Single Embryo In-Vitro Fertilization as Successful as Multiple Implantation

Many couples experiencing fertility issues who opt for In-Vitro Fertilization (IVF) presume that the implantation of multiple embryos will increase their chances having a healthy baby. However, results of a recent analysis published in the New England Journal of Medicine indicates that the use of two or more embryos actually increase the likelihood of a multiple birth pregnancy.

The belief that multiple embryos increase the chances for parenthood comes from the early days of IVF. During this time, doctors routinely implanted half a dozen or more embryos into a woman’s womb in hopes of increasing the odds that at least one would grow into a healthy baby. However, over the years, the procedure has greatly improved, which has led to better results using fewer embryos.

The new study serves as a follow-up to research performed in 2004 that yielded similar results, and also supports the growing concern over the health risks linked to multiple births that affect both mothers and babies. Mothers who experience multiple birth pregnancies have a greater risk of developing gestational diabetes, which is a diabetic condition brought on by the pregnancy itself, as well as bleeding and pre-eclampsia (a condition characterized by high blood pressure and the presence of protein in the urine). The increased health risks for babies include cerebral palsy, which causes permanent disorders in the development of movement and posture, as well as birth defects, developmental delays, and even death.

The latest analysis performed by Swedish researchers followed its female subjects for a longer period of time, as well as through more embryo implantations. The research team found that the use of one embryo instead of two is almost as successful, and significantly reduces the risk of multiple births.