The day 3 FSH concentration was measured with an automated electrochemiluminescence immunoassay using the Elecsys FSH reagent kit and the Roche Elecys 1010/2010 immunoassay analyser (Roche Diagnostics, Indianapolis, IN, USA) at the MGH Core Laboratory. Serum samples to measure oestradiol were collected throughout the monitoring phase of the subject’s IVF treatment cycle. Serum oestradiol was used as a marker of ovarian stimulation and follicular development. The concentration of oestradiol was measured with an automated electrochemiluminescence immunoassay using the Elecsys Estradiol II reagent kit and the Roche Elecys 1010/2010 immunoassay analyser (Roche Diagnostics) at the MGH Core Laboratory. The peak oestradiol concentration was defined as the highest level of oestradiol prior to oocyte retrieval, which was obtained on the day of trigger with hCG.
Oocyte retrieval was performed when follicle sizes on transvaginal ultrasound reached 16–18 mm and the peak oestradiol level reached at least 500 pg/mL. Information on the physician who performed the oocyte retrieval and any complications of the procedure were collected. Retrieved oocytes were cultured in one of two medias: (1) Quinn’s Advantage Fertilization Medium (CooperSurgical Inc., Trumbull, CT, USA) or (2) IVC-TWO (InVitroCare Inc., Frederick, MD, USA). Trained embryologists at the MGH Fertility Center identified the total number of oocytes retrieved per cycle.
Oocyte retrieval was performed when follicle sizes on transvaginal ultrasound reached 16–18 mm and the peak oestradiol level reached at least 500 pg/mL. Information on the physician who performed the oocyte retrieval and any complications of the procedure were collected. Retrieved oocytes were cultured in one of two medias: (1) Quinn’s Advantage Fertilization Medium (CooperSurgical Inc., Trumbull, CT, USA) or (2) IVC-TWO (InVitroCare Inc., Frederick, MD, USA). Trained embryologists at the MGH Fertility Center identified the total number of oocytes retrieved per cycle.
