Mullerian agenesis associated with in-utero thalidomide exposure: A case report

Thalidomide is a well-known teratogen, which is experiencing resurgence as new uses are identified. Exposure is classically associated with limb deformities, such as: dysmelia, phocomelia, preaxial hypoplasia and polydactyly, in addition to visceral anomalies that have been documented as well. We report a case of a 38 year-old nulligravid female, who was previously evaluated for primary amenorrhea, and given the presumptive false diagnosis of an imperforate hymen. On magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) exam, she was noted to have uterovaginal agenesis. The implications of thalidomide on women’s health extend beyond external birth defects. Although, most commonly associated with limb deformities, there may also be gynecologic implications of in utero exposure. As this medication is increasingly used for various medical conditions, obstetricians/gynecologists need to remain aware of this potential mullerian teratogenic effect

REVIEW - Surgical complications of in vitro fertilization

The incidence of complications arising from in vitro fertilization and oocyte retrieval is relatively low. Infections, bleeding, and ovarian torsion are the main complications discussed in this review. Physicians and patients need to be aware of these complications at all times during the treatment process. Early diagnosis and proper medical or surgical interventions will lead to a successful resolution in the majority of cases

Ectopic pregnancy rates in frozen versus fresh embryo transfer in in vitro fertilization: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Objective: To evaluate whether the rate of ectopic pregnancy differs between fresh and frozen embryo transfers. Design: Systematic review and meta-analysis. Setting: Centers for reproductive care. Materials and methods: An electronic literature search in MEDLINE through PubMed was performed through December 2013. We included clinical trials comparing outcomes of in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycles between fresh and frozen embryo transfers. Main outcome measures: Ectopic pregnancy rates from fresh versus frozen IVF cycles. Results: A meta-analysis revealed no significant difference between ectopic pregnancy rates in fresh versus frozen embryo transfer. Similarly, there was no difference between ectopic pregnancy rates in natural-cycle frozen embryo transfer versus programmed cycles. Conclusions: Differences in the hormonal milieu of the uterine environment between fresh and frozen embryo transfer stimulation do not appear to affect the ectopic pregnancy rate. More directed studies are needed before a definite recommendation can be made as to which is safer for prevention of ectopic pregnancy– fresh or frozen embryo transfer