Correlation between postswim-up hypoosmotic swelling test and in vitro fertilization results

Area of Science:

• Reproductive medicine
• Sperm analysis
• In vitro fertilization

Background:

• Assessing sperm quality is crucial for successful in vitro fertilization (IVF).
• The hypoosmotic swelling (HOS) test evaluates sperm membrane integrity and function.
• Swim-up processing is a common sperm preparation technique used in IVF.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the correlation between the hypoosmotic swelling (HOS) test performed on post-swim-up sperm samples and the fertilization outcomes in an IVF program.
• To determine if HOS test results on processed sperm can serve as a predictive marker for IVF success.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of 63 women undergoing IVF treatment at a university clinic was studied.
• Standard IVF protocols involving Buserelin, hMG, and hCG were administered.
• The hypoosmotic swelling (HOS) test was conducted on both original and swim-up processed semen samples from the male partners.
• Fertilization was assessed by the presence of two pronuclei and two polar bodies 18 hours post-insemination.

Main Results:

• A significant positive correlation (r = .68, P < .001) was observed between the hypoosmotic swelling (HOS) test results on post-swim-up sperm and the rate of fertilization in IVF.
• The HOS test on processed sperm demonstrated a strong predictive value for successful fertilization.

Conclusions:

• The hypoosmotic swelling (HOS) test on sperm after swim-up preparation is a reliable indicator of fertilization potential in IVF.
• This simple and cost-effective test can aid in predicting IVF success and optimizing treatment strategies.