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Patients experience of viewing time-lapse sequences: A prospective survey study

Annika Bladh Blomquis, Raghad Samir, Ann-Britt Engstr

The use of time-lapse monitoring in ART is spreading rapidly and is already considered an important part of treatment in many centers internationally, but studies are lacking on patients experience of using this technology. We consider it important not to forget patient-oriented aspects of new technologies. The study question was therefore; how do patients value the chance to view time-lapse sequences of their embryos at the time of embryo transfer?

We performed a prospective, observational questionnaire study at three of IVF Sweden`s centers, including 242 patients. We report the results from self-evaluated scores of patient´s experience which were reported anonymously. Participants in the study were patients who were offered to view time-lapse sequences of embryos at the time of embryo transfer. A 5-grade Likert-scale instrument was used for assessing patient’s experience.

A majority of the patients found viewing the sequences to be a relevant and important aspect of their treatments. Patients felt increased participation in, and increased satisfaction with the treatment. There was a clear interest in obtaining a copy of the time-lapse sequence but only if the treatment resulted in a pregnancy.

If time-lapse technology is available in a clinic it could be an additive value to share the sequences with the patients as deepened information about their treatment. If a copy of the sequences is made available to the patients we recommend to delay the time for that at least until there is a verified ongoing pregnancy.