The serum concentration of estradiol after embryo transfer and the decline from preovulatory levels may influence the success of IVF treatment

Aim: To establish the influence that serum estradiol concentrations prior to oocyte retrieval and 3 days after embryo transfer have on the establishment of in vitro fertilization (IVF) pregnancy. Method: Preovulatory (day-0) and luteal-phase (day-6) estradiol concentrations were retrospectively analyzed in 310 infertile patients, undertaking 1st-cycle conventional IVF or intracytoplasmic sperm injection. Results: The IVF treatment success is significantly reduced in patients with an estradiol level <600 pg/ml and also when a rapid decline in luteal-phase estradiol concentrations from preovulatory concentrations (day 0:day 6 ratio) was exhibited. Conclusion: A day 0:day 6 estradiol ratio >5 and a serum estradiol concentration <600 pg/ml may adversely impact on the establishment of pregnancy in IVF.