Effects of Embryo Microbial Contamination on ART and Neonatal Outcomes.

PURPOSE

This study investigated the incidence and microbial etiology of embryo contamination in assisted reproductive technology (ART), and its influence on embryo development, pregnancy and neonatal outcomes.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis was conducted on embryo contamination at the Reproductive Centre of the Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, between 2018 and 2021.

RESULTS

In the period from 2018 to 2021, the average incidence of embryo contamination was 0.12%. Bacterial growth was observed in 39 cases, with a preponderance of (20, 51.28%), (7, 17.95%). The fertilization rate of contaminated embryos was 18.18% () to 94.79% (), the cleavage rate was 9.09% () to 98.90% (), and the available embryo rate of Day 3 was 0 () to 63.33% (). Blastocyst formation rate was 3.23% () to 64.29% (). contamination occurred mostly on Day 1, and on Days 3 and 5. After rinsing and rescuing treatment, six healthy male babies were born.

CONCLUSION

and were the most common bacterial embryo contaminants. Most microbial contamination can significantly decrease the fertilization rate. Embryo transfer after rinsing and continuing culture had no negative effect on neonatal outcomes, but there was an increased risk of early abortion due to contamination.