Evidence-based outcomes after oocyte cryopreservation for donor oocyte in vitro fertilization and planned oocyte cryopreservation: a guideline.

OBJECTIVE: To provide evidence-based recommendations to practicing physicians and others regarding the efficacy of oocyte cryopreservation (OC) for donor oocyte in vitro fertilization and planned OC. METHODS: The American Society for Reproductive Medicine conducted a literature search, which included systematic reviews, meta-analyses, randomized controlled trials, and prospective and retrospective comparative observational studies published from 1986 to 2018. The American Society for Reproductive Medicine Practice Committee and a task force of experts used available evidence and through consensus developed evidence-based guideline recommendations. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S): Outcomes of interest included live birth rate, clinical pregnancy rate, obstetrical and neonatal outcomes, and factors predicting reproductive outcomes. RESULT(S): The literature search identified 30 relevant studies to inform the evidence base for this guideline. RECOMMENDATION(S): Evidence-based recommendations were developed for predicting the likelihood of live births after planned OC, autologous OC in infertile women, and donor OC, as well as factors that may impact live birth rates. Recommendations were developed regarding neonatal outcomes after using fresh vs. cryopreserved oocytes in cases of autologous or donor oocytes. CONCLUSION(S): There is insufficient evidence to predict live birth rates after planned OC. On the basis of limited data, ongoing and live birth rates appear to be improved for women who undergo planned OC at a younger vs. older age. Although there are no significant differences in per transfer pregnancy rates with cryopreserved vs. fresh donor oocytes, there is insufficient evidence that the live birth rate is the same with vitrified vs. fresh donor oocytes. Neonatal outcomes appear similar with cryopreserved oocytes compared with fresh oocytes. Future studies that compare cumulative live birth rates are needed.

Ideal lag time from ovulation to oocyte aspiration using a GnRH agonist trigger.

BACKGROUND: In ART, oocyte maturation (M2) and ovulation is stimulated by a hormonal trigger. For maturation to occur, sufficient "lag time" must elapse between the trigger and aspiration, ranging from 32 to 38 hours. Premature aspiration can result in poor yields; late aspiration risks spontaneous ovulation. AIM: Our study examines optimal lag time using a GnRH antagonist protocol and GnRH agonist trigger for ICSI. METHODS AND MATERIALS: We analyzed data from 220 women undergoing GnRH antagonist protocol using a GnRH agonist trigger for ICSI at our clinic between 02/2012-03/2018. Patients were divided into 4 groups based on lag time: 34.00-34.99 hours (n = 32), 35.00-35.99 hours (n = 113), 36.00-36.99 hours (n = 57) and 37.00 h or more (n = 18). Analyses were performed with the Kruskal-Wallis test, Chi-Square, and Spearman's rho correlation. RESULTS: A positive correlation was found for the number of M2 oocytes aspirated and lag time (ρ = 0.138, p = 0.04) and for the total number of oocytes aspirated and lag time, (ρ = 0.174, p = 0.01). No correlation was found between the proportion of M2 oocytes aspirated and lag time (p = 0.217). The third group (36 h) had significantly more M2 oocytes aspirated than the second group (35 h) (12.4 ± 7.1 vs 9.4 ± 6.2; p = 0.039). The four groups did not differ for the proportion of mature M2 oocytes (H = 2.453, p = 0.484). The four groups differed in the frequency of live births per fresh embryos transferred (χ2 = 9.364, p = 0.025). CONCLUSION: Our study identified a positive correlation between lag time and both the number of M2 oocytes and the total number of oocytes aspirated-factors which lead to an increased rate of successful pregnancies. Further research is necessary.

Female age is associated with the optimal number of oocytes to maximize fresh live birth rates: an analysis of 256,643 fresh ART cycles.

RESEARCH QUESTION: What is the optimal number of oocytes retrieved at which maximum live birth rate is observed after fresh autologous assisted reproductive technology (ART) cycles for women of different ages? DESIGN: Retrospective cohort study of all fresh autologous ART aspiration cycles (n = 256,643) undertaken in Australia and New Zealand between 2009 and 2015. Primary outcome measure was live birth rate (LBR) (delivery of at least one liveborn baby at 20 weeks' gestation or over per fresh aspiration cycle). Cycles were grouped according to female age (<30, 30-34, 35-49, 40-44 and ≥45 years) and ovarian response (one to three, four to nine, 10-14, 15-19, 20-25 and ≥25 oocytes). Secondary outcome was incidence of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) requiring hospitalization. RESULTS: At different oocyte yields, LBR per fresh aspiration cycle peaked and then declined at, depending on female age: <30 years: six to 11 oocytes (LBR 31-34%); 30-34 years: 11-16 oocytes (LBR 29-30%); 35-39 years: nine to 17 oocytes (LBR 21-24%); and 40-44 years: 15-17 oocytes (LBR 11-12%). The incidence of OHSS increased significantly with the number of oocytes retrieved, from 1.2% with 15 oocytes retrieved to 9.3% with 30 or more oocytes retrieved (P < 0.001). CONCLUSION: The optimal number of oocytes at which maximum LBR was observed in a fresh aspiration cycle was highly dependent on age. Because of the observational nature of the results, a cause-effect relationship between the number of oocytes retrieved and LBR should not be assumed; evidence from well-designed randomized control trials is required before clinical advice can be suggested.

Automated anti-Mullerian hormone measurement: data review to provide insights and interpretation.

RESULTS: AMH results were pooled and a table with 2.5 and 97.5 percentiles for each age group constructed. Based on Youden index, the optimal cut off for low responders (0-3 eggs), was 5.5 pmol/l (87% sensitivity, 55% specificity) and for high responders (>15 eggs) 15.6 pmol/l (78% sensitivity, 57% specificity). AMH correlated with number of eggs collected (r = 0.48) and clinical pregnancies (r = 0.14), (p < .0001). CONCLUSIONS: The table of AMH levels measured using the Access 2 fully automated immunoassay system according to age may be used as a reference and cutoff levels for high and poor responders are clearly defined to help tailor controlled ovarian stimulation, maximizing efficiency and ensuring patient safety. The use of a random access automated immunoassay system means that blood sampled on arrival can produce an AMH result in 40 mins by the time the subject enters the doctor's clinic together with other relevant endocrine markers.

A multicenter, prospective, blinded, nonselection study evaluating the predictive value of an aneuploid diagnosis using a targeted next-generation sequencing-based preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy assay and impact of biopsy.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the predictive value of an aneuploid diagnosis with a targeted next-generation sequencing-based preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A) assay in prognosticating the failure of a successful delivery. DESIGN: Prospective, blinded, multicenter, nonselection study. All usable blastocysts were biopsied, and the single best morphologic blastocyst was transferred before genetic analysis. Preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy was performed after clinical outcome was determined. Clinical outcomes were compared to PGT-A results to calculate the predictive value of a PGT-A aneuploid diagnosis. SETTING: Fertility centers. PATIENT(S): Couples undergoing their first in vitro fertilization cycle without recurrent pregnancy loss, antral follicle count < 8, or body mass index ≥ 35 kg/m2. INTERVENTION(S): None. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S): The primary outcome was the ability of the analytical result of aneuploid to predict failure to deliver (clinical result). A secondary outcome was the impact of the trophectoderm biopsy on sustained implantation. RESULT(S): Four hundred two patients underwent 484 single, frozen, blastocyst transfers. The PGT-A aneuploid diagnosis clinical error rate was 0%. There was no difference in sustained implantation between the study group and an age-matched control group, where biopsy was not performed (47.9% vs. 45.8). CONCLUSION(S): The PGT-A assay evaluated was highly prognostic of failure to deliver when an aneuploid result was obtained. Additionally, the trophectoderm biopsy had no detectable adverse impact on sustained implantation. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBERS: NCT02032264 and NCT03604107.

DuoStim cycles potentially boost reproductive outcomes in poor prognosis patients.

AIM: To evaluate the overall performance and oocyte quality of follicular phase stimulation (FPS) vs. luteal phase stimulation (LPS) among patients undergoing double ovarian stimulation (DuoStim). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Observational retrospective two-center cohort study including 79 infertile women who underwent a total of 87 DuoStim cycles between January 2017 and May 2019. Besides assessing baseline characteristics in order to determine the patients' clinical profile, we analyzed the FPS and LPS regarding the total dose of gonadotropin received, the duration of stimulation, the number and maturity of oocytes, fertilization and blastocyst formation rates, and the number of blastocysts obtained. RESULTS: The patients' baseline characteristics were compatible with a diminished ovarian reserve and poor reproductive prognosis. While the luteal phase needed longer stimulation (12 days (5-19) vs. 11 (7-16), p < .001) and slightly higher gonadotropin doses (2946 ± 890 IU vs. 2550 ± 970 IU, p < .001), no significant differences were detected in the oocyte maturity, fertilization, and blastocyst formation rates. However, the number of oocytes retrieved (5 (0-16) vs. 4 (0-15), p = .006), mature oocytes (4 (0-15) vs. 3 (0-11), p = .032), and blastocysts obtained (70 vs. 53) were substantially greater after LPS. CONCLUSIONS: The DuoStim strategy in poor prognosis patients increases the number of oocytes and blastocysts available. Moreover, the number of oocytes and blastocysts obtained are higher after LPS when compared to FPS. Thus, it should be considered for selected patients in order to not only improve reproductive outcomes but also shorten the time to pregnancy.

Electronic whiteboard implementation as a quality management tool optimizes IVF laboratory standardization and improves clinical outcomes.

PURPOSE: To test whether an electronic whiteboard in the IVF laboratory increases the likelihood that critical evaluation procedures are performed within optimum pre-set time ranges. METHODS: A retrospective cohort study of oocyte retrievals in our IVF clinic between 06/01/2012 and 05/31/2018 was included. The electronic whiteboard was introduced on 04/06/2014. Prior to implementation, embryologists strived to adhere to the set evaluation times without a formal guide. The primary outcomes were the proportion of embryologist evaluations performed in optimum time ranges and the proportion of usable embryos per patient. RESULTS: A total of 4645 retrievals met inclusion criteria. Implementation of the whiteboard was associated with (1) an increase in the proportion of fertilization checks performed within the optimum time range for ICSI cycles (+ 5.1%, RR = 1.06, CI = 1.02-1.10); (2) an increase in the proportion of day 3 evaluations performed within the optimum time range, whether assisted hatching was performed (+ 23.6%, RR = 1.48, CI = 1.36-1.60) or not (+ 13.8%, RR = 1.23, CI = 1.12-1.35); and (3) an increase in the proportion of day 5 evaluations within the optimum time range (+ 15.5%, RR = 1.23, CI = 1.12-1.35). Additionally, the mean number of usable embryos per patient increased from 2.8 to 4.5 after the whiteboard was implemented (RR = 1.25, CI = 1.19-1.31). CONCLUSION: The use of an electronic whiteboard that posts optimum times for performing critical procedures significantly increases the proportion of evaluations that occur within these ranges. Such improved standardization led to positive downstream effects on the number of usable embryos per patient. We suggest that electronic whiteboard implementation driven by real-time data collection should be considered in all IVF laboratories.

Testing and interpreting measures of ovarian reserve: a committee opinion.

Ovarian reserve is defined as the number of oocytes remaining in the ovary, or oocyte quantity (oocyte number). Markers of ovarian reserve include hormone levels and sonographically measured features of the ovaries. These markers can be useful as predictors of oocyte yield following controlled ovarian stimulation and oocyte retrieval. However, they are poor predictors of reproductive potential independently from age. This document replaces the document of the same name last published in 2012 (Fertil Steril 2012;98:1407-15).

Selection of competent oocytes by morphological criteria for assisted reproductive technologies.

Invasive and noninvasive methods are commonly used to select developmentally competent oocytes that can improve the take-home baby rates in assisted reproductive technology (ART) centers. One of the noninvasive methods conventionally utilized to determine competent oocytes is the morphological analysis of cumulus complex, first polar body, zona pellucida, perivitelline space, meiotic spindle, and ooplasm. Successful fertilization, early embryo development, uterine implantation, and healthy pregnancy depend on the quality of oocytes, and morphological evaluation is one of the options used to predict quality levels. In this review, the morphological criteria being utilized in certain ART centers are comprehensively evaluated with special references to their predictive values and potential contributions to selecting high-quality oocytes.

Delayed versus immediate frozen embryo transfer after oocyte retrieval: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

PURPOSE: This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to compare pregnancy outcomes between immediate frozen embryo transfer (FET) performed within the first menstrual cycle after oocyte retrieval and delayed FET following subsequent cycles. METHODS: PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science were searched for eligible studies through January 2020. The main outcome measures were clinical pregnancy rate (CPR), live birth rate (LBR), and pregnancy loss rate (PLR). The effect size was estimated as risk ratio (RR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) using a random effects model. Inter-study heterogeneity was assessed by the I2 statistic. RESULTS: Twelve retrospective cohort studies involving 18,230 cycles were included. The pooled results revealed no significant differences between delayed and immediate FET in CPR (RR 0.94, 95% CI 0.87-1.03; I2 = 67.9%), LBR (RR 0.94, 95% CI 0.85-1.03; I2 = 67.5%), and PLR (RR 1.05, 95% CI 0.87-1.26; I2 = 42.7%). Subgroup analyses of freeze-all cycles showed a marginal decrease of CPR in delayed FET (RR 0.93, 95% CI 0.86-1.00; I2 = 53.6%), but no significant changes were observed regarding LBR (RR 0.93, 95% CI 0.85-1.02; I2 = 65.2%) and PLR (RR 1.09, 95% CI 0.84-1.41; I2 = 59.1%). No statistical differences were found in effect estimates among other subgroup analyses by ovarian stimulation protocol, trigger agent, endometrial preparation regimen, and embryo stage. CONCLUSION: Timing of the first FET after oocyte retrieval was not significantly associated with pregnancy outcomes. This finding refutes the current common practice to delay FET after oocyte retrieval and reassures patients who wish to proceed with FET at their earliest convenience. Due to the high heterogeneity and observational nature of included studies, further randomized controlled trials are needed to confirm the results.

Minimum standards for practices offering assisted reproductive technologies: a committee opinion.

This document is designed to provide a framework for assisted reproductive technology (ART) programs that meet or exceed the requirements suggested by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for certification of ART laboratories. This document replaces the document, "Revised Minimum Standards for Practices Offering Assisted Reproductive Technologies: A Committee Opinion," published in 2014.

Prokineticin 1 is a new biomarker of human oocyte competence: expression and hormonal regulation throughout late folliculogenesis.

CONTEXT: Prokineticin 1 (PROK1) quantification in global follicular fluid (FF) has been recently reported as a predictive biomarker of in vitro fertilization (IVF) outcome. It is now necessary to evaluate its clinical usefulness in individual follicles. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the clinical value of PROK1 secretion in individual FF to predict oocyte competence. To determine the impact of follicular size, oocyte maturity, and gonadotropin treatments on PROK1 secretion. DESIGN AND SETTING: Prospective cohort study from May 2015 to May 2017 at the University Hospital of Grenoble. PATIENTS: A total of 69 infertile couples underwent IVF. INTERVENTION(S): Collection of 298 individual FF from 44 women undergoing IVF; 52 individual cumulus cell (CC) samples and 15 CC primary cultures from 25 women undergoing IVF-intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S): Oocyte competence was defined as the ability to sustain embryo development to the blastocyst stage. Follicular size was measured by 2D-sonography. PROK1 concentration was quantified by ELISA assay. RESULTS: PROK1 concentration was correlated to follicular size (r = 0.85, P = 2.2 × 10-16). Normalized PROK1 concentration in FF was predictive of subsequent oocyte competence (AUROC curve = 0.76 [95% CI, 0.69-0.83]; P = 1.7 × 10-9), irrespectively of day-2 embryo morphokinetic parameters. The expression and secretion of PROK1 were increased in FF and CC of mature oocytes (P < 0.01). Follicle Stimulating Hormone and hCG up-regulated PROK1 secretion in CC primary cultures (P < 0.01; P < 0.05), probably through the cAMP pathway (P < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: PROK1 quantification in individual FF could constitute a new predictive biomarker of oocyte competence in addition with embryo morphokinetic parameters. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: none.

Extracellular vesicles derived from endometrial human mesenchymal stem cells enhance embryo yield and quality in an aged murine model†.

Advanced age is a risk factor undermining women's fertility. Hence, the optimization of assisted reproduction techniques is an interdisciplinary challenge that requires the improvement of in vitro culture systems. Here, we hypothesize that supplementation of embryo culture medium with extracellular vesicles from endometrial-derived mesenchymal stem cells (EV-endMSCs) may have a positive impact on the embryo competence of aged oocytes. In this work, 24 weeks old B6D2 female mice were used as egg donors and in vitro fertilization assays were performed using males from the same strain (8-12 weeks); the presumptive zygotes were incubated in the presence of 0, 10, 20, 40, or 80 µg/ml of EV-endMSCs. The results from the proteomic analysis of EV-endMSCs and the classification by Reactome pathways allowed us to identify proteins closely related with the fertilization process. Moreover, in our aged murine model, the supplementation of the embryo culture medium with EV-endMSCs improved the developmental competence of the embryos as well as the total blastomere count. Finally, gene expression analysis of murine blastocysts showed significant changes on core genes related to cellular response to oxidative stress, metabolism, placentation, and trophectoderm/inner cell mass formation. In summary, we demonstrate that EV-endMSCs increase the quality of the embryos, and according to proteomic and genomic analysis, presumably by modulating the expression of antioxidant enzymes and promoting pluripotent activity. Therefore, EV-endMSCs could be a valuable tool in human assisted reproduction improving the developmental competence of aged oocytes and increasing the odds of implantation and subsequent delivery.

Cumulative live birth rate in freeze-all cycles is comparable to that of a conventional embryo transfer policy at the cleavage stage but superior at the blastocyst stage.

OBJECTIVE: To determine whether the freeze-all policy ensures a higher efficacy in terms of cumulative live birth rate (CLBR) in comparison with a conventional fresh/frozen embryo transfer (ET) approach in patients with normal ovarian response. DESIGN: Retrospective, matched, multicenter cohort study. SETTING: Private IVF centers. PATIENT(S): This study analyzed 564 completed IVF cycles in which an average of 12-18 oocytes were retrieved. In 435 cycles the conventional strategy was applied, with initial ET followed by frozen embryo replacements, whereas in 129 cycles the freeze-all policy was performed, with elective cryopreservation and deferred use of all viable embryos. INTERVENTION(S): None. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S): The primary endpoint was CLBR. The secondary endpoint was cumulative clinical pregnancy rate. RESULT(S): Overall, statistically comparable CLBRs were achieved in the fresh/frozen and freeze-all groups (45.5% vs. 53.5%). Stratification of data for age and number of retrieved oocytes confirmed the absence of differences between the two groups. In a subanalysis in which the day of ET and cryopreservation were taken into account, a similar outcome was achieved in cleavage-stage groups (45.6% vs. 46.4%), whereas when ET was performed at the blastocyst stage the CLBR was significantly higher in the freeze-all group (45.3% vs. 66.7%). CONCLUSION(S): Our CLBR analysis indicates that clinical performance of the freeze-all policy is equivalent to that of the conventional strategy when ET is carried out at the cleavage stage. However, it seems to be superior if associated with cryopreservation and transfer at the blastocyst stage.

The development of in vitro embryo production in the horse.

The development of techniques to produce equine embryos in vitro is reviewed with specific reference to intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). Unexplored 50 years ago, this technology has progressed rapidly in the last 20 years to become a commercial reality for the equine breeding industry. Improvements in our understanding of oocyte and embryo competence in the horse have been key factors in overcoming some of the initial problems associated with ICSI. It is now possible to obtain high nuclear maturation and cleavage rates in vitro and the most limiting factor, presently, is the low rate of development to the blastocyst stage. However, in spite of this, once obtained, these in vitro-derived blastocysts can result in pregnancy rates in excess of 60% following transfer.

Ovarian response to controlled ovarian stimulation for fertility preservation before oncology treatment: A retrospective cohort of 157 patients.

This is a retrospective cohort study aiming to examine the response of oncology patients undergoing controlled ovarian stimulation (COS) for fertility preservation and to review the incidence of short-term complications. The study group consisted by all oncology patients undergoing ovarian stimulation for fertility preservation (n = 157) between April 2009 and April 2016. Patients undergoing COS for IVF/ICSI for male factor only infertility in the same time period (n = 2,128) provided a comparator group. Oncology patients underwent COS to retrieve eggs for storage and future use. The cancer patients had a very similar distribution of oocyte yield to the comparator group. Those with ovarian cancer did have significantly lower oocyte recovery than those with other cancers (age-adjusted difference 7, 95% CI: 2-12). None of the patients in the study group were admitted with ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome or any other complication of COS or oocyte retrieval. This is one of the largest reported cohorts of patients treated for fertility preservation before oncology treatment. Our data have demonstrated a good response to stimulation, offering a reasonable chance of pregnancy in the future. In contrast to previous studies, we have demonstrated a similar number of oocytes retrieved to that of women undergoing IVF/ICSI treatment for male factor infertility.

How many embryos should be transferred? A validated score to predict ongoing implantation rate.

OBJECTIVE: To developed a prognostic score to predict ongoing implantation rate according to clinical and biological parameters and to choose the number of embryos to be transferred in patients undergoing IVF/ICSI. STUDY DESIGN: The transfer score was established using multivariate analysis of biological and clinical parameters in 3211 fresh embryo transfers in a retrospective study. Then we validated the score in 694 fresh embryo transfers in a prospective study. We assessed ongoing implantation rates, ongoing pregnancy rates, multiple pregnancy rates and live birth rate. RESULTS: Among the different variables tested, 4 were identified that influenced the implantation rate: female age, the ratio of retrieved oocytes/mean daily dose of injected FSH, attempt rank and the morphology of the embryo cohort. Prospective application of this score resulted in significantly lower number of transferred embryos (1.8 vs 2.0 P<0.001) and lower twins rates (9.7% vs 17.3%, P<0.001) without decreasing live birth rates. CONCLUSION: Although the risks of multiple pregnancies should not be ignored, it appears excessive to impose the limit of 2 embryos for transfer particularly in situations with a poor prognosis. We sought to provide a personalized prognosis by using clinical and embryo data in order to choose the number of embryo(s) for transfer with a moderate multiple pregnancy rate of less than 11%.

Revised guidelines for good practice in IVF laboratories (2015).

STUDY QUESTION: Which recommendations can be provided by the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology Special Interest Group (ESHRE SIG) Embryology to support laboratory specialists in the organization and management of IVF laboratories and the optimization of IVF patient care? SUMMARY ANSWER: Structured in 13 sections, the guideline development group formulated recommendations for good practice in the organization and management of IVF laboratories, and for good practice of the specific procedures performed within the IVF laboratory. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY: NA. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION: The guideline was produced by a group of 10 embryologists representing different European countries, settings and levels of expertise. The group evaluated the document of 2008, and based on this assessment, each group member rewrote one or more sections. Two 2-day meetings were organized during which each of the recommendations was discussed and rewritten until consensus within the guideline group was reached. After finalizing the draft, the members of the ESHRE SIG embryology were invited to review the guideline. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS: NA. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE: The guideline provides recommendations on the general organization of an IVF laboratory (staffing and direction, quality management, laboratory safety), and on the specific aspects of the procedures performed in IVF laboratories (Identification of patients and traceability of their reproductive cells, consumables, handling of biological material, oocyte retrieval, sperm preparation, insemination of oocytes, scoring for fertilization, embryo culture and transfer, and cryopreservation). A last section provides recommendations regarding an Emergency plan for IVF laboratories. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION: Evidence on most of the issues described is scarce, and therefore it was decided not to perform a formal search for and assessment of scientific evidence. However, recommendations published in the EUTCD and relevant and recent documents, manuals and consensus papers were taken into account when formulating the recommendations. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS: Despite the limitations, the guideline group is confident that this document will be helpful to directors and managers involved in the management and organization of IVF laboratories, but also to embryologists and laboratory technicians performing daily tasks. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS: The guideline was developed and funded by ESHRE, covering expenses associated with the guideline meetings. The guideline group members did not receive payment. Dr Coticchio reports speaker's fees from IBSA and Cook, outside the submitted work; Dr Lundin reports grants from Vitrolife, personal fees from Merck Serono, non-financial support from Unisense, outside the submitted work; Dr. Rienzi reports personal fees from Merck Serono, personal fees from MSD, grants from GFI, outside the submitted work; the other authors had nothing to disclose. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: NA.

Impact of endometrial cavity fluid on assisted reproductive technology outcomes.

BACKGROUND: The impact of endometrial cavity fluid (ECF) on assisted reproductive technology (ART) outcomes has not been evaluated in a meta-analysis. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the impact of ECF on the outcome of ART cycles. SEARCH STRATEGY: PubMed, China Academic Journals Full-text Database, and China Doctoral/Masters Dissertations Full-text Databases were searched for reports published in any language before January 1, 2015, using relevant keywords. SELECTION CRITERIA: Studies were included if they compared the outcome of ART in women with and without ECF. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: Background information, participants' characteristics, and study outcomes were recorded. Odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using the Mantel-Haenszel method. MAIN RESULTS: Six studies evaluating 5928 ART cycles were included. The pregnancy rate was significantly lower in the group with ECF than in the group without ECF (OR 0.74, 95% CI 0.55-0.98; P=0.03). The same association was observed if the analysis included only patients with hydrosalpinx (OR 0.36, 95% CI 0.15-0.86; P=0.02). CONCLUSIONS: The clinical pregnancy rate after ART is significantly lower among patients with ECF than among those without ECF. In addition, if ECF is found in patients with hydrosalpinx, ART cycles should be cancelled after oocyte retrieval.