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Introduction: Diminished ovarian reserve (DOR) has been linked to certain subpopulations and distinct gene polymorphisms. It has even been hypothesized that the AB0 blood group system could be linked to ovarian reserve (OR) as reflected by early follicular phase follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) levels. Although estimation of OR is routinely done using levels of anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), FSH, estradiol or inhibin B, the diagnostic accuracy of these markers is often limited. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether there is any correlation between IVF pa-tientsʼ AB0 blood group system and ART outcome. Methods: In this retrospective observational single-center study we investigated the outcome of 1889 IVF cycles carried out between 2005 and 2012 with regard to blood type and OR in different age groups (21-36 years and 37-43 years). The number of cumulus oocyte complexes (COCs) and metaphase II oocytes obtained after ovarian stimulation, fertilization rate (FR), pregnancy rate (PR) and birth rate (BR) were evaluated with respect to maternal age (21-36 and 37-43 years, respectively). Results: We found no significant differences in the average number of COCs after ovum pickup in either of the age groups. Moreover, the mean number of MII oocytes and 2PN stages were similar for all blood type groups. As regards IVF outcome measured in terms of PR and BR, no significant differences were observed between the different blood groups. In conclusion, no correlation was found between blood type and female fertility. Discussion: The most precise definition of OR is determining the number of competent oocytes. Based on the finding of our study, the hypothesis that there is a correlation between OR and AB0 blood group system can be dismissed for Caucasian IVF patients.

Background To analyze the effects of embryo transfer (ET) quality on clinical pregnancy (CPR) and live birth delivery rates (LBDR). Methods In a retrospective study at a single, private infertility center between November 2005 and December 2009 one thousand fifty-five day-3 and day-5 ETs following IVF/ICSI/IMSI were evaluated. We analyzed the impact of an atraumatic ET with a soft catheter (ET 1), after external guidance (ET 2), after probing of the cervix with a stylet (ET 3), or after grasping the portio vaginalis with a tenaculum (ET 4) on CPR and LBDR. Results The use of external guidance showed a significantly reduced LBDR as compared to an atraumatic ET (26.0% vs. 32.5%). The lowest CPR and LBDR were found in ET 4. The application of stylets in cases of difficult ETs was superior to the use of external guidance. No differences in miscarriages between ET 1-4 were noted. Conclusions Besides embryo culture and patient history, the quality of an ET might also have an important impact on pregnancy outcome. Techniques to ensure an atraumatic ET, such as mechanic uterine cavity length measurements, before starting treatment might help identify patients at risk for a difficult ET and lead to modified treatments, such as the primary use of a stylet. Limitation of study: retrospective analysis

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