Predicting IVF outcome in poor ovarian responders

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Endocrinology
• In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)

Background:

• Poor ovarian response (POR) presents significant challenges in fertility treatments.
• Failed IVF cycles lead to substantial emotional and financial burdens for patients.
• Effective fertility counseling is crucial for managing patient expectations in POR cases.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate reproductive outcomes in patients with POR undergoing IVF/ICSI.
• To identify key factors predicting live birth (LB) in these patients.
• To assess the Bologna criteria for defining POR.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 751 IVF/ICSI cycles in poor responders.
• Inclusion criteria: up to three retrieved oocytes, Bologna criteria fulfillment.
• Logistic regression analysis to identify predictors of LB.

Main Results:

• Live birth rates were significantly higher in women under 40 years old (6.8%) compared to older women (2.1%).
• Factors associated with LB included younger age, higher oocyte retrieval, and better fertilization rates.
• Multivariable analysis confirmed patient age (OR 0.90) and retrieved oocytes (OR 1.95) as independent predictors of LB.

Conclusions:

• Woman's age and number of retrieved oocytes are independent predictors of live birth in poor responders.
• The high cost and low success rates question the universal provision of IVF for all POR patients.
• Women under 40 with POR may represent a subgroup with a viable chance for live birth.