Programmed oocyte retrieval during routine laparoscopy and embryo cryopreservation for later transfer

Abstract

Fixed-schedule ovulation induction and cryopreservation of the obtained embryos was performed in women undergoing a preliminary laparoscopy for infertility investigation before possible inclusion in an in vitro fertilization program. The cycle before follicular stimulation was modified by a progestogen or an estrogen-progestogen contraceptive pill. Ovarian inaccessibility precluded follicular aspiration in four of 34 patients but at least one oocyte was obtained in 29 of the remaining 30. Although fewer oocytes were obtained in these patients than in a control group undergoing in vitro fertilization treatment, one or more embryos were obtained in 22 patients in the study group. All embryos were frozen and to date 25 embryos from 17 patients have been thawed. Embryos have been placed in 16 of the 17 patients and six pregnancies have been initiated. Three are currently ongoing, one ectopic pregnancy was recorded, and two pregnancies were classified as "chemical." Programmed oocyte retrieval and embryo cryopreservation resulted in an extra chance of pregnancy in patients undergoing a laparoscopy for infertility investigation.