The effect of a two-hour, room temperature incubation of human spermatozoa in TEST-yolk buffer on the rate of fertilization in vitro

Abstract

Patients: To reassess the use of TEST-yolk buffer (TYB) in an in vitro fertilization (IVF) program by comparing fertilization rates achieved in a glucose-free cleavage medium by the standard IVF preparation of sperm versus a 2-h, room temperature incubation of sperm in TYB. Methods: Oocytes collected for IVF were randomly split into two groups and inseminated with either TYB-treated sperm or IVF-prepared sperm. Setting: Stanford Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility Center. Patients: Fifty couples undergoing IVF with at least 10 mature oocytes. Main Outcome Measures: Fertilization rates in vitro. Results: Fertilization rates were significantly higher (p = 0.015) with TYB treatment. The average 2PN fertilization rate was 49.6% (188/379) for the IVF group and 57.4% (221/385) in the IVF with TYB group. Conclusions: A 2-h, room temperature incubation of sperm in TYB produces significantly higher 2PN fertilization rates as compared to standard IVF preparation of sperm in a current generation cleavage medium.