Sperm morphology as diagnosed by strict criteria: Probing the impact of teratozoospermia on fertilization rate and pregnancy outcome in a large in vitro fertilization population

D. R. Grow, S. Oehninger, H. J. Seltman, J. P. Toner, R. J. Swanson, T. F. Kruger, S. J. Mausher

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

152 Scopus citations

Abstract

Objective: To investigate the predictive value of sperm morphology assessed by strict criteria on IVF outcome. Design: Retrospective analysis of all IVF cycles (January 1987 to December 1992). Main Outcome Measures: All patients were assigned to one of three groups based on sperm morphology: P- pattern (<4% normal forms), G-pattern (4% to 14% normal forms), and N- pattern (>14% normal forms). Morphology pattern was related to other semen characteristics and IVF outcome. Results: Despite corrective measures at oocyte insemination, the fertilization rate was significantly different among the three morphology groups, P < G < N. N-pattern sperm produced a mean fertilization rate over 85% regardless of low motility or concentration. In a cohort study, P-pattern cycles produced a lower implantation rate and lower ongoing pregnancy rate, independent of the lower fertilization rate. Conclusions: Strict morphology is an excellent biomarker of sperm fertilizing capacity, independent of motility and concentration. P-pattern sperm may denote a poorer prognosis for establishing a pregnancy, even after a satisfactory fertilization rate is achieved.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)559-567
Number of pages9
JournalFertility and sterility
Volume62
Issue number3
DOIs
StatePublished - 1994
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Teratozoospermia
  • fertilization
  • implantation
  • strict morphology

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Reproductive Medicine
  • Obstetrics and Gynecology

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