Microbial contamination in an in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer system.
OBJECTIVE
To determine sources and transmission of microorganisms in IVF-ET and efficacy of in-place controlling systems.


METHODS
Prospective study.


METHODS
In Vitro Fertilization-Embryo Transfer Unit at a university teaching hospital.


METHODS
Twenty-eight couples undergoing 30 completed IVF-ET cycles.


METHODS
Gamete and embryo processing in a penicillin and streptomycin-rich medium.


METHODS
Presence of microorganisms at various stages of IVF-ET. Fertilization, cleavage, and pregnancy rates.


RESULTS
In 50% of cycles no microorganisms were isolated and in the other 50% microbes were cultured from various loci. Cultures of four preprocessed semen samples were positive and corresponding postprocessed samples negative. Microbes were detected in 27% of needle washes after oocyte collection; in 40% and 32% of follicular fluids from left and right ovaries, respectively; and in two culture media from egg-sperm incubations at 20 hours after insemination. No microorganisms were grown from media from zygote incubations. Fertilization, cleavage, and pregnancy rates were independent of microbial presence.


CONCLUSIONS
Seminal fluid and transvaginally collected oocytes are potential sources of microbial contamination of the IVF-ET culture system. A penicillin- and streptomycin-rich culture medium is effective in removing contaminating microbes. End point measures are not affected by commensal contamination.
Cottell
E
E
Academic Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin.
McMorrow
J
J
Lennon
B
B
Fawsy
M
M
Cafferkey
M
M
Harrison
R F
RF
D003470:Culture Media; D046508:Culture Techniques; D004624:Embryo Transfer; D005260:Female; D005307:Fertilization in Vitro; D006801:Humans; D007246:Infertility / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy; D008297:Male; D009865:Oocytes / Q000382:microbiology*; D011247:Pregnancy; D011446:Prospective Studies; D012661:Semen / Q000382:microbiology*
D003470:Culture Media