Outcomes of assisted reproductive techniques for HIV-1-discordant couples using thawed washed sperm in Taiwan: comparison with control and testicular sperm extraction/microscopic epididymal sperm aspiration groups

Abstract

Background/purpose: An increasing number of human immunodeficiency virus-1 (HIV-l)-discordant couples in Taiwan have been seeking fertility help. We conducted the first clinical trial in Taiwan of assisted reproductive technology (ART) using sperm washing and viral load measurement.

Methods: From 2005 to 2009, we performed 22 ART cycles on 14 HIV-1-discordant couples. The sperm washing involved density gradient centrifugation followed by swim-up method. HIV-1 RNA was checked by real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction with a sensitivity of 40 copies/mL. In addition, we enrolled two other groups of ART recipients using frozen sperm to compare the clinical outcomes.

Results: There were five pregnancies in the fresh cycles (23.8%) of HIV-1-discordant couples and the cumulative pregnancy per couple was 42.9% (6/14). The data were comparable with normal controls and testicular sperm extraction/microscopic epididymal sperm aspiration groups. The nine babies and the 14 women in this study showed no seroconversion.

Conclusion: The preliminary data showed good ART results in HIV-1-discordant couples. Fertility services should not be withheld from individuals with HIV-1, although larger series are needed to reach conclusions about safety.