Effects of Chromosomal Abnormalities on Assisted Reproductive Technology: A Retrospective Cohort Study

Abstract

Background: To ascertain whether couples with chromosomal abnormalities have a difference in cumulative clinical pregnancy rate and cumulative live birth rate among assisted reproductive technology population. Methods: Design: A retrospective cohort study. Setting: Department of reproduction and infertility in Chengdu Women's and Children's Central Hospital.Patients: A total of 112 couples were in exposed group with chromosomal abnormalities and 226 couples without chromosomal abnormalities in control group included in the study, totaling 338 cases. From 1st Jan 2017 to 31st Dec 2019. Control group (infertility couples without chromosomal abnormalities) was 1:2 matched by female age, type of infertility (primary, secondary), type of assisted reproductive technology (IVF, ICSI or IUI). Results: Primary outcomes: cumulative clinical pregnancy rate and cumulative live birth rate. The results indicated that chromosomes abnormalities had no statistical difference in primary outcomes. Further analysis revealed exposed group (couples with chromosomal abnormalities) had less 2 pronuclear stage count. The times of embryo transfer by ICSI was less than IVF in exposed group. We found out only female age had an effect on the primary results and the threshold was 33.5years old.Conclusions: There were no significant differences in cumulative clinical pregnancy rate and cumulative live birth rate between two groups. But 2 pronuclear stage count, and the times of embryo transfer were affected by chromosomal abnormalities. It may be better to choose ICSI and PGT in this population.