Advantages of Early Intrauterine Transfer of "Blank" Culture Medium Prior to 1st or 2nd Transfer of Thawed Embryo(s).
This study is investigating a new approach to improve the success of in vitro fertilisation (IVF) treatments, specifically for women having a single frozen embryo transferred. Sometimes, even with advanced techniques, embryos don't implant successfully in the womb. This trial explores whether introducing a small amount of a 'culture medium' (the liquid embryos grow in) into the womb two or three days before the actual frozen embryo transfer could make the womb more welcoming to the embryo. The idea is that this 'blank transfer' might help the body's immune system tolerate the embryo better, based on successful strategies used when transferring multiple embryos. The ultimate goal is to increase the chances of a healthy pregnancy for these patients.
At a glance
What is this study about?
When couples have difficulty getting pregnant, they sometimes turn to in vitro fertilisation (IVF). In IVF, an egg is fertilised by sperm outside the body, and the resulting embryo is then placed into the woman's womb. A key challenge in IVF is making sure the embryo successfully attaches, or 'implants', into the lining of the womb.
This study is looking at a new way to try and improve these implantation rates, especially for women who are having just one embryo transferred. The researchers are exploring whether preparing the womb a few days before the actual embryo transfer could make a difference. They will do this by placing a small amount of a special liquid, called 'culture medium' (the same kind of liquid that embryos grow in), into the womb a couple of days before the frozen embryo is transferred. This is called a 'blank culture transfer' because no embryo is transferred at this stage.
The idea behind this 'blank transfer' is that it might help the womb become more receptive to the embryo. Think of it like sending an 'all clear' signal to the body's immune system, potentially making it more tolerant of the embryo when it arrives later. The study hopes to find out if this simple step can lead to more successful pregnancies for women undergoing IVF with a single frozen embryo.
Key takeaways
- The study explores a new method to improve IVF success for single frozen embryo transfers.
- It involves putting a special liquid into the womb a few days before the actual embryo transfer.
- The aim is to help the embryo implant more successfully.
- It's for women who have had previous unsuccessful IVF transfers and have frozen embryos.
- The study is investigating if this 'blank transfer' makes the womb more receptive.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for women who have previously had an IVF embryo transfer (either a fresh or a frozen embryo) that unfortunately didn't result in a pregnancy. You must have frozen embryos available that are at least three days old.
To join, you need to freely agree to take part and sign a consent form, showing you understand what the study involves. You also need to be covered by a health insurance plan in the UK.
There are some reasons why you couldn't join. For example, if you're already taking part in another medical study or if you're unable to give legal consent on your own behalf. This study is for women only, of any adult age.
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.
- I have had an IVF embryo transfer (fresh or frozen) before that didn't result in a pregnancy.
- I have frozen embryos that are at least three days old.
- I am female and an adult.
- I am willing and able to freely give my consent to participate.
- I am covered by a health insurance plan in the UK.
What does participation involve?
The detailed information about what taking part involves is not provided in the summary. However, based on the study description, you would likely have an extra procedure. This would involve a healthcare professional placing a small amount of culture medium into your womb, likely using a thin tube, similar to how an embryo transfer is done. This 'blank transfer' would happen two or three days before your planned frozen embryo transfer. You would then proceed with your usual frozen embryo transfer. There would be follow-up appointments, as with standard IVF treatment, to check for pregnancy. The total duration would correspond to your IVF cycle, with one additional pre-transfer procedure.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (7)
- Hôpital Antoine BéclèreVerified postcodeClamart, France· Not yet recruiting
- Centre Hospitalier Alpes LémanVerified postcodeContamine-sur-Arve, France· Not yet recruiting
- CHU Arnaud de VilleneuveVerified postcodeMontpellier, France· Not yet recruiting
- Clinique Saint RochVerified postcodeMontpellier, France· Not yet recruiting
- CHU de NîmesVerified postcodeNîmes, France· Recruiting
- Clinique Saint-PierreVerified postcodePerpignan, France· Not yet recruiting
- CHU de la RéunionVerified postcodeSaint-Pierre, Reunion· Not yet recruiting
Common questions
What is a 'blank culture transfer'?
It's when a small amount of the liquid used to grow embryos (culture medium) is put into your womb a few days before the actual embryo transfer, but without an embryo.
Why are they doing this 'blank transfer'?
Researchers believe it might help prepare your womb and make it more welcoming for the embryo, increasing the chance of it attaching successfully.
Will this replace my actual embryo transfer?
No, this 'blank transfer' happens *before* your regular frozen embryo transfer as an additional step.
Who can take part in this study?
Women who have had a previous IVF embryo transfer that didn't lead to pregnancy and who have frozen embryos at least three days old.
Are there any extra medicines I need to take?
The information provided mainly focuses on the 'blank transfer' procedure itself, not additional medications. You would continue your usual IVF medications.
How to find out more
Nathalie Rougier
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
Discussion
Community discussion
Powered by our forum at community.patient.info. Please be respectful — this is not medical advice.