The effect of Nifedipine on embryo transfer outcomes: A randomized clinical trial

Abstract

Background: Endometrial receptivity is crucial for embryo implantation, and excessive uterine contraction reduces success. Nifedipine which is a calcium channel blocker, could decrease uterine contraction and improve pregnancy outcomes.


Objective: This study aimed to assess the effect of Nifedipine before embryo transfer on the pregnancy outcome in women undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) in a tertiary center in Iran.


Materials and Methods: 150 women who were candidates for IVF were randomly assigned into 2 groups: group 1 received 20 mg Nifedipine 30 min before embryo transfer, and group 2 received no intervention. Blood pressure of the participants was monitored every 10 min for 1 hr under the supervision of an anesthesiologist. Finally, implantation rate and chemical and clinical pregnancy rates were compared between groups.


Results: At the end of the study, 140 participants were included in the final analyses. No significant difference was observed in clinical pregnancy rates between groups (20% vs. 22%, p = 0.51)


Conclusion: Nifedipine administration before embryo transfer does not improve the implantation and clinical pregnancy rates in women undergoing IVF.


Key words: Nifedipine, In vitro fertilization, Uterus, Contraction.

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