In a nutshell
This study investigated if antibiotic treatment for endometritis affects the outcome of in vitro fertilization (IVF). They found that antibiotic treatment of CE improved IVF outcomes in patients who also experienced recurrent implantation failure.
Some background
Chronic endometritis (CE) is a condition caused by inflammation in the uterus lining. It can be difficult to diagnose as the symptoms are not severe and include pelvic discomfort, discharge and abnormal bleeding.
Recent evidence suggests CE may be very common in women with infertility. There is also evidence that women with CE undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) are more likely have recurrent implantation failure (RIF). RIF occurs when the fertilized embryo does not successfully attach to the uterus wall. CE can be effectively treated with antibiotics however, it is not known if antibiotic treatment can affect the success of fertility treatment (e.g. in vitro fertilization).
Methods & findings
This study investigated if antibiotic treatment for CE effects the outcome of IVF in women at risk of RIF.
This study reviewed data from 5 clinical reports with 796 patients with RIF. All patients underwent IVF.
Patients receiving antibiotic therapy had similar rates of implantation, clinical pregnancy (positive pregnancy test) and live birth compared to patients without CE. Patients that were treated for CE had higher rates of ongoing pregnancy/live birth (6.8-fold), clinical pregnancy (4.98-fold) and implantation (3.24-fold) compared to untreated CE patients. The rate of miscarriage was not different between any of the groups.
The bottom line
The authors concluded that antibiotic treatment of CE improved IVF outcomes in patients who also experienced recurrent implantation failure.
The fine print
The number of patients included in this analysis was relatively small. The methods and treatment regimens varied across the studies. A randomized, controlled clinical trial is needed to confirm the effect of antibiotic treatment on IVF outcomes.
What’s next?
If you have any concerns regarding antibiotic treatment and IVF procedures please consult with your doctor.
Published By :
Fertility and Sterility
Date :
Jun 13, 2018
