Plasma Relaxin Measurement Based on Endometrial Preparation for Embryo Transfer
This study aims to understand why some pregnancies achieved through fertility treatments (like IVF) might face more challenges than pregnancies conceived naturally. Doctors have noticed that the way an embryo is transferred (either fresh or frozen) and how the mother's womb lining is prepared can affect these outcomes. Specifically, pregnancies from frozen embryo transfers, especially when the womb lining is prepared with extra hormone treatment, might have a higher risk of issues like high blood pressure in pregnancy (preeclampsia) or babies being larger than average. The researchers are focusing on a hormone called relaxin. This hormone is naturally produced in some pregnancies and helps the body adapt to being pregnant. They think that lower levels of relaxin in certain IVF pregnancies might lead to these complications later on. The study will measure relaxin levels to see if there's a link.
At a glance
What is this study about?
When people have fertility treatments like IVF, doctors have noticed that occasionally, these pregnancies can have different outcomes compared to those conceived naturally. For example, there can sometimes be a higher chance of certain problems developing during pregnancy, such as high blood pressure (preeclampsia), babies growing very large, or more bleeding after birth.
This study wants to explore why these differences might happen. Doctors have observed that the type of embryo transfer used (whether a fresh embryo is transferred immediately, or a frozen one is thawed and transferred later) can play a part. They've also seen that how a woman's womb lining is prepared for the embryo transfer can be important. For instance, if the womb lining is prepared using extra hormones, rather than letting the body do it naturally, there might be a higher risk of certain issues.
The researchers believe that a hormone called relaxin could be a key factor. Relaxin is normally produced early in pregnancy and helps a woman's body adapt to carrying a baby, particularly with her heart and kidneys. In some IVF procedures, the body might not produce as much relaxin. The study will investigate if lower levels of relaxin are linked to these potential complications later in pregnancy, by looking at how babies grow in the first few months of pregnancy.
Key takeaways
- Investigating pregnancy outcomes after IVF.
- Focusing on the role of the hormone relaxin.
- Potentially linking relaxin levels to pregnancy complications.
- Primarily involves blood tests and ultrasound scans.
- Aims to improve care for future IVF pregnancies.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for women who are pregnant with their first baby and became pregnant through fertility treatment (IVF) with their partner. You must be between 18 and 44 years and 11 months old. You should have had either a fresh or frozen embryo transfer and be confirmed pregnant with one baby, showing a heartbeat on an ultrasound scan.
It's important that you can understand what the study involves and are willing to take part. Doctors need to be sure you know what to expect.
You cannot join the study if you have certain womb conditions like adenomyosis or fibroids, or if you are pregnant with twins or more. Also, if your pregnancy happened naturally, or if you used donated eggs or sperm, you won't be able to participate. Finally, if you're already in another medical study that prevents you from joining this one, or if you're not willing to have obstetric ultrasound scans, you won't be eligible.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you pregnant with your first baby?
- Did you get pregnant through IVF with your partner?
- Are you between 18 and 44 years old?
- Are you pregnant with one baby (not twins or more)?
- Do you understand what the study involves and want to take part?
- Do you NOT have adenomyosis or fibroids in your womb?
What does participation involve?
The study involves measuring levels of relaxin in your blood. This usually means giving blood samples at certain times during your pregnancy. You will also have regular ultrasound scans to check on your baby's growth and development, particularly in the first few months. The study team will explain when these appointments will be and what each involves. The total duration of your participation will depend on when your blood samples and scans are planned, but it will primarily focus on the early stages of your pregnancy. More specific details about the number of visits and exact tests will be provided by the study team.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Service de Médecine et de la Reproduction HFMEVerified postcodeBron, France
Common questions
What is the main goal of this study?
The main goal is to understand why pregnancies from IVF may have different outcomes and if a hormone called relaxin is involved.
What is relaxin?
Relaxin is a hormone that helps your body adapt to pregnancy, especially affecting your heart and kidneys in the early stages.
Will taking part affect my baby?
The study involves blood tests and standard ultrasound scans. These are not expected to harm your baby.
Do I have to do anything extra if I join?
You will need to have some blood samples taken and attend regular ultrasound scans as part of the study.
Can I leave the study at any time?
Yes, you can choose to leave the study at any point without needing to give a reason, and your medical care will not be affected.
How to find out more
FRAISON Eloise, Dr
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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