Abstract

The composition of human embryo culture media is a critical variable in in-vitro fertilization (IVF), designed to support preimplantation development. However, the impact of specific formulations, including the choice between sequential and single-step media, on treatment efficacy and the health of offspring remains a significant and debated issue in reproductive medicine. To systematically review and synthesize evidence on the effect of embryo culture media composition on embryological, clinical, and neonatal outcomes following IVF/ICSI. A systematic review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines. Databases were searched from inception for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and prospective cohort studies. Four studies (2 RCTs, 1 cohort, 1 lab study) involving 1,241 cycles/participants and analysis of 20 blastocysts were included. The superiority of either sequential or single-step media for live birth was inconsistent. Embryological outcomes varied by media: one RCT reported higher ICSI fertilization (76.51% vs. 67.25%, p=0.008) and Day 3 compaction rates (32.4% vs. 21.8%, p

Key words: In-vitro fertilization, embryo culture media, systematic review, live birth rate, blastocyst, sequential media, single-step media, neonatal outcomes.