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European postcoital tests: opinions and practice
S G Oei1, M J Keirse, K W Bloemenkamp
1Departmentof Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Reproductive Medicine, Leiden University Hospital, The Netherlands.
British Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology
|August 1, 1995
Summary
The postcoital test is widely used in European fertility clinics, but practices vary significantly. This wide divergence in opinion and methodology raises questions about its effectiveness for infertile couples.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Medicine
- Gynecology
- Infertility Studies
Background:
- The postcoital test (PCT) is a diagnostic tool used in infertility evaluations.
- Standardization of PCT protocols across European fertility clinics is lacking.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate current practices and opinions regarding the postcoital test (PCT) among European fertility clinics.
- To identify variations in PCT methodology, timing, and interpretation.
Main Methods:
- A multilingual questionnaire survey was distributed to heads of obstetrics and gynecology departments.
- The survey targeted 16 European countries with large fertility clinics.
- 145 out of 203 department heads (71%) responded.
Main Results:
- The PCT is utilized in 92% of surveyed departments, routinely in 68%.
- Significant variations exist in test timing, microscopic magnification, and normality cut-off levels.
- Over 10 different treatments are applied for abnormal PCT results.
Conclusions:
- Current European practices for the postcoital test deviate widely from World Health Organization guidelines.
- The substantial divergence in opinion and practice questions the clinical utility of the PCT for infertile couples.