Figures just released by the UK’s fertility regulator (HFEA) show that multiple births after IVF have decreased to 3.5%, one of the lowest rates in the world.
Is this a good thing?
Yes, it is.
Multiple births are one of the biggest risks of fertility treatment, for both patients and babies.
In the past, the prevailing belief amongst fertility specialists was that transferring multiple embryos in IVF increased the chances of at least one successfully implanting and leading to a live birth.
Patients tended to view the possibility that they might end up with twins – or more – as a positive.
In the early 1990’s, multiple birth rates from IVF in the UK were as high as 28%, by comparison to the 1-2% chance of these occurring naturally.
Gradually however there was growing realisation that the risks associated with transferring multiple embryos – including miscarriage, premature birth, pre-eclampsia, stillbirth and even maternal or neonatal death – outweighed the potential benefits, and the cost to the National Health Service was also significant.
In 2007 a campaign known as ‘One at a time’ was launched encouraging fertility clinics to routinely transfer only single embryos at a time. A target of no more than 10% multiple birth rate was set by the regulator and clinics expected to achieve this.
Today single embryo transfer is strongly recommended for patients who have a high likelihood of success with one embryo, for example patients under 35, especially those undergoing their first or second cycle, and those with good quality embryos and no history of miscarriage or uterine abnormalities. Advances in genetic screening and embryo freezing have made it possible to ensure that only chromosomally normal embryos are selected for transfer, increasing the chances of success with a single embryo.
For some individuals however – older women, those with poor quality embryos or embryos not genetically screened, or with a history of multiple failed IVF cycles – an alternative approach might be beneficial.
At NOW-fertility, our experienced Fertility Consultants are dedicated to guiding you through every step of your journey. We take the time to understand your unique circumstances and work closely with you to develop a personalised treatment plan that gives you the best possible chance of success.
To schedule a consultation with one of our Fertility Consultants, please contact us here or call us directly at +971 54 666 4010.
Published by NOW-fertility’s Communication Department.
Communication Manager: Annette Eckersley
E: annetteeckersley@now-fertility.com
This information was correct at the time of publishing and may not reflect our current practices, prices or regulations.
