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Article
Effects of low-dose aspirin in in-vitro fertilization
Current Opinion in Obstetrics and Gynecology (2009)
  • Enrique F. Schisterman
  • Audrey J. Gaskins
  • Brian W Whitcomb, University of Massachusetts - Amherst
Abstract
Purpose of review—In theory, use of aspirin in IVF is based on its anti-inflammatory, vasodilatory, and platelet aggregation inhibition properties, which improve blood flow to a woman's implantation site. It is hypothesized that this effect on blood flow will improve success rates. Recent findings—Clinical studies investigating the use of low-dose aspirin (LDA) as an adjuvant therapy to IVF have produced conflicting results. The conflicting results have come as a consequence of the heterogeneous mixture of clinical trials with lack of adequate power. Even after multiple metaanalyses, differing estimates of effect were calculated as to whether aspirin should be used in conjunction with IVF. Summary—Conflicting results leave the question of the effects of LDA in IVF unanswered. More trials are required for analysis to have adequate statistical power and until then the data remain unclear. At this point, there are not enough data to show that aspirin has a beneficial effect on the outcomes of IVF, but absence of effect is not adequate grounds to overturn the current clinical practice for those using LDA in efforts aimed at achieving success with IVF.
Disciplines
Publication Date
2009
Publisher Statement
The published version is located at http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19300253
Citation Information
Enrique F. Schisterman, Audrey J. Gaskins and Brian W Whitcomb. "Effects of low-dose aspirin in in-vitro fertilization" Current Opinion in Obstetrics and Gynecology Vol. 21 Iss. 3 (2009)
Available at: http://works.bepress.com/brian_whitcomb/7/