Experience with progesterone gel for luteal support in a highly successfulIVF programme

Efficacy of luteal support from single daily administration of Crinone(R) 8 % (progesterone gel) was tested in 43 women in an IVF programme with histor ical pregnancy rates >50%. Results were compared with those achieved in 46 women concurrently undergoing IVF and receiving 50 mg i.m. progesterone, an d with historical data. Pregnancy rates (PR) were evaluated approximately 2 weeks after undergoing IVF by human chorionic gonadotrophin (HCG) measurem ent (total PR), by ultrasound 2-4 weeks later (clinical PR), and by countin g births. Prior experience with other progesterone formulations was compare d with that of Crinone 8%. Demographic and IVF characteristics were compara ble for both concurrently treated groups. Total PR, clinical PR and live bi rth rates were similar for the Crinone and the concurrent i.m, progesterone groups: 31 (72.1%) versus 34 (73.9%); 26 (60.5%) versus 28 (60.9%), and 23 (53.5%) versus 23 (50%) respectively. Clinical PR and live birth rates wer e also similar to the last data reported to the Society for Assisted Reprod uction Therapy. Overall acceptability of Crinone 8% was excellent. Among su bjects with prior i.m. injection experience, most patients (69.2%) agreed t hat the gel was easier to use, less painful (76.9%) and less time-consuming (61.5%) than i.m. injections. In conclusion, Crinone 8% offers an apprecia ble improvement, as it provides an effective luteal support option that avo ids painful i.m. injections.