Effects of Normal Morphology Sperm Count on Fertilization Time in Infertile Couples with Teratospermic Males: An Evaluation with an Embryoscope

Abstract

Objective: Incubation of the embryo is the vital step in assisted reproductive techniques. Embryoscope systems are incubators that keep the embryo stable and allow for continuous observation without opening the lid. Therefore, the embryo is not displaced and goes through a temperature or air change. The primary aim of this study was to explore the effects of normal morphology sperm count on two pronucleus formation time following intracytoplasmic sperm injection in infertile couples with teratospermic males. The secondary aim was clinical pregnancy. Materials and Methods: Sixty-seven couples undergoing in vitro fertilization were included in this retrospective cohort study. First, intracytoplasmic sperm injection was performed to metaphase II-oocytes. Then, the embryos were placed in an embryoscope (a time-lapse system) for observation. The time that embryos demonstrated two pronuclei were recorded. Demographic and reproductive data were obtained and analyzed. Results: A statistically significant weak correlation was detected between sperm morphology the two pronucleus formation times (r=0.295, p=0.017). Severely decreased normal sperm count was significantly associated with pregnancy with less decreased normal sperm count (p>0.024). Moreover, decreased two pronucleus formation time was significantly associated with pregnancy. Conclusion: A statistically significant, albeit weak, correlation was detected between sperm morphology with two pronucleus formation time. Furthermore, having a lower normal sperm count was related to a higher pregnancy rate than having a higher normal sperm count. Lastly, reduced two pronucleus formation time was significantly associated with pregnancy.