The chances of obtaining a euploid embryo and subsequent live birth remain consistent with national age-based rates after an in vitro fertilization cycle that produced only aneuploid embryos.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the prognosis of patients who were only able to obtain aneuploid embryos in their first in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycle if they attempted a second cycle.

DESIGN

Case series and retrospective cohort study.

SETTING

A single, large fertility center.

PATIENT(S): All patients who obtained only aneuploid embryos after IVF with preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy during the initial cycle and returned for a second cycle.

INTERVENTION(S): None.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S): The percentage of patients who obtained a euploid embryo and live birth rates in the second cycle, stratified by Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology-defined age groups, was compared with that of controls from the same period.

RESULT(S): A total of 538 patients with only aneuploid embryos in their first cycle were included. Three hundred (56%) patients obtained euploid blastocysts in the second cycle, with younger women having a higher chance of obtaining at least 1 euploid embryo (81% in women aged <35 years vs. 25% in women aged >42 years). The cumulative live birth rates were 71%, 62%, 46%, 27%, and 13% for the age groups <35, 35-37, 38-40, 41-42, and >42 years, respectively. The live birth rates per first embryo transfer were >57% across all the age groups and similar to those of the controls in the same age groups.

CONCLUSION(S): Patients who obtained only aneuploid embryos during their initial IVF cycle retained favorable prognosis in their second cycle, with outcomes comparable with the national age-based standards. Younger women and those who had more embryos available for biopsy had the highest chance of success. These women should receive age-appropriate counseling and should not be discouraged from a second IVF attempt based on the results of their first cycle.