Best chances for ICSI success revealed

A new research study has pulled together information regarding live birth rates after ICSI (Intra Cytoplasmic Sperm Injection) factored with maternal age and ovarian response. The new research found that women undergoing fertility treatment who are less than 38 years old are more likely to achieve a live birth after ICSI if 11 or more eggs are retrieved in a single cycle. The research was done at the Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Brussels.

“To our knowledge, there have been no other studies reporting on live birth rates after ICSI in relation to the number of eggs retrieved that also includes the risks for preclinical abortion and miscarriage for women with a positive pregnancy test after ICSI treatment. By focusing only on ICSI treatments, we know the exact number of mature eggs retrieved, fertilized and implanted,” said Dr. Dominic Stoop, a senior clinical fellow and gynaecologist.

They found that there is a gradual increase in the incidence of preclinical abortion, miscarriagne and overall pregnancy loss during the first trimester afer the age of 35. Prior to that the numbers are stable year after year.

For these three types of losses (preclinical abortion, miscarriage and general loss of pregnancy) at the age of 37, the rates are 8.5%, 6.8% and 16.9% (respectively). At 38-40 years the numbers go up to 13.8%, 16.6%, 33.8%. They really jump at 41-43 with 21.6%, 341.6%, and 56.7%. These are all occurring in the first trimester with ICSI conceptions.

The study also showed that best chances for live birth occur when women has 11 eggs or more retrieved.

“The study also shows a strong increase in first trimester pregnancy loss after the age of 38, with an even more pronounced increase after the age of 40. These findings illustrate the important risks associated with the delay of childbirth to more advanced ages, especially until after the age of 38,” concluded Stoop.

Source: ESHRE, Medical News Today