Introduction: Recently intrauterine infusion of various drugs and autologous components has been tried to improve assisted reproductive technology (ART) cycles outcome. Follicular fluid (FF) is a complex fluid rich in growth factors and cytokines. These mediators may enhance implantation potentials. This randomized controlled trial (RCT) aimed at evaluating the effect of intrauterine infusion of FF in ART cycles.
Patients and Methods: 60 infertile patients indicated for ICSI were randomized into two groups; study group in which intrauterine injection of follicular fluid in the endometrial cavity was done at the time of oocyte retrieval, and a control group. During oocyte retrieval clear FF was centrifuged for 2 minutes and 1 ml was injected into the uterine cavity using intrauterine insemination (IUI) catheter.
Results: Demographic characteristics, number of retrieved oocytes and embryos available for transfer were comparable among both groups. There was no statistical difference between both groups regarding endometrial thickness and clinical pregnancy rate. In patients with previous ICSI failure the study group showed a trend toward a better clinical pregnancy rate compared to control (62.25% versus 44.4% respectively).
Conclusion: IU injection of FF at the time of oocyte retrieval does not improve clinical pregnancy rate. However, this new modality may have a role in patients with previous ICSI failure.