US single embryo transfers on the rise

(22 February 2010)--The percentage of IVF cycles using elective single embryo transfer has increased since 2007, according to a report released last week.

The US Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology (SART) 2008 IVF Success Rate Report also showed the percentage of live triplets or more births of triplets remained below 2007 levels at less than 2 per cent. IVF multiple pregnancies are the single biggest health risk to both mother and child associated with fertility treatment, according to the British Fertility Society (BFS).

Multiple pregnancy increases the likelihood of miscarriage and death for the mother, and prematurity and low birth weight in the infant. It can also lead to long-term child health problems, and risks to mothers like pre-eclampsia, diabetes and heart disease. Single embryo transfer is the only effective method to reduce IVF multiple pregnancy rate...Read more...

Source: BIONEWS