Infertility, Female

Infertility affects about one in seven couples in France. Beyond the medical and personal challenges, it has major societal implications. In vitro fertilization (IVF) offers hope to these couples, but success rates remain modest (about 30% per embryo transfer). The failure of embryo implantation is multifactorial. Among the factors involved, immune status at the time of embryo transfer plays a central role. Embryo transfer induces an acute pro-inflammatory immune response, and inadequate regulation of this response could compromise implantation. We have previously identified a promising immune biomarker: TGF-β (Transforming Growth Factor Beta). In a prospective cohort of 255 patients undergoing frozen embryo transfer, we demonstrated that low circulating levels of TGF-β following nonspecific stimulation of immune cells on the day of embryo transfer were associated with a significant increase in the likelihood of implantation and live birth. These results now require independent validation in a new cohort to establish their robustness and explore potential clinical applications. We hypothesize that measuring TGF-β concentration following stimulation can predict the success of embryo implantation.

This prospective study compares two approaches to obtaining mature oocytes for fertility treatment within the same participant. Immature oocytes are first retrieved from the right ovary and matured in the laboratory using a two-step biphasic capacitation in vitro maturation method (CAPA-IVM). Beginning on Day 5 of the same menstrual cycle, the left ovary undergoes minimal controlled ovarian stimulation followed by routine oocyte retrieval and IVF/ICSI. The primary objective is to evaluate the maturation of CAPA-IVM oocytes to the metaphase II (MII) stage and compare reproductive laboratory outcomes between the CAPA-IVM and minimal-stimulation OS-IVF approaches. Secondary outcomes include fertilization, embryo development, blastocyst formation, embryo quality, pregnancy and live birth outcomes, and safety.

Women undergoing IVF/ICSI who are candidates for a GnRH-antagonist protocol are randomly assigned 1:1 to oral linzagolix or the standard injectable GnRH antagonist (ganirelix or cetrorelix). A third, non-randomized group of women with a clinical indication for progestin-primed ovarian stimulation (PPOS) - for example, a need for a freeze-all strategy - is enrolled concurrently as a comparator cohort. The randomized comparison (linzagolix vs. injectable antagonist) is the primary, non-inferiority analysis; the PPOS cohort provides an exploratory, non-randomized comparison, analyzed with adjustment for baseline differences.

The goal of this clinical trial is to learn whether different natural approaches to preparing the uterus for frozen embryo transfer (FET) can improve pregnancy success in women undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment. The main questions it aims to answer are: 1. Is a completely natural menstrual cycle more successful than a natural cycle in which ovulation is triggered with medication when preparing for frozen embryo transfer? 2. Does taking a medication called letrozole at the beginning of the cycle improve pregnancy success compared to not taking it? Researchers will compare four different approaches to see which one results in the highest chance of achieving a clinical pregnancy, confirmed by ultrasound. Participants will: * Be randomly assigned to one of four groups * Undergo monitoring with ultrasound and blood hormone tests during their menstrual cycle * In some groups, take letrozole tablets for a few days early in the cycle * In some groups, receive a hormone injection to help control the timing of ovulation * Undergo frozen embryo transfer at the appropriate time * Receive standard hormonal support after embryo transfer * Researchers will compare four different approaches to see which one results in the highest chance of achieving a clinical pregnancy, confirmed by ultrasound.

This prospective cohort study aims to compare the effectiveness of half-dose (0.125 mg/day) versus conventional-dose (0.25 mg/day) cetrorelix in GnRH antagonist ICSI cycles regarding clinical pregnancy rate in women with BMI ≥25 kg/m².

The aim of this randomized controlled trial is to further examine the possible effects of low dose human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) priming for eight weeks in women with diminished ovarian reserve (DOR) undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF)/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). The investigators want to retest the findings of our first study in an identical paired design (NCT04643925), as an increase of 1.5 in mean number of oocytes retrieved is clinically relevant. To incorporate the strengths of a randomized controlled trial design, women will be randomized after their first ICSI treatment to receive either hCG or placebo in a double-blinded design during an eight-week priming period preceding their second ICSI treatment. The primary outcome is the number of oocytes retrieved in the second ICSI treatment.

The goal of this observational study is to develop and validate artificial intelligence (AI)-based algorithms that support ultrasound diagnosis of endometriosis, adenomyosis, myometrial masses, uterine malformations, and impaired endometrial receptivity in women aged 18-45 years. The main questions it aims to answer are: Can AI algorithms, applied to standardized transvaginal ultrasound images, accurately detect and classify endometriosis and adenomyosis in real time during routine examination? Can AI-based ultrasound assessment predict the histological dignity of myometrial masses, and the likelihood of successful assisted reproduction (AR/IVF) outcome from endometrial features? Participants attending the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Semmelweis University, with clinical suspicion of endometriosis or adenomyosis, a confirmed myometrial mass scheduled for surgery, a suspected uterine anomaly, or scheduled IVF treatment, will undergo standardized transvaginal ultrasound examination (following the IDEA, MUSA, and IETA protocols) alongside collection of clinical, questionnaire, and, where surgery is performed, histopathological data. Imaging and clinical data will be used to build a database supporting the development and validation of the AI algorithms.

The goal of this two-group parallel randomized controlled study is to determine the effect of a web-based mind-body-based awareness program based on Meleis Transition Theory on fertility awareness and readiness levels in women receiving infertility treatment.

The goal of this clinical trial is to evaluate a long Clomid protocol as compared to a 5-day Clomid protocol for ovarian stimulation in patients with diminished ovarian reserve undergoing ovarian stimulation for in-vitro fertilization. The aim of the long Clomid protocol is to intensify stimulation of the ovaries and reduce both cost and injection burden for patients. Participants will be randomized to receive the long Clomid protocol vs. the typical protocol involving Clomid only for 5 days followed by growth hormone-releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonist. The primary outcome the investigators will evaluate will be the number of mature eggs retrieved.

Premature ovarian failure, also known as primary ovarian insufficiency (POI), or premature menopause, affects 1-2% of women under 40. The diagnosis is typically made based on high levels of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and absent or irregular menstrual periods. It leads to infertility and menopause-like effects (hot flashes and thin bones) due to low estrogen levels. POI can result from various factors such as genetic conditions, autoimmune diseases, or previous medical treatments like chemotherapy. Treatment of POI usually involves hormone replacement therapy and, if pregnancy is desired, assisted reproductive technologies such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) using an egg donor. However, IVF may not be an option for everyone due to personal, religious, ethical or financial reasons. Recent advances in medicine have identified ovarian tissue transplantation (OTT) as a potential solution. OTT involves transplanting either fresh or frozen ovarian tissue into the pelvic area, where it can begin functioning again. Studies in animals and humans have shown success in restoring hormonal function and even achieving pregnancies in some cases. Initial human trials of ovarian tissue transplants from another individual began with identical twins and have since expanded to include non-identical siblings with compatible tissue matches using immunosuppression. Success rates of OTT have been promising, with multiple live births reported between identical twins. Long-term studies indicate that transplanted tissue can remain functional for up to eight years. Ovarian tissue transplantation offers a promising avenue for women with POI to help restore fertility and hormonal function. Continued research and refinement of tissue techniques are essential to improve outcomes and expand access to this innovative treatment option. This study will enroll 10 participants who will undergo ovarian tissue transplantation donated by a non-identical sister using an immunosuppression protocol at University Hospitals.

Dr. Nanette Santoro proposes to test the specific question that obesity results in abnormal estradiol response at the level of the pituitary and hypothalamus. This will be shown in diminished pituitary sensitivity to gonadorelin releasing hormone with a reduced estradiol induced luteinizing hormone surge in obese women.

Adenomyosis is associated with impaired endometrial receptivity and reduced implantation rates in assisted reproduction, even when using high-quality embryos. Linzagolix (Yselty, 200 mg) is an oral GnRH receptor antagonist approved for uterine fibroids with a favourable tolerability profile and rapid elimination half-life (18-20 hours) compared to GnRH agonists. This prospective case series evaluates the efficacy of linzagolix 200 mg administered for 3 to 6 months prior to embryo transfer in patients with confirmed adenomyosis and recurrent implantation failure (RIF), defined as ≥2 failed transfers with high-quality blastocysts (≥BB Gardner in oocyte donation, or PGT-A confirmed euploid in autologous cycles). The primary endpoint is the live birth rate (LBR) per embryo transfer. Secondary endpoints include clinical pregnancy rate, miscarriage rate, morphological response of adenomyosis (uterine volume and junctional zone \[JZ\] thickness assessed by standardised transvaginal ultrasound), and tolerability profile. The study also explores the optimal treatment duration (3 vs 6 months) as a sub-analysis based on morphological response at the month-3 visit. The study is conducted at three centres of Vida Fertility Institute (Madrid, Alicante and San Sebastián, Spain). Sample size: n=35 patients. Study duration: 24 months.

Autologous platelet rich plasma (PRP) intraovarian infusion may improve ovarian response to controlled ovarian stimulation as well as the hormonal profile of poor ovarian response infertile women subjected to intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) treatment.

Autologous PRP intra ovarian infusion may improve ovarian response and women's hormonal profile and may promote folliculogenesis in perimenopausal women.

Autologous PRP intra ovarian infusion may improve ovarian response, patients' hormonal profile as well as fresh embryo transfer (ET)-ICSI cycles' outcome in patients presenting with Poor Ovarian Response (POR).

Autologous PRP intra ovarian infusion may restore ovarian function, may promote folliculogenesis and may improve hormonal profile of women in menopause.

The goal of this clinical trial is to examine whether GLP1-RA and healthy lifestyle education in women with PCOS and obesity prior to fertility treatment improves live birth rate and other reproductive, maternal and perinatal outcomes compared to metformin plus healthy lifestyle education.

This study aims to explore the potential correlation between decreased ovarian reserve and previous history of early miscarriage.

To describe the peripheral serum levels of the anti-inflammatory cytokines IL-4 (Interleukin-4), IL-10 (Interleukin-10), TGF-ß1 (Transforming Growth Factor beta1), the pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-17 (Interleukin-17), IFγ (Interferon Gamma) and the immune mediator PIBF (Progesterone-Induced Blocking Factor) along a single frozen euploid blastocyst transfer in a natural cycle (NC) or Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT).

The goal of the PROMISE study is to determine how pre-conception lifestyle factors (e.g., sleep, nutrition, physical activity) affect short- and long-term reproductive outcomes.

Endometrial receptivity is a key determinant of success in assisted reproductive technology (ART). A significant proportion of patients experience repeated implantation failure despite euploid embryos and adequate laboratory conditions. Thin endometrium, often defined as ultrasound-measured thickness \<7 mm at embryo transfer, is frequently refractory to estrogen therapy and associated with low implantation and clinical pregnancy rates. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP), obtained from autologous blood by double centrifugation, is rich in growth factors capable of stimulating cell proliferation, angiogenesis, and tissue regeneration, suggesting potential benefits for endometrial function. Preliminary studies indicate improved endometrial thickness and reproductive outcomes following intrauterine PRP infusion, but standardized protocols and systematic data are lacking. The PMA\_PREPAIRE study is a prospective, single-center, controlled, non-randomized interventional clinical trial conducted at the Reproductive Medicine Center of Cardinal Massaia Hospital, Asti. The study aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of intrauterine infusion of autologous platelet-rich plasma (PRP), in association with hormone replacement therapy (HRT), in improving endometrial receptivity and reproductive outcomes in women with thin or refractory endometrium. The study includes a prospective control group treated with standard HRT alone. Eligible women will be treated with standard clinical care, with PRP infusion offered to those with insufficient response to HRT. Inclusion criteria include age 18-45, BMI 18-30 kg/m², history of ≥1 failed embryo transfer, EMT \<5 mm after ≥10 days of HRT, and normal routine lab tests. Exclusion criteria include endometrial disease, recent gynecological infection, and systemic conditions such as thrombocytopenia or coagulopathies. Procedures include standard HRT from cycle days 1-2, serial ultrasound monitoring of endometrial thickness from days 6-8, intrauterine PRP infusion if EMT ≤7 mm (up to three infusions per cycle), embryo transfer once EMT ≥7 mm, and follow-up through pregnancy testing and confirmatory ultrasound. Collected data will be analyzed using descriptive statistics, paired and unpaired comparative analyses, and multivariate logistic regression models to evaluate predictors of treatment response and reproductive outcomes (significance level p \< 0.05). A sample size of 34 patients per group was estimated to detect a 1.5 mm difference in endometrial thickness (EMT) with 90% statistical power. Considering an anticipated dropout rate of 15%, a total of 40 patients per group will be enrolled. The study includes: an intervention group consisting of 40 patients treated with HRT plus intrauterine PRP infusion; a prospective control group consisting of 40 patients with refractory thin endometrium treated with standard HRT alone, without PRP.

Endometriosis is a prevalent gynecological condition affecting approximately 10% of women of reproductive age worldwide. It presents with nonspecific but often severe symptoms, including chronic pelvic pain (in 70% of cases) and infertility (in up to 40% of cases), imposing significant physical, psychological, economic, and societal burdens. Despite its widespread occurrence, the exact etiology and pathogenesis of endometriosis remain unclear, and no definitive cure exists. Early diagnosis and management are crucial for improving patient outcomes; however, major diagnostic delays persist. Current imaging techniques such as transvaginal ultrasound (TVUS) examination and magnetic resonance imaging, along with biochemical markers lack sufficient specificity. Consequently, confirmation of diagnosis still requires surgical procedures under general anesthesia, i.e. laparoscopy ("key-hole surgery") and tissue biopsy. This delay exacerbates the disease burden and healthcare costs, underscoring the urgent need for non-invasive, precise diagnostic strategies. This project proposes a multi-modal approach integrating advanced ultrasound imaging with novel biomarkers identified via comprehensive multi-omics analyses, including proteomics, transcriptomics, and immune profiling, of patient-derived endometrial organoids. It aims to understand the underlying mechanisms of reduced endometrial receptivity of embryos in patients with endometriosis. Additionally, we will explore personalized treatment strategies by utilizing patient-specific organoids for drug screening and evaluation of treatment response. This project aims to develop a non-invasive diagnostic strategy by integrating: 1. AI-enhanced TVUS for improved lesion detection. 2. Multi-omics biomarker discovery through proteomics, transcriptomics, and immune profiling. 3. Underpinning the mechanisms of reduced endometrial receptivity in endometriosis using an in vitro model of embryo-endometrium interaction. 4. Endometrial organoid models to enable precision medicine-based drug testing. The development of a reliable noninvasive or minimally invasive diagnostic test-or a combination of tests-could revolutionize the diagnostic pathway by reducing delays, avoiding the need for surgery, and facilitating disease monitoring and treatment evaluation.

The goal of this clinical trial is to determine whether telomere profiling and other biological aging hallmarks can help identify underlying mechanisms of persistent infertility in women with post-treatment unexplained infertility. The study also evaluates whether a personalized integrative treatment guided by these biomarkers can improve reproductive outcomes. The study includes women aged 25 to 42 years who continue to experience infertility despite appropriate management of identifiable reproductive conditions and repeated attempts with assisted reproductive technologies (ART), such as intrauterine insemination (IUI) or in vitro fertilization (IVF). The main questions this study aims to answer are: * Can telomere and biological aging hallmarks profiling identify a biological aging phenotype associated with infertility? * Can an integrative treatment guided by these profiles improve clinical pregnancy outcomes? Participants will: * Undergo a baseline reproductive evaluation and blood-based assessment of telomeres and aging hallmarks. * Receive an integrative approach combining Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), targeted nutritional support, and standard fertility care. * Proceed with natural conception attempts or standard assisted reproductive technologies following the preconception phase. * Participants will be followed to assess pregnancy outcomes and changes in biological aging hallmarks.

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) cycles, despite the ease of synchronizing embryo thawing and embryo transfer timing, increase the risk of pregnancies and obstetric complications compared to natural cycles (NC). By ensuring the presence of the corpus luteum while reducing the number of monitoring sessions, the progesterone modified natural cycle (P4mNC) offers more convenience for the patient than the normal NC. This study is designed to compare the effects of P4mNC and HRT cycles on FET outcomes.

investigate the effect of different vasodilators as Tadalafil in women with unexplained infertility using IVF