Complications of in vitro fertilization with intracytoplasmic sperm injection in human immunodeficiency virus serodiscordant couples.

INTRODUCTION

Our experience with complications related to in vitro fertilization (IVF), particularly ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) and higher-order multiple gestations, in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) serodiscordant couples undergoing IVF with intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) is presented.

METHODS

We retrospectively evaluated 132 consecutive IVF-ICSI cycles and the ensuing 43 pregnancies in 74 HIV-seropositive male discordant couples. The diagnosis of moderate and severe OHSS was based on clinical criteria. Higher-order multiple gestations were defined as viable triplets or greater by the end of the first trimester verified by ultrasonography.

RESULTS

The incidence of moderate and severe OHSS was 4.5% of initiated IVF cycles. Seven of the 43 (16.3%) pregnancies were higher-order multiple gestations (1 quadruplet and 6 triplet pregnancies), resulting in the delivery of 3 sets of triplets and 3 sets of twins, with an ongoing twin pregnancy. Four patients had undergone multifetal pregnancy reduction to twins. There were no seroconversions in the women and the infants.

CONCLUSION

HIV serodiscordant couples undergoing fertility treatment with IVF-ICSI should be made particularly aware of the risks of higher-order multiple gestations and OHSS.