UK Medicines Information
Multiple Pregnancies Following Assisted Conception
Information type:
Population intelligence
Source:
Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists
Specialities:
Family planning | Obstetrics and gynaecology
Summary
This paper describes current knowledge and progress made since the publication of the previous edition to reduce multiple pregnancies following assisted reproduction in the UK, with reference to more recent data showing a downward trend.
UKMi comment
A multiple pregnancy, caused by the practice of transferring more than one embryo into the uterus, is the commonest treatment-related adverse outcome of IVF. Although largely preventable by adopting a policy of elective single embryo transfer the rates of multiple pregnancies following IVF remain high. It is widely believed by patients and health professionals that the success rate of IVF treatment is higher following the transfer of two embryos rather than one embryo. However, studies have shown that in women with a good prognosis, single embryo transfer is comparable to that of double embryo transfer and with a significantly lower risk of multiple pregnancy.
In 2013, the NICE guideline on fertility problems recommended government funding for three full IVF cycles, but the availability of funding varies across the country. Currently, six out of ten IVF cycles in the UK are funded by patients themselves. This Scientific Impact Paper suggests that government funding of IVF is the most important factor that could maintain low rates of multiple pregnancies following treatment and reduce associated complications for mothers and babies, as well as costs to the NHS.
Related links:
Press release
NICE guideline