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.

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.

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.

Construction of microfluidics-based fallopian tube model for mimicking fertilization and early embryo culture in vivo / 中国组织工程研究

BACKGROUND: With the increasing proportion of infertility in the population, more and more attentions have been paid on assisted reproductive techniques. Fertilization and early embryo culture are the significant parts of assisted reproductive techniques; however, they remain unchanged in the last few decades. OBJECTIVE: To design a novel microfluidics-based fallopian tube model that can mimic the microenvironment of fertilization and early embryo culture in vivo. METHODS: Microfluidic device was manufactured by soft lithography method to mimic the anatomical characteristic of fallopian tube in vivo. Mouse oviduct primary epithelial cells were cultured and purified by explants culture method, and then the purified cells were identified by keratin immunofluorescence method. Epithelial cells were then loaded into the channel to mimic the biochemical environment of fallopian tube in vivo. The chip was connected to the automatic liquid changing device to mimic the liquid environment of fallopian tube in vivo. RESLUTS AND CONCLUSION: (1) The channel of this model is cylindrical with 2 cm of height and 1 cm of diameter, which were in accordance with the anatomical characteristic of the isthmus of fallopian tube in shape. (2) The keratin immunofluorescence was positive, which indicated that mouse oviduct primary epithelial cells can be obtained by explants culture method. (3) The cells were loaded into the channel to cover the wall of channel, which provided a biochemical microenvironment similar to that in vivo for fertilization and early embryo culture. After the chip was connected to the automatic liquid changing device, metabolic waste could be taken away and nutrient substance can be replenished in time, which mimics the real fluid environment in vivo. (4) This study combined microfluidics technology and assisted reproductive techniques to design a novel fallopian tube model, which mimics the micro-environment of fertilization and early embryo culture in vivo. This study has laid a foundation for further improvement of assisted reproductive techniques and the rate of fertilization and embryo optimization.

Doação de gametas: questões sociais e éticas (não) respondidas em Portugal / Gamete donation: (un)answered social and ethical issues in Portugal / Donación de gametos: cuestiones sociales y éticas (no) respondidas en Portugal

Resumo: Conhecer a discussão em torno dos desafios sociais e éticos da doação de gametas é fundamental para a boa governança das técnicas de reprodução assistida. Neste artigo, analisam-se os tópicos que orientaram o debate nas organizações de ética portuguesas, discutindo as suas conexões com os temas abordados internacionalmente. Para tal, em março de 2018, pesquisamos sistematicamente os websites do Conselho Nacional de Procriação Medicamente Assistida e do Conselho Nacional de Ética para as Ciências da Vida. Procedemos à análise de conteúdo temática de 25 documentos. Os resultados indicam que o debate se centrou na acessibilidade, no anonimato e na compensação de doadores e, em menor extensão, nas responsabilidades profissionais. Observaram-se posicionamentos heterogêneos e tensões entre múltiplos direitos e princípios éticos associados a receptores, a pessoas nascidas com recurso à doação de gametas e a doadores. Esses têm em comum três alegações: a escassez de evidência científica; as experiências de outros países; e regulamentações oriundas de entidades internacionais. Na literatura abordam-se tópicos adicionais, nomeadamente: uma via dupla que conjugue anonimato/identificação de doadores; implementação de sistemas de registo reprodutivo para receptores e doadores; limites do rastreio genético a doadores; doação por familiares/conhecidos; e o papel dos doadores na decisão quanto ao destino de embriões criopreservados e na escolha das características dos receptores dos seus gametas. Há espaço para expandir o debate e promover a pesquisa em torno das implicações sociais e éticas da doação de gametas, considerando a participação de todos os cidadãos.

Abstract: Awareness of the discussion surrounding the social and ethical challenges regarding gamete donation is crucial for good governance of assisted reproduction techniques. In this article, we analyze the topics that guided the debate in the Portuguese ethics organizations, discussing their connections with themes addressed internationally. To that end, in March 2018, we systematically searched the websites of the National Council of Medically Assisted Procreation and of the National Ethics Council for Life Sciences. We carried out a thematic content analysis of 25 documents. Results indicate that the debate was focused on accessibility, anonymity and donors' compensation and, to a lesser extent, on professional responsibilities. We observed heterogeneous positions and tensions between multiple rights and ethical principles associated with recipients, donor-conceived individuals and donors. These invoke three similar arguments: the scarcity of scientific evidence; experiences from other countries; and regulations from in international entities. Literature addressed additional topics, namely: a double track that combines donor anonymity/identification; the implementation of reproduction registries for recipients and donors; limits to the genetic screening of donors; donations by family members/acquaintances; and donors' role in decisions regarding the fate of cryopreserved embryos and in choosing the characteristics of recipients of their gametes. There is room to expand the debate and to promote research on the social and ethical implications of gamete donation, considering the participation of all citizens.

Resumen: Conocer la discusión en torno a los desafíos sociales y éticos de la donación de gametos es fundamental para el buen gobierno de las técnicas de reproducción asistida. En este artículo se analizan los temas que orientaron el debate en las organizaciones de ética portuguesas, discutiendo sus conexiones con los temas abordados internacionalmente. Para este fin, en marzo de 2018, investigamos sistemáticamente las páginas webs del Conselho Nacional de Procriação Medicamente Assistida y del Conselho Nacional de Ética para as Ciências da Vida. Asimismo, procedimos al análisis de contenido temático de 25 documentos. Los resultados indican que el debate se centró en la accesibilidad, anonimato y compensación de donadores y, en menor extensión, en las responsabilidades profesionales. Se observaron posicionamientos heterogéneos y tensiones entre múltiples derechos y principios éticos, asociados a receptores, a personas nacidas gracias a la donación de gametos y a donadores. Estos tienen en común tres alegaciones: la escasez de evidencias científicas; las experiencias de otros países; y las regulaciones procedentes de entidades internacionales. En el literatura se abordan temas adicionales, en particular: una vía doble que conjugue anonimato/identificación de donadores; implementación de sistemas de registro reproductivo para receptores y donadores; límites del rastreo genético a donadores; donación por familiares/conocidos; y el papel de los donadores en la decisión respecto al destino de embriones criopreservados y en la elección de las características de los receptores de sus gametos. Existe espacio para abrir más el debate y promover la investigación en torno de las implicaciones sociales y éticas de la donación de gametos, considerando la participación de todos los ciudadanos.

Differential gene expression analysis of human cumulus cells / 대한생식의학회지

OBJECTIVE: This study was performed to explore the possibility that each oocyte and its surrounding cumulus cells might have different genetic expression patterns that could affect human reproduction. METHODS: Differential gene expression analysis was performed for 10 clusters of cumulus cells obtained from 10 cumulus-oocyte complexes from 10 patients. Same procedures related to oocyte maturation, microinjection, and microarray analyses were performed for each group of cumulus cells. Two differential gene expression analyses were performed: one for the outcome of clinical pregnancy and one for the outcome of live birth. RESULTS: Significant genes resulting from these analyses were selected and the top 20 affected pathways in each group were analyzed. Circadian entrainment is determined to be the most affected pathway for clinical pregnancy, and proteoglycans in cancer pathway is the most affected pathway for live birth. Circadian entrainment is also amongst the 12 pathways that are found to be in top 20 affected pathways for both outcomes, and has both lowest p-value and highest number of times found count. CONCLUSION: Although further confirmatory studies are necessary, findings of this study suggest that these pathways, especially circadian entrainment in cumulus cells, may be essential for embryo development and pregnancy.

Male Inflammatory Parameters Are not Useful to Predict the Outcomes of Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection: Results from a Cross-Sectional Study

PURPOSE: The relationship between male systemic inflammation and fertility seems intriguing, but no data about its impact on the assisted reproductive technology outcomes has been reported. Here, we aimed to evaluate the prognostic role of male systemic inflammatory parameters in intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) outcomes prediction, in couples undergoing an ovum donation program. MATERIALS AND METHODS: From January 2016 to December 2017, one hundred-ten couples were considered for this cross-sectional study. Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), monocyte-to-eosinophil ratio (MER), platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), seminal parameters, fertilization rate (FR), cleavage rate (CR), pregnancy rate (PR) were evaluated. Male patients were divided into Group A with FR ≤70%, Group B with FR >70%. RESULTS: Overall, FR was 74.5%, CR 90.9%, PR 41.8%. Group A included 43 patients, Group B 67 men. Group A showed a median NLR of 1.55, PLR of 106.09, MER of 2.33. Group B reported a median NLR of 1.64, PLR 109.0, MER 2.76. We found no statistically differences between two groups with respect to NLR, PLR, MER (p=0.90, p=0.70, p=0.96, respectively). The age-adjusted linear regression analysis demonstrated only a relationship between NLR and sperm motility count (r=−0.02; p<0.05). Using the univariate logistic regression analysis, we found no significant associations. CONCLUSIONS: We did not find any relationship between ICSI outcomes and male inflammation parameters.

Experience of Decision Making about Selective Fetal Reduction among Women Who Conceived through Assisted Reproductive Techniques / 임상간호연구

PURPOSE: This study aimed to explore and understand the experience of decision making among women undergoing or forgoing selective fetal reduction who have higher-order multiple pregnancies through assisted reproductive techniques. METHODS: A qualitative study was conducted from August 1, to October 30, 2013. Eight participants were interviewed and the interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Six persons participated in in-depth interviews in person and two participated over the telephone. A thematic analysis was conducted. RESULTS: Four themes were identified and carefully named: Confusion after higher-order multiple pregnancy; Obstacles to choice: Uncertain safety; Weighing between reality and ideality and; Influences of medical professionals. CONCLUSION: The results demonstrated a wide range of factors considered by women when making decisions about selective fetal reduction, and mothers'feelings of conflict and distress in the decision-making process. The results suggest that it is important for nurses to provide emotional support and consolation, in addition to sufficient information. These findings will help nurses improve their counseling techniques by understanding the situation of infertile couples.

Thinning and drilling laser-assisted hatching in thawed embryo transfer: A randomized controlled trial / 대한생식의학회지

OBJECTIVE: In frozen and thawed embryos, the zona pellucida (ZP) can be damaged due to hardening. Laser-assisted hatching (LAH) of embryos can increase the pregnancy rate. This study compared thinning and drilling of the ZP before frozen embryo transfer (FET). METHODS: Patients were randomly allocated into two groups for LAH using thinning or drilling on day 2 after thawing. Twenty-five percent of the ZP circumference and 50% of the ZP thickness was removed in the thinning group, and a hole 40 µm in diameter was made in the drilling group. RESULTS: A total of 171 in vitro fertilization/intracytoplasmic sperm injection FET cycles, including 85 cycles with drilling LAH and 86 cycles with thinning LAH, were carried out. The thinning group had a similar β-human chorionic gonadotropin-positive rate (38.4% vs. 29.4%), implantation rate (16.5% vs. 14.4%), clinical pregnancy rate (36.0% vs. 25.9%), miscarriage rate (5.8% vs. 2.4%), ongoing pregnancy rate (30.2% vs. 23.5%), and multiple pregnancy rate (7.0% vs. 10.6%) to the drilling LAH group. There were no significant differences in pregnancy outcomes between subgroups defined based on age (older or younger than 35 years) or ZP thickness (greater or less than 17 µm) according to the LAH method. CONCLUSION: The present study demonstrated that partial ZP thinning or drilling resulted in similar outcomes in implantation and pregnancy rates using thawed embryos, irrespective of women's age or ZP thickness.

Fertility preservation for adolescent and young adult cancer patients in Japan

Adolescent and young adult (AYA) patients are generally defined as being from 15 to 39 years old. For preservation of fertility in AYA cancer patients, the best-known guideline in this field was released by the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) in 2006. However, the ASCO guideline is not necessarily applicable to Japanese cancer patients. The Japan Society for Fertility Preservation (JSFP) was formed in 2012, and a system and guideline for fertility preservation in Japanese AYA cancer patients plus children was released in July 2017. According to this guideline, patients should receive psychological and social support from health care providers such as doctors, nurses, psychologists, pharmacists, and social workers. In 2013, the American Society for Reproductive Medicine stated that freezing oocytes is a method that has passed beyond the research stage. However, freezing ovarian tissue is still a research procedure. While slow freezing of ovarian tissue is generally performed, rapid freezing (vitrification) is more popular in Japan. We have developed a new closed technique for ovarian tissue cryopreservation. It has been suggested that optical coherence tomography might be applied clinically to measure the true ovarian reserve and localize follicles in patients undergoing ovarian tissue transplantation. Combining gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist therapy with anticancer agents might be useful for ovarian protection and it is expected that discussion of such combined treatment will continue in the future. This article outlines practical methods of fertility preservation using assisted reproductive techniques for AYA cancer patients in Japan.

Implicaciones éticas y jurídicas de la maternidad subrogada: aproximación a una visión europea / Ethical and juridical implications relating to surrogate pregnancy: an overview from a european perspective / Implicações éticas e jurídicas da maternidade por substituição: aproximação de uma visão europeia

Resumen: avances biotecnológicos son abrumadores y la realidad social cambia con ellos. En efecto, la nueva ley en España sobre los matrimonios homosexuales ha propiciado que parejas de mujeres y de hombres que se casan puedan procrear no solo mediante la adopción, sino también por la fecundación in vitro. Así, la gestación por sustitución se está convirtiendo en la vía preferente para que parejas heterosexuales u homosexuales con problemas específicos, parejas de hombres y para el varón sin pareja puedan tener descendencia. Esta situación crea múltiples conflictos éticos y jurídicos difíciles de resolver: filiación del menor, mercantilización de la mujer, instrumentalización y compraventa de niños, etc. En este artículo se analizarán los aspectos bioéticos en conflicto, sin olvidar la regulación jurídica que existe al respecto.

Abstract: We find ourselves in a time of far reaching biotechnological breakthroughs and alongside with this, society is also experiencing changes. In this sense, new regulations regarding homosexual marriage have opened an scenario where same sex couples of men or women, may "procreate", not only by means of adoption - not permitted for homosexual couples in many countries - but also through in vitro fertilization. For this reason, surrogate pregnancy is becoming the option of choice enabling heterosexual couples with specific problems, male couples, and males without a female partner to have a child. Indeed, as surrogate pregnancy techniques proliferates, ethical conflicts arise: the possibility of men to have their own children, problems relating filiation, instrumentalization of women and babies, legal solutions given by different European countries. In this article, both bioethical and legal issues regarding surrogate pregnancy will be analyse looking for the best interest of the minors.

Resumo: Os avanços biotecnológicos são avassaladores e a realidade social se transforma com eles. Com efeito, a nova lei espanhola sobre o casamento homossexual tem propiciado que casais de mulheres e de homens que se casam possam procriar não só através da adoção, mas também por fertilização in vitro. Assim, a gestação por substituição está se tornando a alternativa preferida para que casais heterossexuais ou homossexuais com problemas específicos, casais de homens e homens solteiros possam ter filhos. Esta situação cria vários conflitos éticos e jurídicos que são difíceis de resolver: filiação da criança, mercantilização da mulher, instrumentalização e compra e venda de crianças, etc. Este artigo irá analisar os aspectos bioéticos, sem esquecer a regulação jurídica a este respeito.

Who should be a parent? Parenthood and the significance of reproductive choice / Quién debería ser padre? Paternidad y la importancia de elección reproductive / Quem deve ser um pai? Paternidade e a importância da escolha reprodutiva

The various reproductive technologies have expanded the power people have to control their bodily function. Because these technologies have brought new configurations of people whose role is central to the reproductive process, ambiguities about the attribution of parenthood have emerged. I insist that the intentional account among four explanatory frameworks for parenthood gains more validity, as opportunities to exert intention increase. I extend the intentional account, using Scanlon's explanation of the "Value of Choice." In the Value of Choice, Scanlon explains that choice has a justificatory power; that is, by the fact of having choice, one accepts the normative consequences of one's decision. The current changes in reproduction technologies mean that there are several conditions to choose. While maintaining justificatory power from the Value of Choice, the intentional account becomes inclusive enough to encompass the status quo, plausible even in situations where intention does not exist or is not exerted.

La variedad de tecnologías reproductivas han expandido el poder que las personas tienen para controlar su función corporal. Debido a que estas tecnologías han producido nuevas configuraciones de personas cuyo papel es central para el proceso reproductivo, han emergido ambigüedades sobre la atribución de paternidad. Insisto en que dar cuenta de la intencionalidad en la paternidad dentro de cuatro estructuras explicativas gana mayor validez en la medida en que se incrementan las oportunidades de ejercer intención. Extiendo el dar cuenta de la intención usando la explicación de Scanlon sobre el "Valor de la Elección", en la cual la elección tiene un poder de justificación; esto es, por el hecho de haber elegido, uno acepta las consecuencias normativas de su decisión. Los cambios actuales en tecnologías de reproducción significan que existen varias condiciones para elegir; mientras que se mantiene el poder de justificación por el Valor de Elección, el dar cuenta de la intención llega a ser lo suficientemente inclusivo para abarcar el statu quo, plausible incluso en situaciones en que no existe intención o no se expresa.

As várias tecnologias reprodutivas expandiram o poder que as pessoas têm de controlar suas funções corporais. Porque estas tecnologias trouxeram novas configurações de pessoas cujo papel é fundamental para o processo reprodutivo, ambiguidades emergiram sobre a atribuição da paternidade. Eu insisto que a consideração intencional entre quatro quadros explicativos para a paternidade ganha mais validade, quando oportunidades de exercer a intenção de aumentam. Eu estendo a consideração intencional, utilizando a explicação de Scanlon, do "Valor de escolha". Scanlon explica que a escolha tem um poder de justificação; ou seja, pelo fato de ter uma escolha, um aceita as consequências normativas de uma decisão. As atuais mudanças em tecnologias de reprodução significam que existem várias condições para escolher. Enquanto mantendo o poder de justificação do valor da escolha, a consideração intencional torna-se suficientemente inclusiva para abranger o status quo, plausível mesmo em situações onde uma intenção não existe ou não é exercida.

Factores clínico-terapéuticos y su relación con la calidad embrionaria en pacientes sometidas a fertilización in vitro / Clinical and therapeutic factors and their relationship with the embryo quality in patients subjected to in vitro fertilization

Introducción: la fertilización in vitro con transferencia embrionaria es el tratamiento de infertilidad más empleado en las técnicas de reproducción asistida. Objetivo: identificar factores clínicos-terapéuticos que inciden en la calidad de los embriones obtenidos por fertilización in vitro, en pacientes infértiles en las que se emplea esta técnica. Métodos: se realizó un estudio longitudinal de corte retrospectivo, en el cual se precisó la influencia de factores clínicos-terapéuticos, tales como, edad materna, dosificación de la hormona folículo estimulante en ciclo previo, número de ovocitos aspirados en el ciclo de fertilización in vitro, análogo de la hormona liberadora de gondadotropinas utilizado y la causa de infertilidad, en la calidad de los embriones cultivados. Resultados: de 419 parejas estudiadas, se obtuvieron tríos embrionarios de buena calidad en el 60,86 por ciento. Hubo diferencias estadísticamente significativas entre las pacientes con buena y mala calidad embrionaria, en cuanto a la edad (p= 0,029), el número de ovocitos aspirados (p< 0,0001) y la causa de infertilidad (p= 0,002). En el análisis multivariado, la causa inexplicable de infertilidad (odds ratio: 0,13 [95 por ciento IC: 0,036-0,49]; p= 0,002) y la edad (odds ratio: 0,96 [95 por ciento IC: 0,81-0,99]; p= 0,042) se asociaron a la abtención de embriones de mala calidad, mientras que el mayor número de ovocitos aspirados se asoció con la obtención de embriones de buena calidad (odds ratio: 1,08 [95 por ciento IC: 1,03-1,13]; p= 0,002). Conclusiones: la obtención de embriones de buena calidad se favorece de un mayor número de ovocitos aspirados; mientras que la infertilidad de causa inexplicable, y el aumento de la edad, la disminuyen(AU)

ntroduction: in vitro fertilization with embryo transfer is the most used infertility treatment in the assisted reproductive techniques. Objective: to identify the clinical and therapeutic factors affecting the quality of embryos obtained from in vitro fertilization in infertile patients undergoing this technique. Methods: a retrospective longitudinal study was conducted to determine the influence of clinical and therapeutic factors such as maternal age, dosage of follicle-stimulating hormone in previous cycle, number of aspired oocytes in the in vitro fertilization cycle, the analogue of the gonadotropin-releasing hormone used and the cause of infertility on the quality of cultured embryos. Results: of 419 studied couples, good quality embryo trios were obtained in 60.86 percent of the sample. There were statistically significant differences between the patients with good and with bad embryo quality in terms of age (p= 0.029), number of aspired ovocytes (p< 0.0001) and cause of infertility (p< 0.002). In multivariate analysis, the unknown cause of infertility (odds ratio: 0.13 [95 percent CI: 0.036-0.49]; p= 0.002) and the age (odds ratio: 0.96 [95 percent CI: 0.81-0.99]; p= 0.042) were associated to obtaining low quality embryos whereas the highest number of aspired ovocytes was associated to good quality embryos (odds ratio: 1.08 [95 percent CI: 1.03-1.13]; p= 0.002). Conclusions: a higher number of aspired oocytes encourages obtaining good quality embryos whereas infertility of unknown cause and older age reduce it(AU)

Reduction of the cetrorelix dose in a multiple-dose antagonist protocol and its impact on pregnancy rate and affordability: A randomized controlled multicenter study / 대한생식의학회지

OBJECTIVE: To determine whether reducing the cetrorelix dose in the antagonist protocol to 0.125 mg had any deleterious effects on follicular development, the number and quality of retrieved oocytes, or the number of embryos, and to characterize its effects on the affordability of assisted reproductive technology. METHODS: This randomized controlled study was conducted at the Fertility Unit of Tanta Educational Hospital of Tanta University, the Egyptian Consultants' Fertility Center, and the Qurrat Aien Fertility Center, from January 1 to June 30, 2017. Patients' demographic data, stimulation protocol, costs, pregnancy rate, and complications were recorded. Patients were randomly allocated into two groups: group I (n=61) received 0.125 mg of cetrorelix (the study group), and group II (n=62) received 0.25 mg of cetrorelix (the control group). RESULTS: The demographic data were comparable regarding age, parity, duration of infertility, and body mass index. The dose of recombinant follicle-stimulating hormone units required was 2,350.43±150.76 IU in group I and 2,366.25±140.34 IU in group II, which was not a significant difference (p=0.548). The duration of stimulation, number of retrieved oocytes, and number of developed embryos were not significantly different between the groups. The clinical and ongoing pregnancy rates likewise did not significantly differ. The cost of intracytoplasmic sperm injection per cycle was significantly lower in group I than in group II (US $494.66±4.079 vs. US $649.677±43.637). CONCLUSION: Reduction of the cetrorelix dose in the antagonist protocol was not associated with any significant difference either in the number of oocytes retrieved or in the pregnancy rate. Moreover, it was more economically feasible for patients in a low-resource country.

Factors Influencing Infertility-related Quality of Life in Women Undergoing Assisted Reproductive Techniques: Focusing on Depression and Resilience

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to investigate factors affecting on infertility-related quality of life in women undergoing assisted reproductive techniques focusing on depression and resilience. METHODS: With correlational survey design, 125 infertile women who were receiving inpatient and outpatient treatment in K university hospital in D city completed a structured questionnaire. RESULTS: There was a significant negative correlation between depression and resilience and between the depression and the quality of life. There was a significant positive correlation between resilience and the quality of life. The factors affecting on infertility-related quality of life were depression, burden of expenses, and relationship with husband which explained 48% in the quality of life. CONCLUSION: It is necessary to develop and apply nursing programs that include individual counseling and education for infertile couple. Social support including financial support and better environment for these women will be also essential.

The status of assisted reproductive technology in Korea in 2012 / 대한생식의학회지

OBJECTIVE: This study was designed to report the status of assisted reproductive technology (ART) therapy in South Korea between January 1, 2012 and December 31, 2012. METHODS: A localized online survey, originally developed by the International Committee Monitoring Assisted Reproductive Technologies, was first launched and provided to all available ART centers via email in 2015. Fresh embryo transfer (FET) cases were categorized as standard in vitro fertilization, intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), or half-ICSI. Thawed embryo transfer (TET) and other related procedures, including surgical sperm retrieval, were surveyed. RESULTS: Data from 33,956 ovum pick-up procedures were provided by 75 clinics in 2012. Of the 33,088 cycles in which ovums were retrieved, a complete transfer was performed in 90.5% (29,932 cycles). In addition, 10,079 FET cycles were confirmed to have resulted in clinical pregnancy, representing a pregnancy rate of 30.5% per ovum pick-up and 33.7% per ET. The most common number of embryos transferred in FET was 2 (41.6%), followed by 3 (34.0%), and non-elective single ETs (10.0%). Of the 10,404 TET cycles in which transfer was completed, 3,760 clinical pregnancies (36.1%) were confirmed by ultrasonography. CONCLUSION: The overall clinical pregnancy rate for FET and TET cycles in 2012 was higher than in 2011 (33.7% vs. 33.2% and 36.1% vs. 31.1%, respectively). The most common number of embryos transferred in FET cycles was 2, unlike in 2011.

Perinatal complications and neonatal outcomes of twin pregnancies conceived by assisted reproductive techniques and those conceived spontaneously: A retrospective analysis of 811 cases / 解放军医学杂志

Objective To investigate the general situations of gravida,pregnancy complications,childbirth and neonatal outcomes of twin pregnancies conceived by assisted reproductive techniques (ART) and those conceived spontaneously.Methods A retrospective analysis was carried out on the basic information,perinatal complications,delivery information and neonatal outcomes of twin pregnancies received by ART (ART group,n=518) and those conceived spontaneously (SC group,n=293).Results Gravida age was older in ART group than in SC group (P＜0.05),while the gravidity and parity in ART group was more than that in SC group (P＜0.05).There were more embryos and high proportion of diamniotic cyst in ART group than in SC group (P＜0.05).The gestational incidence of diabetes,abnormal placenta (placental adherence,placenta accrete,placenta previa) and postpartum hemorrhage were higher in ART group than in SC group (P＜0.05),while no statistically significant differences existed between the two groups in the incidence of gestational complications (such as gestational hypertension disease,cholestasis and amniotic fluid volume abnormality) and in neonatal outcomes including neonatal weight,incidence of asphyxia and congenital malformation and neonatal death (P＞0.05).Conclusion Twin pregnancy conceived by ART may lead to higher incidences of gestational diabetes mellitus and abnormal placenta and more postpartum hemorrhage,but no significant difference existed in the neonatal outcomes between twin pregnancies conceived by ART and those conceived spontaneously.