Factors relating to a successful cryopreserved blastocyst transfer program.

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Medicine
• Embryology
• In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)

Background:

• Cryopreservation of human embryos is a crucial component of assisted reproductive technologies.
• Blastocyst cryopreservation offers an alternative to fresh embryo transfer, potentially improving IVF success rates.
• Evaluating the efficacy of frozen blastocyst transfer programs is essential for optimizing patient outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the outcomes of a frozen blastocyst program.
• To determine the success rates of cryopreserved blastocyst transfers.
• To compare the efficacy of day 5 versus day 6 frozen blastocysts.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 64 frozen blastocyst nondonor thaw cycles at a university IVF program.
• Blastocysts cryopreserved using Menezo two-step and Testart slow cool protocols.
• Thawed blastocysts (day 5 or 6) transferred into luteal day 5 endometrium in natural or programmed cycles.

Main Results:

• The implantation rate was 16%, with no significant difference between day 5 and day 6 frozen blastocysts.
• Clinical pregnancy rates were 36% and delivery rates were 27%.
• Outcomes were comparable for both day 5 and day 6 frozen blastocysts.

Conclusions:

• Blastocyst cryopreservation is a successful and viable option for patients undergoing IVF, regardless of age.
• Freezing good quality blastocysts on day 5 or day 6 yields comparable results, crucial for successful thaw cycles.
• Frozen blastocyst transfer complements fresh blastocyst transfer, enhancing overall IVF program efficiency.