High estradiol levels and high oocyte yield are not detrimental to in vitro fertilization outcome

Objective: To evaluate the impact of elevated peak E-2 levels and a high number of retrieved oocytes on implantation in patients undergoing assisted reproductive techniques. Design: Retrospective study. Setting: University-based IVF program. Patient(s): One hundred six patients undergoing 106 IVF cycles. High responders were defined as those who had peak E-2 levels of >3,000 pg/mL on the day of hCG administration (n = 38) or >15 retrieved oocytes (n = 48). Their IVF outcomes were compared with those of patients whose peak E-2 levels were less than or equal to 3,000 pg/mL (n = 68) or who had less than or equal to 15 retrieved oocytes (n = 58). Intervention(s): None. Main Outcome Measure(s:): Implantation and pregnancy rates. Result(s): There were no statistically significant differences in age, basal FSH level, basal E-2 level, number of ampules of gonadotropins required, fertilization rate, number of ETs, implantation rate, or pregnancy rate between normal and high responders or between women who did and did not become pregnant. In addition, no differences were detected when outcome was analyzed according to the stimulation regimen used. Conclusion(s): Elevated peak E-2 levels and high oocyte yield are not detrimental to IVF outcome. More studies are needed to characterize the threshold E-2 levels above which implantation rates are reduced. (Fertil Steril(R) 1999;72:401-5. (C) 1999 by American Society for Reproductive Medicine.)