Effect of Pretreatment with Oral Contraceptive Pills on Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection Outcome in Females with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Abstract Background: Oral contraceptive pills (OCPs) are considered cornerstone in treatment of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). Prior to controlled ovarian stimulation (COS); OCPs are given to suppress natural luteinizing hormone and follicle stimulating hormone secretion. Though, little is known about the possible effectiveness of OCPs in assisted reproductive techniques outcome including oocytes’, embryos’ qualities, and pregnancy rate. Objective: To study the effects of OCPs pretreatment in PCOS women on intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) outcome. Materials and Methods: About 72 sub-fertile females with PCOS were included (depending on Rotterdam criteria). They were divided into two groups: those who were pretreated with OCPs for 1 month and those who did not. were subjected to ICSI cycles Then outcomes of the two groups were evaluated. Results: the OCPs pretreated women were significantly needed higher doses of gonadotropins during COS P 0.5 in the number and quality of oocytes and embryos. The pregnancy rate was higher in the OCPs pretreated women compared to those who did not (33.33% versus 23.33%) Whereas, the incidence of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) was lower in the OCPs pretreated women compared to those who did not (16.6% versus 26.6%). Conclusions: Pretreatment with OCPs can improve ICSI outcome (higher pregnancy rate and lower OHSS incidence). However, higher doses of gonadotropin are needed.