Researchers at the Sahlgrenska Academy have discovered a way to increase the likelihood of successful in vitro fertilization (IVF). Stimulating 20 oocytes, instead of the 10 canons, makes it easier for the cycle to be successful. The results could improve treatment outcomes for hundreds of women.

A previous study had established that 10 was the perfect number of oocytes to be used for IVF. According to the scientists, going beyond this number was useless and increased the risk of side effects. Nevertheless, they had only examined implant data performed a few days after the oocyte collection. The study did not include subsequent implants, performed with frozen embryos.

According to the latter study, there is no link between the use of multiple oocytes and possible fetal complications. However, there is a slight increase in the risk of bleeding during gestation and delivery. On the other hand, collecting more oocytes at once would save more hormone treatments to a large number of women.

The researchers examined data collected between 2002 and 2015 by the Swedish National Quality Registry of Assisted Reproduction (Q-IVF). They compared data related to the number of oocytes collected, implant rate, live birth rate and serious complications for mother and child. This allowed to raise the ideal number of oocytes to be collected.

According to Dr. Asa Magnusson, the optimal number of oocytes to mature would be about 20. Over this number, there would be an increase in complications.

Source: gu.se/english