Effect of time interval between sperm collection, preparation and insemination on in vitro fertilization

Abstract

Objective to determine the effects of the time interval between sperm collection and preparation, collection and insemination, and preparation and insemination on IVF results.

Subjects Sixty couples who underwent IVF-ET were recruited. The subjects were divided into normal and abnormal sperm parameters as followed. Group 1 : sperm concentration > 20 x 109/ml with % motility > 50, (N=47) Group 2 : sperm concentration < 20 x 10$/ml and/or % motility < 50, (N=13)

Main outcome measures Time interval between sperm collection and insemination (T ), after complete sperm preparation and insemination (T ), sperm collection and preparation (T ); fertilization rate; cleavage rate.

Results The female age, number of oocytes, T ,T , and T in both groups were not different. The fertilization rate in group 1 was significantly higher than that in group 2 (85.1+16, 65+29.3 ; respectively), where as cleavage rate was comparable. In group 1, there were no correlation between T,TET, and fertilization or cleavage rate. In group 2, T and I also showed no correlation with fertilization and cleavage rate but there were significant inverse correlation between T and both fertilization and cleavage rate (r = -0.75 and -0.575, respectively).

Conclusion Prolonged time interval between semen collection and preparation may effect IVF outcome, especially in cases with abnormal sperm parameters. Appropriate schedule for semen collection should be considered in IVF program to ensure the optimal outcome.