Effect of weight loss intervention on assisted reproductive outcomes in women with obesity and infertility: a retrospective cohort study - Summary - MDSpire

Effect of weight loss intervention on assisted reproductive outcomes in women with obesity and infertility: a retrospective cohort study

  • By

  • Hua Dai

  • Qifeng He

  • Yongxin Liu

  • Ling Wu

  • Hongmei Wang

  • May 20, 2026

  • 0 min

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Objective:

To evaluate whether a goal-directed weight loss intervention prior to assisted reproductive technology (ART) improves live birth rates compared with immediate in vitro fertilization (IVF) without weight loss in women with obesity and infertility.

Key Findings:
  • Target-oriented Group achieved a mean weight reduction of 9.96% compared to 0.68% in the Standard Lifestyle Group (P<0.001).
  • Live birth rate was significantly higher in the Target-oriented Group (39.66%, 95% CI: 6.8–41.5%) compared to the Standard Lifestyle Group (15.52%) (P = 0.004).
  • The Target-oriented Group had a higher likelihood of achieving clinical pregnancy (adjusted HR 2.86, 95% CI: 1.31–6.22).
  • No significant differences in multiple pregnancy rates, mean neonatal birth weight, or neonatal complications between groups.
Interpretation:

The study suggests that a structured weight loss intervention prior to ART may enhance reproductive success in obese women, although the retrospective design limits causal conclusions and the 16-week delay in ART initiation may also impact outcomes.

Limitations:
  • Retrospective study design limits causal inference.
  • Potential biases related to self-reported weight loss and adherence to the intervention.
  • Small sample size may affect the generalizability of the findings.
  • The 16-week delay in ART initiation may influence overall reproductive outcomes.
Conclusion:

A 16-week intensive goal-directed weight loss intervention is associated with significant weight reduction and higher live birth rates among obese women with infertility compared to immediate IVF.

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