At the recent ASRM meeting in San Diego, we had the pleasure of showcasing our findings on elective single embryo transfer (eSET) and the benefits of vitrifying blastocysts. Our approach has led to impressive cumulative pregnancy and delivery rates, all while significantly lowering the occurrence of twin pregnancies.
Thanks to high implantation rates from frozen embryos, many of our patients are now opting for fewer embryo transfers during fresh cycles, reassured by the knowledge that their frozen embryos will perform well in subsequent attempts. This has allowed us to adopt a more conservative approach, where patients can warm one embryo at a time without compromising their chances of achieving pregnancy.
Impressive Statistics from 2009 to 2012
Between 2009 and 2012, we saw a remarkable increase in frozen embryo implantation rates for patients under 35, climbing from 36% to 56%. During the same period, the rate of eSET rose from 33% to 71%, and the incidence of twins decreased from 22% to 16%. By 2010, our live birth rate per patient in this age group stood at 44%, while the cumulative live birth rate—accounting for those who returned to use their frozen embryos after a negative fresh cycle—reached an impressive 64%.
These positive trends have been consistent across all age groups, and we continue to see improvements as we incorporate complete chromosome screening (CCS) of embryos.
Research Highlights
Our research, highlighted in the poster, emphasized how eSET and vitrification not only enhance the chances of pregnancy but also mitigate the risks associated with multiple pregnancies for high-prognosis patients. By focusing on selecting the best single embryo for transfer and employing advanced techniques like artificial collapse and assisted hatching, we’ve been able to boost implantation rates and ensure better outcomes for our patients.
Conclusion
In the end, our findings demonstrate that through careful management of embryos and effective vitrification, patients can enjoy high pregnancy and live birth rates while avoiding the complications that can arise from multiple pregnancies. Curious about more topics like this? Check out our post on why babies might struggle with sleep, teething, or sleep regression at this link. And if you’re interested in navigating your own journey, this resource is a great place to start.
In summary, our experience with eSET and vitrification underscores the importance of advanced reproductive technologies in achieving successful outcomes while prioritizing the health and safety of both mothers and babies.