American Society For Reproductive Medicine Research Articles

Concomitant extragenital malformations of female reproductive tract anomalies: analysis of 444 cases in Peking Union Medical College Hospital

Objective: To analyze the incidence and clinical phenotype of the concomitant extragenital malformations in the patients with female reproductive tract anomalies. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted using clinical data of hospitalized patients diagnosed with uterine, cervical, or vaginal malformations from January 2003 to December 2022 in Peking Union Medical College Hospital. The malformations were classified according to American Society for Reproductive Medicine müllerian anomalies classification 2021, and in each type, the incidence and specific manifestations of concomitant extragnital malformations were analyzed. Results: A total of 444 patients were included. The overall incidence of concomitant extragenital malformations was 43.5% (193/444), including urinary system, skeletal system, and other system malformations. Renal malformations on the obstructed side were present in all patients with oblique vaginal septum syndrome (100.0%, 78/78). The total incidence of concomitant extragnital malformations was as high as 8/11 in uterus didelphys, 43.5% (10/23) in unicornuate uterus, 33.6% (79/235) in Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser syndrome, 18.8% (6/32) in septate uterus and 18.5% (12/65) in cervical agenesis. Urinary system malformations (30.6%, 136/444) and skeletal system malformations (13.5%, 60/444) were the most common concomitant malformations in all types, in which, unilateral renal agenesis and scoliosis were the most common. Conclusions: Urinary and skeletal system malformations are important features of female reproductive tract anomalies. Urologic ultrasonography and spinal roentgenogram are recommended for all patients with female reproductive tract anomalies.

U.S. Gestational Carrier Embryo Transfer Trends, 2014–2020 [ID 2683526

INTRODUCTION: Multiple embryo transfers (METs) are common among gestational carriers (GCs) despite increased obstetric risks of multiple gestations and strong recommendations from American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) for single-embryo transfers. This study assessed GC embryo transfer trends from 2014–2020 to evaluate compliance with national guidelines. METHODS: This retrospective, population-based cohort study used data from the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology Clinic Outcomes Reporting System. All cycles from 2014 to 2020 involving an embryo transfer to a GC were analyzed. The number of GC embryo transfers, use of preimplantation genetic testing (PGT), and outcome (singleton versus multiple gestation) were assessed. Poisson and linear regression models evaluated trends in number and proportion of cycles over time. Institutional review board approval was obtained. RESULTS: Of the 40,177 GC transfer cycles from 2014 to 2020, 11,081 (27.6%) involved transfer of two or more embryos. Both the number (n=2,001 in 2014; n=814 in 2020) and proportion of METs (56.6% of all transfers in 2014; 11.8% in 2020) (P<.05 for both) decreased. The use of PGT among MET GC cycles increased from 23.9% in 2014 to 61.4% in 2020. Among live births, there was a 71.0% reduction in the proportion of multiple gestations from 2014 (25.5%) to 2020 (7.4%) (P<.05). Among double-embryo transfers, the majority were performed at the blastocyst stage with an increase from 2014 (76.7%) to 2020 (88.1%) (P<.05). CONCLUSION: With increased use of PGT and extended blastocyst culture, MET and subsequent multiple gestation pregnancies have decreased amongst U.S. GCs. These trends suggest increased compliance with ASRM national guidelines.

Soluble Factors CD14, CD163, and Migration Inhibitory Factor Are Associated with Endometriosis-Related Infertility

Objectives: Myeloid cell-derived factors contribute to the immunopathology of endometriosis. Soluble CD14 (sCD14), CD163 (sCD163), and MIF serve as in vivo markers of myeloid function. However, these soluble molecules are largely unexplored in women with endometriosis-related infertility cases. We investigated three soluble markers, namely sCD14, sCD163, and MIF, in cases of infertility associated with endometriosis and correlated its level to the stage of endometriosis. Design: Eighty-seven women newly diagnosed with endometriosis or other benign gynecologic control cases linked to infertility were prospectively recruited and underwent diagnostic laparoscopy. Participants: Forty-four patients with endometriosis were included in this study, comprising 19 patients with early-endometriosis (stages I and II) and 25 late-endometriosis (stages III and IV) based on the revised American Society for Reproductive Medicine (rASRM) classification. The remaining 43 patients constituted a control group with infertility due to other causes. Methods: The levels of sCD14, sCD163, and MIF in serum and peritoneal fluid were assessed using ELISA. Results: Endometriosis women exhibited significantly higher serum levels of sCD163 and MIF levels compared to the control group. Both sCD163 and MIF levels displayed a positive correlation with the rASRM adhesion score. Moreover, the MIF level in serum had a positive correlation with the rASRM endometriosis score. In receiver operating characteristic analysis, serum sCD163 and MIF could significantly discriminate endometriosis and non-endometriosis in infertility cases. Limitations: Some limitations of the current study deserve to be underlined. First, the sensitive ELISA method was the sole-validated tool for detecting the markers in patient samples. Second, healthy or fertile women were not involved as the control group. Conclusions: The elevated systemic levels of sCD163 and MIF correlated with the severity of endometriosis. These soluble molecules have a potential diagnostic capacity as a non-invasive biomarker. Furthermore, our data warrants future studies on the underlying mechanism of sCD163 and MIF in endometriosis-related infertility.

Congenital Anomalies of the Female Genital Tract: A Comprehensive Review.

This comprehensive review provides an in-depth examination of congenital anomalies of the female genital tract, explicitly focusing on the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) Müllerian Anomalies Classification. The classification system is crucial for standardizing communication and guiding accurate diagnoses in clinical practice. The review explores the diverse clinical presentations, etiological factors, and diagnostic modalities associated with these anomalies. Management strategies, ranging from conservative approaches to advanced reproductive technologies, are discussed in the context of individualized treatment plans based on the ASRM classification. The psychosocial impact of female genital tract anomalies is thoroughly examined, emphasizing the importance of holistic care and patient-centered approaches. Looking toward the future, the review outlines emerging research areas, including advances in diagnosis techniques, innovative treatment modalities, and genetic studies. It ultimately underscores the need for a comprehensive understanding of physical and psychosocial dimensions, offering insights for healthcare professionals to navigate this complex landscape and improve the lives of affected individuals.

(212) The Questionable Clinical Utility of Sperm Morphology: Rate of Isolated Teratospermia in a Population of Fertile Men

Abstract Introduction Over the last several decades, sperm morphology has represented a standard component of semen analysis. However, its clinical utility is not well-defined, despite continual efforts by the WHO to address critiques of semen morphology criteria through increasingly strict guidelines. Issues with intra- and inter-laboratory technical variability, in addition to the subjective nature of the morphology assessment, have been thoroughly discussed in existing literature. Furthermore, current literature has highlighted the low predictive value of sperm morphology abnormalities in assisted fertility treatment (ART) and natural pregnancy outcomes. As of 2020, the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) guidelines have noted that morphology alone is not highly predictive or diagnostic of infertility. However, past survey studies have demonstrated the pervasive belief among physicians of the value of sperm morphology, potentially leading to counseling patients towards more expensive ART methods. These concerns call into question the emphasis placed on sperm morphology assessment and its value in the clinical setting. Objective To better understand the impact of sperm morphology on fertility, we assessed sperm morphology in a population of known fertile men. Methods Healthy men over 18 years of age were recruited to provide one semen sample prior to vasectomy from March 2020 through November 2022. Inclusion criteria for the study was as follows: (1) patients were required to have biological children under the age of 5 years old, with no history of difficulty achieving pregnancy, and (2) had undergone no prior fertility procedures. Sperm morphology was analyzed using Papanicolaou stain with Kruger strict criteria by two technicians in an Andrology specialty laboratory per the WHO 5th edition manual. Results There were 83 men who participated in the study, 68 of whom (81.9%) had a complete sperm morphology assessment available. On average, participants were 37 years of age and had a mean BMI of 28 (22.8, 33.2). Of those with a smoking history available (n=61), 38 (62.3%) were non-smokers, 7 (11.5%) were former smokers, and 16 (26.2%) were current smokers. Patients had an average of 3 children with a mean youngest child age of 11.5 months old. There were 38 patients (55.9%) with 3% or lower normal sperm morphology, including two patients who had 0% normal morphology (Table 1). The most common morphologic abnormalities were head shape defects (n=59, 84.3%), followed by coiled tails (n=14, 20.3). Men 3% or lower normal sperm morphology were four times as likely to have both head and tail abnormalities than men with 4% or greater normal sperm morphology (n=8 vs n=2, respectively); half of these men also had lower than normal motility, whereas none of the men with 4% or greater normal sperm morphology had lower than normal motility. Conclusions More than half of fertile male patients (65.6%) had lower than normal sperm morphology in our study. The results of our study further question the clinical relevance of sperm morphology on fertility outcomes and if the current approach in assessing morphology is too strict. Disclosure No.

Expanding the Role of Chromosomal Microarray Analysis in the Evaluation of Recurrent Pregnancy Loss

Multiple factors contribute to recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL). This review highlights the latest international guidelines for RPL workup, including immunological testing, by the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM), the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE), and the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG). These three societies recommend testing for antiphospholipid syndrome. ESHRE and RCOG also recommend thyroid peroxidase antibody testing, whereas ASRM does not. All guidelines advise against testing of natural killer cells, cytokines, antinuclear antibodies, human leukocyte antigen (HLA) compatibility, anti-HLA antibodies, and anti-sperm antibodies. However, when following ASRM, ESHRE or RCOG diagnostic guidelines, over 50% of cases have no identifiable cause. Genetic testing of products of conception (POC) can improve our understanding of unexplained RPL as aneuploidy is a common cause of RPL. Based on studies reporting results from chromosomal microarray analysis (CMA) of POC, we propose a novel algorithm for RPL evaluation. The algorithm involves following evidence-based societal guidelines (published by ASRM, ESHRE, or RCOG), excluding parental karyotyping, in combination with CMA testing of miscarriage tissue. When utilizing this new evaluation algorithm, the number of unexplained cases of RPL decreases from over 50% to less than 10%. As a result, most patients are provided an explanation for their loss and healthcare costs are potentially reduced. Patients with an otherwise negative workup with euploid POC, are classified as “truly unexplained RPL”. These patients are excellent candidates for enrollment in randomized, controlled trials examining novel immunological testing and treatment protocols.

Safety of methotrexate administration in women with pregnancy of unknown location deemed to have high risk of ectopic pregnancy.

This study evaluates the safety of current guidelines on methotrexate (MTX) administration in women with pregnancy of unknown location (PUL) who are considered to have high risk of underlying ectopic pregnancy (EP) and to investigate whether this would result in inadvertent exposure of MTX to viable intra-uterine pregnancy (IUP). A retrospective observational study was conducted on clinically stable women who were classified PUL at Early Pregnancy Unit, Nepean Hospital, between 2007 and 2021. PUL is defined as when a woman presents with a positive pregnancy test but has no signs of IUP or EP on the transvaginal ultrasound (TVS). If patients with a PUL behave biochemically like an EP but the location is not confirmed on ultrasound, these women are eligible for MTX to minimize the risk of subsequent tubal rupture.Criteria discussed in the guidelines of American College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (ACOG),American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM),Royal College of Obstetricians & Gynaecologists(RCOG)and National Institute for Health Care Excellence (NICE)were applied to the collected PUL database. The number of patients eligible to receive MTX and the number of women with underlying viable IUP who would be inadvertently given MTX were calculated. A total of 816 consecutive women with PUL were reviewed, and 724 had complete data and were included in the final analysis. 6 patients were persistent PULs,and 718 fell among outcomes of 4 subgroups: viable IUP, non-viable IUP, EP, failed PUL. According to the ACOG, ASRM, RCOG and NICE, the rate of possible MTX administration among patients with a PUL is 2.76%, 4.56%, 0.41% and 35.36%, respectively. However, no single persistent-PUL would have received MTX according to the above protocols, and majority of the MTX treatment were unnecessary because those patients were classified as NVIUP or FPUL later. More importantly, ACOG and ASRM could theoretically result in inadvertent MTX administration to women with an underlying IVUP at rates of 4.1/1000 (3/724). Current guidelines used to predict high risk of EP among PUL population are not safe enough to avoid inadvertent MTX administration to women with an underlying viable IUP.These guidelines need to be wisely used to ensure that no wanted pregnancy is exposed to MTX. Women with PULs should be carefully monitored and MTX should be used with judicious care when the location of pregnancy is yet to be confirmed. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Downregulation of pattern recognition receptors on macrophages involved in aggravation of endometriosis.

In women of reproductive age, endometriosis may contribute to dysmenorrhea, chronic pelvic pain, dyspareunia, infertility, adenomyosis, and endometrial ovarian cyst (EOC). Recent studies have shown that chronic inflammation occurs in the pelvis of endometriosis patients and that this inflammation is exacerbated by immunosuppression, leading to survival endometrial debris. However, the detailed immunological mechanisms underlying the aggravation of inflammation and immunosuppression in endometriosis patients remain unclear. We investigate the alarmins (high-mobility group box-1, IL-33, IL-1α, and S100B protein), proinflammatory cytokines (IL-6 and IL-1β), and immune cells (CD8+ T cells, CD4+ T cells, natural killer cells, natural killer T cells, dendritic cells, and macrophages) in peritoneal fluid of patients with EOC using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, electrochemiluminescence, and flow cytometry. Then, we analyzed the correlation between these factors and the aggravating indicators of endometriosis, tumor size and revised American Society for Reproductive Medicine (r-ASRM) score. Unexpectedly, there was no correlation between each alarmin level and aggravating indicators. However, the expression of pattern recognition receptors, toll-like receptor 4, and receptor of advanced glycation end-products on macrophages was inversely correlated with aggravating indicators. The aggravation of endometriosis is associated with a decrease in alarmin receptors but not alarmin levels. Investigation of innate immune systems, such as alarmins and their receptors, may help elucidate new mechanisms of endometriosis.

Oxidative stress and antioxidant capacity in patients with endometrioma.

BackgroundEndometriosis has several clinical features, including dysmenorrhea, infertility, and endometrioma (EMO). Although oxidative stress status is closely related to endometriosis, it is unclear how the balance between oxidative stress capacity and antioxidant capacity correlates with treatment of or factors that worsen endometriosis. In this study, we used peritoneal fluid from patients with EMO to investigate the role of oxidative stress capacity and antioxidant capacity.Materials and MethodsParticipants with EMO (n = 30) and without EMO (uterine myoma, n = 13) were enrolled. All peritoneal fluid samples were collected at the beginning of surgery. We evaluated oxidative stress capacity and antioxidant capacity in peritoneal fluid samples by using the diacron-reactive oxygen metabolites (d-ROM) and biological antioxidant potential (BAP) tests, respectively. The d-ROM and BAP values and the d-ROM/BAP ratio were measured, and their correlations with the CA125 level, revised American Society for Reproductive Medicine (r-ASRM) score, and tumor size were analyzed.ResultsThe d-ROM/BAP ratio was significantly higher in patients with EMO than in those without EMO. In addition, the d-ROM/BAP ratio was positively correlated with CA125 level and r-ASRM scores in patients with EMO.ConclusionsOxidative stress is correlated with factors that worsen EMO. The d-ROM/BAP test may be useful for assessing disease status in patients with EMO.

COVID-19 Vaccination and Reproductive Health: a Comprehensive Review for Healthcare Providers.

With all the current misinformation on social media platforms about the COVID-19 vaccine and its potential effects on fertility, it is essential for healthcare providers to have evidenced-based research to educate their patients, especially those who are trying to conceive, of the risks to mothers and fetuses of being unvaccinated. It is well known that COVID-19 infection puts pregnant women at higher risk of complications, including ICU admission, placentitis, stillbirth, and death. In February of 2021, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM), and the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine (SMFM) released a statement denying any link between COVID vaccination and infertility. ASRM later confirmed and stated that "everyone, including pregnant women and those seeking to become pregnant, should get a COVID-19 vaccine". In this review, we aim to provide a compilation of data that denies any link between vaccination and infertility for healthcare providers to be able to educate their patients based on evidence-based medicine. We also reviewed the effect of COVID-19 virus and vaccination on various parameters and processes that are essential to obtaining a successful pregnancy.

International Guidelines and Significant Advances in Diagnosis

Objective: To develop and translate rigorous, comprehensive evidence-based guidelines for diagnosis, assessment, and treatment, to improve the lives of those with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) worldwide. Here we will focus on diagnosis. Participants: Extensive health professional and consumer or patient engagement informed the guideline priority areas. International society-nominated panels included consumers, and experts in paediatrics, endocrinology, gynaecology, primary care, reproductive endocrinology, psychology, dietetics, exercise physiology, sleep, bariatric/metabolic surgery, public health, other co-opted experts, project management, evidence synthesis and translation. Evidence: Best practice, evidence-based guideline development involved extensive evidence synthesis and the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) framework covered evidence quality, feasibility, acceptability, cost, implementation and ultimately recommendation strength. Process: Governance included an international advisory board, project board and five guideline development groups with 52 members, consumer, and translation committees. The Centre for Research Excellence in Women’s Health in Reproductive Life, funded by the Australian National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC), and led by Monash University, partnered with the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, the Endocrine Society, the European Society of Endocrinology and the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology. Thirty-six organisations collaborated with international meetings over nine months. Fifty-five prioritised clinical questions involved 52 systematic and three narrative reviews, generating evidence-based and consensus recommendations with accompanying practice points. Committee members nominated by collaborating organisations provided international peer review, and evidence expert-reviewed methods and outputs were submitted to NHMRC for independent review. Recommendations: PCOS should be diagnosed using the revised consensus Rotterdam criteria, which are now updated to evidence-based criteria in the International Guideline. In adults this requires the presence of two of i) clinical/biochemical hyperandrogenism ii) ovulatory dysfunction and iii) polycystic ovaries on ultrasound or elevated anti-mullerian hormone (AMH) levels, after other causes of these features are excluded. Where irregular menstrual cycles and hyperandrogenism are present, ultrasound or AMH are not required for diagnosis. In adolescents, both hyperandrogenism and ovulatory dysfunction are required, with ultrasound and AMH not recommended, due to poor specificity. Conclusion: Overall, evidence in PCOS is low to moderate quality. Based on high prevalence and significant health impact, greater priority, funding, and research is recommended. Guideline translation will be extensive including multilingual education outputs and evidence-based resources for consumers (the ASKPCOS app), healthcare professionals and policy makers.

Women operated for recurrent endometrioma exhibit more multiple deep infiltrating endometriosis lesions

ObjectiveTo determine whether recurrent endometriomas are associated with multiple deep infiltrating endometriosis (DIE) lesions. Study DesignThis was an observational, cross-sectional, cohort study of 611 consecutive symptomatic women with endometrioma who underwent surgical treatment. We compared 124 patients with previous surgery for endometrioma (study group, PSO(+)) versus 487 patients without previous surgery for endometrioma (control group, PSO(−)). The primary outcome was the presence of multiple (≥2) DIE lesions. The secondary outcomes included painful associated symptoms, the presence of intestinal lesions, and the mean total revised American Society for Reproductive Medicine (rASMR) scores. ResultsThe occurrence of DIE lesions was higher in the PSO(+) group than in the PSO(−) group (67.7% vs. 37.3%, respectively; p < 0.01). Among the patients with DIE, more patients had multiple (≥ 2) lesions in the PSO(+) group than in the PSO(−) group: 91.7% vs. 77.8%, respectively; p < 0.01. The patients in the PSO(+) group had more painful symptoms than did the patients in the PSO(−) group (90.9% vs. 74.5%, respectively; p < 0.01). Intestinal lesions were more frequently observed in the PSO(+) group than in the PSO(−) group: 55.6% vs. 19.1%, respectively; p < 0.01. The patients in the PSO(+) group had a higher rASRM mean score than the patients in the PSO(−) group (65.0 vs. 46.1, respectively; p < 0.01). After adjusting for confounding factors, PSO was significantly associated with the presence of multiple DIE lesions (OR 4.1). ConclusionsRecurrence of endometrioma is a marker of DIE severity with more multiple lesions.

Recommendations From the 2023 International Evidence-based Guideline for the Assessment and Management of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome.

Recommendations From the 2023 International Evidence-based Guideline for the Assessment and Management of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome.

Recommendations from the 2023 International Evidence-based Guideline for the Assessment and Management of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome†.

Recommendations from the 2023 International Evidence-based Guideline for the Assessment and Management of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome†.

보조생식술 접근에의 사회적 제한은 비윤리적인가?

Ethics Committee of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) publisched opinions on ‘Access to fertility treatment by gays, lesbians, and unmarried persons’ four times between 2006 and 2021. This paper aims to review these opinions critically. ASRM finally views the restriction of access to assisted reproductive technology not only for unmarried women, which is a major subject of discussion in Korean society, but also for unmarried men, gays and lesbians, as ‘unethical’. After summarizing the Ethics Committee’s opinions (Chapter II), the validity of the ASRM’s opinions was examined, focusing on Committee’s three main arguments. First of all, ASRM argues that reproductive interests should be protected as a human right called ‘reproductive rights’ regardless of marital status or sexual orientation. This paper examined the theoretical and legal limitations of the concept of ‘reproductive rights’ (Chapter III). Second, ASRM argues that parents' marital status or sexual orientation has no negative effect on children. This paper pointed out the problem of ASRM's approach to frame this issue as a confrontation between ‘normal family ideology’ and ‘science’, and then, the scientific problems, that is, the limitation of data and the problem of hasty generalization(Chapter IV). Third, ASRM argues that the ‘conscientious objection’ of doctors for reason of marital status or sexual orientation is an act that promotes discrimination and oppression, and is a right that violates the current law (Anti-Discrimination Act) and medical ethics, so the enforcement of that right should be limited. This article pointed out the legal and logical limitations of these arguments(Chapter V). Through such a critical review, this paper came to the conclusion that it is difficult to apply ASRM's opinions on the issue to Korean society due to their logical, scientific, and legal limitations. Ultimately, this paper was intended to contribute to publicize that ASRM opinions have a fundamental limitation, that is, the limitation as a ‘utilitarian approach to ethical problems’, in addition to its logical problems.

The Correlation Between CYP19 Levels, VAS of Dysmenorrhea, and the Grading Score ASRM of Endometriosis

Objective: We aim to assess the correlation between the CYP19 level, the visual analogue scale (VAS) pain and endometriosis American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) grading scale. Method: An observational analytic study with a cross–sectional design was conducted at the Obstetrics/Gynecology Department, RSUP Dr. Moh Hoesin Palembang, Laboratory of Biomedical and Biomolecular of the Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Sriwijaya from July–December 2022. Subjects who were diagnosed with endometriosis and met the inclusion and exclusion criteria underwent a histopathological examination to measure the degree of disease according to ASRM. Using the same sample, the CYP19 levels were assessed by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Univariate and bivariate statistical analyses were performed to see the correlation. Results: This study involved 37 subjects aged 20–48 (Mean: 32 years). We found there was a significant correlation between the degree of VAS score and ASRM grading (p&lt;0.001). In addition, although CYP19 expression was found in ectopic endometrial tissue, there was no significant correlation between the level of CYP19 expression in the tissue and the VAS score dysmenorrhea (p= 0,618) and ASRM grading (p=0.604). Conclusion: There is no significant correlation between CYP19 levels and the degree of pain in VAS or ASRM grading in patients.

Serum HSF1 is upregulated in endometriosis patients and serves as a potential diagnostic biomarker.

Endometriosis (EMS) is a prevalent gynecological condition lacking reliable diagnostic biomarkers. This prospective study aimed to analyze the potential of serum heat shock transcription factor 1 (HSF1) as a diagnostic marker for EMS. Clinical features of 92 EMS patients and 52 controls were recorded, revealing significant differences in dysmenorrhea, dyspareunia, pelvic pain, nulliparity, and CA125 levels. Serum HSF1 was upregulated in EMS patients, with higher levels in American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) III/IV than ASRM I/II. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis demonstrated good diagnostic function for serum HSF1 (AUC: 0.857, sensitivity: 91.30%, specificity: 63.46%). Serum HSF1, dysmenorrhea, dyspareunia, and nulliparity were independent risk factors for EMS, while dysmenorrhea and serum HSF1 were independent risk factors for EMS severity. Additionally, the GSE25628 dataset was downloaded from the GEO database for differential analysis of gene expression. The HSF1 downstream target genes PTGES3, HSP90AA1, and HSPB1 showed significant differential expression in EMS, suggesting their involvement in the regulatory mechanism of HSF1 in EMS.

Obesity does not increase the risk of side effects and complications of egg retrieval: delaying oocyte retrieval in obese patients is not a good strategy.

Obesity is one of the main concerns for public health and is becoming an increasingly widespread problem worldwide. Women are more likely to require a cesarean section and have a longer hospital stay after delivery. Excess body weight can interfere with ovulation and make it more difficult for embryos to implant in the uterus. A high body mass index (BMI) has controversial effects on the outcomes of medically assisted reproduction treatments (IVF) and, if careful counseling is not performed, medical-legal risks may be incurred. While some researchers argue that obesity does not particularly affect ART outcomes, other studies claim that a high BMI does not interfere with embryonic development. Both the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) and the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE) has stated that there is no clear evidence supporting a BMI limit for IVF treatment and that each patient should be evaluated on an individual basis. The purpose of our study was to evaluate whether performing in vitro fertilization on these patients increases the risk of medical, surgical, and anesthetic complications of oocyte retrieval. From January 2011 to December 2022, all patients with BMI higher than 25 were enrolled in the study (n=766). Complications and risks related to oocyte retrieval were evaluated, and patients were divided according to BMI groups. With the one-way ANOVA test, all groups were compared with the control group, and none showed statistically significant differences, only the number of produced embryos in the BMI group between 30-34.9 was lower and statistically significant. Only one study has analyzed these aspects, mainly focusing on the need for anesthesia drugs and any related complications, and the same author reported greater difficulty in performing oocyte retrieval. The same study recorded an increase in incomplete oocyte retrievals. Our work does not confirm any of these impressions.

Rebuilding a Reproductive Future Informed by Disability and Reproductive Justice.

Rebuilding a Reproductive Future Informed by Disability and Reproductive Justice.

O-229 Long term features of PCOS and Medical treatment

Abstract Objective: To develop and translate comprehensive evidence-based guidelines for diagnosis, assessment and treatment, to improve the lives of those with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) worldwide. Participants: Health professional and consumer/ patients informed priorities. International society-nominated panels included consumers, and experts in reproductive endocrinology, obstetrics, gynaecology, paediatrics, endocrinology, primary care, psychology, dietetics, exercise physiology, sleep, bariatric/ metabolic surgery, public health, other co-opted experts, evidence synthesis and translation. Evidence: Best practice guideline development involved extensive evidence synthesis and the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) framework covered evidence quality, feasibility, acceptability, cost, implementation and recommendation strength. Process: Governance included international advisory and project, guideline development, consumer and translation committees. The Centre for Research Excellence in Women’s Health in Reproductive Life, funded by the Australian National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC), and led by Monash University, partnered with the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, Endocrine Society, European Endocrine Society and European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology. Another 30 collaborating organisations engaged. Overall 52 systematic and three narrative reviews, informed international guideline groups, generating evidence-based and consensus recommendations and practice points for 55 clinical questions. Collaborating/ partnering organisations and NHMRC methodological experts led peer review. Recommendations: After diagnosing PCOS, assessment and management should include reproductive, metabolic, cardiovascular, dermatologic, sleep and psychological features. A reproductive health plan is recommended including diagnosis and support in adolescence, lifelong healthy lifestyle / prevention of weight gain, fertility optimisation, preconception risk mitigation and recognition of PCOS as a high-risk pregnancy condition requiring identification, screening, monitoring and management. Metabolic risk factors, diabetes, cardiovascular disease and sleep disorders are increased in PCOS, with screening and management recommended. Increased premenopausal endometrial cancer risk should be recognised. Depressive and anxiety symptoms are significantly increased, with universal screening recommended. Greater awareness of psychological features including eating disorders, body image and quality of life impacts is recommended. Life-style intervention is the first line treatment for PCOS, but in many cases medication is also needed. Combined oral contraceptive pills are first line pharmacological treatment for menstrual irregularity and hyperandrogenism, with no specific recommended preparation, and a preference for lower dose and less side-effects. Metformin is recommended primarily for metabolic features noting greater efficacy than inositol, which offers more limited clinical benefits. Metformin is not routinely recommended for use in pregnancy. Laser therapy is effective and recommended for hair reduction in identified subgroups, whilst anti-androgens have more limited recommendations. Anti-obesity agents and bariatric/ metabolic surgery may be considered based on general population guidelines, balancing benefits and side effects. Overall, evidence was low to moderate quality. Based on high prevalence and significant health impact, greater priority, education, funding and research is strongly recommended.