Comparison of Easy and Difficult Embryo Transfer Outcomes in In Vitro Fertilization Cycles

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to compare the effects of easy and difficult embryo transfers (ET) on implantation and pregnancy rates. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this prospective study, we analyzed the results of 706 ET procedures over a 12-month period. An easy ET was defined as a transfer that occurred without the use of force or other instrumentation. A difficult ET was defined as the use of force for catheter placement, and/or the use of additional instruments, and/or manipulation. Pregnancy rate was compared between patients with easy or difficult ETs. RESULTS: There was a significantly higher implantation rate in the easy group (21.7%) compared to the difficult group (12.1%, p<0.05).The easy group had a higher pregnancy rate (38.1%) compared to patients who had difficult ETs (21.4%; p<0.05). CONCLUSION: Any uterine manipulation during ET adversely affects in vitro fertilization (IVF). Precaution should be taken to identify possibly difficult ET cases in advance.