LSQUO]411 Perinatal outcome of singletons after using a low-cost simplified ivf system: Comparatve analysis with natural conception pregnancies in flanders

Abstract

Aim of the study: To compare perinatal outcome results for singleton babies concepted by using a low-cost simplified IVF culture system (SCS) with natural conception singletons in Flanders, Belgium (SPE registration). Design: Perinatal outcome results of all singleton babies born from January 2013 until December 2020 after using SCS were compared with the perinatal outcome of all natural conception singletons born in Flanders between 2013 and 2019. Main outcome parameters were prematurity (< 37 week) and low birthweight (< 2.5 kg). Other outcome parameters were mean birthweight, very low birthweight (<1.5 kg), extreme prematurity (< 32 weeks), perinatal mortality and mode of delivery. Results: 176 babies were born after SCS, 105 after fresh embryo transfer, 71 after transfer of cryo-thawed embryos. From 2013 until 2019 a total of 401 111 singletons were born in Flanders after natural conception. When comparing both groups, low birthweight was found in 3.4 % (6/176) for SCS and 4.9 % (19781/401111) for NC singletons (p=0.34). The mean birthweight was 3411 and 3398 grams for SCS and NC singletons, a non-significant difference. The prematurity rate was 5.6 % (10/176) and 6.4 % (25751/401111) for SCS and NC babies respectively (p=0.68). Very low birth weight (< 1.5 kg) was noted in 1.1 % and 0.8 % for SCS and NC singletons respectively (p=0.63). Prematurity < 32 weeks was observed in 1.7 % of SCS and 0.9 % of NC babies (p=0.27). Only one congenital malformation (clubfoot) was found, in the SCS group (0.5 %) compared to 0.9 % after NC (p=0.62). Perinatal mortality and caesarean section rate was not different in both groups. Conclusion: Perinatal outcome of singleton babies born after using a low-cost SCS are very reassuring and similar to the perinatal outcome of a large cohort of NC singletons in Flanders.