A comparison of in vitro fertilization outcome by culture media used for developing cleavage-stage embryos

Abstract

Purpose: To determine whether removing glucose and phosphate from media used for developing cleavage-stage embryos improves outcome following transfer of fresh or frozen embryos. Furthermore the study would evaluate the efficacy of adding nonessential amino acids and glutamate to media.

Methods: Embryo development was rotated on a weekly basis in human tubal fluid (HTF), versus two media relatively devoid of glucose and phosphate (e.g., P1), with one having the addition of essential amino acids and glutamate (Quinn's Advantage Medium).

Results: For fresh cycles, the implantation rate was significantly higher for Quinn's. There was less fragmentation with P1 and Quinn's. For frozen cycles, the viable pregnancy, implantation rates and embryo quality were higher for Quinn's and P1 than HTF.

Conclusion: Removal of glucose and phosphate for day-2 embryos improves in vitro fertilization outcome after embryo transfer. It is not clear if adding certain non-essential amino acids and glutamate provides further improvement.