Medicine, Taiwan IVF Group Center, Hsinchu 30274, Taiwan
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
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Garg A, Zielinska AP, Yeung AC, Abdelmalak R, Chen R, Hossain A, Israni A, Nelson SM, Babwah AV, Dhillo WS, Abbara A. Luteal phase support in assisted reproductive technology. Nat Rev Endocrinol 2024; 20:149-167. [PMID: 38110672 DOI: 10.1038/s41574-023-00921-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023]
Abstract
Infertility affects one in six couples, with in vitro fertilization (IVF) offering many the chance of conception. Compared to the solitary oocyte produced during the natural menstrual cycle, the supraphysiological ovarian stimulation needed to produce multiple oocytes during IVF results in a dysfunctional luteal phase that can be insufficient to support implantation and maintain pregnancy. Consequently, hormonal supplementation with luteal phase support, principally exogenous progesterone, is used to optimize pregnancy rates; however, luteal phase support remains largely 'black-box' with insufficient clarity regarding the optimal timing, dosing, route and duration of treatment. Herein, we review the evidence on luteal phase support and highlight remaining uncertainties and future research directions. Specifically, we outline the physiological luteal phase, which is regulated by progesterone from the corpus luteum, and evaluate how it is altered by the supraphysiological ovarian stimulation used during IVF. Additionally, we describe the effects of the hormonal triggers used to mature oocytes on the degree of luteal phase support required. We explain the histological transformation of the endometrium during the luteal phase and evaluate markers of endometrial receptivity that attempt to identify the 'window of implantation'. We also cover progesterone receptor signalling, circulating progesterone levels associated with implantation, and the pharmacokinetics of available progesterone formulations to inform the design of luteal phase support regimens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akanksha Garg
- Section of Endocrinology and Investigative Medicine, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK
- Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Agata P Zielinska
- Section of Endocrinology and Investigative Medicine, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK
- Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Arthur C Yeung
- Section of Endocrinology and Investigative Medicine, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK
- Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Rebecca Abdelmalak
- Section of Endocrinology and Investigative Medicine, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK
| | - Runzhi Chen
- Section of Endocrinology and Investigative Medicine, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK
| | - Aleena Hossain
- Section of Endocrinology and Investigative Medicine, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK
| | - Alisha Israni
- Section of Endocrinology and Investigative Medicine, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK
| | - Scott M Nelson
- School of Medicine, Dentistry & Nursing, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
- NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
- The Fertility Partnership (TFP), Oxford, UK
| | - Andy V Babwah
- Rutgers-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Waljit S Dhillo
- Section of Endocrinology and Investigative Medicine, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK
- Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Ali Abbara
- Section of Endocrinology and Investigative Medicine, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK.
- Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK.
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9
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Saupstad M, Bergenheim SJ, Bogstad JW, Petersen MR, Klajnbard A, Prætorius L, Freiesleben NLC, Englund AL, Løkkegaard ECL, Knudsen UB, Husth M, Alsbjerg B, Møller JE, Dam TV, Forman JL, Pinborg A, Løssl K. Progesterone concentrations on blastocyst transfer day in modified natural cycle frozen embryo transfer cycles. Reprod Biomed Online 2024; 49:103862. [PMID: 38735231 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2024.103862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Are serum progesterone concentrations on the day of modified natural cycle (mNC) frozen blastocyst transfer (FET) without luteal phase support (LPS) associated with clinical pregnancy rate (CPR)? DESIGN Data were collected between January 2019 and October 2022 as a sub-study of an ongoing randomized controlled trial assessing pregnancy outcomes in mNC-FET. The sub-study included all women (n = 209) randomized to mNC-FET without LPS at the time of data extraction. Participants were aged 18-41 years, had regular menstrual cycles and underwent mNC-FET treatment with single-blastocyst transfer. Associations between the serum progesterone concentration on the day of blastocyst transfer and CPR, pregnancy rate and pregnancy loss rate (PLR) were examined between groups with low and higher progesterone concentrations using the 25th and 10th percentiles as cut-offs. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to adjust for potential confounding factors. RESULTS Progesterone concentrations on the day of blastocyst transfer in mNC-FET without LPS ranged from 4.9 to 91.8 nmol/l, with the 25th and 10th percentiles at 29.0 nmol/l and 22.5 nmol/l, respectively. Serum progesterone concentrations did not differ between women with or without a clinical pregnancy (mean [SD] 38.5 [14.0] versus 36.8 [12.4] nmol/l; P = 0.350). Furthermore, the CPR, pregancy rate and PLR were similar in women with low or high progesterone concentrations when using the 25th or the 10th progesterone percentile as cut-off. Multivariate regression analyses showed no association between progesterone concentrations and CPR. CONCLUSIONS No association was found between progesterone concentration on the day of blastocyst transfer and pregnancy outcome in women undergoing mNC-FET without progesterone LPS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marte Saupstad
- The Fertility Clinic, Department of Gynaecology, Fertility and Obstetrics, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark..
| | - Sara J Bergenheim
- The Fertility Clinic, Department of Gynaecology, Fertility and Obstetrics, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jeanette W Bogstad
- The Fertility Clinic, Department of Gynaecology, Fertility and Obstetrics, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Morten R Petersen
- The Fertility Clinic, Department of Gynaecology, Fertility and Obstetrics, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anna Klajnbard
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Fertility Clinic, Copenhagen University Hospital Herlev, Herlev, Denmark
| | - Lisbeth Prætorius
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Fertility Clinic, Copenhagen University Hospital Hvidovre, Hvidovre, Denmark
| | - Nina L C Freiesleben
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Fertility Clinic, Copenhagen University Hospital Hvidovre, Hvidovre, Denmark.; Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anne L Englund
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Fertility Clinic, Zealand University Hospital Koege, Koege, Denmark
| | - Ellen C L Løkkegaard
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Copenhagen University Hospital North Zealand, North Zealand Hospital, Hilleroed, Denmark.; Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ulla B Knudsen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Fertility Clinic, The Regional Hospital Horsens, Horsens, Denmark
| | - Merete Husth
- The Fertility Unit, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg University Hospital South, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Birgit Alsbjerg
- The Fertility Clinic, Skive Regional Hospital, Skive, Denmark
| | - Julie E Møller
- The Fertility Clinic, Department of Gynaecology, Fertility and Obstetrics, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Tine V Dam
- The Fertility Clinic, Department of Gynaecology, Fertility and Obstetrics, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Julie L Forman
- Section of Biostatistics, Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anja Pinborg
- The Fertility Clinic, Department of Gynaecology, Fertility and Obstetrics, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.; Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Kristine Løssl
- The Fertility Clinic, Department of Gynaecology, Fertility and Obstetrics, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.; Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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10
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Loreti S, Roelens C, Drakopoulos P, De Munck N, Tournaye H, Mackens S, Blockeel C. Circadian serum progesterone variations on the day of frozen embryo transfer in artificially prepared cycles. Reprod Biomed Online 2024; 48:103601. [PMID: 37992522 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2023.103601] [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: 06/18/2023] [Revised: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 11/24/2023]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION What is the intra-day variation of serum progesterone related to vaginal progesterone administration on the day of frozen embryo transfer (FET) in an artificial cycle? DESIGN A prospective cohort study was conducted including 22 patients undergoing a single blastocyst artificial cycle (AC)-FET from August to December 2022. Endometrial preparation was achieved by administering oestradiol valerate (2 mg three times daily) and consecutively micronized vaginal progesterone (MVP; 400 mg twice daily). A blastocyst FET was performed on the 6th day of MVP administration. Serum progesterone concentrations were measured on the day of transfer at 08:00, 12:00, 16:00 and 20:00 hours. The first and last blood samples were collected just before MVP was administered. RESULTS The mean age and body mass index of the study population were 33.95 ± 3.98 years and 23.10 ± 1.95 kg/m2. The mean P-values at 08:00, 12:00, 16:00 and 20:00 hours were 11.72 ± 4.99, 13.59 ± 6.33, 10.23 ± 3.81 and 9.28 ± 3.09 ng/ml, respectively. A significant decline, of 2.41 ng/ml (95% confidence interval 0.81-4.00), was found between the first and last progesterone measurements. CONCLUSION A statistically significant intra-day variation of serum progesterone concentrations on the day of FET in artificially prepared cycles was observed. This highlights the importance of a standardized procedure for the timing of progesterone measurement on the day of AC-FET. Of note, the study results are applicable only to women using MVP for luteal phase support; therefore it is necessary to confirm its validity in comparison with the different existing administration routes of progesterone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Loreti
- Brussels IVF, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Brussels, Belgium; Infertility Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy.
| | - Caroline Roelens
- Brussels IVF, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Panagiotis Drakopoulos
- Brussels IVF, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Brussels, Belgium; IVF Greece, Athens, Greece
| | - Neelke De Munck
- Brussels IVF, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Herman Tournaye
- Brussels IVF, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Shari Mackens
- Brussels IVF, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
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11
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Joly J, Goronflot T, Reignier A, Rosselot M, Leperlier F, Barrière P, Gourraud PA, Fréour T, Lefebvre T. Impact of the duration of oestradiol treatment on live birth rate in Hormonal Replacement Therapy cycle before frozen blastocyst transfer. HUM FERTIL 2023; 26:1256-1263. [PMID: 36594497 DOI: 10.1080/14647273.2022.2163467] [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: 06/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Although the duration of progesterone administration in Hormonal Replacement Therapy (HRT) cycles before frozen embryo transfer is standardized, the optimal duration of oestrogen treatment remains controversial. In this monocentric retrospective study conducted in all single frozen blastocyst transfer (FBT) performed with HRT between January 2016 and July 2019, we evaluated the association between the duration of oestradiol treatment before FBT and live birth rate (LBR) in HRT cycles. Cycles were gathered in 3 groups according to quartiles of duration of oestrogen treatment. LBR was compared across the 3 groups and multivariate analysis was performed. We included 2235 single FBT cycles; 507, 1257 and 471 with E2 treatment below 23 days, 23-30 days (reference) and more than 30 days respectively. After multivariate analysis and adjustment, no significant difference in LBR was found between below 23 or more than 30 days and reference groups (OR = 0.93 [0.68-1.27] and OR = 1.29 [0.88-1.89] respectively). Complementary sensitivity analysis led to a non-significant adjusted OR = 1.66 [IC 0.9-3.1]. In conclusion, our study showed that the duration of E2 treatment in HRT cycles before FBT is not associated with LBR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliette Joly
- Service de Médecine et Biologie de la Reproduction, Hôpital Mère et Enfant, CHU de Nantes, Nantes, France
| | | | - Arnaud Reignier
- Service de Médecine et Biologie de la Reproduction, Hôpital Mère et Enfant, CHU de Nantes, Nantes, France
- Faculté de Médecine, Nantes, France
- Centre de Recherche en Transplantation et Immunologie, Inserm, Université de Nantes, Nantes, France
| | - Martin Rosselot
- Service de Médecine et Biologie de la Reproduction, Hôpital Mère et Enfant, CHU de Nantes, Nantes, France
| | - Florence Leperlier
- Service de Médecine et Biologie de la Reproduction, Hôpital Mère et Enfant, CHU de Nantes, Nantes, France
| | - Paul Barrière
- Service de Médecine et Biologie de la Reproduction, Hôpital Mère et Enfant, CHU de Nantes, Nantes, France
- Faculté de Médecine, Nantes, France
| | - Pierre-Antoine Gourraud
- INSERM, University Hospital of Nantes, Nantes, France
- Faculté de Médecine, Nantes, France
- Centre de Recherche en Transplantation et Immunologie, Inserm, Université de Nantes, Nantes, France
| | - Thomas Fréour
- Service de Médecine et Biologie de la Reproduction, Hôpital Mère et Enfant, CHU de Nantes, Nantes, France
- Faculté de Médecine, Nantes, France
- Centre de Recherche en Transplantation et Immunologie, Inserm, Université de Nantes, Nantes, France
- Department of reproductive Medicine, Dexeus University Hospital, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Tiphaine Lefebvre
- Service de Médecine et Biologie de la Reproduction, Hôpital Mère et Enfant, CHU de Nantes, Nantes, France
- Faculté de Médecine, Nantes, France
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12
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Sachs-Guedj N, Hart R, Requena A, Vergara V, Polyzos NP. Real-world practices of hormone monitoring during ovarian stimulation in assisted reproductive technology: a global online survey. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1260783. [PMID: 38089631 PMCID: PMC10714002 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1260783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective The aim of this study is to understand the global practice of routine hormonal monitoring (HM) during ovarian stimulation (OS) in the context of assisted reproductive technique (ART) treatment. Methods An open-access questionnaire was available to 3,845 members of IVF-Worldwide.com from September 8 to October 13, 2021. The survey comprised 25 multiple-choice questions on when and how ultrasound (US) and hormone tests were conducted during ovarian stimulation OS. For most questions, respondents were required to select a single option. Some questions allowed the selection of multiple options. Results In all, 528 (13.7%) members from 88 countries responded to the questionnaire. Most respondents (98.9%) reported using US to monitor OS cycles. HM was used by 79.5% of respondents during any of the cycle monitoring visits and was most commonly performed on the day of, or a day prior to final oocyte maturation. Overall, 87% of respondents claimed adjusting the dose of gonadotropin during OS, with 61.7% adjusting the dose based on hormonal levels. Oestradiol (E2) was the most frequently monitored hormone during all visits and was used by 74% of respondents for the prediction of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS). On or a day prior to ovulation triggering (OT), the number of respondents who measured progesterone increased from 34.3% in the second/third visit to 67.7%. Approximately one-third of respondents measured luteinizing hormone during all visits. Conclusion Globally, most ART specialists (~80%) use HM, along with US, for monitoring OS, especially for the prevention of OHSS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noemie Sachs-Guedj
- Reproductive Medicine, Dexeus University Hospital, Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Autonomous University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Roger Hart
- Reproductive Medicine, University of Western Australia/Fertility Specialist of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | | | | | - Nikolaos P. Polyzos
- Reproductive Medicine, Dexeus University Hospital, Barcelona, Spain
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University (UZ Gent), Gent, Belgium
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13
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Yin H, Jiang H, Zhu J, Wang C, Cao Z, Luan K, Wu Y. Association of serum progesterone levels on the transfer day with pregnancy outcomes in hormone replacement frozen-thawed cycles with oral dydrogesterone for strengthened luteal phase support. Taiwan J Obstet Gynecol 2023; 62:817-822. [PMID: 38008499 DOI: 10.1016/j.tjog.2023.05.013] [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] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/28/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the relationship between serum progesterone (P) levels on the day of blastocyst transfer and pregnancy outcomes in frozen-thawed embryo transfer (FET) cycles using hormone replacement therapy (HRT) with oral dydrogesterone for strengthened luteal phase support (LPS). MATERIALS AND METHODS This was a retrospective study including 1176 FET cycles. All patients received 40 mg of intramuscular (IM) P daily for endometrium transformation plus oral dydrogesterone 10 mg BID from transfer day for strengthened LPS. Pregnancy outcomes were compared between serum P levels on the transfer day ≥10 ng/ml and <10 ng/ml. Furthermore, cycles were divided into 10 groups by deciles of P and ongoing pregnancy rate (OPR) was calculated in each group. Analyses using deciles of serum P were completed to see if these could create further prognostic power. RESULTS No differences were observed in clinical pregnancy rates (CPRs), OPRs and live birth rates (LBRs) between serum P levels ≥10 ng/ml and <10 ng/ml. Patients with serum P levels <5.65 ng/ml (10th percentile) had a significantly lower OPR (48.31% vs. 58.98%, p = 0.03) and LBR (43.22% vs. 57.75%, p = 0.003) than the rest of the patients. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed serum P levels on the transfer day were not associated with pregnancy outcomes. CONCLUSION Measuring serum P levels on the day of HRT-FET is of clinical importance. Lower serum P levels impact the success of HRT-FET cycles, suggesting that there may be a threshold below which it is difficult to improve pregnancy outcomes via oral dydrogesterone to strengthen LPS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huiqun Yin
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The 901st Hospital of the Joint Logistics Support Force of PLA, Hefei, China.
| | - Hong Jiang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The 901st Hospital of the Joint Logistics Support Force of PLA, Hefei, China
| | - Jie Zhu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The 901st Hospital of the Joint Logistics Support Force of PLA, Hefei, China
| | - Cunli Wang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The 901st Hospital of the Joint Logistics Support Force of PLA, Hefei, China
| | - Zhenyi Cao
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The 901st Hospital of the Joint Logistics Support Force of PLA, Hefei, China
| | - Kang Luan
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The 901st Hospital of the Joint Logistics Support Force of PLA, Hefei, China
| | - Yan Wu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The 901st Hospital of the Joint Logistics Support Force of PLA, Hefei, China
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14
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Massarotti C, Ammar OF, Liperis G, Uraji J, Drakopoulos P, Labarta E, Maheshwari A, Cheong Y, Makieva S, Fraire-Zamora JJ. Progesterone in HRT-FET cycles: a game of hide and seek. Hum Reprod 2023; 38:2039-2043. [PMID: 37528050 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dead153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/03/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Massarotti
- DINOGMI Department, University of Genoa, Academic Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Genoa, Italy
- Physiopathology of Human Reproduction Unit, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Omar F Ammar
- Biomaterials Cluster, Bernal Institute, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
- School of Engineering, Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - George Liperis
- Westmead Fertility Centre, Institute of Reproductive Medicine, University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW, Australia
| | - Julia Uraji
- IVF Laboratory, TFP Düsseldorf GmbH, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Panagiotis Drakopoulos
- Brussels IVF, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
- Institute of Life, IVF Unit, Athens, Greece
| | - Elena Labarta
- Human Reproduction Department, IVI RMA, Valencia, Spain
| | - Abha Maheshwari
- Aberdeen Fertility Centre, NHS Grampian, Aberdeen, Scotland, UK
| | - Ying Cheong
- Complete Fertility Centre, Southampton, England, UK
- Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, England, UK
| | - Sofia Makieva
- Kinderwunschzentrum, Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, University Hospital of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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15
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Shekhar B, Mittal S, Majumdar G, Tiwari N, Majumdar A. Low serum progesterone on day of transfer adversely impacts ongoing pregnancy rates in hormonally prepared single blastocyst frozen embryo transfer cycles. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2023; 289:55-59. [PMID: 37639815 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2023.08.016] [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: 02/04/2023] [Revised: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate if serum progesterone (P) levels on the day of transfer influence ongoing pregnancy rate (OPR) in hormonally prepared single blastocyst frozen embryo transfer (FET) cycles? STUDY DESIGN Single center prospective cohort study conducted between June 2021 and August 2022 analyzed 217 single good quality blastocyst FET cycles hormonally prepared with oral estradiol valerate and micronized vaginal progesterone 400 mg twice daily. RESULTS Mean serum P on the day of embryo transfer (ET) was 9.76 ± 5.19 ng/ml. Receiver operator curve (ROC) showed a significant predictive value of serum P levels on the day of ET for OPR, with an area under curve (AUC) (95 %CI) = 0.58 (0.49-0.66). Optimal serum P threshold for OPR was 7.7 ng/ml (Sensitivity 76.8%, Specificity 43.7%). 35.9% patients had serum P below this threshold. BMI was significantly higher (26.8 ± 3.7 vs 25.6 ± 4.3; p = 0.048) in patients with serum P < 7.7 ng/ml vs ≥ 7.7 ng/ml. OPR was significantly lower (24.4% vs 45.3%; p = 0.002) and clinical miscarriage rates significantly higher (37.9% vs 19.2%; p = 0.042) if serum P < 7.72 ng/ml vs ≥ 7.7 ng/ml. CONCLUSION This study found that serum P level on the day of transfer in hormonally prepared FET cycles was a significant predictor of OPR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bhawani Shekhar
- Centre of IVF and Human Reproduction, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, Rajinder Nagar, New Delhi 110060, India.
| | - Shweta Mittal
- Centre of IVF and Human Reproduction, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, Rajinder Nagar, New Delhi 110060, India
| | - Gaurav Majumdar
- Centre of IVF and Human Reproduction, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, Rajinder Nagar, New Delhi 110060, India
| | - Neeti Tiwari
- Centre of IVF and Human Reproduction, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, Rajinder Nagar, New Delhi 110060, India
| | - Abha Majumdar
- Centre of IVF and Human Reproduction, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, Rajinder Nagar, New Delhi 110060, India
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16
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González-Foruria I, García S, Álvarez M, Racca A, Hernández M, Polyzos NP, Coroleu B. Elevated serum progesterone levels before frozen embryo transfer do not negatively impact reproductive outcomes: a large retrospective cohort study. Fertil Steril 2023; 120:597-604. [PMID: 37142050 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2023.04.038] [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: 06/10/2022] [Revised: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate whether patients with high-serum progesterone levels before frozen embryo transfer (FET) under hormonal replacement therapy present with worse reproductive outcomes. DESIGN A cohort retrospective study. SETTING A university-affiliated fertility center. PATIENT(S) A total of 3,183 FET cycles in patients receiving hormonal replacement therapy between March 2009 and December 2020 were included. The luteal phase was covered with 200 mg per 8 hours of vaginal micronized progesterone either alone or in combination with a daily subcutaneous injection of 25 mg of progesterone. A total of 1,360 cycles corresponded to frozen homologous embryo transfer (ET) (hom-FET), 1,024 were euploid ET (eu-FET) after preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidies, and 799 cycles were frozen heterologous ET (het-FET). All patients had adequate serum progesterone levels (≥10.6 ng/mL) before the procedure. INTERVENTION(S) Frozen embryo transfer cycles. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Clinical pregnancy, miscarriage, and live birth rates (LBRs). RESULTS Median (P25; P75) serum progesterone level before FET was 14.39 (12.43-17.49) ng/mL. Progesterone levels were significantly higher in the group under vaginal plus subcutaneous progesterone (15.96 [13.74-21.60] vs. 14.09 [12.19-16.95]). No differences in clinical pregnancy, miscarriage, and LBR were observed based on the use of vaginal or vaginal plus subcutaneous progesterone for each of the groups (hom-FET, eu-FET, and het-FET). Live birth rates were comparable among patients in the highest centile of serum progesterone levels (≥p90) (22.33 ng/mL) and the rest of the patients (p<90) (43.9% vs. 41.3%). Patients with progesterone levels ≥p90 presented lower body mass index than those in the lower centiles ( CONCLUSIONS Elevated serum progesterone levels before FET do not impair reproductive outcomes in patients receiving artificially prepared cycles with vaginal or vaginal plus subcutaneous progesterone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iñaki González-Foruria
- Department of Obstetrics Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Dexeus University Hospital, Barcelona, Spain; Universitat de Vic - Universitat Central de Catalunya, Vic, Spain.
| | - Sandra García
- Department of Obstetrics Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Dexeus University Hospital, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Manuel Álvarez
- Department of Obstetrics Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Dexeus University Hospital, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Annalisa Racca
- Department of Obstetrics Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Dexeus University Hospital, Barcelona, Spain
| | - María Hernández
- Department of Obstetrics Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Dexeus University Hospital, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Nikolaos P Polyzos
- Department of Obstetrics Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Dexeus University Hospital, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Buenaventura Coroleu
- Department of Obstetrics Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Dexeus University Hospital, Barcelona, Spain
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Yarali H, Mumusoglu S, Polat M, Erden M, Ozbek IY, Esteves SC, Humaidan P. Comparison of the efficacy of subcutaneous versus vaginal progesterone using a rescue protocol in vitrified blastocyst transfer cycles. Reprod Biomed Online 2023; 47:103233. [PMID: 37400318 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2023.05.005] [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: 01/12/2023] [Revised: 05/07/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/05/2023]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Does administration of subcutaneous (s.c.) progesterone support ongoing pregnancy rates (OPR) similar to vaginal progesterone using a rescue protocol in hormone replacement therapy frozen embryo transfer cycles? DESIGN Retrospective cohort study. Two sequential cohorts - vaginal progesterone gel (December 2019-October 2021; n=474) and s.c. progesterone (November 2021-November 2022; n=249) -were compared. Following oestrogen priming, s.c. progesterone 25 mg twice daily (b.d.) or vaginal progesterone gel 90 mg b.d. was administered. Serum progesterone was measured 1 day prior to warmed blastocyst transfer (i.e. day 5 of progesterone administration). In patients with serum progesterone concentrations <8.75 ng/ml, additional s.c. progesterone (rescue protocol; 25 mg) was provided. RESULTS In the vaginal progesterone gel group, 15.8% of patients had serum progesterone <8.75 ng/ml and received the rescue protocol, whereas no patients in the s.c. progesterone group received the rescue protocol. OPR, along with positive pregnancy and clinical pregnancy rates, were comparable between the s.c. progesterone group without the rescue protocol and the vaginal progesterone gel group with the rescue protocol. After the rescue protocol, the route of progesterone administration was not a significant predictor of ongoing pregnancy. The impact of different serum progesterone concentrations on reproductive outcomes was evaluated by percentile (<10th, 10-49th, 50-90th and >90th percentiles), taking the >90th percentile as the reference subgroup. In both the vaginal progesterone gel group and the s.c. progesterone group, all serum progesterone percentile subgroups had similar OPR. CONCLUSIONS Subcutaneous progesterone 25 mg b.d. secures serum progesterone >8.75 ng/ml, whereas additional exogenous progesterone (rescue protocol) was needed in 15.8% of patients who received vaginal progesterone. The s.c. and vaginal progesterone routes, with the rescue protocol if needed, yield comparable OPR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hakan Yarali
- Hacettepe University School of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Ankara, Turkey; Anatolia IVF and Women Health Centre, Ankara, Turkey.
| | - Sezcan Mumusoglu
- Hacettepe University School of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Mehtap Polat
- Anatolia IVF and Women Health Centre, Ankara, Turkey; Atılım University Vocational School of Health Services, Department of Medical Services and Techniques, First and Emergency Aid Programme, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Murat Erden
- Hacettepe University School of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Ankara, Turkey
| | | | - Sandro C Esteves
- Androfert, Andrology and Human Reproduction Clinic, Referral Centre for Male Reproduction, Campinas, São Paolo, Brazil; Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Peter Humaidan
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark; The Fertility Clinic, Skive Regional Hospital, Skive, Denmark
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Almohammadi A, Raveendran A, Black M, Maheshwari A. The optimal route of progesterone administration for luteal phase support in a frozen embryo transfer: a systematic review. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2023; 308:341-350. [PMID: 35943567 PMCID: PMC10293378 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-022-06674-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the optimal route of progesterone administration for luteal phase support in a frozen embryo transfer. DESIGN Systematic review. PATIENTS Women undergoing frozen embryo transfer (FET). INTERVENTIONS We conducted an extensive database search of Medline (PubMed), Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Trials Register using relevant keywords and their combinations to find randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing the routes (i.e., oral, vaginal, intramuscular) of progesterone administration for luteal phase support (LPS) in artificial FET. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Clinical pregnancy, live birth, miscarriage. RESULTS Four RCTs with 3245 participants undergoing artificial endometrial preparation (EP) cycles during FET were found to be eligible. Four trials compared vaginal progesterone with intramuscular progesterone and two trials compared vaginal progesterone with oral progesterone. One study favored of vaginal versus oral progesterone for clinical pregnancy rates (RR 0.45, 95% CI 0.22-0.92) and other study favored intramuscular versus vaginal progesterone for clinical pregnancy rates (RR 1.46, 95% CI 1.21-1.76) and live birth rates (RR 1.62, 95% CI 1.28-2.05). Tabulation of overall evidence strength assessment showed low-quality evidence on the basis that for each outcome-comparison pair, there were deficiencies in either directness of outcome measurement or study quality. CONCLUSION There was little consensus and evidence was heterogeneous on the optimal route of administration of progesterone for LPS during FET in artificial EP cycles. This warrants more trials, indirect comparisons, and network meta-analyses. PROPERO NO CRD42021251017.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ainharan Raveendran
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, Aberdeen Maternity Hospital, Aberdeen, UK
| | - Mairead Black
- University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen Maternity Hospital, Aberdeen Centre for Women's Health Research, Aberdeen, UK
| | - Abha Maheshwari
- Aberdeen Fertility Centre, Aberdeen Maternity Hospital, Reproductive Medicine, Aberdeen, UK
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19
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Duport Percier M, Brouillet S, Mollevi C, Duraes M, Anahory T, Ranisavljevic N. Serum progesterone concentration on pregnancy test day might predict ongoing pregnancy after controlled ovarian stimulation and fresh embryo transfer. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1191648. [PMID: 37455896 PMCID: PMC10338216 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1191648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Progesterone (P4) is essential for pregnancy. A controlled ovarian stimulation (COS) leads to a iatrogenic luteal defect that indicates a luteal phase support (LPS) at least until pregnancy test day. Some clinicians continue the LPS until week 8 or later, when P4 is mainly secreted by syncytiotrophoblast cells.Measuring serum P4 on pregnancy test day after a fresh embryo transfer could help to identify women who might benefit from prolonged LPS. In women with LPS based on P4 administered by the rectal route, P4 concentration on pregnancy test day was significantly higher in patients with ongoing pregnancy than in patients with abnormal pregnancy.This monocentric retrospective study used data on 99 consecutive cycles of COS, triggered with human chorionic gonadotropin, followed by fresh embryo transfer resulting in a positive pregnancy test (>100 IU/L) (from November 2020 to November 2022). Patients undergoing preimplantation genetic screening or with ectopic pregnancy were excluded. All patients received standard luteal phase support (i.e. micronized vaginal progesterone 600 mg per day for 15 days). The primary endpoint was P4 concentration at day 15 after oocyte retrieval (pregnancy test day) in women with ongoing pregnancy for >12 weeks and in patients with miscarriage before week 12 of pregnancy.The median P4 concentration [range] at pregnancy test day was higher in women with ongoing pregnancy than in women with miscarriage (55.9 ng/mL [11.6; 290.6] versus 18.1 ng/mL [8.3; 140.9], p = 0.002). A P4 concentration ≥16.5 ng/mL at pregnancy test day was associated with higher ongoing pregnancy rate (OR = 12.5, 95% CI 3.61 - 43.33, p <0.001). A P4 concentration ≥16.5 ng/mL at pregnancy test day was significantly associated with higher live birth rate (OR = 11.88, 95% CI 3.30-42.71, p <0.001).After COS and fresh embryo transfer, the risk of miscarriage is higher in women who discontinue luteal support after 15 days, as recommended, but with P4 concentration <16.5 ng/mL. The benefit of individualized prolonged luteal phase support should be evaluated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Duport Percier
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Montpellier University Hospital, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Sophie Brouillet
- Department of Reproductive Biology-CECOS, Montpellier University Hospital, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
- Embryo Development Fertility Environment, University of Montpellier, INSERM 1203, Montpellier, France
| | - Caroline Mollevi
- Institute of Epidemiology and Public Health, Montpellier University Hospital, University of Montpellier, INSERM, Montpellier, France
| | - Martha Duraes
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Montpellier University Hospital, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Tal Anahory
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Montpellier University Hospital, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Noemie Ranisavljevic
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Montpellier University Hospital, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
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20
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Zhang Y, Fu X, Gao S, Gao S, Gao S, Ma J, Chen ZJ. Preparation of the endometrium for frozen embryo transfer: an update on clinical practices. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2023; 21:52. [PMID: 37291605 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-023-01106-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Over the past decade, the application of frozen-thawed embryo transfer treatment cycles has increased substantially. Hormone replacement therapy and the natural cycle are two popular methods for preparing the endometrium. Hormone replacement therapy is now used at the discretion of the doctors because it is easy to coordinate the timing of embryo thawing and transfer with the schedules of the in-vitro fertilization lab, the treating doctors, and the patient. However, current results suggest that establishing a pregnancy in the absence of a corpus luteum as a result of anovulation may pose significant maternal and fetal risks. Therefore, a 'back to nature' approach that advocates an expanded use of natural cycle FET in ovulatory women has been suggested. Currently, there is increasing interest in how the method of endometrial preparation may influence frozen embryo transfer outcomes specifically, especially when it comes to details such as different types of ovulation monitoring and different luteal support in natural cycles, and the ideal exogenous hormone administration route as well as the endocrine monitoring in hormone replacement cycles. In addition to improving implantation rates and ensuring the safety of the fetus, addressing these points will allow for individualized endometrial preparation, also as few cycles as possible would be canceled.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiting Zhang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, the Second Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Xiao Fu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, the Second Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Shuli Gao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, the Second Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Shuzhe Gao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, the Second Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Shanshan Gao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, the Second Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.
- Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.
- Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.
| | - Jinlong Ma
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, the Second Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Zi-Jiang Chen
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, the Second Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, 200135, China
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200135, China
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21
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Pirtea P, de Ziegler D, Toner J, Scott R, Ayoubi JM. Hiding in plain sight. Hum Reprod Open 2023; 2023:hoad015. [PMID: 37273769 PMCID: PMC10234701 DOI: 10.1093/hropen/hoad015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Paul Pirtea
- Correspondence address. Hospital Foch, 40 Rue Worth, 92150 Suresnes, France. E-mail:
| | | | | | - Richard Scott
- Reproductive Medicine Associates of New Jersey, Basking Ridge, NJ, USA
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22
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Melo P, Wood S, Petsas G, Chung Y, Gorodeckaja J, Price MJ, Coomarasamy A. Reply to: 'Hiding in plain sight' and 'Caution is needed when communicating analyses based on an apple to orange comparison'. Hum Reprod Open 2023; 2023:hoad017. [PMID: 37273768 PMCID: PMC10234702 DOI: 10.1093/hropen/hoad017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Pedro Melo
- Tommy’s National Centre for Miscarriage Research, Institute of Metabolism
and Systems Research, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of
Birmingham, Edgbaston, UK
- CARE Fertility Birmingham, Edgbaston, UK
| | | | | | - Yealin Chung
- Tommy’s National Centre for Miscarriage Research, Institute of Metabolism
and Systems Research, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of
Birmingham, Edgbaston, UK
- CARE Fertility Birmingham, Edgbaston, UK
| | | | - Malcolm J Price
- Institute of Applied Health Research, University of
Birmingham, Edgbaston, UK
- NIHR Birmingham Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospitals Birmingham
NHS Foundation Trust and University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Arri Coomarasamy
- Tommy’s National Centre for Miscarriage Research, Institute of Metabolism
and Systems Research, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of
Birmingham, Edgbaston, UK
- CARE Fertility Birmingham, Edgbaston, UK
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23
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Alsbjerg B, Humaidan P. Caution is needed when communicating analyses based on an apple to orange comparison. Hum Reprod Open 2023; 2023:hoad016. [PMID: 37273767 PMCID: PMC10234700 DOI: 10.1093/hropen/hoad016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Birgit Alsbjerg
- Correspondence address. The Fertility Clinic, Skive Regional Hospital, Resenvej 25, 7800 Skive, Denmark. E-mail:
| | - Peter Humaidan
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- The Fertility Clinic, Skive Regional Hospital, Skive, Denmark
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Melado L, Lawrenz B, Vitorino RL, Patel R, Ruiz F, Marques LM, Bayram A, Elkhatib I, Fatemi H. Clinical and laboratory parameters associated with pregnancy outcomes in patients undergoing frozen euploid blastocyst transfer. Reprod Biomed Online 2023:S1472-6483(23)00153-0. [PMID: 37062636 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2023.02.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2022] [Revised: 01/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2023]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Which factors impact on clinical pregnancy rate (CPR) and live birth rates (LBR) in euploid frozen embryo transfer (eFET) cycles? DESIGN Retrospective observational study including 1660 eFET cycles with 2439 euploid blastocysts, from November 2016 to December 2020. The impact of clinical and laboratory parameters on CPR, biochemical miscarriage rate (BMR), clinical miscarriage rate (CMR) and LBR was evaluated. RESULTS CPR per transfer was 63.4%, LBR per transfer 51.6%. CPR and LBR were significantly higher when double embryo transfer (DET) was performed (71.6% versus 57.7%, P < 0.001; 55.2% versus 49.1%, P = 0.016, respectively). However, pregnancy loss was significantly higher in the DET group (28.8% versus 22.8%, P = 0.02). When patients were classified by body mass index (BMI), no differences were observed for CPR, but CMR was lower (P < 0.001) and LBR higher (p = 0.031) for the normal BMI group. The natural cycle protocol revealed lower CMR (P < 0.001) and lower pregnancy loss (P < 0.001); subsequently, higher LBR (57.6%, 48.8%, 45.0%, P = 0.001) compared with hormonal replacement protocol and stimulated cycle. Day of trophectoderm biopsy affected CPR (P < 0.001) and LBR (P < 0.001), yet no differences were observed for BMR, CMR or pregnancy loss. The multivariate analysis showed that day 6/7 embryos had lower probabilities for pregnancy; overweight and obesity had a negative impact on LBR, and natural cycle improved LBR (adjusted odds ratio 1.445, 95% confidence interval 0.519-0.806). CONCLUSIONS Day of biopsy affected CPR, while BMI and endometrial preparation protocol were associated with LBR in eFET. DET should be discouraged as it will increase the risk of pregnancy loss. Women with higher BMI should be aware of the higher risk of pregnancy loss and lower LBR even though a euploid blastocyst is transferred.
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Stavridis K, Kastora SL, Triantafyllidou O, Mavrelos D, Vlahos N. Effectiveness of progesterone rescue in women presenting low circulating progesterone levels around the day of embryo transfer: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Fertil Steril 2023; 119:954-963. [PMID: 36781098 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2023.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Revised: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/13/2023]
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Over the last decade, frozen embryo transfer (FET) has been increasingly used in contemporary fertility units. Despite the rapid increase in FET, there is still insufficient evidence to recommend an optimized protocol for endometrial preparation especially in patients with lower progesterone (P4) levels. Previous studies have concluded that P4 levels <10 ng/mL are associated with poorer pregnancy outcomes than those reported with high levels of circulating P4. OBJECTIVE To identify whether rescue P4 dosing in patients with low P4 can salvage adverse outcomes associated with low P4 levels, resulting in outcomes comparable to patients with adequate progesterone. DATA SOURCES The study was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-analyses guidelines and prospectively registered under the PROSPERO database (CRD42022357125). Six databases (Embase, MEDLINE, APA PsycInfo, Global Health, HMIC Health Management Information Consortium, and Google Scholar) and 2 additional sources were searched from inception to August 29, 2022. STUDY SELECTION AND SYNTHESIS Prospective and retrospective cohort studies, reporting the association between rescue progesterone and one or more pregnancy outcomes, were included. The quality of the included studies was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS), while the quality of evidence by the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) framework. Summative and subgroup data as well as heterogeneity were generated by the Cochrane platform RevMan (V. 5.4). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) To compare ongoing pregnancy rate as primary outcome and clinical pregnancy rate, miscarriage rate, and live birth rate as secondary outcomes between patients with low (<10 ng/mL) receiving rescue progesterone vs. those with adequate levels of P4 (≥10 ng/mL). RESULT(S) Overall, 7 observational studies were included in the analysis, with a total of 5927 patients of median age 34 (interquartile range [IQR]: 31.55, 37.13). Overall, patient group comparison, namely those with low P4 that received a rescue dose and those with adequate P4 levels, did not yield significant differences for either the primary or secondary outcomes. For ongoing clinical pregnancy, patients with low P4 receiving the rescue dose vs. those with adequate P4 levels was odds ratio (OR) 0.98 (95% CI: 0.78, 1.24; P = .86, I2: 41%), whereas for miscarriage events, OR was 0.98 (95% CI: 0.81, 1.17; P = .80, I2: 0). Equally, for clinical pregnancy, OR was 0.91 (95% CI: 0.78, 1.06; P = .24; I2: 33%), and for live birth, OR was 0.92 (95% CI: 0.77, 1.09; P = .33; I2: 43%). Subgroup analysis on the basis or rescue administration route successfully explained summative heterogeneity. CONCLUSION(S) Rescue P4 dosing in patients with low P4 results in ongoing pregnancy rate, clinical pregnancy and live birth rates were comparable to those of patients with adequate P4 levels. However, robust randomized controlled trials assessing rescue treatment in women with low P4 are needed to confirm these findings. Rescue P4 in patients with low circulating P4 around embryo transfer day may result in reproductive outcomes comparable to those with adequate P4 levels. STUDY REGISTRATION CRD42022357125 (PROSPERO).
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantinos Stavridis
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, "Aretaieion" University Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Stavroula L Kastora
- Elizabeth Garrett Anderson (EGA) Institute for Women's Health University College London, London, United Kingdom.
| | - Olga Triantafyllidou
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, "Aretaieion" University Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Dimitrios Mavrelos
- Elizabeth Garrett Anderson (EGA) Institute for Women's Health University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Nikolaos Vlahos
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, "Aretaieion" University Hospital, Athens, Greece
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Mackens S, Pais F, Drakopoulos P, Amghizar S, Roelens C, Van Landuyt L, Tournaye H, De Vos M, Blockeel C. Individualized luteal phase support using additional oral dydrogesterone in artificially prepared frozen embryo transfer cycles: is it beneficial? Reprod Biomed Online 2023:S1472-6483(23)00116-5. [PMID: 37012101 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2023.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Revised: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/04/2023]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Does additional supplementation with oral dydrogesterone improve reproductive outcomes in patients with low serum progesterone concentrations on the day of frozen embryo transfer (FET) after artificial (HRT) endometrial preparation? DESIGN Retrospective, single-centre cohort study including 694 unique patients performing single blastocyst transfer in an HRT cycle. For luteal phase support, intravaginal micronized vaginal progesterone (MVP, 400 mg twice daily) was administered. Serum progesterone concentrations were assessed prior to FET and outco-mes were compared among patients with normal serum progesterone (≥8.8 ng/ml) continuing the routine protocol and patients with low serum progesterone (<8.8 ng/ml) who received additional oral dydrogesterone supplementation (10 mg three times daily) from the day after FET onwards. Primary outcome was live birth rate (LBR), with a multivariate regression model correcting for relevant confounders. RESULTS Normal serum progesterone concentrations were observed in 547/694 (78.8%) of patients who continued only MVP as planned, whereas low (<8.8 ng/ml) serum progesterone concentrations were detected in 147/694 (21.2%) patients who received additional oral dydrogesterone supplementation on top of MVP from the day after FET onwards. LBR was comparable between both groups: 37.8% for MVP-only versus 38.8% for MVP+OD (P = 0.84). The multivariate logistic regression model indicated that LBR was not significantly associated with the investigated approaches (adjusted odds ratio 1.01, 95% confidence interval 0.69-1.47, P = 0.97). CONCLUSIONS The current findings suggest that additional oral dydrogesterone supplementation in patients with low serum progesterone concentrations at the moment of transfer could have the potential to rescue reproductive outcomes in HRT-FET cycles. This field of research, however, remains hampered by the absence of randomized controlled trials.
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Uyanik E, Mumusoglu S, Polat M, Yarali Ozbek I, Esteves SC, Humaidan P, Yarali H. A drop in serum progesterone from oocyte pick-up +3 days to +5 days in fresh blastocyst transfer, using hCG-trigger and standard luteal support, is associated with lower ongoing pregnancy rates. Hum Reprod 2023; 38:225-236. [PMID: 36478179 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deac255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2022] [Revised: 10/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Do early- and mid-luteal serum progesterone (P4) levels impact ongoing pregnancy rates (OPRs) in fresh blastocyst transfer cycles using standard luteal phase support (LPS)? SUMMARY ANSWER A drop in serum P4 level from oocyte pick-up (OPU) + 3 days to OPU + 5 days (negative ΔP4) is associated with a ∼2-fold decrease in OPRs. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY In fresh embryo transfer cycles, significant inter-individual variation occurs in serum P4 levels during the luteal phase, possibly due to differences in endogenous P4 production after hCG trigger and/or differences in bioavailability of exogenously administered progesterone (P) via different routes. Although exogenous P may alleviate this drop in serum P4 in fresh transfer cycles, there is a paucity of data exploring the possible impact on reproductive outcomes of a reduction in serum P4 levels. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Using a prospective cohort study design, following the initial enrollment of 558 consecutive patients, 340 fulfilled the inclusion and exclusion criteria and were included in the final analysis. The inclusion criteria were: (i) female age ≤40 years, (ii) BMI ≤35 kg/m2, (iii) retrieval of ≥3 oocytes irrespective of ovarian reserve, (iv) the use of a GnRH-agonist or GnRH-antagonist protocol with recombinant hCG triggering (6500 IU), (v) standard LPS and (vi) fresh blastocyst transfer. The exclusion criteria were: (i) triggering with GnRH-agonist or GnRH-agonist plus recombinant hCG (dual trigger), (ii) circulating P4 >1.5 ng/ml on the day of trigger and (iii) cleavage stage embryo transfer. Each patient was included only once. The primary outcome was ongoing pregnancy (OP), as defined by pregnancy ≥12 weeks of gestational age. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS A GnRH-agonist (n = 53) or GnRH-antagonist (n = 287) protocol was used for ovarian stimulation. Vaginal progesterone gel (Crinone, 90 mg, 8%, Merck) once daily was used for LPS. Serum P4 levels were measured in all patients on five occasions: on the day of ovulation trigger, the day of OPU, OPU + 3 days, OPU + 5 days and OPU + 14 days; timing of blood sampling was standardized to be 3-5 h after the morning administration of vaginal progesterone gel. The delta P4 (ΔP4) level was calculated by subtracting the P4 level on the OPU + 3 days from the P4 level on the OPU + 5 days, resulting in either a positive or negative ΔP4. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE The median P4 (min-max) on the day of triggering, day of OPU, OPU + 3 days, OPU + 5 days and OPU + 14 days were 0.83 ng/ml (0.18-1.42), 5.81 ng/ml (0.80-22.72), 80.00 ng/ml (22.91-161.05), 85.91 ng/ml (15.66-171.78) and 13.46 ng/ml (0.18-185.00), respectively. Serum P4 levels uniformly increased from the day of OPU to OPU + 3 days in all patients; however, from OPU + 3 days to OPU + 5 days, some patients had a decrease (negative ΔP4; n = 116; 34.1%), whereas others had an increase (positive ΔP4; n = 220; 64.7%), in circulating P4 levels. Although the median (min-max) P4 levels on the day of triggering, the day of OPU, and OPU + 3 days were comparable between the negative ΔP4 and positive ΔP4 groups, patients in the former group had significantly lower P4 levels on OPU + 5 days [69.67 ng/ml (15.66-150.02) versus 100.51 ng/ml (26.41-171.78); P < 0.001] and OPU + 14 days [8.28 ng/ml (0.28-157.00) versus 19.01 ng/ml (0.18-185.00), respectively; P < 0.001]. A drop in P4 level from OPU + 3 days to OPU + 5 days (negative ΔP4) was seen in approximately one-third of patients and was associated with a significantly lower OPR when compared with positive ΔP4 counterparts [33.6% versus 49.1%, odds ratio (OR); 0.53, 95% CI; 0.33-0.84; P = 0.008]; this decrease in OPR was due to lower initial pregnancy rates rather than increased overall pregnancy loss rates. For negative ΔP4 patients, the magnitude of ΔP4 was a significant predictor of OP (adjusted AUC = 0.65; 95% CI; 0.59-0.71), with an optimum threshold of -8.73 ng/ml, sensitivity and specificity were 48.7% and 79.2%, respectively. BMI (OR; 1.128, 95% CI; 1.064-1.197) was the only significant predictor of having a negative ΔP4; the higher the BMI, the higher the risk of having a negative ΔP4. Among positive ΔP4 patients, the magnitude of ΔP4 was a weak predictor of OP (AUC = 0.56, 95% CI; 0.48-0.64). Logistic regression analysis showed that blastocyst morphology (OR; 5.686, 95% CI; 1.433-22.565; P = 0.013) and ΔP4 (OR; 1.013, 95% CI; 0.1001-1.024; P = 0.031), but not the serum P4 level on OPU + 5 days, were the independent predictors of OP. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION The physiological circadian pulsatile secretion of P4 during the mid-luteal phase is a limitation; however, blood sampling was standardized to reduce the impact of timing. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Two measurements (OPU + 3 days and OPU + 5 days) of serum P4 may identify those patients with a drop in P4 (approximately one-third of patients) associated with ∼2-fold lower OPRs. Rescuing these IVF cycles with additional P supplementation or adopting a blastocyst freeze-all policy should be tested in future randomized controlled trials. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) None. S.C.E. declares receipt of unrestricted research grants from Merck and lecture fees from Merck and Med.E.A. P.H. has received unrestricted research grants from MSD and Merck, as well as honoraria for lectures from MSD, Merck, Gedeon-Richter, Theramex, and IBSA. H.Y. declares receipt of honorarium for lectures from Merck, IBSA and research grants from Merck and Ferring. The remaining authors declare that they have no conflict of interest. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER The study was registered at clinical trials.gov (NCT04128436).
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Affiliation(s)
- Esra Uyanik
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Sezcan Mumusoglu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Mehtap Polat
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Anatolia IVF and Women Health Center, Ankara, Turkey.,Department of Medical Services and Techniques, First and Emergency Aid Program, School of Health Services, Atılım University Vocational, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Irem Yarali Ozbek
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Anatolia IVF and Women Health Center, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Sandro C Esteves
- Androfert, Andrology and Human Reproduction Clinic, Referral Center for Male Reproduction, Campinas, SP, Brazil.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aarhus University-Skive Hospital, Skive, Denmark
| | - Peter Humaidan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aarhus University-Skive Hospital, Skive, Denmark.,The Fertility Clinic, Skive Regional Hospital, Skive, Denmark
| | - Hakan Yarali
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Anatolia IVF and Women Health Center, Ankara, Turkey
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Alsbjerg B, Kesmodel US, Humaidan P. Endometriosis patients benefit from high serum progesterone in hormone replacement therapy-frozen embryo transfer cycles: a cohort study. Reprod Biomed Online 2023; 46:92-98. [PMID: 36216661 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2022.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Revised: 08/14/2022] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION What is the optimal serum progesterone cut-off level in patients with endometriosis undergoing hormone replacement therapy frozen embryo transfer (HRT-FET) with intensive progesterone luteal phase support? DESIGN A cohort study, including 262 HRT-FET cycles in 179 patients all diagnosed with endometriosis either by laparoscopy or by ultrasound in patients with visible endometriomas. Pre-treatment consisted of 42 days of oral contraceptive pills and 5 days' wash-out, followed by 6 mg oral oestrogen daily. Exogenous progesterone supplementation with vaginal progesterone gel 90 mg/12h commenced when the endometrium was 7 mm or thicker. From the fourth day of vaginal progesterone supplementation, patients also received intramuscular progesterone 50 mg daily. Blastocyst transfer was scheduled for the sixth day of progesterone supplementation. RESULTS The overall positive HCG, live birth (LBR) and total pregnancy loss rates were 60%, 39% and 34%, respectively. The optimal progesterone cut-off level was 118 nmol/l (37.1 ng/ml) defined as the maximum of the Youden index. The unadjusted LBR was significantly higher in patients with progesterone measuring 118 nmol/l or above compared with patients with progesterone measuring less than 118 nmol/l (51% [44/86] versus 34% [59/176], P = 0.01), whereas the adjusted odds ratio for a live birth was 2.1 (95% CI 1.2 to 3.7) after adjusting for age, body mass index, blastocyst score, blastocyst age, quality and number of blastocysts transferred. CONCLUSIONS Serum progesterone levels above 118 nmol/l (37.1ng/ml) resulted in significantly higher LBR compared with lower serum progesterone levels, suggesting that a threshold for optimal serum progesterone exists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Birgit Alsbjerg
- The Fertility Clinic, Skive Regional Hospital, Resenvej 25, Skive 7800, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.
| | - Ulrik Schiøler Kesmodel
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Peter Humaidan
- The Fertility Clinic, Skive Regional Hospital, Resenvej 25, Skive 7800, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
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Racca A, Alvarez M, Garcia Martinez S, Rodriguez I, Gonzalez-Foruria I, Polyzos NP, Coroleu B. Assessment of progesterone levels on the day of pregnancy test determination: A novel concept toward individualized luteal phase support. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1090105. [PMID: 36817599 PMCID: PMC9929287 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1090105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION The main objective of the study is to define the optimal trade-off progesterone (P4) values on the day of embryo transfer (ET), to identify low P4-human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), and to establish whether P4 supplementation started on the hCG day can increase the success rate of the frozen embryo transfer (FET) cycle. DESIGN A single-center, cohort, retrospective study with 664 hormone replacement therapy (HRT)-FET cycles analyzed female patients who received vaginal 600 mg/day of P4 starting from 6 days before the FET, had normal P4 values on the day before ET, and whose P4 on the day of the pregnancy test was assessed. RESULTS Of the 664 cycles, 69.6% of cycles showed P4 ≥ 10.6 ng/ml, while 30.4% showed P4 < 10.6 ng/ml on the day of the hCG. Of the 411 chemical pregnancies detected, 71.8% had P4-hCG ≥ 10.6 ng/ml (group A), while 28.2% had P4-hCG < 10.6 ng/ml. Of the cycles with P4-hCG < 10.6 ng/ml, 64.7% (group B) were supplemented with a higher dose of vaginal P4 (1,000 mg/day), while 35.3% (group C) were maintained on the same dose of vaginal micronized P4. The live birth rate was 71.9%, 96%, and 7.3% for groups A, B, and C, respectively. CONCLUSION The likelihood to detect P4-hCG < 10.6 ng/ml decreased as the level of serum P4 the day before ET increased. The live birth rate (LBR) was shown to be significantly lower when P4 was low and not supplemented.
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Affiliation(s)
- A. Racca
- Department of Obstetrics Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Dexeus University Hospital, Barcelona, Spain
- *Correspondence: A Racca,
| | - M. Alvarez
- Department of Obstetrics Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Dexeus University Hospital, Barcelona, Spain
| | - S. Garcia Martinez
- Department of Obstetrics Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Dexeus University Hospital, Barcelona, Spain
| | - I. Rodriguez
- Department of Obstetrics Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Dexeus University Hospital, Barcelona, Spain
| | - I. Gonzalez-Foruria
- Department of Obstetrics Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Dexeus University Hospital, Barcelona, Spain
- Facultad de Medicina Universitat de Vic-Universitat Central de Catalunya, Vic, Spain
| | - NP. Polyzos
- Department of Obstetrics Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Dexeus University Hospital, Barcelona, Spain
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - B. Coroleu
- Department of Obstetrics Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Dexeus University Hospital, Barcelona, Spain
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Pabuccu E, Kovanci E, Israfilova G, Tulek F, Demirel C, Pabuccu R. Oral, vaginal or intramuscular progesterone in programmed frozen embryo transfer cycles: a pilot randomized controlled trial. Reprod Biomed Online 2022; 45:1145-1151. [PMID: 36153226 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2022.06.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Revised: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION What should be the optimal route of luteal support in programmed frozen embryo transfer (FET) cycles? DESIGN This was a randomized, parallel, phase IV pilot trial with three groups of women undergoing FET along with hormone replacement therapy for endometrial preparation at a tertiary private IVF centre (NCT03948022). Women with at least one autologous cryopreserved blastocyst were included. After preparing the endometrium with oestradiol, 151 women were randomly assigned to one of the following three progesterone arms before embryo transfer: oral (10 mg) dydrogesterone (DYD), total daily dose 40 mg (n = 52); 8% (90 mg) progesterone vaginal gel (VAG), total daily dose 180 mg (n = 55); or intramuscular progesterone (IMP) 50 mg/ml in oil, total daily dose 100 mg (n = 44). One or two vitrified-warmed blastocysts were transferred after 5 days' progesterone support. RESULTS Baseline demographic features and embryological data were comparable among the groups. Ongoing pregnancy rates (40.4%, 38.2% and 45.5% in the DYD, VAG and IMP arms; P = 0.76) and live birth rates (40.4%, 38.2% and 43.2% in the DYD, VAG and IMP arms, P = 0.61) were statistically similar. Biochemical pregnancy rates and clinical miscarriage rates were also statistically similar among the groups. Significantly more patients with at least one side effect and moderate-to-severe side effects were documented in the IMP arm than the other groups (P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Treatment with 40 mg/day oral DYD, 180 mg/day progesterone VAG gel or 100 mg/day IMP revealed similar reproductive outcomes in programmed FET cycles. Side effects were significantly more frequent in the IMP arm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emre Pabuccu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ufuk University School of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey.
| | | | | | - Fırat Tulek
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Memorial Ataşehir Hospital, İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Cem Demirel
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Memorial Ataşehir Hospital, İstanbul, Turkey
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Melo P, Wood S, Petsas G, Chung Y, Easter C, Price MJ, Fishel S, Khairy M, Kingsland C, Lowe P, Rajkhowa M, Sephton V, Pandey S, Kazem R, Walker D, Gorodeckaja J, Wilcox M, Gallos I, Tozer A, Coomarasamy A. The effect of frozen embryo transfer regimen on the association between serum progesterone and live birth: a multicentre prospective cohort study (ProFET). Hum Reprod Open 2022; 2022:hoac054. [PMID: 36518987 PMCID: PMC9733530 DOI: 10.1093/hropen/hoac054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2022] [Revised: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 08/03/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION What is the association between serum progesterone levels on the day of frozen embryo transfer (FET) and the probability of live birth in women undergoing different FET regimens? SUMMARY ANSWER Overall, serum progesterone levels <7.8 ng/ml were associated with reduced odds of live birth, although the association between serum progesterone levels and the probability of live birth appeared to vary according to the route of progesterone administration. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Progesterone is essential for pregnancy success. A recent systematic review showed that in FET cycles using vaginal progesterone for endometrial preparation, lower serum progesterone levels (<10 ng/ml) were associated with a reduction in live birth rates and higher chance of miscarriage. However, there was uncertainty about the association between serum progesterone levels and treatment outcomes in natural cycle FET (NC-FET) and HRT-FET using non-vaginal routes of progesterone administration. STUDY DESIGN SIZE DURATION This was a multicentre (n = 8) prospective cohort study conducted in the UK between January 2020 and February 2021. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS SETTING METHODS We included women having NC-FET or HRT-FET treatment with progesterone administration by any available route. Women underwent venepuncture on the day of embryo transfer. Participants and clinical personnel were blinded to the serum progesterone levels. We conducted unadjusted and multivariable logistic regression analyses to investigate the association between serum progesterone levels on the day of FET and treatment outcomes according to the type of cycle and route of exogenous progesterone administration. Our primary outcome was the live birth rate per participant. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE We studied a total of 402 women. The mean (SD) serum progesterone level was 14.9 (7.5) ng/ml. Overall, the mean adjusted probability of live birth increased non-linearly from 37.6% (95% CI 26.3-48.9%) to 45.5% (95% CI 32.1-58.9%) as serum progesterone rose between the 10th (7.8 ng/ml) and 90th (24.0 ng/ml) centiles. In comparison to participants whose serum progesterone level was ≥7.8 ng/ml, those with lower progesterone (<7.8 ng/ml, 10th centile) experienced fewer live births (28.2% versus 40.0%, adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 0.41, 95% CI 0.18-0.91, P = 0.028), lower odds of clinical pregnancy (30.8% versus 45.1%, aOR 0.36, 95% CI 0.16-0.79, P = 0.011) and a trend towards increased odds of miscarriage (42.1% versus 28.7%, aOR 2.58, 95% CI 0.88-7.62, P = 0.086). In women receiving vaginal progesterone, the mean adjusted probability of live birth increased as serum progesterone levels rose, whereas women having exclusively subcutaneous progesterone experienced a reduction in the mean probability of live birth as progesterone levels rose beyond 16.3 ng/ml. The combination of vaginal and subcutaneous routes appeared to exert little impact upon the mean probability of live birth in relation to serum progesterone levels. LIMITATIONS REASONS FOR CAUTION The final sample size was smaller than originally planned, although our study was adequately powered to confidently identify a difference in live birth between optimal and inadequate progesterone levels. Furthermore, our cohort did not include women receiving oral or rectal progestogens. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Our results corroborate existing evidence suggesting that lower serum progesterone levels hinder FET success. However, the relationship between serum progesterone and the probability of live birth appears to be non-linear in women receiving exclusively subcutaneous progesterone, suggesting that in this subgroup of women, high serum progesterone may also be detrimental to treatment success. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS This work was supported by CARE Fertility and a doctoral research fellowship (awarded to P.M.) by the Tommy's Charity and the University of Birmingham. M.J.P. is supported by the NIHR Birmingham Biomedical Research Centre. S.F. is a minor shareholder of CARE Fertility but has no financial or other interest with progesterone testing or manufacturing companies. P.L. reports personal fees from Pharmasure, outside the submitted work. G.P. reports personal fees from Besins Healthcare, outside the submitted work. M.W. reports personal fees from Ferring Pharmaceuticals, outside the submitted work. The remaining authors have no conflict of interest to declare. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT04170517.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro Melo
- Correspondence address. Tommy’s National Centre for Miscarriage Research, Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston B15 277, UK. Tel: +44-121-371-8202; E-mail:
| | | | | | - Yealin Chung
- Tommy’s National Centre for Miscarriage Research, Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, UK
- CARE Fertility Birmingham, Edgbaston, UK
| | - Christina Easter
- Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, UK
| | - Malcolm J Price
- Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, UK
- NIHR Birmingham Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust and University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Simon Fishel
- CARE Fertility Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
- Liverpool John Moores University, School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Liverpool, UK
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Ioannis Gallos
- Tommy’s National Centre for Miscarriage Research, Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, UK
| | | | - Arri Coomarasamy
- Tommy’s National Centre for Miscarriage Research, Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, UK
- CARE Fertility Birmingham, Edgbaston, UK
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Bulletti C, Bulletti FM, Sciorio R, Guido M. Progesterone: The Key Factor of the Beginning of Life. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232214138. [PMID: 36430614 PMCID: PMC9692968 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232214138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Revised: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 11/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Progesterone is the ovarian steroid produced by the granulosa cells of follicles after the LH peak at mid-cycle. Its role is to sustain embryo endometrial implantation and ongoing pregnancy. Other biological effects of progesterone may exert a protective function in supporting pregnancy up to birth. Luteal phase support (LPS) with progesterone is the standard of care for assisted reproductive technology. Progesterone vaginal administration is currently the most widely used treatment for LPS. Physicians and patients have been reluctant to change an administration route that has proven to be effective. However, some questions remain open, namely the need for LPS in fresh and frozen embryo transfer, the route of administration, the optimal duration of LPS, dosage, and the benefit of combination therapies. The aim of this review is to provide an overview of the uterine and extra-uterine effects of progesterone that may play a role in embryo implantation and pregnancy, and to discuss the advantages of the use of progesterone for LPS in the context of Good Medical Practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Bulletti
- Extra Omnes, Assisted Reproductive Technology, ART Center, Via Gallinelli, 8, 47841 Cattolica, Italy
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Science, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
- Correspondence:
| | | | - Romualdo Sciorio
- Edinburgh Assisted Conception Programme, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4SA, UK
| | - Maurizio Guido
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy
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Roelens C, Blockeel C. Impact of different endometrial preparation protocols before frozen embryo transfer on pregnancy outcomes: a review. Fertil Steril 2022; 118:820-827. [PMID: 36273850 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2022.09.003] [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: 07/14/2022] [Revised: 09/06/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
The use of frozen embryo transfer cycles has exponentially increased in the last few years. Optimization of endometrial preparation protocols before frozen embryo transfer is mandatory to further improve pregnancy outcomes. This review will focus on the existing literature with regard to the different available endometrial preparation protocols and their impact on pregnancy outcomes. More specifically, we will focus on programmed, natural, and stimulated frozen embryo transfer cycles. The studies performed on this topic are generally of low quality, and only a few well-performed randomized controlled trials have been published. To date, no strong evidence is available to support the use of 1 preparation method over another in terms of pregnancy outcomes. However, robust data have shown a clearly protective effect of natural frozen embryo transfer cycles against long-term obstetric complications, mainly hypertensive disorders of pregnancy and large for gestational age infants. The introduction of individualized luteal phase support in different endometrial preparation protocols is actually gaining a lot of attention and requires further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Roelens
- Brussels IVF, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Brussels, Belgium.
| | - Christophe Blockeel
- Brussels IVF, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Brussels, Belgium; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
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Maignien C, Bourdon M, Marcellin L, Guibourdenche J, Chargui A, Patrat C, Plu-Bureau G, Chapron C, Santulli P. Clinical factors associated with low serum progesterone levels on the day of frozen blastocyst transfer in hormonal replacement therapy cycles. Hum Reprod 2022; 37:2570-2577. [PMID: 36125015 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deac199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2022] [Revised: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Which factors are associated with low serum progesterone (P) levels on the day of frozen embryo transfer (FET), in HRT cycles? SUMMARY ANSWER BMI, parity and non-European geographic origin are factors associated with low serum P levels on the day of FET in HRT cycles. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY The detrimental impact of low serum P concentrations on HRT-FET outcomes is commonly recognized. However, the factors accounting for P level disparities among patients receiving the same luteal phase support treatment remain to be elucidated, to help clinicians predicting which subgroups of patients would benefit from a tailored P supplementation. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Observational cohort study with 915 patients undergoing HRT-FET at a tertiary care university hospital, between January 2019 and March 2020. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Patients undergoing single autologous blastocyst FET under HRT using exogenous estradiol and vaginal micronized progesterone for endometrial preparation. Women were only included once during the study period. The serum progesterone level was measured in the morning of the FET, in a single laboratory. Independent factors associated with low serum P levels (defined as ≤9.8 ng/ml, according to a previous published study) were analyzed using univariate and multivariate logistic regression models. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Two hundred and twenty-six patients (24.7%) had a low serum P level, on the day of the FET. Patients with a serum P level ≤9.8 ng/ml had a lower live birth rate (26.1% vs 33.2%, P = 0.045) and a higher rate of early miscarriage (35.2% vs 21.5%, P = 0.008). Univariate analysis showed that BMI (P < 0.001), parity (P = 0.001), non-European geographic origin (P = 0.001), the duration of infertility (P = 0.018) and the use of oral estradiol for endometrial preparation (P = 0.009) were significantly associated with low serum P levels. Moreover, the proportion of active smokers was significantly lower in the 'low P concentrations' group (P = 0.002). After multivariate analysis, BMI (odds ratio (OR) 1.06 95% CI (1.02-1.11), P = 0.002), parity (OR 1.32 95% CI (1.04-1.66), P = 0.022), non-European geographic origin (OR 1.70 95% CI (1.21-2.39), P = 0.002) and active smoking (OR 0.43 95% CI (0.22-0.87), P = 0.018) remained independent factors associated with serum P levels ≤9.8 ng/ml. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION The main limitation of this study is its observational design, leading to a risk of selection and confusion bias that cannot be ruled out, although a multivariable analysis was performed to minimize this. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Extrapolation of our results to other laboratories, or other routes and/or doses of administering progesterone also needs to be validated. There is urgent need for future research on clinical factors affecting P concentrations and the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms, to help clinicians in predicting which subgroups of patients would benefit from individualized luteal phase support. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) No funding/no conflicts of interest. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Maignien
- Faculté de Santé, Université de Paris, Paris, France.,Department of Gynecology Obstetrics II and Reproductive Medicine, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Hôpital Universitaire Paris Centre (HUPC), Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) Cochin, Paris, France
| | - M Bourdon
- Faculté de Santé, Université de Paris, Paris, France.,Department of Gynecology Obstetrics II and Reproductive Medicine, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Hôpital Universitaire Paris Centre (HUPC), Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) Cochin, Paris, France.,Department "Development, Reproduction and Cancer", Cochin Institute, INSERM U1016 (Professor Batteux), Paris, France
| | - L Marcellin
- Faculté de Santé, Université de Paris, Paris, France.,Department of Gynecology Obstetrics II and Reproductive Medicine, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Hôpital Universitaire Paris Centre (HUPC), Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) Cochin, Paris, France.,Department "Development, Reproduction and Cancer", Cochin Institute, INSERM U1016 (Professor Batteux), Paris, France
| | - J Guibourdenche
- Faculté de Santé, Université de Paris, Paris, France.,Department of Biological Endocrinology, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Hôpital Universitaire Paris Centre (HUPC), Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) Cochin, Paris, France
| | - A Chargui
- Faculté de Santé, Université de Paris, Paris, France.,Department of Histology and Reproductive Biology, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Hôpital Universitaire Paris Centre (HUPC), Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) Cochin, Paris, France
| | - C Patrat
- Faculté de Santé, Université de Paris, Paris, France.,Department of Histology and Reproductive Biology, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Hôpital Universitaire Paris Centre (HUPC), Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) Cochin, Paris, France
| | - G Plu-Bureau
- Faculté de Santé, Université de Paris, Paris, France.,Department of Gynecology Obstetrics II and Reproductive Medicine, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Hôpital Universitaire Paris Centre (HUPC), Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) Cochin, Paris, France.,Equipe EPOPE, INSERM U1153, Paris, France
| | - C Chapron
- Faculté de Santé, Université de Paris, Paris, France.,Department of Gynecology Obstetrics II and Reproductive Medicine, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Hôpital Universitaire Paris Centre (HUPC), Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) Cochin, Paris, France.,Department "Development, Reproduction and Cancer", Cochin Institute, INSERM U1016 (Professor Batteux), Paris, France
| | - P Santulli
- Faculté de Santé, Université de Paris, Paris, France.,Department of Gynecology Obstetrics II and Reproductive Medicine, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Hôpital Universitaire Paris Centre (HUPC), Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) Cochin, Paris, France.,Department "Development, Reproduction and Cancer", Cochin Institute, INSERM U1016 (Professor Batteux), Paris, France
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Cedrin Durnerin I. [Luteal phase support in ART: A key for success to consider more closely]. GYNECOLOGIE, OBSTETRIQUE, FERTILITE & SENOLOGIE 2022; 50:453-454. [PMID: 35487495 DOI: 10.1016/j.gofs.2022.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- I Cedrin Durnerin
- Service de médecine de la reproduction et préservation de la fertilité, Hôpital Jean-Verdier, 93140 Bondy, France.
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Tataru C, Dessapt AL, Pietin-Vialle C, Pasquier M, Bry-Gauillard H, Massin N. [Dydrogesterone versus micronized vaginal progesterone as luteal phase support after fresh embryo transfer in IVF]. GYNECOLOGIE, OBSTETRIQUE, FERTILITE & SENOLOGIE 2022; 50:455-461. [PMID: 34999287 DOI: 10.1016/j.gofs.2021.12.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Revised: 12/28/2021] [Accepted: 12/30/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The objective of the study was to compare the live birth rate and miscarriage rate after fresh embryo transfer (Fresh ET) when patients are treated either with oral dydrogesterone or micronized vaginal progesterone (MVP) as luteal phase support (LPS). The vaginal route is still preferred, despite the discomfort for the patients and recent RCTs showing similar results for dydrogesterone and MVP. METHODS All 556 consecutive Fresh ET after autologous IVF procedure, from December 2011 to March 2013 in one centre in France were included. Patients were treated either with dydrogesterone 10mg every 12hours (n=267) or MVP 200mg every 12hours (n=289), the physician's arbitrary choice on the day of the oocyte aspiration procedure. RESULTS The groups were comparable regarding the demographic data and stimulation protocols, except for the rank of the oocyte pickup procedure [1.54±0.80 vs. 1.74±0.96, (P=0.01)], with no significant difference in live birth rates (22.4% vs. 23.8%, P=0.77) and miscarriage rates (4.1% vs. 5.5%, P=0.55) for dydrogesterone vs. MVP respectively. The results were similar in a good prognosis patients' subgroup. CONCLUSIONS LPS with either dydrogesterone or MVP after Fresh ET showed similar live birth rates and miscarriage rates. The benefits of the oral over vaginal route might be higher tolerance and possibly better compliance. Dydrogesterone seems to be a safe treatment, but its long-term innocuity needs to be further proven.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Tataru
- Service de Gynécologie-Obstétrique et Médecine de la Reproduction, Centre Hospitalier Intercommunal de Créteil, Université Paris-Est-Val-de-Marne, 40, Avenue de Verdun, 94000 Créteil, France.
| | - A-L Dessapt
- Service de Gynécologie-Obstétrique et Médecine de la Reproduction, Centre Hospitalier Intercommunal de Créteil, Université Paris-Est-Val-de-Marne, 40, Avenue de Verdun, 94000 Créteil, France
| | - C Pietin-Vialle
- Service de Gynécologie-Obstétrique et Médecine de la Reproduction, Centre Hospitalier Intercommunal de Créteil, Université Paris-Est-Val-de-Marne, 40, Avenue de Verdun, 94000 Créteil, France
| | - M Pasquier
- Service de Gynécologie-Obstétrique et Médecine de la Reproduction, Centre Hospitalier Intercommunal de Créteil, Université Paris-Est-Val-de-Marne, 40, Avenue de Verdun, 94000 Créteil, France
| | - H Bry-Gauillard
- Service de Gynécologie-Obstétrique et Médecine de la Reproduction, Centre Hospitalier Intercommunal de Créteil, Université Paris-Est-Val-de-Marne, 40, Avenue de Verdun, 94000 Créteil, France
| | - N Massin
- Service de Gynécologie-Obstétrique et Médecine de la Reproduction, Centre Hospitalier Intercommunal de Créteil, Université Paris-Est-Val-de-Marne, 40, Avenue de Verdun, 94000 Créteil, France
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von Versen-Höynck F, Griesinger G. Should any use of artificial cycle regimen for frozen-thawed embryo transfer in women capable of ovulation be abandoned: yes, but what's next for FET cycle practice and research? Hum Reprod 2022; 37:1697-1703. [PMID: 35640158 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deac125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2022] [Revised: 05/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Over the past decade, the use of frozen-thawed embryo transfer (FET) treatment cycles has increased substantially. The artificial ('programmed') cycle regimen, which suppresses ovulation, is widely used for that purpose, also in ovulatory women or women capable of ovulation, under the assumption of equivalent efficacy in terms of pregnancy achievement as compared to a natural cycle or modified natural cycle. The advantage of the artificial cycle is the easy alignment of the time point of thawing and transferring embryos with organizational necessities of the IVF laboratory, the treating doctors and the patient. However, recent data indicate that pregnancy establishment under absence of a corpus luteum as a consequence of anovulation may cause relevant maternal and fetal risks. Herein, we argue that randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are not needed to aid in the clinical decision for or against routine artificial cycle regimen use in ovulatory women. We also argue that RCTs are unlikely to answer the most burning questions of interest in that context, mostly because of lack of power and precision in detecting rare but decisive adverse outcomes (e.g. pre-eclampsia risk or long-term neonatal health outcomes). We pinpoint that, instead, large-scale observational data are better suited for that purpose. Eventually, we propose that the existing understanding and evidence is sufficient already to discourage the use of artificial cycle regimens for FET in ovulatory women or women capable of ovulation, as these may cause a strong deviation from physiology, thereby putting patient and fetus at avoidable health risk, without any apparent health benefit.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Georg Griesinger
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University Hospital of Schleswig-Holstein, Lübeck, Germany
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Svenstrup L, Möller S, Fedder J, Pedersen D, Erb K, Andersen C, Humaidan P. Does the hCG trigger dose used for final oocyte maturation in IVF impact luteal phase progesterone levels? - A randomized controlled trial. Reprod Biomed Online 2022; 45:793-804. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2022.04.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2022] [Revised: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 04/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Bovbjerg ML, Tucker CM, Pillai S. Current Resources for Evidence-Based Practice, March 2022. J Obstet Gynecol Neonatal Nurs 2022; 51:225-237. [PMID: 35150643 DOI: 10.1016/j.jogn.2022.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
Abstract
An extensive review of new resources to support the provision of evidence-based care for women and infants. The current column includes a discussion of systemic racism and its effect on maternal health in the United States and commentaries on reviews focused on barriers and facilitators to HPV vaccination and delayed cord clamping in preterm infants.
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Ranisavljevic N, Huberlant S, Montagut M, Alonzo PM, Darné B, Languille S, Anahory T, Cédrin-Durnerin I. Low Luteal Serum Progesterone Levels Are Associated With Lower Ongoing Pregnancy and Live Birth Rates in ART: Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:892753. [PMID: 35757393 PMCID: PMC9229589 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.892753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2022] [Accepted: 04/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
UNLABELLED Progesterone plays a key role in implantation. Several studies reported that lower luteal progesterone levels might be related to decreased chances of pregnancy. This systematic review was conducted using appropriate key words, on MEDLINE, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library, from 1990 up to March 2021 to assess if luteal serum progesterone levels are associated with ongoing pregnancy (OP) and live birth (LB) rates (primary outcomes) and miscarriage rate (secondary outcome), according to the number of corpora lutea (CLs). Overall 2,632 non-duplicate records were identified, of which 32 relevant studies were available for quantitative analysis. In artificial cycles with no CL, OP and LB rates were significantly decreased when the luteal progesterone level falls below a certain threshold (risk ratio [RR] 0.72; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.62-0.84 and 0.73; 95% CI 0.59-0.90, respectively), while the miscarriage rate was increased (RR 1.48; 95% CI 1.17-1.86). In stimulated cycles with several CLs, the mean luteal progesterone level in the no OP and no LB groups was significantly lower than in the OP and LB groups [difference in means 68.8 (95% CI 45.6-92.0) and 272.4 (95% CI 10.8-533.9), ng/ml, respectively]. Monitoring luteal serum progesterone levels could help in individualizing progesterone administration to enhance OP and LB rates, especially in cycles without corpus luteum. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=139019, identifier 139019.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noemie Ranisavljevic
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) and University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
- *Correspondence: Noemie Ranisavljevic,
| | - Stephanie Huberlant
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) Carémeau, Nîmes, France
| | - Marie Montagut
- Center for Human Reproduction-Institut Francophone de Recherche Et d’études Appliquées à la Reproduction Et Sexologie (IFREARES), Clinique Saint Jean du Languedoc, Toulouse, France
| | | | | | | | - Tal Anahory
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) and University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
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du Boulet B, Ranisavljevic N, Mollevi C, Bringer-Deutsch S, Brouillet S, Anahory T. Individualized luteal phase support based on serum progesterone levels in frozen-thawed embryo transfer cycles maximizes reproductive outcomes in a cohort undergoing preimplantation genetic testing. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:1051857. [PMID: 36531476 PMCID: PMC9755854 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.1051857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Low serum progesterone concentration on frozen embryo transfer (FET) day in hormone replacement therapy (HRT) cycles results in lower reproductive outcomes. Recent studies showed the efficiency of a "rescue protocol'' to restore reproductive outcomes in these patients. Here, we compared reproductive outcomes in HRT FET cycles in women with low serum progesterone levels who received individualized luteal phase support (iLPS) and in women with adequate serum progesterone levels who underwent in vitro fertilization for pre-implantation genetic testing for structural rearrangements or monogenic disorders. DESIGN This retrospective cohort study included women (18-43 years of age) undergoing HRT FET cycles with pre-implantation genetic testing at Montpellier University Hospital between June 2020 and May 2022. A standard HRT was used: vaginal micronized estradiol (6mg/day) followed by vaginal micronized progesterone (VMP; 800 mg/day). Serum progesterone was measured after four doses of VMP: if <11ng/ml, 25mg/day subcutaneous progesterone or 30mg/day oral dydrogesterone was introduced. RESULTS 125 HRT FET cycles were performed in 111 patients. Oral/subcutaneous progesterone supplementation concerned 39 cycles (n=20 with subcutaneous progesterone and n=19 with oral dydrogesterone). Clinical and laboratory parameters of the cycles were comparable between groups. The ongoing pregnancy rate (OPR) was 41.03% in the supplemented group and 18.60% in the non-supplemented group (p= 0.008). The biochemical pregnancy rate and miscarriages rate tended to be higher in the non-supplemented group versus the supplemented group: 13.95% versus 5.13% and 38.46% versus 15.79% (p=0.147 and 0.182 respectively). Multivariate logistic regression analysis found that progesterone supplementation was significantly associated with higher OPR (adjusted OR = 3.25, 95% CI [1.38 - 7.68], p=0.007). CONCLUSION In HRT FET cycles, progesterone supplementation in patients with serum progesterone concentration <11 ng/mL after four doses of VMP significantly increases the OPR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bertille du Boulet
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Montpellier University Hospital, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
- *Correspondence: Bertille du Boulet,
| | - Noemie Ranisavljevic
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Montpellier University Hospital, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Caroline Mollevi
- Institute Desbrest of Epidemiology and Public Health, Montpellier University Hospital, University of Montpellier, INSERM, Montpellier, France
| | - Sophie Bringer-Deutsch
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Montpellier University Hospital, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Sophie Brouillet
- Department of Reproductive Biology-CECOS, Montpellier University Hospital, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
- Embryo Development Fertility Environment, University of Montpellier, INSERM 1203, Montpellier, France
| | - Tal Anahory
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Montpellier University Hospital, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
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Mauries C, Ranisavljevic N, Mollevi C, Brunet C, Hamamah S, Brouillet S, Anahory T. "Short agonist stop" protocol, an ovarian stimulation for poor responders in in vitro fertilization (IVF): A pilot study. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:1056520. [PMID: 36465628 PMCID: PMC9714551 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.1056520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Poor responder patients remain a challenge in assisted reproductive technologies. The "short agonist stop" (SAS) stimulation protocol uses a double stimulation (flare up effect with the gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonist (GnRH-a) then gonadotropins) associated with a less strenuous blockage (discontinuation of GnRH-a) to favor follicular recruitment in order to obtain a better ovarian response. This study aims to compare the number of oocytes obtained after a SAS stimulation protocol with those obtained after the previous stimulation protocol, in the same women, with poor ovarian response (POR) diagnosed according to the POSEIDON criteria. DESIGN This therapeutic observational retrospective cohort from 2018 to 2022, with a case-control evaluation compared with the same patients' previous performance, included women with POR undergoing IVF with SAS stimulation protocol. The primary outcome was the number of total oocytes recovered and secondary outcomes were the numbers of mature oocytes, total embryos observed at day 2 and usable cleaved embryos and blastocysts (day 5/6). RESULTS 63 patients with SAS and previous cycles were included. In the SAS group, the mean number of oocytes was significantly higher: 7.3 vs 5.7, p=0.018 in comparison with the previous attempt. So was the number of mature oocytes (5.8 vs 4.1, p=0.032) and the total mean number of embryos obtained at day 2 (4.1 versus 2.7, p=0.016). The SAS stimulation generated 84 usable embryos: 57 cleaved embryos and 27 blastocysts. The mean number of usable embryos was similar in both groups (1.64 vs 1.31, respectively, p=0.178). In total, out of 63 patients, after the SAS protocol, and subsequent embryo transfers (fresh and frozen, n=54), 9 patients had ongoing pregnancies and no miscarriage occurred. The cumulative ongoing pregnancy rate (cOPR) after the SAS protocol was 14.3% (9/63) per oocyte pick-up and 16.7% (9/54) per transfer. CONCLUSION SAS stimulation is a short and original protocol strengthening the therapeutic arsenal of poor responders, that may offer promising results for those patients with low prognosis and previous failed IVF. Results must be confirmed with a randomized controlled trial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte Mauries
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Montpellier University Hospital, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
- *Correspondence: Charlotte Mauriès,
| | - Noemie Ranisavljevic
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Montpellier University Hospital, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Caroline Mollevi
- Institute Desbrest of Epidemiology and Public Health, Montpellier University Hospital, University of Montpellier, INSERM, Montpellier, France
| | - Cecile Brunet
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Montpellier University Hospital, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Samir Hamamah
- Department of Reproductive Biology-CECOS, Montpellier University Hospital, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
- Embryo Development Fertility Environment, University of Montpellier, INSERM 1203, Montpellier, France
| | - Sophie Brouillet
- Department of Reproductive Biology-CECOS, Montpellier University Hospital, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
- Embryo Development Fertility Environment, University of Montpellier, INSERM 1203, Montpellier, France
| | - Tal Anahory
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Montpellier University Hospital, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
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Can measuring the luteal phase progesterone level bridge the divide between the Atlantic? Fertil Steril 2021; 116:1557-1558. [PMID: 34742564 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2021.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Alsbjerg B, Kesmodel US, Elbaek HO, Laursen R, Laursen SB, Andreasen D, Povlsen BB, Humaidan P. GnRH agonist supplementation in hormone replacement therapy-frozen embryo transfer cycles: a randomized controlled trial. Reprod Biomed Online 2021; 44:261-270. [PMID: 34924287 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2021.10.019] [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: 05/18/2021] [Revised: 10/14/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Will two boluses of gonadotrophin-releasing hormone agonist (GnRHa) during hormone replacement therapy-frozen embryo transfer (HRT-FET) cycles reduce the total pregnancy loss rate? DESIGN Randomized controlled trial including a total of 287 HRT-FET cycles performed between 2013 and 2019. After randomization participants allocated to the GnRHa group (n = 144) underwent a standard HRT protocol, supplemented with a total of two boluses of triptorelin 0.1 mg; one bolus 2 days before starting vaginal progesterone and one bolus on the 7th day of progesterone. The control group (n = 143) underwent a standard HRT-FET protocol only. RESULTS The intention-to-treat analysis showed no significant difference in total pregnancy loss between the GnRHa group and the control group (21% versus 33%; relative risk [RR] 0.63, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.35-1.11), nor was the biochemical pregnancy loss per positive human chorionic gonadotrophin (HCG) significantly lower in the GnRHa group (12%, 8/67) compared with the control group (25%, 18/72) (RR 0.48, 95% CI 0.22-1.02). Participants with a live birth had a significantly higher mean progesterone concentration compared with participants without a live birth (25.0 ± 12.2 versus 23.8 ± 8.9 nmol/l; P = 0.001). Furthermore, a trend for a higher live birth rate (LBR) correlated with the highest oestradiol quartile concentration (oestradiol >0.957 nmol/l). CONCLUSIONS Although a difference of 14% in biochemical loss and 12% in total pregnancy loss in favour of GnRHa supplementation was seen this did not reach statistical difference. Luteal progesterone and oestradiol concentrations correlate with LBR in the HRT-FET cycle, emphasizing the importance of luteal serum progesterone and oestradiol monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Birgit Alsbjerg
- The Fertility Clinic, Skive Regional Hospital, Skive, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.
| | - Ulrik S Kesmodel
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Helle O Elbaek
- The Fertility Clinic, Skive Regional Hospital, Skive, Denmark
| | - Rita Laursen
- The Fertility Clinic, Skive Regional Hospital, Skive, Denmark
| | | | | | | | - Peter Humaidan
- The Fertility Clinic, Skive Regional Hospital, Skive, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
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