In-vitromaturatie (IVM) van humane eicellen

In-vitro maturation (IVM) is an artificial reproductive technique in which immature oocytes are harvested without the use of ovarian hyperstimulation. These oocytes are matured in vitro for approximately 30 hours and subsequently inseminated by means of in-vitro fertilisation (IVF) or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI).

The first IVM pregnancy was reported in 1991. Now more than 1100 IVM-children are estimated to have been born by this technique worldwide.

Due to the lack of ovarian hyperstimulation, IVM is patient-friendly, cheap and safe. There is no risk of ovarial hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS). Therefore IVM is particularly suitable for patients with an increased risk of OHSS, such as patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

The efficiency of IVM has improved in recent years. Live birth rates per cycle of nearly 15% are achieved at centres with experienced staff.

Theoretically, in-vitro manipulation of oocytes and embryos can disturb genetic imprinting. In some large cattle IVM has been associated with abnormal high birth weight, delivery problems and increased morbidity (large offspring syndrome). This syndrome has not been observed yet in humans. However, the groups of children investigated were small and the follow up was limited to a maximum of 2 years.

Recently, as yet in a clinical research setting, IVM has been permitted in the Netherlands by the Dutch Society of Obstetrics and Gynaecology and the Dutch Society of Clinical Embryologists.