The HOPE Registry: first US registry for oocyte cryopreservation

The Human Oocyte Preservation Experience (HOPE) Registry is an initiative of EMD Serono which aims to systematically track the outcomes of oocyte cryopreservation cycles and validate the efficacy and safety of techniques to freeze and thaw oocytes. Beginning in November 2008 (ASRM, San Francisco, CA), the registry will be performed as a national Phase IV observational 5-year study (including 3 years of enrolment and 2 years follow-up of babies born) in the USA and will enrol approximately 400 women of reproductive age who have thawed frozen oocytes for subsequent use through in-vitro fertilization (IVF) and embryo transfer (ET). Data relating to controlled ovarian stimulation protocols, freezing and thawing of oocytes, culture and transfer of resulting embryos, implantation rates, pregnancy outcomes and information on child health and development after birth and at 12 months will be recorded. It is anticipated that the HOPE Registry will provide answers to various unresolved questions from healthcare providers and their patients who use oocyte cryopreservation to preserve fertility, such as oocyte cryopreservation and thawing techniques and other factors associated with successful cycle outcomes.