Variability of endometrial glandular opening count in infertile patients prior to first IVF treatment

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the number of endometrial glandular openings, using previously reported software that provides an objective count, and to assess the variability of this parameter during the luteal phase in a population of women who had no hormonal abnormalities presenting with tubal infertility or male factor infertility. A cross-sectional study was performed comprising 561 patients selected for a diagnostic hysteroscopy for the investigation of infertility. Hysteroscopy was performed during the mid-secretory phase prior to the first IVF treatment cycle. A total of 561 image frames from all patients were analysed. All images were automatically selected by the software, which also evaluated the number of endometrial glandular openings. The mean ± SD glandular opening count was 53.2 ± 30 (range 4–158). The analysis of variation showed a significant difference (P = 0.001) among all video frames. In conclusion, endometrial glandular opening count, as measured by the method described, can be used in investigations during the luteal phase. Although a lack of pattern was observed in endometrial maturation, this feature should be explored further in this subgroup of patients.