A recent cohort study conducted by the Center for Reproductive Medicine of Shandong University in China delved into determining the optimal interpregnancy interval (IPI) for women undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment following a preceding clinical pregnancy loss (CPL). The study included 2433 women who underwent frozen-thawed blastocyst transfer within one year after a CPL during IVF treatment and followed up on pregnancy outcomes.
The results, which were published in a renowned medical journal, unveiled crucial insights. Among the key findings, women with a shorter IPI (<3 or 3 to <6 months) after a preceding CPL were less likely to achieve live birth compared to those with an IPI of 6 to 12 months. Specifically, a delay of at least 6 months before the next frozen embryo transfer post a clinical pregnancy loss showed more favorable pregnancy outcomes.
The study noted a lower likelihood of achieving clinical pregnancy, live birth, and healthy live birth among women with shorter IPIs, in addition to a higher risk of total pregnancy loss. The association was observed even after adjusting for various factors such as maternal age, body mass index, and the trimester stage of the preceding CPL.
These findings suggest the potential benefits of allowing a recovery period of at least 6 months following a clinical pregnancy loss before attempting another frozen embryo transfer. The study aimed to shed light on the influence of the interpregnancy interval on subsequent pregnancy outcomes after a CPL in the context of IVF treatment.
The researchers emphasized the need for further prospective studies to confirm these observations and highlight the importance of considering the timing between a clinical pregnancy loss and subsequent fertility treatments for optimal outcomes. The study contributes to the ongoing discussion on the interpregnancy interval and its impact on successful fertility treatments, particularly after a clinical pregnancy loss, offering valuable insights for clinical decision-making in assisted reproductive procedures.
Source: JAMA Network Open Journal