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The "vanishing embryo" phenomenon in an oocyte donation programme
Manuel Rodríguez-González1, Vicente Serra, Juan Antonio Garcia-Velasco
1Department of Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Instituto Valenciano de Infertilidad, Valencia University School of Medicine, C/Guardia Civil 23, 46020 Valencia, Spain. ivivalencia@ivi.es
Human Reproduction (Oxford, England)
|March 1, 2002
Summary
Vanishing embryo (VE) occurs in 18.8% of oocyte donation pregnancies. While associated with early bleeding and preterm rupture of membranes, VE did not increase miscarriage rates or affect delivery age.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Medicine
- Obstetrics
- Perinatology
Background:
- Oocyte donation pregnancies have unique characteristics.
- The incidence and implications of vanishing embryos (VE) in these pregnancies require investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence of VE in oocyte donation pregnancies.
- To evaluate associated obstetric and perinatal complications.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective chart review of 399 patients in an oocyte donation program.
- Defined VE as early first-trimester resorption after embryonic heart activity confirmation.
- Compared outcomes between pregnancies with and without VE.
Main Results:
- VE observed in 18.8% of pregnancies, often before nine weeks.
- Higher VE incidence linked to more initial gestational sacs.
- VE associated with increased first-trimester bleeding and preterm premature rupture of membranes.
- VE group showed decreased pregnancy-induced hypertension but similar miscarriage rates and gestational age at delivery.
Conclusions:
- The incidence of VE in oocyte donation pregnancies is significant.
- Counseling for high-order multiple gestations should consider VE.
- VE may influence specific pregnancy complications but not overall miscarriage or delivery timing.