Transvaginal ultrasound-guided embryo transfer improves pregnancy and implantation rates after IVF

Abstract

Background: Attempts are constantly being made to improve clinical pregnancy rates after IVF and embryo transfer. Since November 1998, we have gradually been adopting transvaginal ultrasound guidance during embryo transfer. We retrospectively examined the efficacy of this method on pregnancy and implantation rates. Methods: The results of 846 cycles from our IVF-embryo transfer programme were analysed and comparisons were made between those carried out using ultrasound guidance and those by the clinical touch method. Results: Higher pregnancy and implantation rates (28.9 and 15.2% respectively) were found in the group using the transvaginal ultrasound guidance during embryo transfer compared with those in the group using the clinical touch method (13.1 and 7.0% respectively). The differences were statistically significant (P < 0.01). There was no significant difference in ectopic pregnancy rates between the two groups. Conclusion: The use of transvaginal ultrasound-guided embryo transfer significantly improved both pregnancy and implantation rates. Although technically difficult, we suggest its use may maximize the chances of achieving a successful pregnancy outcome.