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Effect of pre-treatment with oral short-acting contraceptives on assisted reproductive technology outcomes in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome: a meta-analysis

Liang Y, Zhang Q, Lou Z

Frontiers in endocrinology, 2025

4,413 participants · 1 citation

Abstract

Objective: This study aims to investigate the effects of pre-treatment with Combined Oral Contraceptives (COC) on the prognosis of individuals with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) who undergo assisted reproductive technology (ART).

Methods: Three databases (PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library) were searched from their establishment until February 23, 2024. Literature screening was performed based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Meta-analysis was executed using Stata 14.0 software, with outcomes expressed as mean differences (MD) and odds ratios (ORs), with 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

Results: Our comprehensive analysis comprised of 11 studies, encompassing a total of 4413 patients diagnosed with PCOS. Meta-analysis results revealed that, compared to no pre-treatment, the use of COC pre-treatment did not significantly improve clinical pregnancy rates (OR: 0.96, 95% CI: 0.85 to 1.09), cumulative pregnancy rates (OR: 1.13, 95% CI: 0.92 to 1.39), or implantation rates (OR: 1.16, 95% CI: 0.99 to 1.36). However, the use of COC pre-treatment was found to be linked to a higher rate of miscarriage (OR: 1.29, 95% CI: 1.01 to 1.65). Additionally, it did not have a significant impact on the rate of live births (OR: 0.81, 95% CI: 0.68 to 0.97), cumulative live births (OR: 0.90, 95% CI: 0.78 to 1.04), or the occurrence of OHSS (OR: 0.83, 95% CI: 0.54 to 1.28). Gonadotropin dosage required for ovarian stimulation also showed no significant difference (MD: -15.32, 95%…

How strong is the evidence?

Evidence Hub reads this as a meta-analysis, done in people. Its evidence level is 1 of 5 (Highest · pooled evidence). Pooled evidence from several studies sits at the top of the evidence pyramid. Reported size: 4,413 participants or records.

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