THE EFFICIENCY OF IVF/ICSI PROTOCOLS IN FEMALE SUBCLINICAL HYPOTHYROIDISM AND THYROID AUTOIMMUNITY

Abstract

While overt hypothyroidism is a well-known risk factor for infertility, the association of subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH) or thyroid autoimmunity with reproductive failure has been still not cleared. This literature review focuses on the most current data linking SCH and/or thyroid autoimmunity with human reproduction, starting with the parameters of ovarian reserve and ending with generalized immunological alterations. The main ART outcome measures are as follows: number of oocytes retrieved, fertilization rate, embryo quality, implantation rate, clinical pregnancy rate per embryo transfer, miscarriage rate, and live birth rate. Summary of the information regarding the effect of levothyroxine supplementation on IVF outcome as well as workup and management of women with SCH and thyroid autoimmunity undergoing ART cycles is also presented in this review.