Can IVF Lead To Multiples?
In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a form of assisted reproductive technology (ART) that helps thousands of couples achieve pregnancy every year. By creating embryos in a fertility clinic or laboratory setting, there is more control over fertility. In natural conception, the ovary releases a single egg, which is then fertilized by sperm. This process often leads to the creation of a single child. A common side effect of IVF is the possibility of multiple births, particularly twins or triplets. To avoid this issue, clinics now encourage elective single embryo transfer (eSET) with each IVF cycle.
Let’s elect a single embryo transfer
During IVF, multiple viable follicles are extracted from the ovaries and combined with sperm to form embryos. At the implantation stage, the fertility team will surgically transfer embryos to initiate pregnancy. The potential parents and the fertility team will discuss the number of embryos that will be transferred. Transferring multiple embryos, while effective, has a high possibility of creating multiples. Patients looking to avoid this will elect to have a single embryo implanted in each IVF cycle. During implantation, the fertility team will take the most viable embryo to complete the process. Here are 3 reasons to consider eSET.
1. Generally high success rates
The IVF process has improved significantly over the years. In the past, fertility teams could not verify embryo quality. Transferring multiple embryos was the best way to guarantee success. The result, however, was creating IVF multiples. Now, science and technology allow more accurate screening of embryos. Thanks to genetic testing and techniques like laser-assisted hatching, patients can receive a high-quality embryo every time. Therefore, eSET has high success rates. Statistics show that eSET has similar success rates as transferring multiple embryos.
2. Avoiding the risks involved with multiples
Some patients want to avoid the risks and consequences associated with multiple births. With IVF multiples, there is a higher risk of poor birth weight, premature birth, and potential developmental complications. There is also a higher risk of pregnancy complications, which can compromise the health of the mother. Women with multiple pregnancies need consistent monitoring for safety purposes. An eSET has nearly zero possibility of creating multiples. Single pregnancies generally have lower risks of complications and result in healthier babies with fewer developmental issues.
3. Cost-effectiveness in the long-run
Transferring a single embryo may require more IVF cycles, which can be costly. However, the long-term costs of multiples far outweigh the cost of eSET. Multiple pregnancies often result in increased medical costs, more prolonged hospital stays, and possible complications. There is also an increased need for prenatal care, neonatal intensive care, and postnatal childcare. IVF patients who are concerned about the costs of managing multiple births should lean on eSET.
Work with eSET for IVF success
Multiple births are a common consequence of IVF treatment. While there is joy in having twins or triplets, the possible risks to the children and mother may be too significant. A single embryo per cycle is the best way to circumvent IVF multiples. Thanks to advancements in ART, single embryos are more viable, and the process is more precise, leading to fewer mistakes. Potential parents can also achieve similar success rates. Discuss with the fertility team the pros and cons of embryo transfer and make the best choice for IVF success.
