Cigarette smoking at time of in vitro fertilization cycle initiation has negative effect on in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer success rate.

PURPOSE: To assess cigarette smoking of female patients prior to starting in vitro fertilization cycle and possible affect on subsequent in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer outcome.

METHODS

Retrospective study involving 340 consecutive patient questionnaires filled out at time of in vitro fertilization program entry. Only cycles resulting in embryo transfer after transvaginal ultrasound directed ovum retrieval (n = 253) were considered. The three patient pregnancy outcomes of not pregnant, spontaneous abortion, and live birth, were cross-referenced with smoking and nonsmoking patients.

RESULTS

No significant difference found in overall pregnancy rate per embryo transfer for smokers (35%) vs nonsmokers (31%). However, the abortion rate was significantly higher for the smokers (73%) vs nonsmokers (24%) with a P value < 0.001.

CONCLUSIONS

Results suggest preentry in vitro fertilization cycle cigarette smoking has adverse affect on potential pregnancy outcome by increasing spontaneous abortion. Preconception health consultation concerning adverse cigarette smoking effects should be implemented prior to program entry.