Comparison of a “freeze-all” strategy versus a “fresh transfer” strategy among poor responders in Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART)—An observational study

Abstract

Introduction: In recent years, frozen embryo transfer has been used by many and it may be a viable alternative to frozen embryo transfer (FET). So far, most of the studies were done to prove effectiveness of “freeze all” strategy in normal responder, very few had focused this policy on poor responder. Aims: To find clinical pregnancy rate (CPR) in frozen cycle versus fresh cycle embryo transfer (ET) in poor responder. Settings and design: Prospective observational study performed at our private fertility clinic. Methods and materials: From August 2018 to April 2019, a total of 102 poor responder patients who met POSEIDON criteria were included in the study out of which 50 were in FET group and 52 were in frozen thaw group. Controlled ovarian stimulation (COS) with gonadotropin releasing hormones (GnRH) antagonist protocol was done. Measured primary outcome was CPR in both groups. Statistical analysis used: Paired t test, chi square test, Z test, and Student t test were used. Results: Statistical analysis showed that the CPR in the frozen embryo group was 46.15%, while in the FET group it was 24.0%. The proportional comparison among the two groups was found to be statistically significant (P = 0.016), showing a higher CPR in the FET group. Conclusion: Success of IVF treatment can be improved in poor responder by implementing “freeze all” policy. RCT with large number of patients should be carried out to confirm this finding.