Authors: Verhagen, T.E.M.; Dumoulin, J.C.M.; Evers, J.L.H.; Land, J.A.

Source: Human Reproduction, Volume 23, Number 8, 16 August 2008 , pp. 1793-1799(7)

Publisher: Oxford University Press

Abstract:

BACKGROUND

Dropouts in IVF-programmes affect cumulative pregnancy rates (CPRs), but it is unknown what the impact of loss to follow-up is.

METHODS

Data were obtained from 588 couples starting IVF treatment (as treated group). Cycle-based and real-time-based CPRs were calculated using three assumptions for dropouts: dropouts having no probability of pregnancy, dropouts having the same probability of pregnancy as those continuing treatment and dropouts stopping because of medical reasons having no chance of pregnancy and those stopping because of other reasons having the same probability of pregnancy as those continuing treatment. CPRs obtained in the as treated group were compared with CPRs calculated using the data set including the follow-up data of the dropouts (completed group).

RESULTS

In 1.7 of couples, no follow-up could be obtained. The cycle-based CPR after three IVF-cycles ranged from 63 to 71 in the as treated group and was 65 in the completed group. The real-time-based CPR after 9 months ranged from 54 to 59 in the as treated group and was 55 in the completed group. The PR in dropouts was 14 (95 confidence interval 8.22).

CONCLUSIONS

In IVF programmes, outcome data of dropouts remain unknown, and CPRs should be calculated by assuming dropouts to have a PR between no probability and the same probability as those who continue treatment. Our study shows that the most accurate estimate for the PR in dropouts is 14.

Keywords: dropout; IVF; follow-up; life table

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/humrep/den209

Publication date: 2008-08-16

More about this publication?

• Human Reproduction features full-length, peer-reviewed papers reporting original research, clinical case histories, as well as opinions and debates on topical issues. Papers published cover the scientific and medical aspects of reproductive physiology and pathology, endocrinology, andrology, gonad function, gametogenesis, fertilization, embryo development, implantation, pregnancy, genetics, genetic diagnosis, oncology, infectious disease, surgery, contraception, infertility treatment, psychology, ethics and social issues. The highest scientific and editorial standard is maintained throughout the journal along with a rapid rate of publication.

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