To examine the effect of cryopreservation on developmental potential of human embryos, this study compared quantitative β-HCG concentrations at pregnancy test after IVF-fresh embryo transfer (IVF-ET) with those arising after frozen embryo transfer (FET). It also tracked outcomes of singleton pregnancies resulting from single-embryo transfers that resulted in singleton live births (n = 869; with 417 derived from IVF-ET and 452 from FET). The initial serum β-HCG concentration indicating successful implantation was measured along with the birthweight of the ensuing infants. With testing at equivalent luteal phase lengths, the median pregnancy test β-HCG was significantly higher following FET compared with fresh IVF-ET (844.5 IU/l versus 369 IU/l; P < 0.001). Despite no significant difference in the average period of gestation (38 weeks 5 days for both groups), the mean birthweight of infants born following FET was significantly heavier by 161 g (3370 g versus 3209 g; P < 0.001). Furthermore, more infants exceeded 4000 g (P < 0.001) for FET although there was no significant difference for the macrosomic category (≥4500 g). We concluded that FET programme embryos lead to infants with equivalent (if not better) developmental potential compared with IVF-ET, demonstrated by higher pregnancy β-HCG concentrations and ensuing birthweights.

The etonogestrel implant (Implanon; Merck Sharp and Dohme, Kenilworth, NJ, USA) is an effective contraceptive with a good safety profile for up to 3 years [1]. However, its adverse effects include irregular vaginal bleeding (affecting 68.0% of users), weight gain (20.7%), acne (15.3%), breast pain (9.1%), and headache (8.5%) [2]. To provide further information about contraception options for women in the postpartum period, the aim of the present study was to investigate the bleeding patterns and adverse effects reported by women who underwent Implanon insertion within 8 weeks of delivery and compare them with those experienced by non-postpartum women.A prospective study was undertaken at Hospital Tengku Ampuan

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