Microorganisms within human follicular fluid: effects on IVF

Area of Science:

• Reproductive biology
• Microbiology
• Infertility research

Background:

• Previous research identified microorganisms in human follicular fluid.
• The role of these microorganisms in in vitro fertilization (IVF) outcomes requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To detect microorganisms in human follicular fluid.
• To correlate the presence of these microorganisms with IVF outcomes.
• To differentiate between follicular fluid colonizers and contaminants.

Main Methods:

• Collected 263 paired follicular fluid and vaginal swab samples from women undergoing IVF.
• Cultured samples to identify microorganisms.
• Correlated microbial findings with infertility causes and IVF outcomes (embryo transfer, pregnancy, live birth rates).

Main Results:

• Microorganisms were detected in human follicular fluid.
• The presence of certain microorganisms was associated with decreased embryo transfer and pregnancy rates.
• Lactobacillus spp. in follicular fluid correlated with successful embryo maturation and transfer.
• Adverse effects on live birth rates were observed in women with idiopathic infertility.

Conclusions:

• Follicular fluid microorganisms can negatively impact IVF outcomes, including pregnancy and live birth rates.
• Microbial presence in follicular fluid is a potential factor in adverse pregnancy outcomes.
• Lactobacillus spp. may play a beneficial role in IVF embryo development.