Introduction: Some studies have shown that frozen-thawed embryo transfer (FET) may be associated with improved perinatal outcomes compared to fresh embryo transfer. This issue has not been examined in PGD pregnancies.
Aim: To compare neonatal and obstetrics results following fresh embryo-transfer and FET following PGD.
Methods: Between 2005-2012 we collected information about singleton children born following PGD in Shaare-Zedek medical center. The control group included births following IVF-ICSI treatment in our IVF unit. Data about birth weight, gestational length and information about the type of cycle, fresh vs. FET was obtained.
Results: During the time period 152 singleton PGD pregnancies were identified, of which 132 followed fresh embryo-transfer and 20 FET cycles. The control group included 166 singleton pregnancies, 120 fresh embryo-transfer and 46 FET cycles.
No significant difference regarding birth weight and gestational length between fresh and FET pregnancies in both PGD and IVF-ICSI groups was observed. Birth weight (mean±SD) was 3272±519 vs. 3144±477gr, and gestational week at delivery was 38.9±1.8 vs. 38.7±1.7 for fresh embryo transfer and FET PGD cycles respectively. In IVF-ICSI cycles birth rates were 3063±554 vs. 3060±624gr, and gestational length was 38.4±2.1 vs. 38.6±2 for fresh embryo-transfer and FET respectively.
Between the two groups birth weight and gestational age at delivery was significantly higher for PGD pregnancies compared to IVF-ICSI pregnancies (p<0.0005).
Conclusions: We found no difference in gestational age or weight at birth between fresh and cryopreserved embryos, both in IVF-ICSI pregnancies and in PGD pregnancies. PGD outcome regarding weight and gestational age is significantly better compared to IVF-ICSI pregnancies.
