In a nutshell This study compared two methods of preparing for frozen embryo transfer (FET) for women who do not ovulate regularly. It found that letrozole (Femara) led to fewer miscarriages and higher birth rates than hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Some background FET is an increasingly common infertility treatment. FET uses additional embryos...
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Does insulin sensitivity affect fertility in women with PCOS?
In a nutshell This review looked at insulin sensitivity (IS) and its impact in fertility for women with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). It found that improving IS led to higher pregnancy rates in these women. Some background PCOS is a collection of signs and symptoms that affects hormonal health and metabolism in women. PCOS often involves higher...
Read MoreWhat is the best way to prepare for frozen embryo transfer?
In a nutshell This review looked at different hormonal methods to prepare the uterus for a frozen embryo transfer (FET). It found that cycles with ovulation led to better outcomes than an artificial cycle. Some background FET is an infertility treatment in which a frozen embryo is transferred into the uterus. The lining of the uterus needs to be...
Read MoreHow does freezing affect sperm collected through micro-TESE?
In a nutshell This study looked at how freezing affected sperm collected surgically from the testes. It found that frozen sperm and fresh sperm led to similar pregnancy rates from intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), but that there were more miscarriages when using frozen sperm. Some background Nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA) is a condition...
Read MoreDoes progesterone treatment help frozen embryo transfers following a natural cycle?
In a nutshell This review looked at whether luteal phase support (LPS) using progesterone benefitted natural cycle frozen embryo transfers (FETs). It found that FETs with progesterone support had higher pregnancy and birth rates. Some background Frozen embryo transfer (FET) is an increasingly common infertility treatment. This technique transfers an...
Read MoreDoes varicocele repair improve sperm quality?
In a nutshell This study looked at how varicocele repair surgery affects the microscopic shape of sperm. It found that surgery improved sperm shape, movement, and concentration for men with infertility. Some background Varicoceles (VCs) can be a factor in male infertility. VCs are enlarged veins of the scrotum. These enlarged veins heat the testes,...
Read MoreDoes cholesterol levels influence IVF outcomes?
In a nutshell This study looked at cholesterol and other lipid (fats) levels in the blood in women undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF). It found that women with more heart-healthy lipid levels had better IVF outcomes. Some background Lipid levels are an important measure of health. While a lipid can be any oily or waxy substance in the body,...
Read MoreDo fertility medications improve fertility outcomes for women with PCOS?
In a nutshell This study compared letrozole (Femara), clomiphene (Clomid), or no ovarian stimulation for women with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). It found that letrozole led to the uterus being more receptive to an embryo, and to higher pregnancy rates. Some background Women with PCOS do not ovulate frequently or at all. Patients who want...
Read MoreCan PDE5 inhibitors improve male fertility?
In a nutshell This review looked at whether phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE5) inhibitors such as sildenafil (Viagra) can improve male fertility. It found that these medications improve sperm concentration, shape, and movement. Some background PDE5 inhibitors are the most common treatment for erectile dysfunction (ED). These medications increase the...
Read MoreHow does endometriosis surgery affect IVF outcomes?
In a nutshell This review looked at the effect of endometriosis surgery before in vitro fertilization (IVF). It found that surgery led to better pregnancy outcomes for patients with severe endometriosis. Some background Endometriosis is a condition in which cells from the lining of the uterus grow on the ovaries, Fallopian tubes, or other places...
Read MoreCan diet and exercise improve sperm quality in men living in a polluted area?
In a nutshell This study looked at how a diet change and exercise program impacted the fertility of men living in polluted areas. It found that a healthy diet and exercise improved sperm quality in these men. Some background Fertility is an indicator of overall health. A healthful diet and regular physical exercise can support both fertility and...
Read MoreEvaluating etanercept for IVF implantation
In a nutshell This study looked at etanercept (Enbrel) for women who have had repeated unsuccessful in vitro fertilization (IVF). It found that etanercept led to good pregnancy rates in these patients. Some background The uterus forms a connection between the vagina, which is open to the outside, and the inside of the body. If harmful bacteria...
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