Too many embryos: a critical perspective on a global challenge.

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Medicine
• Embryology
• In Vitro Fertilization

Background:

• Assisted reproductive technologies have advanced, leading to more high-quality embryos per cycle.
• A significant number of cryopreserved embryos remain unused, particularly in Europe (about one-third).
• Surplus embryos present ethical and logistical challenges for patients and fertility clinics, with varying disposal regulations across countries.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore strategies for minimizing the creation of surplus embryos in in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycles.
• To investigate the potential of tailoring oocyte insemination numbers based on individual couple's clinical history.

Main Methods:

• Review of current practices and outcomes in assisted reproduction.
• Analysis of factors contributing to surplus embryo creation.
• Consideration of patient clinical history as a predictive factor for embryo development.

Main Results:

• Increased effectiveness of IVF has led to a higher incidence of surplus embryos.
• Varied embryo disposal regulations across Europe complicate management of unused embryos.
• Personalized oocyte insemination strategies may reduce embryo surplus.

Conclusions:

• Limiting the number of inseminated oocytes, guided by a couple's clinical history, is a viable strategy to reduce the number of surplus embryos.
• This approach could alleviate challenges associated with unused embryos for patients and clinics.
• Further research into personalized oocyte insemination protocols is warranted to optimize IVF outcomes and resource utilization.