Research and Clinical Center for Infertility, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences of Yazd
Abstract
Background: Although the uterine fibroids are common, their influence
on fertility remains controversial. The association of submucosal
fibroid with subfertility is well recognized, but debate persists as to
whether intramural fibroids can cause infertility and the evidence for
its effect on pregnancy in cycles of assisted conception remains
unclear. Objective: The purpose of present study was to determine the
effect of intramural fibroids less than 6 cm not compressing uterine
cavity on the outcome of ART cycles in patients undergoing IVF/ICSI
cycles. Materials and Methods: In this prospective cohort study, 94
women with uterine intramural fibroids and 184 controls referred to
Royan Institute between 2001 and 2002 were enrolled. The intramural
fibroids and their location were detected by transvaginal ultrasound
performed just before the ART cycle. All patients underwent long
standard GnRH agonist protocol. Student t-test and Chi-square test were
used for the statistical analysis. Results: The mean age of patients
was 33.9 ±3.37 years in myoma group (n=94) and 33.28 ±3.59
years in control group (n=184). The total dose of gonadotropin used,
estradiol level on day of hCG administration, the number of metaphase
II oocytes retrieved, fertilization rate, number and quality of embryos
developed and transferred, the clinical pregnancy and abortion rates
were similar in two groups. Conclusion: The presence of intramural
fibroids less than 6 cm not compressing endometrial cavity does not
adversely affect clinical pregnancy rate in patients undergoing IVF or
ICSI