Minimizing waste in medically assisted reproduction: a study on sustainability initiatives for oocyte retrieval and embryo transfer

Abstract

Research question: How can waste be reduced during medically assisted reproduction (MAR) procedures, including oocyte retrieval and embryo transfer, through sustainable interventions without compromising safety? Design: A quality management initiative was conducted over 12 months (October 2023 to October 2024). Through a multidisciplinary approach, sustainability initiatives were developed aimed at reducing material and medication waste generated during oocyte retrieval and embryo transfer procedures. Sustainability interventions were implemented during a 3-month pilot phase. Waste generation was measured before and after implementation of these interventions. Infection rates were evaluated at baseline and after completing the pilot. Results: During the study, 234 oocyte retrievals and 291 embryo transfers were carried out. The proposed interventions resulted in a material waste reduction of about 60% for oocyte retrieval and 8% for embryo transfer, with no clinical or laboratory infections recorded. Conclusions: This study revealed the possibility for significant waste reduction in MAR procedures through targeted sustainability interventions. These findings underscore the feasibility of integrating sustainability practices in MAR procedures.