Meta‐analysis of the association between chromosomal polymorphisms and outcomes of embryo transfer following in vitro fertilization and/or intracytoplasmic sperm injection

Abstract Background The outcomes of in vitro fertilization and/or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (IVF/ICSI) are contradictory among individuals with chromosomal polymorphisms. Objectives To assess whether chromosomal polymorphisms affect the outcomes of assisted reproductive technologies. Search strategy Four online databases were searched from inception to September 18, 2017, using terms including “chromosomal polymorphisms” and “In vitro fertilization.” Selection criteria The meta‐analysis included studies published in any language on IVF/ICSI outcomes in relation to male and/or female chromosomal polymorphisms (n=8). Data collection and analysis Data were extracted using a predesigned form. The IVF/ICSI outcomes were then pooled and their heterogeneity assessed. Main results Male chromosomal polymorphisms showed lowered values for fertilization rate (odds ratio [OR] 1.29, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.09–1.54; P =0.004); cleavage rate (OR 2.65, 95% CI 1.88–3.72; P <0.001); good quality embryos rate (OR 1.26, 95% CI 1.15–1.39; P <0.001); and live birth rate (OR 1.42, 95% CI 1.10–1.83; P =0.007). By contrast, early spontaneous abortion rate, clinical pregnancy rate, and ongoing pregnancy rate were not affected in this group. No relationship was found between IVF/ICSI outcomes and female chromosomal polymorphisms. Conclusions Male, but not female, chromosomal polymorphisms were associated with lowered values for some outcomes of IVF/ICSI.