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Does hormonal contraception prior to in vitro fertilization (IVF) negatively affect oocyte yields? A pilot study.

Authors :
Barad DH
Kim A
Kubba H
Weghofer A
Gleicher N
Source :
Reproductive biology and endocrinology : RB&E [Reprod Biol Endocrinol] 2013 Apr 04; Vol. 11, pp. 28. Date of Electronic Publication: 2013 Apr 04.
Publication Year :
2013

Abstract

Background: As oral contraceptives (OCs) suppress anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), and hormonal contraceptives (HCs), likely, suppress functional ovarian reserve, this study was initiated to determine whether HC affect oocyte yields.<br />Methods: We investigated in a retrospective cohort study 43 oocyte donors in 71 in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycles, evaluating anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) and oocyte yields as reflections of functional ovarian reserve (OR). In 25 IVF cycles egg donors were on HC within one month prior to IVF, and in 46 cycles they were not. Donors, based on their HCs, were further subdivided into 12 with less, and 13 with more androgenic progestins.<br />Results: While the three groups did not differ in age, age at menarche, BMI and AMH, oocyte yields among donors who utilized estrane- and gonane-derived (higher androgenic) HCs were lower 11.3 (95% CI 8.3 - 14.3) than either donors using no HCs 16.6 (95% CI 14.7 -18.4) (P < 0.05) or those using anti-androgenic HCs 19.0 (95% CI 12.2-25.8) (P< 0.01). Significance was maintained after adjustments for the donor age and total FSH dose used in ovulation induction.<br />Conclusions: Even in young oocyte donors, high androgenic OC exposure appears to suppress functional ovarian reserve and oocyte yields. Since OCs are often routinely used in preparation for IVF, such practice may require reevaluation. Especially in women with diminished ovarian reserve OCs, and especially high androgenic progestin HCs, should, likely, be avoided.

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
1477-7827
Volume :
11
Database :
MEDLINE
Journal :
Reproductive biology and endocrinology : RB&E
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
23557032
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1186/1477-7827-11-28