Evaluating the junctional zone's impact on assisted reproductive technology outcomes

Junctional Zone Evaluation by 3D Ultrasound and Its Relation to Clinical Outcomes in Assisted Reproductive Technology

Observational Centro Hospitalar Lisboa Norte · NCT04878224

This study is testing if the thickness of a specific part of the uterus seen on 3D ultrasound can help predict how well assisted reproductive treatments like IVF and frozen embryo transfers will work.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment200 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 42 Years
SexFemale
SponsorCentro Hospitalar Lisboa Norte Academic / other
Locations1 site (Lisbon)
Trial IDNCT04878224 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to assess the relationship between the characteristics of the junctional zone (JZ) as visualized by 3D ultrasound and the clinical outcomes of assisted reproductive technology (ART) treatments, including in vitro fertilization (IVF), intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), and frozen embryo transfer (FET). A total of 200 cases will be included, with 3D ultrasounds performed at specific points in the ART process to evaluate the JZ's thickness and its correlation with embryonic implantation rates. The study will also analyze intra and inter-observer variability in JZ characteristics. All ultrasounds will be conducted by the same operator to ensure consistency in data collection.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are women aged 18 to 42 undergoing IVF, ICSI, or preparation for frozen embryo transfer.

Not a fit: Patients with uterine abnormalities such as myomas or adenomyosis will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could improve the understanding of how the junctional zone affects implantation success, potentially leading to enhanced ART outcomes for patients.

How similar studies have performed: While this approach is relatively novel, previous studies have indicated a potential link between junctional zone characteristics and implantation success, suggesting a promising area for further exploration.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Women followed in the infertility clinic
* aged between 18 and 42 years in cycles of IVF, ICSI or endometrial preparation for frozen embryo transfer

Exclusion Criteria:

* Myomas
* adenomyosis

Where this trial is running

Lisbon

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Infertility, Femaleinfertilityultrasound
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.