Five years' experience using oocyte vitrification to preserve fertility for medical and nonmedical indications

Abstract

To evaluate the results of controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH) for oocyte vitrification to preserve fertility for medical and nonmedical indications. A retrospective, multicenter, observational study performed between March 2007 and June 2012. University-affiliated infertility clinics. Of 560 nononcological patients and 475 oncological patients, we performed 1,080 oocyte vitrification cycles, 725 for nonmedical reasons and 355 in patients affected with cancer. Cycle outcome is presented, including 30 women who returned to use their frozen eggs with, 20 pregnancies obtained, 6 newborns, and 8 ongoing pregnancies. Controlled ovarian hyperstimulation, oocyte retrieval, warming of oocytes, and ET in those who already came back. Days of stimulation, total dose of gonadotropins, estrogen (E) and P levels, number of oocytes retrieved and vitrified, pregnancy rate (PR). Comparable results were obtained in both groups of patients, with lower total dose of gonadotropins used and lower serum E(2) levels in patients affected with cancer. Frozen/thawed oocytes performed similarly in both groups. Patients who vitrify eggs for medical or nonmedical reasons perform similarly, as observed in this large series. This technique offers realistic expectations to both groups of patients to have a child with their own eggs. These data could be used to adequately counsel our patients.