Live delivery and implantation rates of donor oocyte recipients in their late forties are similar to younger recipients.

OBJECTIVE

To determine if there is a certain age when the uterus is somewhat less receptive to successful pregnancy despite the transfer of embryos from donated oocytes.

STUDY DESIGN

We conducted a retrospective evaluation of donor oocyte recipient cycles according to specific ages. The recipients used an oral/vaginal graduated estradiol regimen followed by intramuscular and vaginal progesterone. Only recipients sharing oocytes with either the donor or another recipient were included.

RESULTS

Evaluating the pregnancy rate by each year of age from 40-49 following transfer of embryos derived from donor oocytes showed no trend for lower pregnancy rates up to age 49. In fact the highest live delivery pregnancy rates (though not significant) were found at ages 47 (64.3%) and 49 (63.6%). The live delivered pregnancy rates for recipients < or = 39 was 52.5% vs. 55.6% for women > or = age 46. The live delivered pregnancy rate was 34.6% for women > or = age 50. The pregnancy and implantation rates were similar whether the source was infertile women sharing half their oocytes or compensated donors.

CONCLUSION

The uterus does not seem to have a diminished capacity for implantation up to the age of 49, but it may be slightly less receptive after age 50.