Efficacy of luteal phase support with GnRH agonists: a preliminary comparative study

Abstract
Objective: Recently, GnRH agonists have been proposed successfully in different schemes to support the luteal phase. It was suggested that GnRH analogs can promote corpus luteum maintenance and/or have a direct effect on the embryo. The purpose of this study was assess the efficacy of a single administration of GnRh agonists in IVF/ICSI cycles after embryo transfer, in addition to progesterone therapy.
Results: Patients characteristics, age, number of oocytes, transferred embryo quality and number were similar with no statistical significance between the two groups. Also, there was no significant difference in the fertilization rate of both groups. However clinical and ongoing pregnancy rates were higher in Group A: 51.7% (15/29) vs 24.2 %(8/33), P < 0.02 and 44.8 % (13/29) vs 18.2 % (6/33), P < 0.02 respectively. Furthermore, the implantation rate was significantly increased in group A (32.0 % vs 14,1 %, P < 0.05).
Conclusion: These preliminary results suggest that the administration of GnRh agonist may increase pregnancy and implantation rates of IVF and ICSI cycles, by providing a support to the luteal phase. Although our findings confirm previous experiences in this subject, larger studies are necessary to precisely assess the impact of luteal GnRH agonist administration on IVF success.

Autori: C.M.M. Brigante, M. Mignini Renzini, M. Dal Canto, G. Coticchio, R. Comi, R. Fadini