Weight and its Association with IVF Outcome

by Dr. Susan Sarajari

In a recent study led by researchers from the University of Michigan, data from 150,000 IVF cycles done at 361 different clinics was analyzed. Heavier women were noted to have an increased rate of cycle cancellation, decreased pregnancy rate and an increased risk of miscarriage as compared with normal weight women. Therefore, both fertility treatment cycle success and pregnancy outcome was affected. The reason for this is unclear but might be associated with extra estrogen that is released from adipose tissue. Weight is an important modifiable factor in IVF success and even a small decrease in weight can have significant effects on IVF outcome.

“Heavier women may have less IVF success”. 24 Aug 2011. Reuters Health. http//:www.reutersreprints.com.