A program of oocyte donation and gamete intra-fallopian transfer.
The outcome of a series of 19 patients with premature ovarian failure (POF) undergoing gamete intra-Fallopian transfer (GIFT), utilizing donated oocytes, is described. The steroid replacement protocol consisted of the administration of increasing dosages of 17 beta-oestradiol (E2) and progesterone (P4). Hormonal replacement was maintained until day 100 of gestation. All patients underwent an evaluation cycle in which serum levels of E2 and P4 were monitored and an endometrial biopsy was performed either 7 or 11 days after initiation of progesterone administration. All cases of GIFT were performed between days 12 and 15 of the induced menstrual cycle. Of the 19 patients treated, 11 became pregnant, giving a clinical pregnancy rate of 58% (visualization of gestational sac by ultrasound). Two patients aborted between the 4th and 5th weeks of gestation. No ectopic pregnancies occurred. Three of the seven deliveries involved multiple births. Details of the circulating hormone levels and endometrial response are discussed.