Reproductive Biomedicine Online[JOURNAL]
Sun
200 papers
Serum magnesium is linked with sperm concentration, motile sperm count and serum anti-Müllerian hormone in infertile men.
Yahyavi SK, Probst-Drejer B, Poulsen NN … +4 more , Jorsal MJ, Juul A, Jørgensen N, Blomberg Jensen M
Reprod Biomed Online · 2026 Mar · PMID 41653852 · Publisher ↗
RESEARCH QUESTION: What is the relationship between serum magnesium, semen quality and reproductive hormones in infertile men? DESIGN: This study was a secondary analysis of data from a randomized controlled trial involv...
RESEARCH QUESTION: What is the relationship between serum magnesium, semen quality and reproductive hormones in infertile men? DESIGN: This study was a secondary analysis of data from a randomized controlled trial involving 330 infertile men treated with cholecalciferol + calcium or placebo for 150 days. Each participant underwent a physical examination and had blood and semen parameters assessed. Thirty-one men were excluded due to missing serum magnesium, leaving 299 men stratified by serum magnesium tertile. RESULTS: Sperm concentration and total sperm count were higher in men in the highest serum magnesium tertile compared with men in the lowest serum magnesium tertile (20.9 million/ml versus 8.6 million/ml, P = 0.007; 72 million versus 37 million, P = 0.009, respectively). Total numbers of motile and progressively motile spermatozoa were also higher in men in the highest serum magnesium tertile (34 million versus 23 million, P = 0.023; 23 million versus 11 million, P = 0.033, respectively). Serum anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) was higher in the highest serum magnesium tertile compared with the lowest serum magnesium tertile (40 pmol/l versus 28 pmol/l, P = 0.002), while FSH, LH and inhibin B showed no difference between serum magnesium tertiles. Vitamin D supplementation did not influence serum magnesium. CONCLUSIONS: Serum magnesium is positively associated with serum AMH, and total numbers of motile and progressively motile spermatozoa. This study suggests that magnesium, along with other minerals, may influence male fertility. More evidence is needed for full validation of these findings.
Plastic pollution in human reproduction: should we worry?
Broggiato M, Pezzana S, Scaccabarozzi C … +5 more , Parisi F, Vanetti C, Montalvo CKG, Savasi VM, Fenizia C
Reprod Biomed Online · 2026 Mar · PMID 41653851 · Publisher ↗
Micro- and nanoplastics (MNP) are pervasive pollutants, detected in every ecosystem. Human exposure is extensive, and their capacity to cross biological barriers and accumulate in tissues raises growing concerns about re...
Micro- and nanoplastics (MNP) are pervasive pollutants, detected in every ecosystem. Human exposure is extensive, and their capacity to cross biological barriers and accumulate in tissues raises growing concerns about reproductive health and pregnancy outcomes. Research has shown the presence of MNP in human placenta, fetal meconium and amniotic fluid, confirming their ability to reach the fetal compartment, potentially increasing risks for fetal development. In women, MNP have also been detected in follicular fluid, although their specific effects remain to be determined. In-vitro studies have reported MNP-induced placental vascular damage, whereas murine models suggest impaired ovarian function, reduced oocyte quality and decreased pregnancy rates after MNP exposure. In men, MNP have been identified in testicular tissue and semen. Animal studies report decreased sperm count and quality, likely because of oxidative stress, hormonal disruption and inflammation. Various techniques are available for detecting MNP in biological tissues. Mass and Raman spectroscopy are among the most widely used, each offering specific advantages and limitations. Interpreting experimental data also requires caution, as many in-vitro and in-vivo models use unrealistically high doses of pristine polymers lacking environmental additives, potentially limiting the relevance of their findings to real-world exposures.
Low risk of endometrioma infection after oocyte retrieval.
Parpex G, Bourdon M, Marcellin L … +7 more , Sorel M, Maignien C, Bordonné C, Charlier C, Patrat C, Santulli P, Chapron C
Reprod Biomed Online · 2026 Mar · PMID 41643412 · Publisher ↗
RESEARCH QUESTION: What is the incidence of endometrioma infections requiring surgical drainage following oocyte retrieval in women with ovarian endometrioma? DESIGN: This retrospective observational cohort study include...
RESEARCH QUESTION: What is the incidence of endometrioma infections requiring surgical drainage following oocyte retrieval in women with ovarian endometrioma? DESIGN: This retrospective observational cohort study included women aged 18-43 years with a confirmed radiological diagnosis of ovarian endometrioma who underwent ovarian stimulation and oocyte retrieval for IVF/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) or fertility preservation between January 2018 and December 2023 at a single tertiary academic centre. All procedures were performed under standardized aseptic conditions with antibiotic prophylaxis. Transcystic puncture was performed when deemed necessary. The primary outcome was the incidence of endometrioma infections requiring surgical drainage within 30 days after oocyte retrieval. RESULTS: Oocyte retrievals were performed in 1102 out of 1668 cycles (66.1%) for IVF/ICSI and in 566 cycles (33.9%) for fertility preservation. Bilateral endometriomas were present in 322 of 880 patients (36.6%), with a mean cyst (SD) diameter of 31.5 ± 22.7 mm. Endometriomas larger than 30 mm accounted for 295 of 649 cases (45.5%). Intentional transcystic puncture was performed in 76 of 1148 applicable procedures (6.6%), and endometrioma drainage during oocyte retrieval occurred in 52 cases (4.5%). Endometrioma infections requiring surgical drainage occurred in 6 of 1668 procedures (0.36%). Only one infection was reported following transcystic puncture (1.3%). No cases of sepsis or septic shock occurred. Five infections were managed with ultrasound-guided transvaginal drainage; one required laparoscopic surgery. CONCLUSIONS: The incidence of endometrioma infection requiring surgical intervention after oocyte retrieval, including after transcystic puncture, is low. These findings support the safety of assisted reproductive techniques in women with endometriomas.
Reproductive biomedicine in space: implications for gametogenesis, fertility and ethical considerations in the era of commercial spaceflight.
Palmer GA, Mathyk BA, Jones J … +6 more , Stocks BT, Wolpe PR, Wotring V, Mason CE, Cohen J, Karouia F
Reprod Biomed Online · 2026 Mar · PMID 41638929 · Publisher ↗
As the era of commercial and frequent spaceflight advances, the question of human fertility in space is no longer theoretical but urgently practical. Despite over 65 years of human spaceflight activities, little is known...
As the era of commercial and frequent spaceflight advances, the question of human fertility in space is no longer theoretical but urgently practical. Despite over 65 years of human spaceflight activities, little is known of the impact of the space environment on the human reproductive systems during long-duration missions. Extended time in space poses potential hazards to the reproductive function of female and male astronauts, including exposure to cosmic radiation, altered gravity, psychological and physical stress, and disruption to circadian rhythm. This review encapsulates current understanding of the effects of spaceflight on reproductive physiology, incorporating findings from animal studies, a recent experiment on sperm motility, and omics-based insights from astronaut physiology. Female reproductive systems appear to be especially vulnerable, with implications for oogenesis and embryonic development in microgravity. Male reproductive function reveals compromised DNA integrity, even when motility appears to be preserved. This review examines the limited embryogenesis studies in space, which show frequent abnormal cell division and impaired development in rodents. Alongside physiological findings, this review explores ethical issues of space work, particularly with increasing spaceflights involving non-professional astronauts and individuals of all ages. This convergence of space medicine, reproductive biology and bioethics represents a novel and critical intersection that warrants attention. Drawing from multidisciplinary fields, a collaborative framework is proposed for future research, aiming to catalyse cross-disciplinary dialogue and guide the next generation of reproductive biomedical research in space.
Risk of progesterone elevation in patients with low ovarian reserve using long-acting FSH IVF protocol: a randomized controlled trial.
Papaleo E, Quartucci A, Zanirato M … +5 more , Marzanati D, Vanni VS, Delfanti E, Bertapelle G, Candiani M
Reprod Biomed Online · 2026 Mar · PMID 41637911 · Publisher ↗
RESEARCH QUESTION: Does the long-acting stimulation protocol with corifollitropin alfa (CFA) followed by daily low-dose recombinant FSH (r-FSH) reduce the risk of premature progesterone elevation (PPE) in women with low...
RESEARCH QUESTION: Does the long-acting stimulation protocol with corifollitropin alfa (CFA) followed by daily low-dose recombinant FSH (r-FSH) reduce the risk of premature progesterone elevation (PPE) in women with low ovarian reserve compared with daily high-dose r-FSH? DESIGN: This randomized controlled trial, conducted from February 2022 to May 2024, enrolled 110 patients who met the Bologna criteria for poor ovarian responders. Participants were randomized into two groups: the intervention group received long-acting CFA followed by daily 150 IU r-FSH from day 8; and the control group received daily 300 IU r-FSH. The primary outcome was the proportion of patients with progesterone ≥1.1 ng/ml on the day of human chorionic gonadotrophin trigger. Secondary outcomes included number of retrieved oocytes, fertilization rate, fresh embryo transfer rate, and pregnancy rate. RESULTS: A significantly lower rate of PPE was observed in the CFA group compared with the control group [2/56 (3.6%) versus 12/54 (22.2%), respectively]. CFA stimulation was associated with an 89% reduction in the odds of PPE (OR 0.11, 95% CI 0.02-0.55; P = 0.007). Fresh embryo transfer was achieved in 34/52 (65%) patients in the CFA group versus 21/48 (44%) patients in the control group (P = 0.04). CONCLUSIONS: Ovarian stimulation with long-acting CFA plus daily 150 IU r-FSH significantly reduced the risk of PPE and increased the feasibility of fresh embryo transfer in patients with low ovarian reserve. This strategy may offer a better approach for managing PPE, and may improve overall IVF success for this specific patient population.
Effect of endometriosis and adenomyosis on oocyte quality: an evaluation of 205,978 oocytes.
Kahraman S, Duzguner I, Sahin Y
Reprod Biomed Online · 2026 Mar · PMID 41579461 · Publisher ↗
RESEARCH QUESTION: Does the presence of endometriosis and/or adenomyosis, adversely affect oocyte morphology? DESIGN: Retrospective, single-centre study evaluating 29,130 ART cycles between August 2011 and March 2023. Pa...
RESEARCH QUESTION: Does the presence of endometriosis and/or adenomyosis, adversely affect oocyte morphology? DESIGN: Retrospective, single-centre study evaluating 29,130 ART cycles between August 2011 and March 2023. Patients diagnosed with endometriosis and/or adenomyosis, were included (n = 4602 cycles; 27,204 oocytes). Two pre-defined subgroups were evaluated: adenomyosis with or without endometriosis (n = 497 patients; n = 3377 oocytes); and endometriosis-only patients (endometriosis without adenomyosis) (n = 3355 patients; n = 24,320 oocytes). The control group included all patients without endometriosis or adenomyosis. Oocyte morphology, cycle characteristics, fresh and frozen embryo transfer outcomes were compared between the study and control groups. Oocyte morphology results were reported using effect sizes owing to the large number of oocytes analysed. RESULTS: Phi effect size indicated only negligible differences in oocyte morphology between endometriosis and control groups. In endometriosis cases, a significantly lower number of aspirated, mature and fertilized oocytes were found compared with the control group (P < 0.001, all). Cliff's delta effect size indicated only negligible differences in oocyte morphology between adenomyosis and endometriosis only groups. No significant difference was found between embryo transfer outcomes. Adenomyosis with or without endometriosis patients had lower pregnancy and live birth rates (P < 0.001, both) and higher biochemical and clinical pregnancy loss rates (P = 0.009 and P = 0.01 respectively) compared with patients with endometriosis only. CONCLUSIONS: Endometriosis and adenomyosis did not affect oocyte morphology. Clinical pregnancy and live birth rates were unaffected by endometriosis. Adenomyosis increased the risk of pregnancy loss and decreased live birth rates.
The endometrium: is thickness all that counts?
Pirtea P, Ata B
Reprod Biomed Online · 2026 Mar · PMID 41576758 · Publisher ↗
The commonly used 7 mm threshold for endometrial thickness in assisted reproductive technology lacks strong evidence and stems from outdated data. Recent studies show that live birth outcomes are comparable even with lin...
The commonly used 7 mm threshold for endometrial thickness in assisted reproductive technology lacks strong evidence and stems from outdated data. Recent studies show that live birth outcomes are comparable even with linings of less than 7 mm, particularly when using euploid embryos. Measurement variability, confounding factors and differing clinical practices limit the reliability of endometrial thickness as a standalone predictor. While extremely thin linings may warrant further evaluation, rigid cut-off values are unjustified. Endometrial thickness should be integrated into a broader, individualized assessment rather than drive clinical decisions in isolation.
Corrigendum to 'The inhibition of WIP1 phosphatase accelerates the depletion of primordial follicles'Reproductive BioMedicine Online 43 (2021) 161-171.
Zhou S, Xi Y, Chen Y … +8 more , Wu T, Yan W, Li M, Wu M, Luo A, Shen W, Xiang T, Wang S
Reprod Biomed Online · 2026 Mar · PMID 41558420 · Publisher ↗
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Patient motivations and barriers in the donation of surplus embryos: a systematic review.
Jiménez Fernández P, Villalba A, Llanos G … +2 more , Mut S, Pedelini L
Reprod Biomed Online · 2026 Mar · PMID 41534225 · Publisher ↗
Cryopreservation of surplus embryos in assisted reproductive technology has led to their substantial accumulation in fertility clinics worldwide, raising ethical, legal and logistical challenges. This systematic review e...
Cryopreservation of surplus embryos in assisted reproductive technology has led to their substantial accumulation in fertility clinics worldwide, raising ethical, legal and logistical challenges. This systematic review examines the factors influencing patients' decisions regarding surplus embryo disposition, including donation, continued storage or disposal. Following PRISMA guidelines, 24 studies from 15 countries were analysed, incorporating qualitative, quantitative and mixed-methods research. Findings reveal that patients' choices are shaped by the moral status attributed to embryos (e.g. 'cell cluster' versus 'potential child'), religious beliefs, educational level, gamete origin and storage duration. While many patients prefer donating embryos to research or other couples, emotional attachment and ethical concerns often lead to indecision or prolonged storage. Additionally, inadequate counselling and legal restrictions further complicate decision making, with many patients reporting insufficient information and support. The review highlights the need for improved patient-centred counselling, culturally sensitive policies and standardized ethical guidelines to address embryo accumulation while respecting patient autonomy. Future research should explore cross-cultural perspectives and develop interventions to facilitate informed, ethically sound decisions.
Sperm insulin-like growth factor 2 protein levels: implications for early embryo development.
Cannarella R, Rando OJ, Chamayou S … +14 more , Romano S, Guglielmino A, Yin Q, Mancuso F, Arato I, Lilli C, Brancorsini S, Farinacci S, Luca G, Leggio L, Iraci N, Lundy SD, La Vignera S, Calogero AE
Reprod Biomed Online · 2026 Feb · PMID 41534163 · Publisher ↗
RESEARCH QUESTION: What is the role of sperm-derived insulin-like growth factor 2 (IGF2) protein in early embryo development, and what is its potential influence on outcomes in assisted reproductive technology (ART)? DES...
RESEARCH QUESTION: What is the role of sperm-derived insulin-like growth factor 2 (IGF2) protein in early embryo development, and what is its potential influence on outcomes in assisted reproductive technology (ART)? DESIGN: In 27 infertile couples undergoing ART, IGF2 protein levels in spermatozoa were quantified using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Their correlation with embryo morphokinetics was assessed via time-lapse imaging. The analysis was adjusted for female partner's age, body mass index and serum anti-Müllerian hormone levels. To explore underlying mechanisms, recombinant IGF2 was added to murine parthenote cultures. Transcriptome analysis was conducted at the blastocyst stage. RESULTS: Sperm IGF2 levels were significantly associated with the number of post-gradient sperm recovered (r = 0.65; P < 0.001) and with the timing of pronuclear formation (r = -0.22; P = 0.04), even after adjusting for confounding factors, indicating a role in the earliest stages of embryogenesis. No significant correlation was observed with later stages of embryo development, possibly owing to a developmental transition from paternal to embryonic IGF2 transcript expression. Furthermore, IGF2 levels did not differ significantly among ART outcome groups (biochemical pregnancy, clinical pregnancy and live birth). Transcriptome analysis of IGF2-treated parthenotes revealed enrichment in pathways related to protein binding, which is critical for pronuclear formation. CONCLUSION: A potential involvement of sperm-delivered IGF2 in early post-fertilization events is suggested, with a limited apparent effect on later embryonic development or ART outcomes. Further investigation into the diagnostic and therapeutic relevance of IGF2 in the context of male-factor infertility is needed.
Blastocyst development potential in fresh versus vitrified oocytes: a retrospective matched comparative cross-sectional study.
Vu TT, Nguyen KTM, Hoang HTT … +1 more , Vo TNT
Reprod Biomed Online · 2026 Feb · PMID 41534162 · Publisher ↗
RESEARCH QUESTION: Is there a difference in embryo development potential between fresh oocytes and cryopreserved oocytes from the same patient, when both are subjected to the same conditions for fertilization and culture...
RESEARCH QUESTION: Is there a difference in embryo development potential between fresh oocytes and cryopreserved oocytes from the same patient, when both are subjected to the same conditions for fertilization and culture? DESIGN: A retrospective matched comparative cross-sectional analysis was conducted on 239 autologous oocyte IVF cycles (2138 fresh and 1259 frozen oocytes) between March and October 2024. In total, 3002 oocytes (1743 fresh mature oocytes and 1195 surviving warmed oocytes) were included in the analysis. Subgroup analyses were performed based on maternal age, oocyte morphological abnormalities and semen quality to further explore differences in embryological outcomes. RESULTS: The development potential of fresh oocytes was significantly higher than that of frozen oocytes, as shown by the cleavage-stage embryo rate (median 67.81% versus 59.90%), good-quality cleavage-stage embryo rate (74.38% versus 64.79%), blastocyst formation rate (42.66% versus 28.25%), and good-quality blastocyst rate (34.04% versus 20.97%) (all P ≤ 0.005). Subgroup analyses also supported superior blastocyst development from fresh oocytes (P < 0.05). Multivariate regression showed that factors such as maternal age, semen quality, and oocyte or sperm morphology did not influence outcomes significantly, indicating minimal bias in the analysis. CONCLUSIONS: To the authors' knowledge, this is the first study to apply a retrospective, matched, comparative cross-sectional design to compare the development potential of autologous fresh and frozen oocytes under identical intracytoplasmic sperm injection and culture conditions. The results suggest that to achieve the best outcomes in IVF cycles, the decision to freeze oocytes should be personalized, considering each patient's unique characteristics, especially in women of advanced maternal age.
Reproductive medicine and human embryo research: rethinking risk through the lens of Aristotle's phronesis.
Chaillot M, Gaillard M, David L … +1 more , Freour T
Reprod Biomed Online · 2026 Mar · PMID 41529322 · Publisher ↗
In the field of assisted reproductive technology (ART) and human embryo research, clinicians and scientists regularly face decisions that blend scientific uncertainty with profound ethical complexity. As innovation accel...
In the field of assisted reproductive technology (ART) and human embryo research, clinicians and scientists regularly face decisions that blend scientific uncertainty with profound ethical complexity. As innovation accelerates in these fast-moving fields, ethical navigation can be challenging. Guidelines, regulations and protocols generally provide structure, yet often fall short of offering sufficient moral clarity. In this complex and evolving landscape, we propose that Aristotle's famous concept of phronesis - practical wisdom, i.e. the ability to make morally sound decisions in complex, real-life situations by balancing knowledge, experience and ethical judgement - can offer an essential tool for navigating choices in ART and/or human embryo research where evidence, ethics and lived human experiences intersect.
Prenatal occupational exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals during pregnancy and adult male reproductive hormones.
Blanc-Petitjean P, Rahban R, Dananché B … +6 more , Senn A, Zufferey F, Stettler E, Multigner L, Nef S, Garlantézec R
Reprod Biomed Online · 2026 Mar · PMID 41520584 · Publisher ↗
RESEARCH QUESTION: Does maternal occupational exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDC) during pregnancy affect reproductive hormone concentrations in adult sons? DESIGN: Data from a cross-sectional study of 2326...
RESEARCH QUESTION: Does maternal occupational exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDC) during pregnancy affect reproductive hormone concentrations in adult sons? DESIGN: Data from a cross-sectional study of 2326 Swiss conscripts collected between 2005 and 2017 were analysed. On inclusion, the conscripts' mothers completed a detailed questionnaire about their pregnancy. A job-exposure matrix was used to assess exposure to 10 categories of potential EDC. Reproductive hormones - FSH, LH, total and free testosterone, oestradiol and sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) - were determined in serum samples from all conscripts whose mothers were exposed to EDC during pregnancy (n = 138) and a random sample of non-exposed conscripts (n = 276). Multiple linear regression analyses were adjusted for potential confounders. RESULTS: Prenatal exposure to phthalates or alkyl phenolic compounds was significantly associated with higher FSH concentrations (aβ = 0.26, 95% CI 0.03-0.49, and aβ = 0.22, 95% CI 0.02-0.42, respectively) and prenatal exposure to pesticides was significantly associated with higher SHBG concentrations (aβ = 0.22, 95% CI 0.05-0.38). No statistically significant associations were found between other EDC categories and reproductive hormones. CONCLUSIONS: Maternal occupational exposure to certain types of EDC during pregnancy was associated with the concentrations of reproductive hormones in adult sons. These findings require replication in larger, prospective population studies.
Iron deposition in ovarian endometrioma evaluated by magnetic resonance imaging R2* non-invasively.
Zhang P, Song Y, Su M … +9 more , Lin Y, He Y, Liu X, Wu N, Lin Y, Wang Z, Yuan M, Zhang Y, Wang G
Reprod Biomed Online · 2026 Feb · PMID 41519102 · Publisher ↗
RESEARCH QUESTION: Is surgery effective in decreasing iron deposition in the ovarian tissue surrounding an ovarian endometrioma? DESIGN: This cohort study was conducted in China between July 2023 and April 2024. Seventy-...
RESEARCH QUESTION: Is surgery effective in decreasing iron deposition in the ovarian tissue surrounding an ovarian endometrioma? DESIGN: This cohort study was conducted in China between July 2023 and April 2024. Seventy-nine patients with ovarian endometriomas and 45 controls with other ovarian cyst types were enrolled. Magnetic resonance imaging using a relaxation sequence (MRI-R2*) has been proven to be a reliable method for detecting iron deposition. All participants underwent MRI-R2* preoperatively to detect the presence of iron in ovarian tissue, before surgical ovarian cystectomy. Additionally, patients with ovarian endometriosis underwent MRI-R2* 3 months after surgery. The end points were changes in iron content, as reflected by the R2* value of ovarian tissue, surrounding an ovarian endometrioma. RESULTS: The preoperative R2* value of the affected-side ovarian tissue in the ovarian endometriosis group was significantly higher than that in the control group (27.00 [22.50-32.25] Hz versus 23.00 [13.50-26.36] Hz; P = 0.012). In the ovarian endometriosis group, the affected-side ovarian tissue had higher R2* values than the intact side ovarian tissue before (27.00 [22.50-32.25] Hz versus 19.19 [14.43-24.12] Hz; P = 0.019) and after (27.13 [21.80-31.50] Hz versus 21.96 [19.00-27.53] Hz; P = 0.015) surgery. No significant changes were observed in the R2* values of the affected-side ovarian tissue after surgery. CONCLUSIONS: In patients with ovarian endometriomas, the affected-side ovarian tissue demonstrated no reduction in iron content within 3 months of ovarian cystectomy. Cystectomy alone is inadequate for complete elimination of local iron deposition. Serial MRI-R2* monitoring could serve as an objective modality for assessing postoperative iron deposition dynamics.
Impact of vitamin D deficiency on phenotypes and IVF outcomes in PCOS: a prospective study.
Zhao F, Wen D, Zeng L … +3 more , Chen L, Li R, Chi H
Reprod Biomed Online · 2026 Feb · PMID 41519101 · Publisher ↗
RESEARCH QUESTION: Does vitamin D deficiency affect phenotypes and pregnancy outcomes in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) who are undergoing IVF/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI)? DESIGN: This prospectiv...
RESEARCH QUESTION: Does vitamin D deficiency affect phenotypes and pregnancy outcomes in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) who are undergoing IVF/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI)? DESIGN: This prospective cohort study recruited 725 infertile women with PCOS undergoing IVF/ICSI at the Reproductive Center of Peking University Third Hospital. The participants were divided into two groups according to the serum vitamin D concentration: the vitamin D deficiency group (serum 25(OH)D <20 ng/ml, n = 491) and vitamin D non-deficiency group (serum 25(OH)D ≥20 ng/ml, n = 234). Measurements were made of serum hormone concentrations and parameters relating to lipid and glucose metabolism. Pregnancy outcomes were clinical pregnancy and early miscarriage. RESULTS: Serum concentrations of anti-Müllerian hormone (P = 0.042), testosterone (P = 0.035) and androstenedione (P = 0.016) were higher in the vitamin D deficiency group than the non-deficiency group. Vitamin D deficiency was still associated with increased androstenedione concentrations after adjustment for confounders (regression coefficient -0.851, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] -1.661 to -0.042, P = 0.039). No significant difference was found in parameters of lipid and glucose metabolism or in clinical pregnancy and early miscarriage rates between two groups. There was no correlation between vitamin D deficiency and clinical pregnancy (odds ratio [OR] 1.193, 95% CI 0.852-1.671, P = 0.303) or early miscarriage (OR 1.360, 95% CI 0.668-2.767, P = 0.397). CONCLUSIONS: Vitamin D deficiency is correlated with worse parameters, especially higher androstenedione concentrations in infertile women with PCOS. Vitamin D deficiency has no correlation with clinical pregnancy or early miscarriage in women with PCOS undergoing IVF/ICSI treatment.
Reproductive outcomes following fertility preservation in women with endometriosis.
Goldstein R, Benoit A, Grynberg M … +10 more , Vrtovsnik L, Rakrouki S, Becquart C, Sellami I, Vinolas C, Puy V, Eustache F, Mayeur A, Peigné M, Sonigo C
Reprod Biomed Online · 2026 Feb · PMID 41505817 · Publisher ↗
RESEARCH QUESTION: What are the fertility outcomes in women with endometriosis who attempt to conceive at least 2 years after undergoing fertility preservation. DESIGN: This retrospective, observational, bicentric cohort...
RESEARCH QUESTION: What are the fertility outcomes in women with endometriosis who attempt to conceive at least 2 years after undergoing fertility preservation. DESIGN: This retrospective, observational, bicentric cohort study included women diagnosed with endometriosis confirmed by imaging (pelvic magnetic resonance imaging or ultrasonography) who underwent at least one controlled ovarian stimulation cycle for fertility preservation between 1 July 2013 and 31 December 2019. RESULTS: Among 200 participants, follow-up data were available for 184, of whom 76 (41.3%) had attempted to conceive by the end-point (15 February 2023). The median number of oocytes and/or embryos vitrified per patient was 14 (interquartile range [IQR] 8-20). Being in a relationship at the initial consultation was significantly associated with later conception attempts (70.7% versus 25.7%, P < 0.0001). Overall, 48 (63.2%) achieved a pregnancy: 50% naturally, 37.5% using frozen material, and 12.5% via a new IVF attempt with fresh oocytes. Live birth occurred in 31 (40.8%). Among those who had attempted conception, the 4-year cumulative pregnancy incidence following fertility preservation was estimated at 55% (95% CI 45-68%). The cryopreserved material utilization rate was estimated at 48% (95% CI 37-63%) 5 years after fertility preservation. Nulliparity (hazard ratio [HR] 1.43, 95% CI [1.00-2.06] ) and having frozen embryos (HR 2.34, 95% CI [1.65-3.33]) were significant predictors of material use over the follow-up period. CONCLUSIONS: Despite the known detrimental effects of endometriosis on fertility, a majority of women who attempted to conceive following fertility preservation achieved pregnancy, with a substantial proportion conceiving naturally. Half of these used their cryopreserved material, supporting fertility preservation as part of comprehensive reproductive counselling in endometriosis care.
Association between unexplained recurrent pregnancy loss history and adverse neonatal outcomes among infertile women undergoing ART.
Xing G, Miao X, Xia L … +5 more , Lin J, Zhu J, Tian L, Zhao Y, Huang J
Reprod Biomed Online · 2026 Feb · PMID 41505816 · Publisher ↗
RESEARCH QUESTION: Does maternal history of unexplained recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) increase the risk for adverse neonatal outcomes after assisted reproductive technology (ART)? DESIGN: Embryo transfer cycles with sin...
RESEARCH QUESTION: Does maternal history of unexplained recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) increase the risk for adverse neonatal outcomes after assisted reproductive technology (ART)? DESIGN: Embryo transfer cycles with singleton live births (n = 37,703) were included from three fertility centres between 2014 and 2021. Infertile patients were divided into three groups according to their pregnancy loss history: two or more; one; and none (control group). A range of neonatal outcomes were followed up by telephone interviews using standardized questionnaires. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to control for potential confounders, and subgroup analyses were conducted for primary and secondary RPL. RESULTS: A total of 925 patients experienced RPL (one pregnancy loss n = 3466; no pregnancy losses after exclusion n = 33312). Compared with the patients without pregnancy loss, the RPL group had significantly higher risks of preterm birth (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.25, 95% CI 1.01 to 1.56) and low birth weight (aOR 1.32, 95% CI 1.00 to 1.74). No significant associations were observed between RPL and other neonatal outcomes. Patients who had experienced only one loss had no increased risk of adverse neonatal outcomes versus those without losses. In subgroup analyses, no differences in neonatal outcomes were observed between the primary and secondary RPL. CONCLUSIONS: Among infertile patients undergoing ART, a history of unexplained RPL was associated with an increased risk of preterm birth and low birth weight in neonates. Absolute risk increments were small, and the clinical significance of these findings should be interpreted with caution.
Assisted reproductive technology in Africa: the African Network and Registry for ART, 2021 and 2022.
Dyer S, Potgieter L, Honwana F … +8 more , Elgindy E, Adageba RK, Khrouf M, Kolani JC, Iketubosin F, Roux PL, Archary P, African Network and Registry for Assisted Reproductive Technology
Reprod Biomed Online · 2026 Feb · PMID 41483782 · Publisher ↗
RESEARCH QUESTION: What were the utilization, effectiveness and safety of assisted reproductive technology (ART) in Africa in 2021 and 2022? DESIGN: Cross-sectional cycle-based data collected from voluntarily participati...
RESEARCH QUESTION: What were the utilization, effectiveness and safety of assisted reproductive technology (ART) in Africa in 2021 and 2022? DESIGN: Cross-sectional cycle-based data collected from voluntarily participating centres. RESULTS: Data were reported by 63 centres in 14 countries in 2021, and 69 centres in 16 countries in 2022. In 2021, there were 26,481 autologous aspirations and 29,523 autologous transfers (58.8% fresh transfers), 2681 transfers after oocyte donation, and 2074 cycles utilizing preimplantation genetic testing (PGT). In 2022, there were 31,596 autologous aspirations and 35,109 autologous transfers (55.8% fresh transfers), 3393 transfers after oocyte donation, and 2297 cycles utilizing PGT. In both years, the mean age of women undergoing autologous fresh transfers was 34 years, with a mean number of 2.3 embryos per transfer. In 2021, the pregnancy rate was 38.1% per fresh transfer and 41.9% per frozen embryo transfer, with a cumulative pregnancy rate per aspiration of 44.2%. In 2022, these rates were 36.5%, 42.6% and 43.6%, respectively. In total, 16,549 pregnancies were lost to follow-up. Based on reported outcomes, the multiple delivery rate was ≥20% following most procedures. Most multiples were born preterm and had substantially increased perinatal mortality compared with singletons. Elective single embryo transfer provided the best balance of ART effectiveness and safety. Ten-year trends documented stable effectiveness in fresh cycles, increasing effectiveness in frozen cycles, and no decline in multiple delivery rates. CONCLUSION: This report marks the 10 anniversary of the African Network and Registry for Assisted Reproductive Technology (ANARA). ANARA's annual reports represent and critically inform regional ART development based on real-world evidence and national, regional and global cooperation.
Effect of micronutrients on fertility and aneuploidy rates in human conceptions: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
Schütz D, Lettorp KH, Olofsson IA … +1 more , Hoffmann ER
Reprod Biomed Online · 2026 Feb · PMID 41483781 · Publisher ↗
In order to make clinical recommendations based on uncertain evidence, a systematic review and meta-analysis on the influence of micronutrient supplementation on preclinical and clinical reproductive outcomes was underta...
In order to make clinical recommendations based on uncertain evidence, a systematic review and meta-analysis on the influence of micronutrient supplementation on preclinical and clinical reproductive outcomes was undertaken. PubMed and Scopus were searched until 12 November 2024. Parallel-grouped intervention studies with women undergoing fertility treatment with micronutrient supplementation or addition of micronutrient to in-vitro maturation media were included. The primary outcomes were oocyte maturation and chromosome aneuploidy rates, pregnancy rate, miscarriage rate, and live birth rate. Five of 1810 studies were included. In three clinical studies, 326 women underwent fertility treatment with coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) or control treatment. CoQ10 increased oocyte retrieval and live birth rates for women diagnosed with poor ovarian response (POR; OR = 2.28), and increased the pregnancy rate for women diagnosed with POR or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) (OR = 2.20 and 13.26, respectively). CoQ10 had no effect on the miscarriage rate. In two in-vitro studies, 127 women donated 241 immature oocytes which were matured with CoQ10 or resveratrol. CoQ10 increased the oocyte maturation rate (OR = 2.73), and decreased oocyte and chromosome aneuploidy rates (OR = 0.31 and 0.57, respectively) for women of advanced maternal age (AMA). Resveratrol had no effect. Women of AMA and women diagnosed with POR or PCOS gained greater benefit from CoQ10 supplementation.
Hyaluronan-enriched transfer media in PGT-A cycles: a stratified cohort analysis.
Greco P, Costanzi F, Listorti I … +6 more , Varricchio MT, Litwicka K, Arrivi C, Mencacci C, Greco E, Colasante A
Reprod Biomed Online · 2026 Feb · PMID 41483780 · Publisher ↗
RESEARCH QUESTION: Can hyaluronan-enriched transfer medium (HETM) improve reproductive outcomes in frozen single euploid blastocyst transfers after preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A)? DESIGN: Retrospe...
RESEARCH QUESTION: Can hyaluronan-enriched transfer medium (HETM) improve reproductive outcomes in frozen single euploid blastocyst transfers after preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A)? DESIGN: Retrospective analysis of 445 patients (549 cycles), who had PGT-A embryo transfers that used HETM (EmbryoGlue) versus standard medium. Subgroup analyses were conducted based on blastocyst morphology, maternal age and previous implantation failure. RESULTS: No significant differences were found between HETM and control groups in the main reproductive outcomes, including positive HCG rates (72.27% versus 70.23%, P = 0.648), clinical pregancy rates per positive BHCG (80.23% versus 84.11%, P = 0.440), live birth rates (66.28% versus 72.85%, P = 0.237), and miscarriage rates (13.95% and 11.26%, P = 0.404). Subgroup analyses by blastocyst cohort quality, maternal age and previous implantation failure showed no statistically significant benefit of HETM. On transfers of poor morphology (C-grade) blastocysts, HETM was associated with a significantly higher HCG-positive rate (79.17% for HETM versus 52.94% for the control group, P = 0.021), but this did not translate into improved clinical pregnancy (52.63% HETM versus 68.89% control group; P = 0.231) or live birth rates (47.37% HETM versus 62.22% control group; P = 0.284). CONCLUSIONS: HETM did not provide a significant advantage in reproductive outcomes after single euploid blastocyst transfer. Its limited benefit in specific subgroups, such as poor morphology embryos, warrants cautious use and further research.
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