Progesterone level at oocyte retrieval predicts in vitro fertilization success in a short-antagonist protocol: a prospective cohort study.

Objective: To evaluate the distribution of P levels on the day of oocyte retrieval as it relates to pregnancy outcome in an antagonist protocol, which may be at higher risk for elevated P levels.

Design: Prospective cohort study.

Setting: Academic IVF center.

Patient(s): One hundred eighty-six women undergoing controlled ovarian hyperstimulation with an antagonist protocol.

Intervention(s): None.

Main Outcome Measure(s): Implantation, pregnancy, and spontaneous abortion rates were collected.

Result(s): Implantation rate (positive hCG 14 days after ET) and pregnancy rate were significantly higher when the P level was <12 ng/mL on the day of oocyte retrieval. Miscarriage rates were higher when the P level was ≥12 ng/mL, although this did not reach statistical significance.

Conclusion(s): Elevated P on the day of oocyte retrieval is associated with significantly lower implantation and ongoing pregnancy rates. This is the first study to date to both uncover the distribution of P on the day of oocyte retrieval in an antagonist cycle and determine the impact an elevation may have on pregnancy outcome.