Fallopian tube sperm perfusion used in a donor insemination programme

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Medicine
• Infertility Treatments
• Assisted Reproductive Technology

Background:

• Fallopian tube sperm perfusion (FSP) is a fertility treatment combining ovarian stimulation, ovulation induction, and intrauterine insemination.
• This study evaluates the efficacy of FSP using frozen/thawed donor semen in couples undergoing artificial insemination by donor (AID).

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the pregnancy rates and outcomes associated with the Fallopian tube sperm perfusion (FSP) method.
• To identify factors influencing pregnancy success in FSP cycles, including follicle development, HCG administration timing, and sperm count.

Main Methods:

• Ninety-six couples underwent 196 cycles of FSP, utilizing frozen/thawed donor semen.
• Ovarian stimulation and ovulation induction were followed by intrauterine insemination with 4 ml of sperm suspension.
• Data on cycle cancellations, pregnancies, spontaneous abortions, ectopic pregnancies, and deliveries were collected and analyzed.

Main Results:

• A total of 172 cycles were completed, with 48 pregnancies (27.9% per cycle) in 45 women (49.5%).
• Pregnancy rates decreased with subsequent treatment attempts, from 34.1% (first attempt) to 14.3% (fourth attempt).
• Higher pregnancy rates were observed with 3-5 mature follicles, later HCG administration (day 11+), and were independent of sperm count (8-10 x 10^6 vs. >30 x 10^6 motile spermatozoa).

Conclusions:

• Fallopian tube sperm perfusion (FSP) is a relatively simple and effective method for achieving high pregnancy rates in artificial insemination by donor programs using frozen/thawed donor semen.
• Optimizing follicle development and timing of human chorionic gonadotrophin (HCG) administration can potentially improve FSP success rates.