Stable IVF and IUI Pregnancy Success Rates Across Europe Amid Rising Single Embryo Transfers

Recent data from the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE) indicates that while the number of in vitro fertilization (IVF) and intrauterine insemination (IUI) cycles declined slightly in Europe in 2022, the clinical pregnancy rates for these assisted reproductive techniques have remained consistent. The 41st Annual Meeting of ESHRE presented comprehensive findings showing that, despite fewer total treatment cycles—960,347 reported across 39 European countries—success rates experienced no significant decline.

In detail, the report reveals key trends: IVF cycles accounted for 137,148 treatments, with intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) constituting a substantial portion. Frozen embryo transfers (FET) were performed in 365,905 cases, maintaining pregnancy success rates around 36-37%. Additionally, genetic testing and oocyte donation procedures continued to be significant components of ART services.

Importantly, the adoption of single embryo transfer (SET) practices increased, rising from 60.5% in 2021 to 62.6% in 2022. This shift contributed to improved singleton birth rates (up to 91.5%) and a decline in twin deliveries (to approximately 8.4%). The data underscores a steady progression toward safer reproductive practices, emphasizing the importance of reducing multiple pregnancies.

Overall pregnancy rates per aspiration remained stable—24.0% in 2022 for ICSI and around 32-33% for conventional IVF—highlighting consistent outcomes despite evolving treatment protocols. The report also notes a continued rise in fertility preservation interventions and ART treatments, although total cycles saw a modest reduction year-over-year.

Professor Dr. Diane De Neubourg, chair of the EIM Consortium, highlighted the significance of these findings for ongoing quality assurance and transparency in reproductive medicine. Meanwhile, Professor Dr. Karen Sermon of ESHRE emphasized the importance of standardized data collection to further improve clinical practices.

This comprehensive dataset, which is subject to the varying reporting standards among European countries, provides vital insights into the progress and challenges in assisted reproduction. The findings reaffirm that, even with declining total cycles, stable pregnancy rates and increased safety measures like SET are shaping a positive future for fertility treatments across Europe.