OBJECTIVETo evaluate the outcome of in vitro fertilization embryo transfer (IVF-ET) in treatment of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) with infertility.

METHODSA retrospective analysis was performed from 52 patients with PCOS (PCOS group) and 408 cases with tubal infertility (control group). Both groups underwent IVF-ET treatment from 2001 to 2004. The duration of stimulation, amps of gammaFSH, the level of serum E2, P on the day of HCG injection, the number of oocytes retrieved, the rates of fertilization, cleavage, implantation and pregnancy, the incidence of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) and cancelled rate of ET were compared between the two groups.

RESULTThe duration of stimulation and amps of gammaFSH were not significantly different between the two groups. The concentration of serum E2, P on the day of HCG injection, the numbers of oocytes retrieved and cleavaged embryos were significantly higher in PCOS group (P <0.01, <0.05). Fertilization rate was significantly lower in PCOS group (P <0.01). The implantation, pregnancy and miscarriage rates per ET were not statistically significant. The OHSS rates and cancelled rates of ET were higher in PCOS group (P <0.01).

CONCLUSIONWomen with PCOS have a lower fertilization rate compared with those with tubal-factor fertility during IVF-ET. However, more oocytes are recovered and the preimplanted embryo has a normal chance of implantation leading to similar pregnancy rates. The OHSS rates and cancelled rates of ET are higher in PCOS because of a greater number of oocytes developed and a higher level of E2.