Fertilización asistida con óvulos propios en mujeres mayores de 40 años: indicaciones y resultados

Las mujeres posponen su maternidad por el deseo de superación personal y profesional. Se conoce que la cantidad y calidad de los óvulos por ciclo dependen de la edad de la paciente. Las tasas de éxito en tratamientos de reproducción asistida disminuyen con la edad, especialmente después de los 40 años. Se observan tasas más altas de nacidos vivos en mujeres más jóvenes y las tasas disminuyen significativamente en mujeres mayores debido a la disminución de la fertilidad y el aumento de abortos espontáneos. Por ello, la edad es crucial al evaluar la posibilidad de un embarazo exitoso mediante tratamientos de reproducción asistida (TRA). Las indicaciones para realizar fertilización in vitro (FIV) con óvulos propios en mujeres mayores de 40 años incluyen iniciar lo más pronto procedimientos de alta complejidad, buena evaluación de la reserva ovárica con análisis de la hormona antimülleriana y conteo de folículos antrales para realizar asesoramiento genético, proponer FIV-inyección intracitoplasmática de espermatozoides (ICSI) antes de los 44 años, generar expectativas realistas y realizar consentimiento informado, con estadisticas propias. En la REDLARA, de todos los procedimientos de FIV-ICSI, el 34% de las pacientes tienen más de 40 años; se prefiere transferir blastocistos con prueba genética preimplantacional de aneuploidías (PGT-A) para seleccionar embriones euploides. Las tasas de éxito son bajas, inclusive cuando son tasas de embarazo por transferencia de un embrión en el grupo de mujeres ≥ 40 años (18,2% sin PGT, 42,7% con PGT en el IMRCRP). Se recomienda acumular óvulos o embriones realizando múltiples estimulaciones ováricas. Se debe optar por transferir un solo embrión para evitar complicaciones obstétricas con embarazos múltiples en pacientes ≥ 40 años, por el alto riesgo debido a la edad.

Women postpone motherhood because of their desire for personal and professional improvement. It is known that the quantity and quality of oocytes per cycle depends on the patient's age. Success rates in assisted reproduction treatments decrease with age, especially after 40 years of age. Higher live birth rates are observed in younger women, and rates decrease significantly in older women due to decreased fertility and increased miscarriages. Therefore, age is crucial when assessing the possibility of a successful pregnancy through assisted reproductive treatments (ART). The indications to perform in vitro fertilization (IVF) with own ovules in women older than 40 years include starting as soon as possible highly complex procedures, good evaluation of ovarian reserve with antimüllerian hormone analysis (AMH) and antral follicle count (AFC) for genetic counseling, proposing IVF-intracytoplasmatic sperm injection (ICSI) before the age of 44 years, generating realistic expectations and informed consent, with own statistics. At REDLARA, of all IVF-ICSI procedures, 34% of patients are over 40 years old; preference is given to transfer blastocysts with preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A) to select euploid embryos. Success rates are low, even when they are pregnancy rates per embryo transfer in the group of women ≥ 40 years (18.2% without PGT, 42.7% with PGT in IMRCRP). It is recommended to bank ovules or embryos by performing multiple ovarian stimulations. A single embryo transfer should be chosen to avoid obstetric complications with multiple pregnancies in patients ≤ 40 years, because of the high risk due to age.

Fertilización asistida con óvulos donados: indicaciones y resultados

Las mujeres retrasan cada vez más la maternidad por diferentes motivos, lo que les ocasiona recurrir a tratamientos de fertilización in vitro (FIV) con óvulos propios u óvulos donados para conseguir embarazo. En los tratamientos de FIV con óvulos donados se realiza una selección estricta de las donantes, quienes son sometidas a estimulación ovárica con posterior aspiración de los folículos. La edad recomendada para donar es entre 21 y 34 años. Se recomienda un máximo de 6 donaciones por donante. La receptora es la persona a quien se le realizará la transferencia del embrión y llevará el embarazo. Las tasas de embarazo con esta técnica de reproducción asistida son altas y las indicaciones más frecuentes son edad materna avanzada y falla ovárica precoz.

Women are increasingly delaying childbearing for different reasons, which causes them to resort to in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatments with their own oocytes or donated oocytes to achieve pregnancy. In IVF treatments with donated oocytes, donors are strictly selected and undergo ovarian stimulation with subsequent follicle aspiration. The recommended age to donate is between 21-34 years old. A maximum of 6 donations per donor is recommended. The recipient is the person to whom the embryo transfer will be performed and who will carry the pregnancy. Pregnancy rates with this assisted reproduction technique are high and the most frequent indications are advanced maternal age and early ovarian failure.

Estimulación ovárica en síndrome de Mayer-Rokitansky: reporte de caso y revisión de la literatura / Controlled ovarian stimulation in Mayer-Rokitansky syndrome: case report and literature review

Resumen El síndrome de Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser (SMRKH) es una anomalía del tracto genital femenino caracterizada por ausencia congénita del útero y porción superior de la vagina. Ocurre en uno de cada 4,500 nacimientos y se diagnostica normalmente durante la adolescencia al presentarse amenorrea primaria. Su función ovárica está preservada, pero la información actual respecto al potencial reproductivo de estas pacientes es limitada. Se presenta el caso de una mujer con diagnóstico de SMRKH sometida a estimulación ovárica para transferencia de embriones a útero subrogado y se discute su potencial reproductivo: técnicas de reproducción asistida, intervenciones e impacto psicológico.

Abstract Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser syndrome (MRKH) is a congenital anomaly of the female genital tract characterized by congenital absence of the uterus and upper part of the vagina. It occurs in 4,500 female births and diagnosis is usually made during adolescence when primary amenorrhea presents. They have functioning ovaries but data regarding their reproductive potential is limited. We hereby report the case of a woman diagnosed with MRKH syndrome in whom assisted reproductive techniques were used to try to achieve pregnancy by gestational surrogacy and their reproductive potential is discussed: assisted reproductive techniques, procedures, and psychological impact.

La gestación solidaria, oportunidad reproductiva para las familias cubanas / The solidary gestation, reproductive opportunity for Cuban families i: en

La gestación solidaria es una técnica de reproducción humana asistida, destinada a parejas de distinto o igual sexo y a personas solas con alguna causa de infertilidad que les impide concebir el embarazo de manera natural. Al respecto, en el Código de las Familias en Cuba se esclarece que este proceder solo debe realizarse por motivos altruistas y de solidaridad humana, ajenos a cualquier tipo de honorarios. Teniendo en cuenta las consideraciones anteriores, se analizó el tema desde diferentes puntos de vista, con el objetivo de socializar esta práctica como una oportunidad de reproducción para las familias cubanas.

Solidarity gestation is an assisted human reproductive technique intended for different or same sex couples and to single people with some infertility problems which prevent them from conceiving in a natural way. In this respect, the Cuba's Family Code clarifies that this procedure should only be carried out due to altruistic reasons and human solidarity, without any fees. Taking into account the above considerations, the topic was analyzed from different points of view, aimed at socializing this practice as a reproduction opportunity for Cuban families.

Fertility Does not Quarantine: Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic Impacts on in Vitro Fertilization Clinical Pregnancy Rates / Fertilidade não fica em quarentena: impacto da pandemia COVID-19 nas taxas de gravidez clínica em fertilização in vitro

Abstract Objective To understand the impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic on in vitro fertilization (IVF) clinical pregnancy rates and analyze factors that may have influenced their outcome. Methods This was a retrospective observational study conducted at a tertiary-care Brazilian fertility center. All fresh IVF and embryo warming cycles performed from March 11 to December 31, 2018-2021 were analyzed, and their data were used to calculate fertilization, embryo cleavage, cycle cancellation, embryo transfer (ET), and clinical pregnancy rates. Statistical tests were used to evaluate the alterations found. Logistic regression models were used to explore the association of the categorical variables with the observed clinical pregnancy rates. Data from 2018 and 2019 (prepandemic) and 2020 and 2021 (pandemic) were grouped. Results A total of 756 cycles were analyzed (n = 360 prepandemic and n = 396 pandemic). The age group of the patients, fertilization rates, and cleavage rates did not have significant differences (p > 0.05). There was a reduction in the percentage of fresh IVF and an increase in embryo warming cycles (p = 0.005) during the pandemic. There was also an increase in fresh cycle cancellations (p < 0.001) and a reduction in ET rates (p < 0.001). The pandemic had a negative impact on clinical pregnancy rates (p < 0.001) especially due to the increase in fresh cycle cancellations (p < 0.001). Conclusion Embryo warming cycles with subsequent frozen-thawed ET were presented as a viable alternative to continue assisted reproductive treatments against pandemic restrictions on fresh cycles, ensuring clinical pregnancy, albeit at a lower rate than that of the prepandemic period.

Resumo Objetivo Compreender os impactos da pandemia de COVID-19 nas taxas de gravidez clínica em fertilização in vitro (FIV) e analisar fatores que possam ter influenciado seu resultado. Métodos Foi realizado um estudo observacional retrospectivo em um centro brasileiro de reprodução assistida. Todos os ciclos de FIV com embriões frescos e descongelados realizados entre 11 de março e 31 de dezembro, 2018-2021 foram analisados, e seus dados utilizados para cálculo das taxas de fertilização, clivagem embrionária, cancelamento de ciclos, transferência de embriões (TE) e gravidez clínica. Testes estatísticos avaliaram significância das alterações encontradas e modelos de regressão logística exploraram associação das variáveis categóricas estudadas com as taxas de gravidez clínica observadas. Os dados de 2018 e 2019 (pré-pandemia) e 2020 e 2021 (pandemia) foram agrupados. Resultados Foram analisados um total de 756 ciclos (n = 360 na pré-pandemia e n = 396 na pandemia). A faixa etária das pacientes e as taxas de fertilização e de clivagem não tiveram alterações significativas (p > 0,05). Na pandemia, houve redução da porcentagem de ciclos de FIV com embriões frescos e aumento dos com descongelamento (p = 0,005). Também foi notado aumento das taxas de cancelamentos de ciclos com embriões frescos (p < 0,001) e redução do número de TEs (p < 0,001). A pandemia exerceu impacto negativo na taxa de gravidez clínica (p < 0,001), especialmente devido ao aumento de cancelamentos dos ciclos a fresco (p < 0,001). Conclusão Frente às limitações pandêmicas impostas aos ciclos com embriões frescos, os ciclos de descongelamento de embriões se apresentaram como alternativa viável à continuidade dos ciclos de FIV, garantindo gravidez clínica ainda que em taxas inferiores às do período pré-pandêmico.

O estado regulatório da reprodução humana assistida no Brasil: da ausência de legislação ordinária ao regulamento deontológico atual / The regulatory state of assisted human reproduction in Brazil: from the absence of ordinary legislation to the current deontological regulation / El estado regulatorio de la reproducción humana asistida en Brasil: de la ausencia de legislación ordinaria a la regulación deontológica actual

Objetivo: analisar a legislação ordinária e o regramento deontológico vigentes no Brasil sobre os processos assistidos de procriação humana, considerando a investigação das repercussões no âmbito dos direitos das partes envolvidas. Metodologia: revisão bibliográfica e documental, por meio do método dedutivo, buscando a construção de apontamentos críticos quanto ao atual estado regulatório dos processos assistidos de procriação humana. Resultados: o conjunto regulatório agrega previsões normativas gerais relacionadas ao Código Civil, à Lei de Biossegurança e previsões deontológicas. Juntas, trazem conteúdos de relevância, mas, por vezes, insuficientes e não adequados às diversas circunstâncias que podem envolver a prática da fertilização in vitro, da gestação por substituição e da reprodução post mortem. Conclusão: propõe-se, a partir dos direitos reprodutivos da mulher e da autonomia das partes, a reconsideração parcial do conteúdo regulado pelo regramento deontológico, bem como a atualização das normas ordinárias.

Objective:to analyze the legislation and deontological rules in force in Brazil regarding artificial insemination in humans, considering the impact on the rights of those involved. Methods: bibliographic and documentary study using the deductive method, with the aim of critically commenting on the current state of legislation on artificial insemination in humans. Results: the legal framework includes general normative provisions related to the Civil Code, the Biosafety Law and deontological provisions. Together, they provide relevant content but are sometimes insufficient and inadequate for the various circumstances that may be associated with the practice of in vitro fertilization, surrogacy, and postmortem reproduction. Conclusion: based on women's reproductive rights and the autonomy of the parties, it is proposed to reconsider some of the contents regulated in the deontological provisions and to update the legislation.

Objetivo: analizar la legislación ordinaria y las normas deontológicas vigentes en Brasil sobre los procesos de procreación humana asistida, considerando la investigación de las repercusiones en el alcance de los derechos de las partes involucradas. Metodología: revisión bibliográfica y documental, a través del método deductivo, buscando la construcción de apuntes críticos respecto al estado normativo actual de los procesos de procreación humana asistida. Resultados: el conjunto normativo agrega disposiciones normativas generales relacionadas con el Código Civil, la Ley de Bioseguridad y disposiciones deontológicas. En conjunto, aportan contenidos relevantes, pero en ocasiones insuficientes y no adecuados a las distintas circunstancias que puede conllevar la prácticade la fecundación in vitro, la gestación subrogada y la reproducción post mortem. Conclusión: se propone, con base en los derechos reproductivos de la mujer y la autonomía de las partes, la reconsideración parcial del contenido regulado por las reglas deontológicas, así como la actualización de las normas ordinarias.

Influential factors of adverse pregnancy outcome in women with subchorionic hematoma / 中国基层医药

Objective:To investigate the influential factors of adverse pregnancy outcomes in women with subchorionic hematoma.Methods:A total of 101 women with subchorionic hematoma who received treatment in the People's Hospital of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region from January 2017 to June 2020 were included in this study. They were divided into a control group and an adverse pregnancy outcome group according to whether there was an adverse pregnancy outcome. The epidemiological characteristics, hematoma characteristics observed on ultrasound images, and pregnancy outcomes were compared between the two groups.Results:There was no significant difference in the number of women who used assisted reproductive technology between the control and adverse pregnancy outcome groups [6 (8.0%) vs. 8 (30.7%), χ2 = 8.38, P = 0.004]. There was a significant difference in hematoma volume between adverse pregnancy outcome and control groups [(4.12 ± 0.61) mL vs. (6.36 ± 0.87) mL, t = 6.73, P = 0.009]. There was a significant difference in the number of patients who had obstetric complications between control and adverse pregnancy outcome groups [11 (14.7%) vs. 16 (61.5%), χ2 = 21.66, P = 0.001]. There was a significant difference in the number of patients who had hematomas located at the edge of the placenta between the control and adverse pregnancy outcome groups [15 (20.0%) vs. 12 (46.2%), χ2 = -4.81, P = 0.001]. Conclusion:Women who use assisted reproductive technology for pregnancy, have obstetric complications, or have a subchorionic hematoma with hematoma at the edge of the placenta are more likely to experience a miscarriage. Therefore, women of childbearing age should actively treat the primary disease and be alert to the occurrence of placental abruption.

Análise de custo de um centro de reprodução humana assistida no Sistema Único de Saúde / Cost analysis of an assisted human reproduction center in the Unified Health System (SUS)

Resumo O objetivo do estudo foi estimar o custo da implantação de um centro de reprodução humana em um hospital público de referência nacional localizado no Rio de Janeiro. A população elegível foi a de homens e mulheres que possuem diagnóstico das causas mais frequentes de infertilidade. Os itens de custos incluídos foram consultas, exames, equipamentos, recursos humanos e insumos. Os custos foram identificados e quantificados a partir de consulta a clínicas de reprodução assistida, especialistas e literatura. Foram valorados através de bases públicas. A análise dos dados foi realizada através de um modelo de decisão analítico. A perspectiva do estudo foi do SUS provedor. O custo por procedimento na alta complexidade foi de R$ 18.829 para a fertilização in vitro com injeção intracitoplasmática de espermatozoide e de R$ 5.649 para a inseminação artificial. O investimento inicial necessário para funcionamento do centro de alta complexidade para a realização de 480 ciclos foi de R$ 15.903.361 no primeiro ano, o qual incluiu a estruturação do ambiente físico. A estimativa do investimento necessário para a incorporação e manutenção dos serviços no SUS é indispensável para a gestão financeira.

Abstract This study aimed to estimate the cost of implementing a center for assisted human reproduction in a public reference hospital in Rio de Janeiro. The cost analysis was carried out from the perspective of the SUS provider of assistance. The eligible population was men and women diagnosed with the most frequent causes of infertility. The cost items included in primary care and medium complexity were consultations and examinations and in high complexity were equipment, human resources and supplies. Costs were identified and quantified through consultation with assisted reproduction clinics, specialists and literature. They have been valued through public databases. Data analysis was performed using an analytical decision model that included costs of assisted reproduction and effectiveness procedures. The cost per procedure in high complexity was R$ 18,829 for in vitro fertilization with intracytoplasmic sperm injection and R$ 5,649 for artificial insemination. The initial investment required to operate the high complexity center for 480 cycles was R$ 15,903,361 in the first year, which included structuring the physical environment. Estimating the investment required for the incorporation and maintenance of services in SUS is essential for the management of available financial resources.

Algunos dilemas éticos presentes y futuros ante los avances en fecundación in vitro / Some present and future ethical dilemmas surrounding advancements in in vitro fertilization

RESUMEN El creciente campo de la reproducción humana asistida ha alcanzado hitos inimaginables. Su continuo desarrollo y las innovaciones que genera, en ocasiones, plantean dilemas tanto éticos como jurídicos. El presente ensayo trata de exponer los cambios progresivos que se están viviendo en el ámbito del origen de la vida debido al desarrollo de nuevas opciones y estrategias en reproducción humana asistida. En primer lugar, se realiza una reflexión interdisciplinar desde la ciencia, la ética y el derecho, sobre la naturaleza humana y los cambios a los que la sociedad se enfrenta, en particular, desde la perspectiva española. En segundo lugar, recoge una breve aproximación en torno a las técnicas biomédicas presentes o futuras en el campo de la reproducción humana. Concluye sobre la necesidad de reflexionar ante el vertiginoso avance de la ciencia en materia de reproducción humana asistida.

ABSTRACT The growing field of assisted human reproduction has achieved unimaginable milestones. Its continuous development and the innovations it generates at times pose both ethical and legal dilemmas. This essay aims to elucidate the progressive changes occurring in the realm of the origin of life due to the development of new options and strategies in assisted human reproduction. First, it constructs an interdisciplinary reflection on human nature and the changes society faces from the perspectives of science, ethics, and law, particularly from the perspective of Spain. Second, it provides a brief overview of current or future biomedical techniques in the field of human reproduction. It concludes with a discussion of the need to reflect on the rapid advancement of science in assisted human reproduction.

Orchio-Septopexy: A new technique to cover and fix detorsed testis undergoing fasciotomy of tunica albuginea

ABSTRACT Purpose Compartment Syndrome (CS) has been recognized as a potential factor that worsens testicular viability after detorsion, especially in borderline cases of prolonged ischemia. Fasciotomy of the testicular tunica albuginea to relieve the pressure associated with CS has been proposed to accommodate edema after detorsion, embracing the raw fasciotomy area with tunica vaginalis flap (TVF) or graft. Fashioning the TVF can be tedious in cases of severe scrotal edema. Herein we present a technique that facilitates and expedites the procedure, maintaining the fasciotomy area decompressed. Materials and Methods In testicular torsion, where the testis remains with dark coloration and questionable viability after detorsion a longitudinal releasing incision is made in the tunica albuginea (fasciotomy) to decrease compartmental pressure. If signs of parenchymal recovery (bleeding points, better color) are seen an orchio-septopexy is performed, suturing the incised albuginea's edges to the septum with a running suture, avoiding CS as well as re-torsion. Results Orchio-septopexy was performed in 11 cases with a mean age of 11.9 years (3-17). All cases had clinic follow-up and testicular Doppler US with a mean of 9.5 months (6-24). 6/11 cases (54%) were salvaged, with good vascularity in the Doppler US and maintained more than 50% testicular volume compared to the contralateral side. Conclusion Orchio-septopexy after testicular fasciotomy is a simple and fast technique that can be utilized in cases of prolonged testicular ischemia and questionable viability. More than half of the testes recovered, encouraging us to propose its utilization as well as its validation by other surgeons.

The Pathway of Female Couples in a Fertility Clinic / O percurso de casais homossexuais femininos em uma clínica de fertilidade

Abstract Objective The present study aims to describe the main characteristics of female couples resorting to a fertility clinic, to understand whether these patients have clear previous plans concerning procreation and how they end up completing their family planning, and to briefly describe the main outcomes of the recepción de ovocitos de pareja (ROPA, in the Spanish acronym: in English, reception of partner's oocytes) method. Methods This is a descriptive retrospective study of the pathway and outcomes of female couples in a fertility clinic during a 2-year period. Results A total of 129 couples were treated. Only one third of the couples had no condition potentially affecting fertility or advanced age. Most couples were decided to undergo artificial insemination or in vitro fertilization and the majority kept their plans, as opposed to 38% of the couples who decided to the ROPA method (lesbian shared in vitro fertilization) who changed plans. Live birth rates per treatment (including frozen embryo transfers) for artificial insemination, 58% for in vitro fertilization, 80% for treatments with donated oocytes or embryos, and 79% for ROPA. Four in five couples achieved live births. Conclusion The present study highlights the importance of a thorough medical workup in same-sex couples resorting to assisted reproduction. Despite the higher-than-expected rates of fertility disorders, the outcomes were good. Most couples end up in a single parented method. Furthermore, the results of the ROPA method are reassuring.

Resumo Objetivo O presente estudo tem como objetivo descrever as principais características dos casais femininos que recorrem a uma clínica de fertilidade, perceber se estas pacientes têm planos prévios claros sobre a procriação, como acabam por completar o seu planejamento familiar e descrever sucintamente os principais resultados do método fertilização in vitro compartilhada lésbica (ROPA, na sigla em espanhol). Métodos Trata-se de um estudo retrospectivo descritivo da trajetória e dos resultados de casais femininos em uma clínica de fertilidade durante um período de 2 anos. Resultados Um total de 129 casais foram tratados. Apenas um terço dos casais não apresentava nenhuma condição que afetasse potencialmente a fertilidade ou idade avançada. A maioria dos casais optou pela inseminação artificial ou fertilização in vitro e a maioria manteve seus planos, ao contrário dos 38% dos casais que decidiram se submeter ao método ROPA que mudaram de planos. As taxas de nascidos vivos por tratamento (incluindo transferências de embriões congelados) - 22% para inseminação artificial, 58% para fertilização in vitro, 80% para tratamentos com oócitos ou embriões doados e 79% para ROPA. Quatro em cada cinco casais conseguiram nascidos vivos. Conclusão O presente estudo destaca a importância de um acompanhamento médico em casais femininos que recorrem à reprodução assistida. Apesar das taxas mais altas do que o esperado de distúrbios de fertilidade, os resultados foram bons. A maioria dos casais acaba em um método monoparental. Além disso, os resultados do método ROPA são tranquilizadores.

A técnica da maternidade substitutiva: uma revisão bibliográfica / The technique of substitutive maternity: a bibliographic review / La técnica de la maternidad sustitutiva: una revisión bibliográfica

Objetivo: contribuir com reflexões acerca da maternidade substitutiva. Metodologia: realizou-se uma revisão bibliográfica sistemática, de artigos em português, em bases de dados eletrônicas (PubMed, Scielo, BVS e Periódicos CAPES), de 2015 a 2020, resultando em quatro artigos que compõem a revisão. Resultados: os quatro estudos apontam para a inexistência de legislação específica no Brasil sobre as técnicas de reprodução assistida e a maternidade substitutiva e suas consequências. Um artigo destaca a importância do envolvimento de um(a) profissional psicólogo(a) na maternidade substitutiva. Conclusão: atualmente, devido à inexistência de legislação brasileira específica, são seguidas as resoluções do Conselho Federal de Medicina sobre as técnicas de reprodução assistida e maternidade substitutiva. O(a) profissional psicólogo(a) pode contribuir no processo da maternidade substitutiva. Ressaltamos a importância de discussões e disseminação do tema.

Objective: to contribute with reflections on surrogate motherhood. Methods: a systematic bibliographic review of articles in Portuguese was conducted in electronic databases (PubMed, Scielo, BVS, and Capes Periodicals) in the last five years, with four articles comprising the review. Results: the studies showed the lack of specific legislation in Brazil on assisted reproduction techniques and surrogate motherhood and its consequences. One study pointed out the importance of the involvement of a professional psychologist in surrogate motherhood. Conclusion: due to the lack of Brazilian legislation, the citizens follow the Federal Council of Medicine's regulations on assisted reproduction techniques and surrogate motherhood. A professional psychologist can contribute to the process of substitutive motherhood. We emphasize the importance of discussions and dissemination of the theme.

Objetivo: contribuir con reflexiones sobre la maternidad subrogada. Metodología: se realizó una revisión bibliográfica sistemática de artículos en portugués en bases de datos electrónicas (PubMed, Scielo, BVS y Capes Periodicals) en los últimos cinco años, con cuatro artículos que componen la revisión. Resultados: los estudios apuntan a la falta de legislación específica en Brasil sobre técnicas de reproducción asistida y maternidad subrogada y sus consecuencias. Un artículo destaca la importancia de la participación de un psicólogo profesional en la maternidad subrogada. Conclusíon: actualmente, debido a la falta de legislación brasileña específica, se siguen las resoluciones del Consejo Federal de Medicina sobre técnicas de reproducción asistida y maternidad subrogada. El psicólogo profesional puede contribuir al proceso de la maternidad subrogada. Destacamos la importancia de la discusión y difusión del tema.

The combined effect of lifestyle intervention and antioxidant therapy on sperm DNA fragmentation and seminal oxidative stress in IVF patients: a pilot study

ABSTRACT Purpose: Sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF) and seminal oxidative stress are emerging measurable factors in male factor infertility, which interventions could potentially reduce. We evaluated (i) the impact of lifestyle changes combined with oral antioxidant intake on sperm DNA fragmentation index (DFI) and static oxidation-reduction potential (sORP), and (ii) the correlation between DFI and sORP. Materials and Methods: We conducted a prospective study involving 93 infertile males with a history of failed IVF/ICSI. Ten healthy male volunteers served as controls. Semen analysis was carried out according to 2010 WHO manual, whereas seminal sORP was measured using the MiOXSYS platform. SDF was assessed by sperm chromatin structure assay. Participants with DFI >15% underwent a three-month lifestyle intervention program, primarily based on diet and exercise, combined with oral antioxidant therapy using multivitamins, coenzyme Q10, omega-3, and oligo-elements. We assessed changes in semen parameters, DFI, and sORP, and compared DFI results to those of volunteers obtained two weeks apart. Spearman rank correlation tests were computed for sORP and DFI results. Results: Thirty-eight (40.8%) patients had DFI >15%, of whom 31 participated in the intervention program. A significant decrease in median DFI from 25.8% to 18.0% was seen after the intervention (P <0.0001). The mean DFI decrease was 7.2% (95% CI: 4.8-9.5%; P <0.0001), whereas it was 0.42% (95%CI; -4.8 to 5.6%) in volunteers (P <0.00001). No differences were observed in sperm parameters and sORP. Based on paired sORP and DFI data from 86 patients, no correlation was observed between sORP and DFI values (rho=0.03). Conclusion: A 3-month lifestyle intervention program combined with antioxidant therapy reduced DFI in infertile men with elevated SDF and a history of failed IVF/ICSI. A personalized lifestyle and antioxidant intervention could improve fertility of subfertile couples through a reduction in DFI, albeit controlled trials evaluating reproductive outcomes are needed before firm conclusions can be made. Trial registration number and date: clinicaltrials.gov NCT03898752, April 2, 2019.

Effect of adjuvant growth hormone during luteal phase on in-vitro fertilization-embryo transfer outcome / 中国医师杂志

Objective:To investigate the effect of growth hormone (GH) supplementation during luteal phase one cycle before ovulation induction in patients undergoing in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer (IVF-ET).Methods:IVF-ET pregnancy-assisted patients who underwent long-term Gonadotropin Releasing Hormone-agonist (GnRH-a) protocol from January 1, 2019 to June 30, 2020 were collected from the Reproductive Center of Hunan Provincial Maternal and Child Health Hospital. Among them, 106 patients (GH group) were added with GH during luteal phase one cycle before ovulation induction, and 212 patients (control group) were not added with GH. Ovulation induction and pregnancy outcome were compared between the two groups.Results:(1) There was no statistically significant difference in primary infertility/secondary infertility rate, infertility years, age, and transplant cancellation cycle rate between the two groups (all P>0.05). (2) There were no significant differences in the number of oocytes obtained, MII oocytes, two pronucleus (2PN) oocytes, high-quality embryos and average number of transplanted embryos between GH group and control group (all P>0.05). The total amount of Gn in control group and GH group was (2 109.75±555.75)IU and (1 863±610.52)IU, respectively, with statistically significant difference ( P<0.05). (3) The embryo implantation rate of the control group and GH group was 43.73%(129/295) and 60.42%(87/144), respectively, with statistically significant difference ( P<0.05). The clinical pregnancy rates of the control group and GH group were 58.79%(107/182) and 71.91%(64/89), the difference was statistically significant ( P<0.05). The spontaneous abortion rate of early pregnancy in control group (4.67%, 5/107) was slightly higher than that in GH group (3.12%, 2/64), but there was no significant statistical difference ( P>0.05). Conclusions:For patients with normal ovarian response, adding small dose of growth hormone during luteal stage one cycle before controlled hyperovulation can improve the embryo implantation rate and clinical pregnancy rate, and reduce the amount of Gn, which is beneficial to patients.

Análisis teórico jurídico de las técnicas de reproducción asistida: especial referencia al contexto latinoamericano

la utilización de la reproducción asistida va en aumento cada día con resultados más efectivos; la presente indagación toma como punto de partida el análisis de estos procedimientos desde la óptica de la ciencia jurídica, exponiendo el proceso de aprehensión por el derecho de estas cuestiones y las posturas legislativas fundamentales sobre los impactos que el desarrollo biocientífico ha traído para el derecho internacional. Su implementación más frecuente ha generado una polémica en los ámbitos médicos, éticos y consecuentemente en el área de derecho; la regulación y selección de las técnicas que se emplean, el acceso a las mismas y su aplicación, se vinculan con los derechos humanos y son interrogantes relevantes jurídicamente hablando que no pueden soslayarse ante la magnitud del avance científico que representan por sí solos. Se hace necesaria su regulación con una visión menos restrictiva y conservadora que ampare la mayor cantidad de relaciones jurídicas posibles, con modelos familiares y de realización personal, basada en el respeto a los derechos humanos, así como en los principios y valores jurídicos.

the use of assisted reproduction is increasing every day with more effective results; the present investigation takes as a starting point the analysis of these procedures from the point of view of legal science, exposing the process of apprehension by the law of these issues and the fundamental legislative positions on the impacts that bio-scientific development has brought to international law. Its most frequent implementation has generated controversy in the medical and ethical fields and consequently in the area of law; the regulation and selection of the techniques used, the access to them, and their application, are linked to human rights and are legally relevant questions that cannot be avoided in view of the magnitude of the scientific progress they represent by themselves. It is necessary to regulate them with a less restrictive and conservative vision that covers the greatest possible number of legal relationships, with family models and personal fulfillment, based on respect for human rights and legal principles and values.

a utilização da reprodução assistida vem aumentando a cada dia com resultados mais efetivos. Este questionamento toma como ponto de partida a análise desses procedimentos sob a ótica da ciência jurídica, expondo o processo de apreensão pelo direito dessas questões e as posturas legislativas fundamentais sobre os impactos que o desenvolvimento biocientífico vem trazendo para o direito internacional. Sua implementação mais frequente vem causando uma controvérsia nos âmbitos médicos, éticos e, consequentemente, na área de direito; a regulamentação e seleção das técnicas utilizadas, o acesso a elas e sua aplicação estão vinculadas com os direitos humanos e são interrogantes relevantes, juridicamente falando, que não podem eludir ante a magnitude do avanço científico que representam por si só. Faz-se necessária sua regulamentação com uma visão menos restritiva e conservadora que ampare a maior quantidade de relações jurídicas possíveis, com modelos familiares e de realização pessoal, baseada no respeito aos direitos humanos, bem como nos princípios e valores jurídicos.

Reconstrucción cervical con conexión vaginal secundaria a agenesia cervical. Reporte de caso / Cervical reconstruction with vaginal conexion secundary to cervical agenesia. Case report

Resumen ANTECEDENTES: La agenesia cervical congénita es una anomalía poco común del sistema de Müller, que generalmente se reconoce durante la menarquia. Hasta hace poco, el tratamiento de primera elección era la histerectomía, debido a que no se consideraba una enfermedad compatible con la fertilidad. Hoy en día, gracias a las técnicas de reproducción asistida, se han desarrollado procedimientos quirúrgicos menos agresivos que sí preservan la fertilidad de las pacientes. OBJETIVO: Revisar un caso de agenesia cervical a partir de su tratamiento quirúrgico y seguimiento de la reconstrucción cervical con la conexión entre la vagina y el útero, revisar la bibliografía y cómo establecer el pronóstico a largo plazo. CASO CLÍNICO: Paciente de 12 años llevada a consulta ante la ausencia de menstruación. El procedimiento diagnóstico transcurrió sin que se encontraran alteraciones; sin embargo, en la laparoscopia diagnóstica operatoria efectuada a los 14 años, indicada por dolor pélvico cíclico, se advirtieron la ausencia del cuello del útero, un hematometra y endometriosis grado IV. En el segundo tiempo quirúrgico, practicado en conjunto con el cirujano pediatra, se practicó, por laparotomía, la comunicación entre el útero y la vagina. En la actualidad, la paciente tiene 19 años y sus menstruaciones son cíclicas, no dolorosas. En el último ultrasonido se visualizó la conexión entre el útero y la vagina. CONCLUSIONES: Hoy en día, la anastomosis útero vaginal es un procedimiento capaz de mantener la función del útero y permitir el embarazo, con los cuidados adecuados.

Abstract BACKGROUND: Congenital cervical agenesis is a rare anomaly of the Müllerian system, usually recognized during menarche. Until recently, the treatment of first choice was hysterectomy, because it was not considered a disease compatible with fertility. Today, thanks to assisted reproductive techniques, less aggressive surgical procedures have been developed that do preserve the fertility of patients. OBJECTIVE: To review a case of cervical agenesis from its surgical treatment and follow-up cervical reconstruction with the connection between the vagina and the uterus, review the literature and how to establish the long-term prognosis. CLINICAL CASE: A 12 years old female patient was brought for consultation due to absence of menstruation. The diagnostic procedure was carried out without finding any alterations; however, in the operative diagnostic laparoscopy performed at the age of 14, indicated by cyclic pelvic pain, the absence of the cervix, a hematometra and endometriosis grade IV were noticed. In the second surgery, performed in conjunction with the pediatric surgeon, the communication between the uterus and the vagina was performed by laparotomy. At present, the patient is 19 years old and her menses are cyclical, not painful. In the last ultrasound the connection between the uterus and the vagina was visualized. CONCLUSIONS: Today, utero-vaginal anastomosis is a procedure capable of maintaining the function of the uterus and allowing pregnancy, with proper care.

Association of Overweight and Consistent Anovulation among Infertile Women with Regular Menstrual Cycle: A Case-control Study / Associação entre sobrepeso e anovulação consistente em mulheres inférteis com ciclo menstrual regular: Um estudo de caso-controle

Abstract Objective It has been suggested that excess body weight could represent a risk factor for infertility outcomes. The present study aimed to evaluate the association of overweight and anovulation among infertile women with regular menstrual cycles. Methods We conducted a retrospective case-control study with consistently anovulatory patients undergoing assisted reproduction treatment. The patients were stratified into normal weight (body mass index [BMI]: 18.5-24.9kg/m2) and overweight (BMI: 25.0- 29.9kg/m2).Those with polycystic ovary syndrome or obesity were excluded. The groups were matched for age, duration of infertility, prolactin, follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), thydroid stimulating hormone (TSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), and estradiol levels. Results Overweight was significantly associated with anovulation, when using the World Health Organization (WHO) criteria for anovulation: progesterone levels>5.65 ng/ml and ultrasonography evidence of follicle collapse (odds ratio [OR]: 2.69; 95% confidence interval [CI95%]: 1.04-6.98). Conclusion Body mass index above the normal range jeopardizes ovulation among non-obese infertile women with regular menstrual cycles.

Resumo Objetivo O excesso de peso corporal tem sido associado como fator de risco para infertilidade. Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar a associação de sobrepeso e anovulação entre mulheres inférteis com ciclos menstruais regulares. Métodos Realizamos um estudo retrospectivo de caso-controle com mulheres com anovulação consistente em tratamento por reprodução assistida. As pacientes foram estratificadas entre aquelas com peso normal (índice de massa corporal [IMC]: 18,5- 24,9 Kg/m2) e as com sobrepeso (IMC: 25,0-29,9 Kg/m2). As pacientes com síndrome do ovário policístico ou obesidade foram excluídas. Os grupos foram pareados por idade, duração da infertilidade, níveis de prolactina, hormônio folículo-estimulante (FSH), hormônio tiroestimulante (TSH), hormônio luteinizante (LH) e estradiol. Resultados O excesso de peso associou-se significativamente à anovulaçãoquando usados os critérios de anovulação da Organização Mundial de Saúde (OMS): níveis de progesterona>5,65 ng/ml e evidência ultrassonográfica de colapso folicular (razão de chances [RC]: 2,69; IC95%: 1,04-6,98). Conclusão O IMC acima da faixa normal compromete a ovulação em mulheres inférteis não obesas com ciclos menstruais regulares.

Nuevos desafíos en el rol de matronas/matrones en Medicina Reproductiva / New challenges in the role of the midwife in Reproductive Medicine

Con el incremento en las tasas de infertilidad en los últimos años a un 15% a nivel mundial, ha habido un aumento en las consultas de medicina reproductiva para tratamientos de alta y baja complejidad. Estos tratamientos requieren un proceso largo y complejo, desde su diagnóstico hasta el fin del tratamiento. El objetivo de esta revisión bibliográfica es conocer la importancia que tiene el rol de matronas/matrones en las unidades de medicina reproductiva, fundamentalmente en el acompañamiento y educación de los pacientes.

With infertility rates increasing in recent years to 15% worldwide, there has been an increase in reproductive medicine consultations for high and low complexity treatments. These treatments require a long and complex process, from its diagnosis to the end of the treatment. The aim of this bibliographic review is to understand the importance of the role of the midwife in reproductive medicine units, fundamentally in the accompaniment and education of patients.

Reproducción asistida en Chile: una mirada global para el desafío de ofrecer un acceso oportuno / Assisted Reproduction in Chile: a global overview of the challenge of providing an opportune access

En el año 2018 se conmemoraron 40 años desde el primer resultado exitoso producto de una fertilización in vitro (FIV), el nacimiento de Louise Brown en Inglaterra. Se estima que a la fecha han nacido más de 8 millones de seres humanos gracias a las tecnologías de reproducción asistida (TRA), técnicas que están en constante avance y desarrollo. Sin embargo, a pesar de ser cada vez más relevantes como tratamiento de la infertilidad, su acceso todavía es muy limitado y poco equitativo, alcanzando menos del 15% de la población a nivel global. En esta revisión analizamos los aspectos epidemiológicos de la infertilidad y exponemos el contraste entre la necesidad teórica de TRA y los ciclos realizados a nivel mundial, reflejando el bajo acceso a los tratamientos. Se enfatiza la realidad latinoamericana y con especial detalle la chilena, explorando tanto su dimensión histórica como actual, perfilando los desafíos que como país deberemos enfrentar en los próximos años.

The 40-year anniversary of the first in vitro fertilization (IVF) newborn, Louise Brown in England, was celebrated in 2018. To date, over 8 million children have been born with assisted reproductive technologies (ART), a group of techniques in continuous development. Despite the increasing relevance of such technologies as treatments for infertility, the access to ART has been limited to less than 15% of the world population.In this review, we analyze the epidemiological aspects of infertility and present the contrast between the theoretical demand and the actual number of ART cycles performed worldwide, reflecting the low access to infertility treatments. We put emphasis on the Latin American historic and current context, then provide more details on the Chilean reality, and finally outline the challenges Chile will face in the future regarding access to ART.