[Experiences and successes with intravaginal fertilization and culture of human oocytes]

We present in this study our first experience with intravaginal culture (IVC) of human oocytes as a modified technique for in-vitro fertilization. Up to 4 oocytes and washed, pre-incubated spermatozoa (final concentration: 0.1-0.2 x 10(5)/ml) are pipetted into a plastic capsule. The capsule is closed, avoiding any air inclusion. It is placed into the maternal vagina for up to 50 hours, held in place by a diaphragm. The first 15 patients treated by IVC achieved a fertilization rate of 58% (35/60). Following transfer of the cleavage stages, 3 intact clinical pregnancies were established: 2 in the group with tubal sterility factors and 1 in the group of patients with endometriosis. In the group with andrological causes of sterility, one beta-hCG-positive reaction was detected. However, no intact clinical pregnancy was achieved. Our preliminary results show IVC to be a promising alternative in particular cases of sterility treatment. In contrast to the conventional technique, IVC minimizes exposure of gametes to factors which may affect their early development, such as light or low temperature. Furthermore, there is an important psychological factor to be considered, as the patient actively participates in the incubation period of in-vitro fertilization.