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International Journal of Molecular... Oct 2022Various interventions have been proposed to improve embryo implantation in IVF. Among these, intrauterine injections of human chorionic gonadotropin seem to have... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
Various interventions have been proposed to improve embryo implantation in IVF. Among these, intrauterine injections of human chorionic gonadotropin seem to have promising results. Consequently, we conducted a review and meta-analysis to assess IVF outcomes by comparing couples who underwent intrauterine hCG injection transfer versus those who underwent embryo transfer with intrauterine injection of placebo, or without any additional intervention. The primary outcome was the clinical pregnancy rate. Secondary outcomes were the implantation rate, miscarriage rate, and live birth rate. A meta-analysis was conducted using the random effects model, while bias within studies was detected using the Cochrane risk of bias tool. Ectopic pregnancies and stillbirths were also assessed. The clinical pregnancy (RR 1.38, 95% CI 1.17−1.62, p < 0.0001) and implantation rate (RR 1.40, 95% CI 1.12−1.75, p = 0.003) were significantly higher in women who underwent hCG injection than in the control group. These significant effects persisted only in women who underwent cleavage-stage embryo transfer. No significant differences between groups were observed in the other secondary outcomes. In conclusion, our systematic review and meta-analysis demonstrate that intrauterine injection of hCG could be a valuable approach in women who undergo cleavage-stage embryo transfer. Given the lack of data about the live birth rate, caution should be exercised in interpreting these data.
Topics: Pregnancy; Female; Humans; Embryo Transfer; Pregnancy Rate; Chorionic Gonadotropin; Embryo Implantation; Fertilization in Vitro
PubMed: 36293052
DOI: 10.3390/ijms232012193 -
The Cochrane Database of Systematic... Mar 2017Medical treatment for subfertility principally involves the use of ovary-stimulating agents, including selective oestrogen receptor modulators (SERMs), such as... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
BACKGROUND
Medical treatment for subfertility principally involves the use of ovary-stimulating agents, including selective oestrogen receptor modulators (SERMs), such as clomiphene citrate, gonadotropins, gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists and antagonists, as well as human chorionic gonadotropin. Ovary-stimulating drugs may act directly or indirectly upon the endometrium (lining of the womb). Nulliparity and some causes of subfertility are recognized as risk factors for endometrial cancer.
OBJECTIVES
To evaluate the association between the use of ovary-stimulating drugs for the treatment of subfertility and the risk of endometrial cancer.
SEARCH METHODS
A search was performed in CENTRAL, MEDLINE (Ovid) and Embase (Ovid) databases up to July 2016, using a predefined search algorithm. A search in OpenGrey, ProQuest, ClinicalTrials.gov, ZETOC and reports of major conferences was also performed. We did not impose language and publication status restrictions.
SELECTION CRITERIA
Cohort and case-control studies reporting on the association between endometrial cancer and exposure to ovary-stimulating drugs for subfertility in adult women were deemed eligible.
DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS
Study characteristics and findings were extracted by review authors independently working in pairs. Inconsistency between studies was quantified by estimating I. Random-effects (RE) models were used to calculate pooled effect estimates. Separate analyses were performed, comparing treated subfertile women versus general population and/or unexposed subfertile women, to address the superimposition of subfertility as an independent risk factor for endometrial cancer.
MAIN RESULTS
Nineteen studies were eligible for inclusion (1,937,880 participants). Overall, the quality of evidence was very low, due to serious risk of bias and indirectness (non-randomised studies (NRS), which was reflected on the GRADE assessment.Six eligible studies, including subfertile women, without a general population control group, found that exposure to any ovary-stimulating drug was not associated with an increased risk of endometrial cancer (RR 0.96, 95% CI 0.67 to 1.37; 156,774 participants; very low quality evidence). Fifteen eligible studies, using a general population as the control group, found an increased risk after exposure to any ovary-stimulating drug (RR 1.75, 95% CI 1.18 to 2.61; 1,762,829 participants; very low quality evidence).Five eligible studies, confined to subfertile women (92,849 participants), reported on exposure to clomiphene citrate; the pooled studies indicated a positive association ( RR 1.32; 95% CI 1.01 to 1.71; 88,618 participants; very low quality evidence), although only at high dosage (RR 1.69, 95% CI 1.07 to 2.68; two studies; 12,073 participants) and at a high number of cycles (RR 1.69, 95% CI 1.16 to 2.47; three studies; 13,757 participants). Four studies found an increased risk of endometrial cancer in subfertile women who required clomiphene citrate compared to a general population control group (RR 1.87, 95% CI 1.00 to 3.48; four studies, 19,614 participants; very low quality evidence). These data do not tell us whether the association is due to the underlying conditions requiring clomiphene or the treatment itself.Using unexposed subfertile women as controls, exposure to gonadotropins was associated with an increased risk of endometrial cancer (RR 1.55, 95% CI 1.03 to 2.34; four studies; 17,769 participants; very low quality evidence). The respective analysis of two studies (1595 participants) versus the general population found no difference in risk (RR 2.12, 95% CI 0.79 to 5.64: very low quality evidence).Exposure to a combination of clomiphene citrate and gonadotropins, compared to unexposed subfertile women, produced no difference in risk of endometrial cancer (RR 1.18, 95% CI 0.57 to 2.44; two studies; 6345 participants; very low quality evidence). However, when compared to the general population, an increased risk was found , suggesting that the key factor might be subfertility, rather than treatment (RR 2.99, 95% CI 1.53 to 5.86; three studies; 7789 participants; very low quality evidence).
AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS
The synthesis of the currently available evidence does not allow us to draw robust conclusions, due to the very low quality of evidence. It seems that exposure to clomiphene citrate as an ovary-stimulating drug in subfertile women is associated with increased risk of endometrial cancer, especially at doses greater than 2000 mg and high (more than 7) number of cycles. This may largely be due to underlying risk factors in women who need treatment with clomiphene citrate, such as polycystic ovary syndrome, rather than exposure to the drug itself. The evidence regarding exposure to gonadotropins was inconclusive.
Topics: Case-Control Studies; Chorionic Gonadotropin; Clomiphene; Drug Therapy, Combination; Endometrial Neoplasms; Female; Fertility Agents, Female; Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone; Gonadotropins; Humans; Infertility, Female; Ovulation Induction; Retrospective Studies; Risk
PubMed: 28349511
DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD010931.pub2 -
BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth May 2023Nausea and vomiting in pregnancy (NVP) affects 50-80% of pregnant women and is correlated to the level of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). Hyperemesis gravidarum (HG)... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
BACKGROUND
Nausea and vomiting in pregnancy (NVP) affects 50-80% of pregnant women and is correlated to the level of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). Hyperemesis gravidarum (HG) is a severe condition, with an incidence of 0.2-1.5%, characterized by consistent nausea, vomiting, weight loss and dehydration continuing after the second trimester.
AIM
The aim of this systematic review was to investigate a potential correlation between NVP or HG with adverse pregnancy outcomes and hCG levels.
METHOD
A systematic search in PubMed, Embase and CINAHL Complete was conducted. Studies on pregnant women with nausea in the first or second trimester, reporting either pregnancy outcomes or levels of hCG were included. The primary outcomes were preterm delivery (PTD), preeclampsia, miscarriage, and fetal growth restriction. Risk of bias was assessed using ROBINS-I. The overall certainty of evidence was assessed using GRADE.
RESULTS
The search resulted in 2023 potentially relevant studies; 23 were included. The evidence was uncertain for all outcomes, however women with HG had a tendency to have an increased risk for preeclampsia [odds ratio (OR) 1.18, 95% confidence of interval (CI) 1.03 to 1.35], PTD [OR 1.35, 95% CI 1.13 to 1.61], small for gestational age (SGA) [OR 1.24, 95% CI 1.13 to 1.35], and low birth weight (LBW) [OR 1.35, 95% CI 1.26 to 1.44]. Further, a higher fetal female/male ratio was observed [OR 1.36, 95% CI 1.15 to 1.60]. Meta-analyses were not performed for women with NVP; however, most of these studies indicated that women with NVP have a lower risk for PTD and LBW and a higher risk for SGA, and a higher fetal female/male ratio.
CONCLUSION
There may be an increased risk in women with HG and a decreased risk in women with NVP for adverse placenta-associated pregnancy outcomes, however the evidence is very uncertain.
TRIAL REGISTRATION
PROSPERO: CRD42021281218.
Topics: Pregnancy; Infant, Newborn; Female; Male; Humans; Hyperemesis Gravidarum; Pregnancy Outcome; Pre-Eclampsia; Placenta; Premature Birth; Chorionic Gonadotropin; Fetal Growth Retardation; Nausea
PubMed: 37226133
DOI: 10.1186/s12884-023-05691-6 -
The Cochrane Database of Systematic... Nov 2017Pre-eclampsia is a pregnancy-specific multi-organ disorder, which is characterised by hypertension and multisystem organ involvement and which has significant maternal... (Review)
Review
BACKGROUND
Pre-eclampsia is a pregnancy-specific multi-organ disorder, which is characterised by hypertension and multisystem organ involvement and which has significant maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. Failure of the placental vascular remodelling and reduced uteroplacental flow form the etiopathological basis of pre-eclampsia. There are several established therapies for pre-eclampsia including antihypertensives and anticonvulsants. Most of these therapies aim at controlling the blood pressure or preventing complications of elevated blood pressure, or both. Epidural therapy aims at blocking the vasomotor tone of the arteries, thereby increasing uteroplacental blood flow. This review was aimed at evaluating the available evidence about the possible benefits and risks of epidural therapy in the management of severe pre-eclampsia, to define the current evidence level of this therapy, and to determine what (if any) further evidence is required.
OBJECTIVES
To assess the effectiveness, safety and cost of the extended use of epidural therapy for treating severe pre-eclampsia in non-labouring women. This review aims to compare the use of extended epidural therapy with other methods, which include intravenous magnesium sulphate, anticonvulsants other than magnesium sulphate, with or without use of the antihypertensive drugs and adjuncts in the treatment of severe pre-eclampsia.This review only considered the use of epidural anaesthesia in the management of severe pre-eclampsia in the antepartum period and not as pain relief in labour.
SEARCH METHODS
We searched Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth's Trials Register, ClinicalTrials.gov and the WHO International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (ICTRP) (13 July 2017) and reference lists of retrieved studies.
SELECTION CRITERIA
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) or quasi-RCTs comparing epidural therapy versus traditional therapy for pre-eclampsia in the form of antihypertensives, anticonvulsants, magnesium sulphate, low-dose dopamine, corticosteroids or a combination of these, were eligible for inclusion. Trials using a cluster design, and studies published in abstract form only are also eligible for inclusion in this review. Cross-over trials were not eligible for inclusion in this review.
DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS
The two review authors independently assessed trials for inclusion and trial quality. There were no relevant data available for extraction.
MAIN RESULTS
We included one small study (involving 24 women). The study was a single-centre randomised trial conducted in Mexico. This study compared a control group who received antihypertensive therapy, anticonvulsant therapy, plasma expanders, corticosteroids and dypyridamole with an intervention group that received epidural block instead of the antihypertensives, as well as all the other four drugs. Lumbar epidural block was given using 0.25% bupivacaine, 10 mg bolus and 5 mg each hour on continuous epidural infusion for six hours. This study was at low risk of bias in three domains but was assessed to be high risk of bias in two domains due to lack of allocation concealment and blinding of women and staff, and unclear for random sequence generation and outcome assessor blinding.The included study did not report on any of this review's important outcomes. Meta-analysis was not possible.For the mother, these were: maternal death (death during pregnancy or up to 42 days after the end of the pregnancy, or death more than 42 days after the end of the pregnancy); development of eclampsia or recurrence of seizures; stroke; any serious morbidity: defined as at least one of stroke, kidney failure, liver failure, HELLP syndrome (haemolysis, elevated liver enzymes and low platelets), disseminated intravascular coagulation, pulmonary oedema.For the baby, these were: death: stillbirths (death in utero at or after 20 weeks' gestation), perinatal deaths (stillbirths plus deaths in the first week of life), death before discharge from the hospital, neonatal deaths (death within the first 28 days after birth), deaths after the first 28 days; preterm birth (defined as the birth before 37 completed weeks' gestation); and side effects of the intervention. Reported outcomesThe included study only reported on a single secondary outcome of interest to this review: the Apgar score of the baby at birth and after five minutes and there was no clear difference between the intervention and control groups.The included study also reported a reduction in maternal diastolic arterial pressure. However, the change in maternal mean arterial pressure and systolic arterial pressure, which were the other reported outcomes of this trial, were not significantly different between the two groups.
AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS
Currently, there is insufficient evidence from randomised controlled trials to evaluate the effectiveness, safety or cost of using epidural therapy for treating severe pre-eclampsia in non-labouring women.High-quality randomised controlled trials are needed to evaluate the use of epidural agents as therapy for treatment of severe pre-eclampsia. The rationale for the use of epidural is well-founded. However there is insufficient evidence from randomised controlled trials to show that the effect of epidural translates into improved maternal and fetal outcomes. Thus, there is a need for larger, well-designed studies to come to an evidence-based conclusion as to whether the lowering of vasomotor tone by epidural therapy results in better maternal and fetal outcomes and for how long that could be maintained. Another important question that needs to be answered is how long should extended epidural be used to ensure any potential clinical benefits and what could be the associated side effects and costs. Interactions with other modalities of treatment and women's satisfaction could represent other avenues of research.
Topics: Adrenal Cortex Hormones; Anesthesia, Epidural; Anesthesia, Obstetrical; Anesthetics, Local; Anticonvulsants; Antihypertensive Agents; Bupivacaine; Dipyridamole; Female; Humans; Plasma Substitutes; Pre-Eclampsia; Pregnancy; Vasodilator Agents
PubMed: 29181841
DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD009540.pub2 -
Reproductive Biology and Endocrinology... Jun 2021Traditionally, final follicular maturation is triggered by a single bolus of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). This acts as a surrogate to the naturally occurring... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
BACKGROUND
Traditionally, final follicular maturation is triggered by a single bolus of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). This acts as a surrogate to the naturally occurring luteinizing hormone (LH) surge to induce luteinization of the granulosa cells, resumption of meiosis and final oocyte maturation. More recently, a bolus of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonist in combination with hCG (dual trigger) has been suggested as an alternative regimen to achieve final follicular maturation.
METHODS
This study was a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized trials evaluating the effect of dual trigger versus hCG trigger for follicular maturation on pregnancy outcomes in women undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF). The primary outcome was the live birth rate (LBR) per started cycle.
RESULTS
A total of 1048 participants were included in the analysis, with 519 in the dual trigger group and 529 in the hCG trigger group. Dual trigger treatment was associated with a significantly higher LBR per started cycle compared with the hCG trigger treatment (risk ratio (RR) = 1.37 [1.07, 1.76], I = 0%, moderate evidence). There was a trend towards an increase in both ongoing pregnancy rate (RR = 1.34 [0.96, 1.89], I = 0%, low evidence) and implantation rate (RR = 1.31 [0.90, 1.91], I = 76%, low evidence) with dual trigger treatment compared with hCG trigger treatment. Dual trigger treatment was associated with a significant increase in clinical pregnancy rate (RR = 1.29 [1.10, 1.52], I = 13%, low evidence), number of oocytes collected (mean difference (MD) = 1.52 [0.59, 2.46), I = 53%, low evidence), number of mature oocytes collected (MD = 1.01 [0.43, 1.58], I = 18%, low evidence), number of fertilized oocytes (MD = 0.73 [0.16, 1.30], I = 7%, low evidence) and significantly more usable embryos (MD = 0.90 [0.42, 1.38], I = 0%, low evidence).
CONCLUSION
Dual trigger treatment with GnRH agonist and HCG is associated with an increased live birth rate compared with conventional hCG trigger.
TRIAL REGISTRATION
CRD42020204452 .
Topics: Chorionic Gonadotropin; Drug Therapy, Combination; Embryo Implantation; Female; Fertility Agents, Female; Fertilization in Vitro; Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone; Humans; Oocyte Retrieval; Ovulation Induction; Pregnancy; Pregnancy Maintenance; Pregnancy Rate; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
PubMed: 34059045
DOI: 10.1186/s12958-021-00766-5 -
Computational and Mathematical Methods... 2022The relationship among elevated serum -human chorionic gonadotropin (-hCG), the incidence of pregnancy complications, and adverse pregnancy outcomes has been... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
BACKGROUND
The relationship among elevated serum -human chorionic gonadotropin (-hCG), the incidence of pregnancy complications, and adverse pregnancy outcomes has been controversial. Differences in study design, subject bias due to demographic characteristics, and differences in local medical levels could contribute to inconsistent results.
METHODS
Literature searches were performed in PubMed, EMBASE, Medline, Central, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Wanfang, and China Science Digital Library (CSDL) databases. Inclusion criteria were as follows: (1) research subjects were singleton pregnant women; (2) the study is identified as cohort study; (3) the subjects were assigned to the high -hCG group and control group according to whether the exposure factors increased -hCG in the second trimester; (4) the observed outcomes include at least pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH), diabetes (gestational diabetes mellitus, GMD), preterm delivery (PD), and intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR); and (5) the odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) of exposure factors are calculated based on literature dataset. To determine the risk bias of selected literatures, Newcastle-Ottawa scale was applied. The chi-square test was further used for heterogeneity analysis. If heterogeneity was identified, subgroup analyses were then performed for source investigation.
RESULTS
A total of 13 literatures were included and analyzed, including 67,355 pregnant women and 5980 pregnant women assigned to the high -HCG group and 61,375 pregnant women to the control group. The incidence of PIH in the high -HCG group was higher than that in the control group (OR = 2.11, 95% CI [1.90, 2.35], = 13.85, < 0.00001). There was no heterogeneity among literatures ( = 8.53, = 0.38, = 6%), and thus there is no identified publication bias ( > 0.05). The incidence of preterm birth in the high -HCG group was higher than that in the control group (OR = 2.11, 95% CI [1.90, 2.35], = 13.85, < 0.00001). The analysis suggested no heterogeneity among included literatures ( = 11.78, = 0.11, = 41%) and no publication bias ( > 0.05). Higher incidence of abortion was observed in the high -HCG group compared with the control group (OR = 2.80, 95% CI [1.92, 4.09], = 5.32, < 0.00001). There was no heterogeneity among literatures ( = 3.43, = 0.33, = 13%) and no publication bias ( > 0.05). The incidence of gestational diabetes was higher in the high -HCG group than in the control group (OR = 2.15, 95% CI [1.05, 4.40], = 2.09, = 0.04). Heterogeneity was identified among literatures ( = 47.01, < 0.00001, = 87%). Sensitivity analysis showed that the results were not robust, and there was no publication bias ( > 0.05). Compared with control, the incidence of IGUR was higher in the high -HCG group (OR = 2.70, 95% CI [1.75, 4.19], = 4.45, < 0.0001) with no heterogeneity among literatures ( = 3.92, = 0.14, = 49%) and no publication bias ( > 0.05).
CONCLUSION
High levels of -hCG during pregnancy in singleton women are associated with a high incidence of pregnancy complications and adverse pregnancy outcomes. Pregnant women with high levels of -hCG should be monitored more closely, followed up, and given timely medical interventions to reduce the incidence of pregnancy complications and adverse outcomes.
Topics: Chorionic Gonadotropin, beta Subunit, Human; Cohort Studies; Diabetes, Gestational; Female; Humans; Infant, Newborn; Pregnancy; Pregnancy Complications; Pregnancy Outcome; Premature Birth
PubMed: 36118828
DOI: 10.1155/2022/8315519 -
The Cochrane Database of Systematic... Nov 2016In vitro maturation (IVM) is a fertility treatment that involves the transvaginal retrieval of immature oocytes, and their subsequent maturation and fertilisation.... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
BACKGROUND
In vitro maturation (IVM) is a fertility treatment that involves the transvaginal retrieval of immature oocytes, and their subsequent maturation and fertilisation. Although the live birth rate is lower than conventional in vitro fertilisation (IVF) with ovarian stimulation, it is a useful treatment, as it avoids the risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS). Women with polycystic ovaries (PCO) or polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) are at an increased risk of OHSS. Thus, IVM may be a more useful treatment in this patient group.Strategies to maximise the maturation rates of the immature oocytes are important. This review focuses on the administration of human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG) prior to immature oocyte retrieval.
OBJECTIVES
To determine the effectiveness and safety of hCG priming in subfertile women who are undergoing IVM treatment in the context of assisted reproduction.
SEARCH METHODS
We searched the following electronic databases up to 29 August 2016: Cochrane Gynaecology and Fertility Group Specialised Register of controlled trials, CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, and CINAHL. We also searched the trial registries ClinicalTrials.gov and WHO ICTPR to identify ongoing and registered trials. We sought recently published papers not yet indexed in the major databases, and reviewed the reference lists of reviews and retrieved studies as sources of potentially relevant studies. There were no language restrictions.
SELECTION CRITERIA
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that compared hCG priming with placebo or no priming in women undergoing IVM. We also included RCTs that compared different doses of hCG, or the timing of oocyte retrieval. The primary outcomes were live birth rate and miscarriage rate per woman randomised.
DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS
Two review authors independently selected studies for inclusion, and with a third author, assessed risk of bias and extracted data. We contacted the original authors where data were missing. For dichotomous outcomes, we used the Mantel-Haenszel method to calculate odds ratios (OR). For continuous outcomes, we calculated the mean differences (MD) between treatment groups. We assessed statistical heterogeneity using the I² statistic. We assessed the overall quality of the evidence using GRADE methods.
MAIN RESULTS
We included four studies, with a total of 522 women, in the review. One of these studies did not report outcomes per woman randomised, and so was not included in formal analysis. Three studies investigated 10,000 units hCG priming compared to no priming. One study investigated 20,000 units hCG compared to 10,000 units hCG priming. Three studies only included women with PCOS (N = 122), while this was an exclusion criteria in the fourth study (N = 400).We rated all four studies as having an unclear risk of bias in more than one of the seven domains assessed. The quality of the evidence was low, the main limitations being lack of blinding and imprecision.When 10,000 units hCG priming was compared to no priming, we found no evidence of a difference in the live birth rates per woman randomised (OR 0.65, 95% confidence intervals (CI) 0.24 to 1.74; one RCT; N = 82; low quality evidence); miscarriage rate (OR 0.60, 95% CI 0.21 to 1.72; two RCTs; N = 282; I² statistic = 21%; low quality evidence), or clinical pregnancy rate (OR 0.52, 95% CI 0.26 to 1.03; two RCTs, N = 282, I² statistic = 0%, low quality evidence). Though inconclusive, our findings suggested that hCG may be associated with a reduction in clinical pregnancy rates; 22% of women who received no priming achieved pregnancy, while between 7% and 23% of women who received hCG priming did so.The study comparing 20,000 units hCG with 10,000 units hCG did not report sufficient data to enable us to calculate odds ratios.No studies reported on adverse events (other than miscarriage) or drug reactions.
AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS
This review found no conclusive evidence that hCG priming had an effect on live birth, pregnancy, or miscarriage rates in IVM. There was low quality evidence that suggested that hCG priming may reduce clinical pregnancy rates, however, these findings were limited by the small number of data included. As no data were available on adverse events (other than miscarriage) or on drug reactions, we could not adequately assess the safety of hCG priming. We need further evidence from well-designed RCTs before we can come to definitive conclusions about the role of hCG priming, and the optimal dose and timing.
Topics: Abortion, Spontaneous; Adult; Chorionic Gonadotropin; Female; Humans; In Vitro Oocyte Maturation Techniques; Infertility, Female; Live Birth; Oocyte Retrieval; Pregnancy; Pregnancy Rate; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; Reproductive Control Agents
PubMed: 27852101
DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD008720.pub2 -
Gynecological Endocrinology : the... Dec 2024To compare the effectiveness of endometrial receptivity and pregnancy outcomes of four common immunomodulatory therapies for patients with thin endometrium. (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
OBEJECTIVE
To compare the effectiveness of endometrial receptivity and pregnancy outcomes of four common immunomodulatory therapies for patients with thin endometrium.
METHOD
This systematic review and network meta-analysis using a literature search up to January 2024, to identify relevant trials comparing endometrial receptivity and pregnancy outcomes of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), platelet-rich plasma (PRP), infusion of granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (IG-CSF), and peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) for patients with thin endometrium. We used surface under the cumulative ranking (SUCRA) to ranked four common immunomodulatory therapies on endometrium thickness, implantation rate (IR), clinical pregnancy rate (CPR), and live birth rate (LBR). RoB2 and ROBINS-I were used to assess the certainty of evidence.
RESULTS
The pooled results of 22 studies showed that hCG (mean difference [MD]: 3.05, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.46-4.64) and PRP (MD: 0.98, 95% CI: 0.20-1.76) significantly increase endometrium thickness. The hCG was the best among the IG-CSF (MD = -2.56, 95% CI = -4.30 to -0.82), PBMC (MD = -2.75, 95% CI = -5.49 to -0.01), and PRP (MD = -2.07, 95% CI = -3.84 to -0.30) in increasing endometrium thickness. However, IG-CSF and PRP significantly improved IR (IG-CSF: risk ratio (RR; IG-CSF: RR = 1.33, 95% CI = 1.06-1.67; PRP: RR = 1.63, 95% CI = 1.19-2.23), and LBR (IG-CSF: RR = 1.53, 95% CI = 1.16-2.02; PRP: RR = 1.59, 95% CI = 1.08-2.36).
CONCLUSIONS
Available evidence reveals that hCG and subcutaneous or intrauterine CSF (SG-CSF) may be the best treatment options for current thin endometrium patients. However, future high-quality and large-scale studies are necessary to validate our findings.
Topics: Humans; Female; Endometrium; Pregnancy; Network Meta-Analysis; Chorionic Gonadotropin; Platelet-Rich Plasma; Granulocyte Colony-Stimulating Factor; Pregnancy Rate; Leukocytes, Mononuclear; Embryo Implantation
PubMed: 38835267
DOI: 10.1080/09513590.2024.2360072 -
The Cochrane Database of Systematic... May 2017Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) is an iatrogenic and potentially life threatening condition resulting from excessive ovarian stimulation. Reported incidence of... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
BACKGROUND
Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) is an iatrogenic and potentially life threatening condition resulting from excessive ovarian stimulation. Reported incidence of moderate to severe OHSS ranges from 0.6% to 5% of in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycles. The factors contributing to OHSS have not been completely explained. The release of vasoactive substances secreted by the ovaries under human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG) stimulation may play a key role in triggering this syndrome. This condition is characterised by a massive shift of fluid from the intravascular compartment to the third space, resulting in profound intravascular depletion and haemoconcentration.
OBJECTIVES
To assess the effect of withholding gonadotrophins (coasting) on the prevention of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome in assisted reproduction cycles.
SEARCH METHODS
For the update of this review, we searched the Cochrane Gynaecology and Fertility Group Trials Register, CENTRAL, MEDLINE (PubMed), CINHAL, PsycINFO, Embase, Google, and clinicaltrials.gov to 6 July 2016.
SELECTION CRITERIA
We included only randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in which coasting was used to prevent OHSS.
DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS
Two review authors independently selected trials and extracted data. They resolved disagreements by discussion. They contacted study authors to request additional information or missing data. The intervention comparisons were coasting versus no coasting, coasting versus early unilateral follicular aspiration (EUFA), coasting versus gonadotrophin releasing hormone antagonist (antagonist), coasting versus follicle stimulating hormone administration at the time of hCG trigger (FSH co-trigger), and coasting versus cabergoline. We performed statistical analysis in accordance with Cochrane guidelines. Our primary outcomes were moderate or severe OHSS and live birth.
MAIN RESULTS
We included eight RCTs (702 women at high risk of developing OHSS). The quality of evidence was low or very low. The main limitations were failure to report live birth, risk of bias due to lack of information about study methods, and imprecision due to low event rates and lack of data. Four of the studies were published only as abstracts, and provided limited data. Coasting versus no coastingRates of OHSS were lower in the coasting group (OR 0.11, 95% CI 0.05 to 0.24; I² = 0%, two RCTs; 207 women; low-quality evidence), suggesting that if 45% of women developed moderate or severe OHSS without coasting, between 4% and 17% of women would develop it with coasting. There were too few data to determine whether there was a difference between the groups in rates of live birth (OR 0.48, 95% CI 0.14 to 1.62; one RCT; 68 women; very low-quality evidence), clinical pregnancy (OR 0.82, 95% CI 0.46 to 1.44; I² = 0%; two RCTs; 207 women; low-quality evidence), multiple pregnancy (OR 0.31, 95% CI 0.12 to 0.81; one RCT; 139 women; low-quality evidence), or miscarriage (OR 0.85, 95% CI 0.25 to 2.86; I² = 0%; two RCTs; 207 women; very low-quality evidence). Coasting versus EUFAThere were too few data to determine whether there was a difference between the groups in rates of OHSS (OR 0.98, 95% CI 0.34 to 2.85; I² = 0%; 2 RCTs; 83 women; very low-quality evidence), or clinical pregnancy (OR 0.67, 95% CI 0.25 to 1.79; I² = 0%; 2 RCTs; 83 women; very low-quality evidence); no studies reported live birth, multiple pregnancy, or miscarriage. Coasting versus antagonistOne RCT (190 women) reported this comparison, and no events of OHSS occurred in either arm. There were too few data to determine whether there was a difference between the groups in clinical pregnancy rates (OR 0.74, 95% CI 0.42 to 1.31; one RCT; 190 women; low-quality evidence), or multiple pregnancy rates (OR 1.00, 95% CI 0.43 to 2.32; one RCT; 98 women; very low-quality evidence); the study did not report live birth or miscarriage. Coasting versus FSH co-triggerRates of OHSS were higher in the coasting group (OR 43.74, 95% CI 2.54 to 754.58; one RCT; 102 women; very low-quality evidence), with 15 events in the coasting arm and none in the FSH co-trigger arm. There were too few data to determine whether there was a difference between the groups in clinical pregnancy rates (OR 0.92, 95% CI 0.43 to 2.10; one RCT; 102 women; low-quality evidence). This study did not report data suitable for analysis on live birth, multiple pregnancy, or miscarriage, but stated that there was no significant difference between the groups. Coasting versus cabergolineThere were too few data to determine whether there was a difference between the groups in rates of OHSS (OR 1.98, 95% CI 0.09 to 5.68; P = 0.20; I² = 72%; two RCTs; 120 women; very low-quality evidence), with 11 events in the coasting arm and six in the cabergoline arm. The evidence suggested that coasting was associated with lower rates of clinical pregnancy (OR 0.38, 95% CI 0.16 to 0.88; P = 0.02; I² =0%; two RCTs; 120 women; very low-quality evidence), but there were only 33 events altogether. These studies did not report data suitable for analysis on live birth, multiple pregnancy, or miscarriage.
AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS
There was low-quality evidence to suggest that coasting reduced rates of moderate or severe OHSS more than no coasting. There was no evidence to suggest that coasting was more beneficial than other interventions, except that there was very low-quality evidence from a single small study to suggest that using FSH co-trigger at the time of HCG administration may be better at reducing the risk of OHSS than coasting. There were too few data to determine clearly whether there was a difference between the groups for any other outcomes.
Topics: Abortion, Spontaneous; Cabergoline; Chorionic Gonadotropin; Ergolines; Female; Fertilization in Vitro; Follicle Stimulating Hormone; Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone; Humans; Live Birth; Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome; Pregnancy; Pregnancy Rate; Pregnancy, Multiple; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; Withholding Treatment
PubMed: 28535578
DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD002811.pub4 -
Frontiers in Neuroscience 2021The autonomic nervous system (ANS) is one of the main biological systems that regulates the body's physiology. Autonomic nervous system regulatory capacity begins before...
The autonomic nervous system (ANS) is one of the main biological systems that regulates the body's physiology. Autonomic nervous system regulatory capacity begins before birth as the sympathetic and parasympathetic activity contributes significantly to the fetus' development. In particular, several studies have shown how vagus nerve is involved in many vital processes during fetal, perinatal, and postnatal life: from the regulation of inflammation through the anti-inflammatory cholinergic pathway, which may affect the functioning of each organ, to the production of hormones involved in bioenergetic metabolism. In addition, the vagus nerve has been recognized as the primary afferent pathway capable of transmitting information to the brain from every organ of the body. Therefore, this hypothesis paper aims to review the development of ANS during fetal and perinatal life, focusing particularly on the vagus nerve, to identify possible "critical windows" that could impact its maturation. These "critical windows" could help clinicians know when to monitor fetuses to effectively assess the developmental status of both ANS and specifically the vagus nerve. In addition, this paper will focus on which factors-i.e., fetal characteristics and behaviors, maternal lifestyle and pathologies, placental health and dysfunction, labor, incubator conditions, and drug exposure-may have an impact on the development of the vagus during the above-mentioned "critical window" and how. This analysis could help clinicians and stakeholders define precise guidelines for improving the management of fetuses and newborns, particularly to reduce the potential adverse environmental impacts on ANS development that may lead to persistent long-term consequences. Since the development of ANS and the vagus influence have been shown to be reflected in cardiac variability, this paper will rely in particular on studies using fetal heart rate variability (fHRV) to monitor the continued growth and health of both animal and human fetuses. In fact, fHRV is a non-invasive marker whose changes have been associated with ANS development, vagal modulation, systemic and neurological inflammatory reactions, and even fetal distress during labor.
PubMed: 34616274
DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2021.721605