In a nutshell
This study investigated if progestin-primed ovarian stimulation (PPOS) is associated with infant birth defects. They found that PPOS is not associated with negative outcomes in infants.
Some background
Assisted reproductive techniques (ART) include in vitro fertilization (IVF) and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). In order to perform IVF, oocytes (eggs) are harvested from the ovaries. Gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist (GnRHa) is a drug used to stimulate the ovaries to release oocytes.
Recently, a new procedure for ovarian stimulation has been introduced. Progestin-primed ovarian stimulation (PPOS) uses progestin (a synthetic female hormone) to stimulate the ovaries. Progestin can be taken orally whereas GnRHa must be injected. PPOS also has a lower risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS). This is a major complication of ovarian stimulation. It is unclear if PPOS has a negative effect on infants born following ART.
Methods & findings
This study included the records of 1589 infants born following ART. Mothers underwent either PPOS or standard GnRHa ovarian stimulation. The authors analyzed information on pregnancy and live birth rates. They also analyzed the rate of birth defects.
PPOS led to 855 live-born infants and standard stimulation led to 734 live-born infants. There was no difference in birth age, weight or length after either procedure. The rate of infant birth defects was similar following PPOS (1.52%) or standard stimulation (1.63%). Compared to single-child pregnancies, the risk of birth defects was 3.14 times higher in pregnancies with more than one child. This was true for both ovarian stimulation procedures.
The bottom line
The authors concluded that PPOS has similar outcomes in infants as conventional ovarian stimulation procedures.
The fine print
The long-term health of infants was not analyzed in this study. More investigation is needed to ensure PPOS is safe for mothers and infants.
What’s next?
If you have any concerns regarding fertility treatment, please consult with your physician.
Published By :
Medicine
Date :
Aug 01, 2018
