The influence of the depth of embryo transfer into the uterine cavity on implantation rate

ObjectiveTo assess the effect of the depth of embryo transfer replacement on implantation and clinical pregnancy rates in intracytoplasmic sperm injection cycles.Materials and methodsThis study was conducted on 90 consecutive patients. All patients underwent a standard down regulation protocol for ovarian stimulation. Oocytes retrieval was performed at 36h after HCG administration. Embryo transfer took place 2–4days after oocyte retrieval. The patients were grouped according to the distance between the tip of the catheter and the uterine fundus at transfer (group I <0.75cm, group II 0.75–<1.5cm, group III 1.5–2cm).ResultsImplantation and clinical pregnancy rates varied significantly between group I and other groups: 10.3% and 13.3%, respectively, in group I; 26.7% and 53.3%, respectively, in group II; 27.8% and 53.3%, respectively, in group III.ConclusionThe depth of embryo replacement inside the uterine cavity may influence implantation rates and should be considered as an important factor to improve the success of implantation and pregnancy rates.