The Relationship Between Uterine Myometrium Thickness and Assisted Reproductive Technology Outcomes

Uterine myometrium thickness is expected to be a predictor of uterine function. Abnormal functioning of the uterine muscle layer can cause significant fertility issues. In a study conducted by Dr. Firoozeh Ahmadi and Dr. Shohreh Irani, the relationship between baseline myometrium thickness and the outcomes of Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART) was evaluated. This prospective cohort study included 453 infertile women undergoing ART cycles without any apparent uterine damage. The study was carried out at Royan Institute, in collaboration with Lorestan University of Medical Sciences and Gilan University of Medical Sciences.

The findings, published in the International Journal of Fertility and Sterility, revealed that in ART cycles, a baseline myometrium thickness of less than 25 mm was associated with lower implantation and pregnancy rates compared to a myometrium thickness of ≥ 25 mm. Consequently, a myometrium thickness of less than 25 mm measured during menstruation may adversely affect IVF-ET/ICSI outcomes.

These results could guide clinicians in offering specific therapeutic and supportive care strategies to improve IVF/ICSI outcomes in these women.