Subendometrial contractility is not predictive for in vitro fertilization (IVF) outcome

Abstract

Objectives: The aim of the study was to investigate whether endometrial thickness, endometrial pattern, endometrial movement and serum estradiol and progesterone affect the outcome of in vitro fertilization. Methods: Prospectively collected data of endometrial thickness, endometrial pattern and subendometrial activity were analyzed in 122 consecutive in vitro fertilization cycles. All measurements were made on the day of hCG administration (day-2), day of embryo transfer (day+2), day +6 and day +12. Results: It would appear that pregnant women tend to have a thicker endometrium on day +12 than non-pregnant women. There appears to be no appreciable difference between pregnant and non-pregnant women in endometrial movement and thickness, nor in serum estradiol and progesterone on day +2 and day +6. In combining three echographic variables (thickness, pattern and movement) and hormone level (estradiol and progesterone), only progesterone on day +12 could be used to predict the outcome. Conclusions: Subendometrial contractility plays no important role in implantation on the day of embryo transfer or 4 days later.