Role of dehydroepiandrosterone in improving oocyte and embryo quality in IVF cycles

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the role of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) on the number and quality of oocytes and embryos in poor responders undergoing IVF cycles. A total of 50 patients with a history of poor ovarian response in the previous cycle(s) were enrolled in a prospective cohort study. They were treated with oral micronized DHEA 25 mg three times a day for 4 months. Oocyte and embryo number and quality were recorded before and after treatment. The results were analysed using Student's paired t-test. After treatment with DHEA, a significant increase in number of mature follicles was seen in the post treatment period (<= 35 years P < 0.001; >= 36 years P = 0.002). There were significant increases in numbers of oocytes retrieved, fertilization rates and, consequently, the total number of embryos available. More embryos were vitrified among patients <= 35 years (P < 0.001) post treatment, and clinical pregnancy rate in this group was 26.7%. DHEA treatment resulted in a higher number of oocytes retrieved, oocytes fertilized, embryos overall and of grade-I embryos. It can help in increasing pregnancy rate in poor responders. (C) 2014, Reproductive Healthcare Ltd. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.