Testosterone and dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate levels and IVF/ICSI results

To determine the effect of serum androgens [testosterone and dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate (DHEAS)] on in vitro fertilization/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (IVF/ICSI) outcomes.

This observational (cross sectional) study was conducted on 53 consecutive infertile women undergoing IVF cycles in an academic infertility clinic between September 2006 and August 2007. Basal testosterone and DHEAS were measured and on third day of IVF cycle and on 14th day of embryo transfer these values were re-checked. Serum beta-hCG analysis was done 12 days after embryo transfer and ultrasound scan was scheduled 2 weeks later.

Testosterone level was significantly elevated in pregnant women on 14th day of embryo transfer (p < 0.001). Testosterone and DHEAS concentrations on third day of IVF cycle and DHEAS concentration 2 weeks after embryo transfer had not significant correlation with IVF success, but mean androgens concentrations were higher in pregnant group.

Serum testosterone concentration on 14th day of embryo transfer can predict successful IVF cycles, so with regulating androgen levels, improved pregnancy rates can be expected.