ESHRE Research Articles

Sex hormone-binding globulin as a biomarker for metabolic risk in European women with polycystic ovary syndrome

Objective Sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) is suggested to be a biomarker for metabolic disturbances in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Insulin resistance and hyperinsulinemia is common in PCOS patients. Low SHBG increases free testosterone levels, which further induces hyperinsulinemia. There is no established cutoff level for SHBG in PCOS patients. The goal of this study is to examine SHBG as a biomarker for metabolic dysregulation in European women with PCOS in relation to hyperandrogenemia. Methods Retrospective data was collected from the outpatient clinic for menstrual cycle disorders at Maastricht University Medical Center+. 208 women were included, aged between 18 and 40 years old. During a one-time visit to the clinic, physical examination and vaginal ultrasound evaluation were performed as well as endocrine evaluation performed after overnight fast. The women were diagnosed with PCOS according to the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE) 2018 guideline. Results BMI was inversely associated with SHBG (β −0.598, 95% CI [−0.710 to −0.485]) and waist circumference (β −0.604, [−0.715 to −0.492]), even after correction for HOMA-IR and testosterone. A cutoff level <40 nmol/L was significantly, and unfavorably, associated with all metabolic outcomes. Its AUROC was optimal for waist circumference (sensitivity 0.75, specificity 0.82). Conclusions SHBG levels <40 nmol/L are indicative for metabolic dysregulation in European women with PCOS. Waist circumference is an important predictor for SHBG, comparable to BMI. Visceral adiposity might play an important role in the expression of SHBG and etiology of PCOS.

The Istanbul Consensus update: a revised ESHRE/ALPHA consensus on oocyte and embryo static and dynamic morphological assessment† ‡.

The Istanbul Consensus update: a revised ESHRE/ALPHA consensus on oocyte and embryo static and dynamic morphological assessment† ‡.

Unmet clinical needs in women with polycystic ovary syndrome regarding fertility and obesity: a cross-sectional study from the patient’s perspective

PurposePolycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder in women of reproductive age, often leading to anovulatory infertility. Obesity exacerbates the reproductive, metabolic and psychological features of PCOS, making fertility treatment and patient satisfaction difficult. Despite guidelines from the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE) emphasizing lifestyle modifications and specific treatments, there remains a significant gap in adherence to these guidelines by both healthcare providers and patients.MethodsA cross-sectional online survey was conducted from 1 January to 14 March 2021 among PCOS patients in Germany, Austria and Switzerland. A non-standardized, non-validated questionnaire covering several aspects of reproductive health was distributed via online channels. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-squared tests, Student’s t-tests and Jonckheere-Terpstra tests, with significance set at p < 0.05.ResultsOut of 2029 participants, 1902 completed the fertility questionnaire. Of these, 73.9% perceived their fertility to be impaired, with this perception being higher in obese women (80.8% vs. 67.4%, p < 0.001). The analysis focused on 564 childless women with a current desire to have children, 67.0% of whom met WHO criteria for infertility. Obese women (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2) reported lower satisfaction with fertility treatment (40.9 vs. 47.8, p = 0.009) and were less likely to receive fertility treatment (56.7% vs. 75.8%, p < 0.001). Despite recommendations, only 34.1% reported lifestyle changes as part of their treatment. Letrozole, the recommended first-line treatment, was underused (14.6%) and clomiphene citrate was more commonly prescribed (35.4%). Obese women reported fewer current pregnancies (4% vs. 13.9%, p < 0.001) and were more likely to be infertile for more than one year (77.0% vs. 53.0%, p < 0.001). They also expressed a greater desire for possibilities to ask more questions about PCOS and fertility and to undergo more infertility tests. (56.1% vs. 45.3%, p = 0.013; 69.4% vs. 59.8%, p = 0.020).ConclusionsFertility management in PCOS patients, especially in obese patients, shows significant gaps in adherence to recommended guidelines, highlighting the need for improved patient education, professional training and individualized treatment strategies. Improved health care is essential to address reproductive concerns and improve outcomes in this population.

Comparison of In Vitro Fertilization Outcomes between Normal and T-Shaped Uteri, Diagnosed by Hysterosalpingography in Women with infertility: A Retrospective Cohort Study.

T-shaped uterus is a subclass of dysmorphic uteri according to the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE) classification. A T-shaped uterus might be related to poor reproductive outcomes or pregnancy complications. We aim to compare the success rates of in vitro fertilization (IVF) between individuals with a normal uterus and those with a T-shaped uterus identified through Hysterosalpingography. A retrospective cohort study was done in Royan Institute, Iran, in April 2020-April 2021. In line with the criteria for inclusion and exclusion, 468 cases were selected. Inclusion criteria were as follow: women of 20-45 years old, primary infertility, no repeated implantation failure (RIF), embryo quality "grade A" or "grade B" (freeze), and no consumption of smoking or alcohol. Patients with uterine fibroid, polyp, metabolic disorders, previous uterine surgery were excluded. Based on the hysterosalpingography (HSG) images, the patients were categorized as: "T-shaped uterus" or "normal uterus". IVF outcomes including positive or negative chemical pregnancy were entered into SPSS software. Using the Chi-square test, the success rate of IVF in those groups was compared. Of 468 cases, 91 cases had T-shaped uterus and 377 cases had normal uterus. The mean age of patients was 34 ± 3. The frequency of positive chemical pregnancy in the T-shaped uterus group was 42.9%, but 48% in the normal uterus group. The distribution of positive clinical pregnancy was 34.06% in the T-shaped uterus group and 46.1% in the normal uterus group. The distribution of failed pregnancies was 20.5% in women with T-shaped uteri and 19.8% in the normal uterus group (P=0.867). There was no significant difference observed between the two groups. The success rate of IVF and pregnancy outcomes of patients in the T-shape and normal groups were not found to be statistically significantly different.

The Impact of Evolving Endometriosis Guidelines on Diagnosis and Observational Health Studies.

Do recent changes in European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE) clinical guidelines result in more comprehensive diagnosis of women with endometriosis? The latest shift in clinical guidelines results in diagnosis of more women with endometriosis but current ESHRE diagnostic criteria do not capture a sizable percentage of women with the disease. Historically, laparoscopy was the gold standard for diagnosing endometriosis, a complex gynecological condition marked by a heterogeneous set of symptoms that vary widely among women. More recently, changes in clinical guidelines have shifted to incorporate imaging-based approaches such as transvaginal sonography and magnetic resonance imaging. Retrospective, observational cohort study of women aged 15-49 years diagnosed with endometriosis in the United States (US) between January 1, 2013, and December 31, 2023. Data sources include US insurance claims data from the Merative™ MarketScan® Commercial Database (CCAE), Merative™ MarketScan® Multi-State Medicaid Database (MDCD), Optum® de-identified Electronic Health Record dataset (Optum® EHR), and electronic health record (EHR) data from a large academic medical center in New York City (CUIMC EHR). To examine the potential impact of expanding clinical criteria for the diagnosis of endometriosis, we validated and compared five cohort definitions based on different sets of diagnostic guidelines involving combinations of surgical confirmation, diagnostic imaging, guideline-recognized symptoms, and other symptoms commonly reported among women with endometriosis. We performed pairwise comparisons between cohorts and applied Bonferroni corrections to account for multiple comparisons. We identified 491,048 women with a diagnosis of endometriosis across the CCAE, MDCD, Optum EHR, and CUIMC EHR datasets. Each cohort definition demonstrated strong positive predictive value (0.84-0.96), yet only 15-20% of cases were identified by all 5 cohort definitions. Women diagnosed with endometriosis based on imaging and symptoms were three years younger, on average, than women with a diagnosis based on surgical confirmation (mean age = 35 years [SD = 9] vs 38 years [SD = 8]; p<0.001). Women in cohorts based only on symptoms were two years younger than those based on surgery (36 years [SD = 8] vs 38 years [SD = 8]; p<0.001). More than one-fourth of cases presented with endometriosis-related symptoms but lacked surgical or imaging-related documentation required by ESHRE guideline criteria. Pain was reported among nearly all women with endometriosis. Abdominal pain and pain in the pelvis were the most prevalent (ranging from 69% to 90% of women in each cohort). Among approximately 2-5% of all endometriosis cases (14,795 total), women presented with pelvic and/or abdominal pain but none of the other symptoms noted in clinical guidelines. Our study has potential biases associated with documentation practices and secondary data use of insurance claims and EHR data. Further, the phenotyping algorithms used rely on clinical codes that do not necessarily capture all ESHRE diagnostic criteria for endometriosis and may not be generalizable to women with atypical presentation of endometriosis. High positive predictive value among all five cohort definitions despite poor overlap among cases identified illustrates both the heterogeneous presentation of the disease and importance of expanding diagnostic criteria. For example, cohorts derived from updated guidelines identified younger patients at time of diagnosis. Women diagnosed based on imaging had higher rates of emergency room visits while patients diagnosed via laparoscopy had a larger number of hospitalizations. The substantial number of cases with pelvic and/or abdominal pain but none of the other symptoms noted in clinical guidelines underscores the continued need for improved access to timely and appropriate care, particularly among those with non-classical symptoms, different care-seeking patterns, or lack of available surgical intervention.

Menstrual Disorders in Adolescence: Diagnostic and Therapeutic Challenges.

Background: Adolescence is the period of life between the ages of 10 and 19. This period is essentially dominated by puberty. The first menstruation, called menarche, occurs, on average, at the age of 12-13. The period after menarche, especially the first 2 years, is characterized by anovulatory cycles, which can be accompanied by menstrual irregularities. This review aims to describe the current status of the diagnostic and therapeutic challenges of the physiological and pathological causes of menstrual irregularities in adolescence and evaluates the benefits from interdisciplinary collaboration to ensure optimal care. Methods: A systematic literature search was conducted in the PubMed database in April 2024 using the following term: "menstrual disorder adolescence". A total of 1724 abstracts were screened, and relevant articles from the last 10 years were included. In addition, a supplementary topic-relevant literature search of the guidelines of the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE) and the guidelines of the Arbeitsgemeinschaft der wissenschaftlichen medizinischen Fachgesellschaft (awmf) was carried out. Results: In addition to cycle irregularities that occur physiologically as a result of anovulatory cycles in the context of the immaturity of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, there are other cycle abnormalities that can be classified as pathological and need to be recognized and treated. Conclusions: Increasing awareness of the various specialist disciplines of physiological and pathological cycle abnormalities in adolescence and interdisciplinary cooperation between them can have a positive influence on the quality of life of adolescent women with cycle abnormalities.

International PCOS guideline clinical research priorities roadmap: a co-designed approach aligned with end-user priorities in a neglected women’s health condition

International PCOS guideline clinical research priorities roadmap: a co-designed approach aligned with end-user priorities in a neglected women’s health condition

Evidence-based guideline: premature ovarian insufficiency† ‡

Study question How should premature/primary ovarian insufficiency (POI) be diagnosed and managed, based on the best available evidence from published literature? Summary answer The current guideline provides 145 recommendations on symptoms, diagnosis, causation, sequelae and treatment of POI. What is known already POI presents a significant challenge to women’s health, with far-reaching implications, both physically and emotionally. The potential implications include adverse effects on quality of life, on fertility and on bone, cardiovascular and cognitive health. Although hormone therapy (HT) can mitigate some of these effects, many questions still remain regarding the optimal management of POI. Study design, size, duration The guideline was developed according to the structured methodology for development of European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE) guidelines. Key questions were determined by a group of experts and informed by a scoping survey of women and healthcare professionals. Literature searches and assessment were then performed. Papers published up to 30 January 2024 and written in English were included in the guideline. An integrity review was conducted for the randomized controlled trials on POI included in the guideline. Participants/materials, setting, methods Based on the collected evidence, recommendations were formulated and discussed within the guideline development group until consensus was reached. Women with lived experience of POI informed the recommendations in general, and particularly those on provision of care. A stakeholder review was organized after finalization of the draft. The final version was approved by the guideline development group and the ESHRE Executive Committee. Main results and the role of chance New data indicate a higher prevalence of POI, 3.5%, than was previously thought. This guideline aims to help healthcare professionals apply best practice care for women with POI. The recent update of the POI guideline covers 40 clinical questions on diagnosis of the condition, the different sequelae, including bone, cardiovascular, neurological and sexual function, fertility and general well-being, and treatment options, including HT. The list of clinical questions was expanded from the previous iteration of the guideline (2015) based on the scoping survey and appreciation of emerging knowledge of POI. Questions were added on the role of anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) in the diagnosis of POI, fertility preservation, muscle health and specific considerations for HT in iatrogenic POI. Additionally, the topic on complementary treatments was extended with specific focus on non-hormonal treatments and lifestyle management options. Significant changes from the previous 2015 guideline include the recommendations that only one elevated follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) >25 IU is required for diagnosis of POI and guidance that AMH testing, repeat FSH measurement and/or AMH may be required where there is diagnostic uncertainty. Recommendations were also updated regarding genetic testing, estrogen doses and regimens, use of the combined oral contraceptive and testosterone therapy. Women with lived experience of POI informed the recommendations on provision of care. Limitations, reasons for caution The guideline describes different management options, but it must be acknowledged that for most of these options, supporting evidence is limited for POI. Wider implications of the findings The guideline provides healthcare professionals with clear advice on best practice in POI care, based on the best evidence currently available. In addition, a list of research recommendations is provided to guide further studies in POI.

Comparing the Diagnostic Efficacy of 3D Ultrasound and MRI in the Classification of Müllerian Anomalies.

Müllerian anomalies significantly impact female reproductive health. This study aims to compare the diagnostic efficacy of three-dimensional ultrasound (3D-US) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in detecting and classifying these anomalies. A retrospective analysis of 150 patients with Müllerian anomalies was conducted at Saveetha Medical College and Hospital from March 2018 to March 2024. MRI and 3D-US examinations were performed and analyzed independently by two radiologists. Anomalies were classified according to European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE)/European Society for Gynaecological Endoscopy (ESGE) and American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) guidelines. The septate uterus was the most prevalent anomaly, observed in 53 patients (35.3%). MRI demonstrated superior diagnostic accuracy (AUC 0.92) compared to 3D-US (AUC 0.88). Significant associations were found between presenting symptoms and specific anomaly types (p < 0.05). Inter-rater reliability between the two radiologists, with respect to classification of anomalies, was high (Cohen's kappa 0.85). MRI's superior soft-tissue contrast and multiplanar capabilities make it the gold standard for evaluating complex uterine malformations. 3D-US offers valuable real-time imaging and is particularly effective in assessing septum characteristics. The combined use of MRI and 3D-US enhances diagnostic precision and facilitates tailored management strategies. Integrating MRI and 3D-US in clinical practice improves diagnostic accuracy and treatment planning for Müllerian anomalies, ultimately enhancing patient outcomes.

Recommendations from the 2024 Australian evidence-based guideline for unexplained infertility: ADAPTE process from the ESHRE evidence-based guideline on unexplained infertility.

The 2024 Australian evidence-based guideline for unexplained infertility provides clinicians with evidence-based recommendations for the optimal diagnostic workup for infertile couples to establish the diagnosis of unexplained infertility and optimal therapeutic approach to treat couples diagnosed with unexplained infertility in the Australian health care setting. The guideline recommendations were adapted for the Australian context from the rigorous, comprehensive European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE) 2023 Evidence-based guideline: unexplained infertility, using the ADAPTE process and have been approved by the Australian National Health and Medical Research Council. The guideline includes 40 evidence-based recommendations, 21 practice points and three research recommendations addressing: definition - defining infertility and frequency of intercourse, infertility and age, female and male factor infertility; diagnosis - ovulation, ovarian reserve, tubal factor, uterine factor, laparoscopy, cervical/vaginal factor, male factor, additional testing for systemic conditions; and treatment - expectant management, active treatment, mechanical-surgical procedures, alternative therapeutic approaches, quality of life. CHANGES IN ASSESSMENT AND MANAGEMENT RESULTING FROM THE GUIDELINE: This guideline refines the definition of unexplained infertility and addresses basic diagnostic procedures for infertility assessment not considered in previous guidelines on unexplained infertility. For therapeutic approaches, consideration of evidence quality, efficacy, safety and, in the Australian setting, feasibility, acceptability, cost, implementation and ultimately recommendation strength were integrated across multidisciplinary expertise and consumer perspectives in adapting recommendations to the Australian context by using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) framework, which had not been used in past guidelines on unexplained infertility to formulate recommendations. The Australian process also included an established data integrity check to ensure evidence could be trusted to guide practice. Practice points were added and expanded to consider the Australian setting. No evidence-based recommendations were underpinned by high quality evidence, with most having low or very low quality evidence. In this context, research recommendations were made including those for the Australian context. The full guideline and technical report are publicly available online and can be accessed at https://www.monash.edu/medicine/mchri/infertility and are supported by extensive translation resources, including the free patient ASKFertility mobile application (https://www.askfertility.org/).

Review of the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE) 40th Annual Meeting

WITH its scenic canals and rich history, Amsterdam is a vibrant city and popular travel destination for people across the globe. This year it was also home to the 40th Annual Meeting of the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE), taking place from 7th–10th July. The event gathered experts, researchers, and practitioners from various parts of the world to share and discuss the latest advancements in reproductive health and embryology.

Does Dual and/or Double Trigger Improve In Vitro Fertilisation Success?

DO THE risks of using dual or double trigger in vitro fertilisation (IVF) outweigh the benefits, or do the benefits outweigh the risks? This was the question posed to the audience by co-chairs Nikolaos Polyzos, Dexeus University Hospital, Barcelona, Spain, and Joop Laven, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands, at the very beginning of a fascinating debate session at the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE) 40th Annual Meeting, which took place from 7th–10th July 2024 in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. Though the audience members were initially hesitant to share their thoughts, this first poll demonstrated a strong preference for dual or double trigger as opposed to against. The ensuing talks aimed to convince the crowd one way or the other, as experts in the field joined Laven and Polyzos to debate.

Endometriosis, Endometrial Disorders, and Infertility: From Bench to Bedside

SPOTLIGHTING endometriosis, a session at the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE) Annual Meeting, 2024, held in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, considered the latest advancements in the clinical management of patients with this condition who are trying to conceive. Chaired by Stacey Missmer, Michigan State University, East Lansing, USA, and Noortje van den Boogaard, Flevo Hospital, Almere, the Netherlands, six presentations were delivered to a packed auditorium.

Editor in Chief’s Highlights from ESHRE 2024

THERE were several incredible highlights at the 40th European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE) Annual Meeting. This feature summarises a couple of the presentations that Chu attended in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, for this latest issue of EMJ Reproductive Health. The first was a retrospective cohort study demonstrating a large dataset investigating the effectiveness of pre-implantation genetic testing for aneuploidy. The second was an interesting debate on the use of dual or double triggers in ovarian stimulation in in vitro fertilisation cycles.

Research Integrity in Guidelines and evIDence synthesis (RIGID): a framework for assessing research integrity in guideline development and evidence synthesis

Research Integrity in Guidelines and evIDence synthesis (RIGID): a framework for assessing research integrity in guideline development and evidence synthesis

O-128 Can embryo re-expansion pattern post-biopsy for PGT-A have a predictive value on the outcome?

Abstract Study question Does re-expansion grade at 1 hour post-biopsy correlate with post-thawing re-expansion rate and live birth rate? Summary answer Embryo re-expansion 1-hour post-biopsy is associated with post-warming re-expansion and increased live birth. What is known already Blastocyst cryopreservation is a key component of PGT-A procedures. In non-PGT-A cycles, collapsing blastocysts before vitrification is commonly recommended to improve blastocyst viability. However, the procedure becomes more complex in PGT-A cycles.The European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE) recommends an immediate freeze post-biopsy, although a definitive timeframe remains elusive. To date, no conclusive timing has been agreed upon. Some studies support prolonged culture post-biopsy (&amp;gt; 3hrs), citing improved implantation and pregnancy rates. Conversely, others advocate for rapid cryopreservation, endorsing an immediate approach within an hour, while mostly blastocysts are still collapsed due to the biopsy procedure. Study design, size, duration Retrospective study of 1141 single euploid blastocyst transfers (seFET) conducted between April 2021 and February 2023. Analysed factors included patients' age, BMI, embryo quality at biopsy and 1-hour post-biopsy (at vitrification), and the biopsy day. Live birth and Ongoing pregnancy (OPR), defined as viable pregnancy beyond 24 weeks, were assessed. Blastocysts were scored at a standardized time (1hr post TE-biopsy): 0 for complete collapse, 1 for starting re-expansion, and 2 for clear re-expanded cavity. Participants/materials, setting, methods PGT-A patients undergoing a seFET. Only cycles with embryos being biopsied on Days 5,6 or 7 and with a known pregnancy outcome were included. Main results and the role of chance Out of 1141 transfers, 461 transfers resulted in live birth (40.4%) and 108 were still ongoing above 24 weeks’ gestation at the time of last contact (9.4%) for a total OPR/LB rate of of 49.8%. One-hour post-biopsy 64.0% of blastocysts re-expanded to Grade 2, 29.3% to Grade 1, and 6.7% showed no re-expansion (Grade 0). The OPR was significantly different between embryos that re-expanded to grade 2, 1 or 0 (54.2%, 44.3% and 32.5%, respectively, P &amp;lt; 0.001). Regression analysis showed re-expanding to Grade 2 at 1-hour post-biopsy was significantly and independently associated with OPR/LB compared to embryos that did not re-expand (i.e., Grade 0) (aOR: 1.77, 95% CI: 1.01–3.12, P = 0.047), after adjusting for embryo quality metrics (ICM, TE grade, day of biopsy), body-mass index and endometrial preparation type. . Embryos with greater re-expansion 1-hour post-biopsy had higher re-expansion slopes post-thawing, indicating faster and greater re-expansion to the point of transfer. Results were significant for all trophectoderm categories (Grade A, B, and C; P = 0.016, &amp;lt;0.001 and &amp;lt;0.001, respectively). Moreover, re-expansion rate 1-hour post-biopsy was significantly and independently associated with post-thawing re-expansion slope after adjusting for ICM, TE, expansion grade and biopsy day (P &amp;lt; 0.001). Limitations, reasons for caution The re-expansion grading remains an in-house system that involves subjective assessment with a possible inter-observer variation. Wider implications of the findings This study clearly demonstrates that post-biopsy re-expansion pattern, obtained in a standardized approach, can be helpful for predicting live birth. It is a novel independent marker that is not reflected by ICM, TE quality or day of biopsy for selecting embryos for thawing and transfer. Trial registration number not applicable

P-767 Preterm birth in singleton pregnancies conceived by in-vitro fertilization or intracytoplasmic sperm injection: a systematic review with umbrella meta-analysis

Abstract Study question What is the risk level and potential etiology of preterm birth (PTB) in singleton pregnancies from in-vitro fertilization (IVF) or intra-cytoplasmic injection (ICSI)? Summary answer Singleton pregnancies from IVF/ICSI have, on average, double the risk of PTB compared to natural conceptions, with a higher risk for iatrogenic than spontaneous PTB. What is known already IVF/ICSI pregnancies are associated with a higher PTB risk, with a predominant effect mediated by the effect of multiples and a poor understanding of underlying etiology, particularly in singletons. According to the European IVF Monitoring Consortium (EIM) for the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE), about 16% of singleton conceived through IVF/ICSI were born preterm in 2019. Considering the global a shift towards single embryo transfers (ETs), it becomes crucial to precisely determine and convey the PTB risk specific to singleton pregnancies conceived through IVF/ICSI, collecting all available evidence on supposed PTB etiology. Study design, size, duration A comprehensive search in major online databases was conducted up to December 31, 2023. Eligible studies were systematic reviews with quantitative data. The primary aim was to quantify PTB risk in singletons conceived by IVF/ICSI compared to natural pregnancies. Secondary objectives included assessing very preterm birth (VPTB) risk and exploring PTB’s etiology, phenotype, and initiation. PTB and VPTB were defined by the World Health Organization as delivery before 37 or 32 weeks, respectively. Participants/materials, setting, methods Random-effects meta-analysis models were used for pooling effect measures. Estimates were presented as odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Information available on etiology, phenotype, initiation of PTB and relevant moderators was extracted and employed for subgroup analyses. The extent of overlap in the original studies was measured using the Corrected Covered Area (CCA) assessment. The quality of the included reviews was evaluated with the AMSTAR 2 tool and quality of evidence by GRADE. Main results and the role of chance Twelve meta-analyses with a total of 16,522,917 pregnancies were included. IVF/ICSI singletons showed a significantly higher risk of PTB compared to natural conception (PTB ˂37 weeks: OR: 1.72, 95% CI: 1.57-1.89). The pooled risk estimate was higher for births below 32 weeks (VPTB &amp;lt;32 weeks: OR: 2.19, 95%CI: 1.82-2.64). Influential analysis reinforced the strength of this association. Subgroup analyses investigating supposed etiology revealed a comparable risk magnitude for spontaneous PTB (OR 1.79, 95% CI:1.56-2.04) and a greater risk for iatrogenic PTB (OR: 2.28, 95%CI: 1.72–3.02). PTB risk was consistent in the subgroup of conventional IVF (OR: 1.95, 95% CI: 1.76-2.15) and higher in the subgroup of fresh-only ETs (OR: 1.79, 95% CI: 1.55-2.07) compared to frozen-thawed ETs (OR: 1.39, 95%CI: 1.34-1.43). CCA assessment showed minimal study overlap (13%). The quality of the evidence by GRADE assessment was judged as low to very low. Limitations, reasons for caution The methodological quality of the included reviews, as rated by AMSTAR 2, was judged as low to very low. Most included studies lacked granular data on IVF/ICSI indications and on specific PTB etiology, phenotypes, or initiation. Wider implications of the findings The risk of PTB is about double in IVF/ICSI singleton pregnancies compared to naturally conceived, with paucity of available data on PTB aetiology, phenotype, or initiation. The greater risk increase involves iatrogenic PTB from fresh ET and VPTB, likely due to placental aetiology. Trial registration number PROSPERO ID: CRD42023411418

Comparison of self-assessed and clinician-assessed hirsutism diagnosed according to the modified Ferriman-Gallwey scale among female outpatients in Brazil.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of a self-assessment questionnaire for hirsutism using the latest cutoff values recommended by the Endocrine Society (ES) for Latin-American women and by the European Society for Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE). Female premenopausal outpatients (n = 188) completed a self-assessment questionnaire, scoring hair presence across the nine areas evaluated by the modified Ferriman-Gallwey (mFG) scale. The results were compared with clinician-assessed scores rated independently by two trained physicians. Scores in the Hirsuta questionnaire, derived from self-assessment of five areas of the mFG scale, were also evaluated. The ethnic composition of the sample was as follows: 23.1% white, 25.8% black, 48.9% mixed, and 2.1% other backgrounds (Indigenous, Asian). The participants had age and BMI of (mean ± standard deviation) 33.7 ± 9.9 years and 29.8 ± 7.21 kg/m2, respectively. The most common areas of excessive hair growth were the chin, upper and lower abdomen, and thighs. Relative to clinician-assessed mFG scores, self-assessed mFG scores had an accuracy of 80% using ES criteria for hirsutism diagnosis, with a sensitivity of 95.45%, specificity of 56.25%, positive predictive value of 30.10%, and negative predictive value of 98.40%. Self-assessed mFG had lower accuracy (71%) for diagnosing hirsutism when the ESHRE criteria were applied. Self-assessed mFG had low specificity, limiting its application. The results of this study do not support the use of the self-assessed mFG or Hirsuta scores for diagnosing hirsutism in a clinical setting, although both scoring systems may be useful for screening hirsutism in epidemiological studies.

Non-invasive imaging techniques for diagnosis of pelvic deep endometriosis and endometriosis classification systems: An International Consensus Statement

The International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology (ISUOG) and International Deep Endometriosis Analysis (IDEA) group, the European Endometriosis League (EEL), the European Society for Gynaecological Endoscopy (ESGE), the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE), the International Society for Gynecologic Endoscopy (ISGE), the American Association of Gynecologic Laparoscopists (AAGL) and the European Society of Urogenital Radiology (ESUR) elected an international, multidisciplinary panel of gynecological surgeons, sonographers and radiologists, including a steering committee, which searched the literature for relevant articles in order to review the literature and provide evidence-based and clinically relevant statements on the use of imaging techniques for non-invasive diagnosis and classification of pelvic deep endometriosis. Preliminary statements were drafted based on review of the relevant literature. Following two rounds of revisions and voting orchestrated by chairs of the participating societies, consensus statements were finalized. A final version of the document was then resubmitted to the society chairs for approval.Twenty statements were drafted, of which 14 reached strong and three moderate agreement after the first voting round. The remaining three statements were discussed by all members of the steering committee and society chairs and rephrased, followed by an additional round of voting. At the conclusion of the process, 14 statements had strong and five statements moderate agreement, with one statement left in equipoise. This consensus work aims to guide clinicians involved in treating women with suspected endometriosis during patient assessment, counseling and planning of surgical treatment strategies.This Consensus Statement should be cited as: ‘G. Condous, B. Gerges, I. Thomassin-Naggara, C. Becker, C. Tomassetti, H. Krentel, B.J. van Herendael, M. Malzoni, M. S. Abrao, E. Saridogan, J. Keckstein, G. Hudelist and Collaborators. Non-invasive imaging techniques for diagnosis of pelvic deep endometriosis and endometriosis classification systems: An International Consensus Statement. Eur. J. Radiol. 2024. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ejrad.2024.111450.’

Non-Invasive Imaging Techniques for Diagnosis of Pelvic Deep Endometriosis and Endometriosis Classification Systems: An International Consensus Statement

The International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology (ISUOG) and International Deep Endometriosis Analysis (IDEA) group, the European Endometriosis League (EEL), the European Society for Gynaecological Endoscopy (ESGE), the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE), the International Society for Gynecologic Endoscopy (ISGE), the American Association of Gynecologic Laparoscopists (AAGL) and the European Society of Urogenital Radiology (ESUR) elected an international, multidisciplinary panel of gynecological surgeons, sonographers and radiologists, including a steering committee, which searched the literature for relevant articles in order to review the literature and provide evidence-based and clinically relevant statements on the use of imaging techniques for non-invasive diagnosis and classification of pelvic deep endometriosis. Preliminary statements were drafted based on review of the relevant literature. Following two rounds of revisions and voting orchestrated by chairs of the participating societies, consensus statements were finalized. A final version of the document was then resubmitted to the society chairs for approval. Twenty statements were drafted, of which 14 reached strong and three moderate agreement after the first voting round. The remaining three statements were discussed by all members of the steering committee and society chairs and rephrased, followed by an additional round of voting. At the conclusion of the process, 14 statements had strong and five statements moderate agreement, with one statement left in equipoise. This consensus work aims to guide clinicians involved in treating women with suspected endometriosis during patient assessment, counseling and planning of surgical treatment strategies.