Giving ketorolac for pain after egg retrieval in fresh embryo transfer IVF cycles

Balancing Comfort and Success: Post-retrieval Ketorolac in Fresh Embryo Transfers

Phase 4 Interventional University of Iowa · NCT07185724

This trial tests whether a single IV dose of ketorolac given after egg retrieval helps control pain for people planning a day-5 fresh embryo transfer without lowering their chances of pregnancy.

Quick facts

PhasePhase 4
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment200 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 37 Years
SexFemale
SponsorUniversity of Iowa Academic / other
Locations1 site (Iowa City, Iowa)
Trial IDNCT07185724 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This is a double-blind, randomized controlled trial comparing a single 30 mg IV dose of ketorolac given at the end of oocyte retrieval versus usual care without ketorolac. Participants are randomized 1:1 with block randomization while still under sedation, and all undergo standard IVF and a planned day-5 fresh embryo transfer. Study staff will collect clinical data and follow outcomes including post-operative pain, bleeding, and IVF success measures through medical record review for up to 45 weeks. The trial focuses on autologous IVF cycles and permits standard stimulation and insemination methods used at the center.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: People having autologous IVF with a planned day-5 fresh embryo transfer, BMI below 50, and no medical allergy or contraindication to NSAIDs are eligible.

Not a fit: People with NSAID allergy or other contraindications to ketorolac, or those not planning a fresh transfer (for example freezing all embryos), are unlikely to benefit from this intervention.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, patients could have better immediate pain relief after egg retrieval without reducing the chance of embryo implantation or pregnancy.

How similar studies have performed: Prior reviews and several recent studies have shown ketorolac provides improved pain control and no clear harm to IVF outcomes, though large randomized data specifically for fresh transfers remain limited.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* IVF utilizing autologous oocytes and all sperm sources
* IVF cycles utilizing ICSI and standard insemination
* Plan to transfer embryo on day 5
* BMI below 50

Exclusion Criteria:

-allergies or medical contraindications to NSAIDs

Where this trial is running

Iowa City, Iowa

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 InfertilityInfertility TreatmentPost-op PainFresh Embryo TransferOocyte Retrieval and Post Operative Pain ControlIVFpost operative pain controloocyte retrieval
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.