Families - St Albans Review

Fertility treatments have led to a increase in multiples births, find out why and what the risks can be.

The aim of any fertility treatment should be the birth of a healthy baby with minimum risk to the mother. To achieve this clinics are being encouraged by the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA) to opt for single embryo transfers whenever possible.

The reason for this is because multiple pregnancies pose far greater risks to both the mother and babies. One in every 12 twin pregnancies results in at least one baby dying or having a significant disability, and twin pregnancy increases the risk of most pregnancy-related health problems for the mother.  Single embryo transfer will dramatically reduce your risk.

It is often thought that putting back a single embryo will reduce your chances of success. But replacing two embryos does not double your chances of getting pregnant, while it does increase your chance of a multiple pregnancy and all the additional risks this brings.

Therefore if you are under the age of 37, have not had any previous unsuccessful cycles and have good quality embryos your clinic may suggest you opt for a single embryo transfer to give you the best chance of a healthy pregnancy and baby.

To ensure you are given the best chance of success the embryologist will assess the quality of your embryos prior to transfer. The best quality embryo will be replaced and any further good quality embryos may be frozen and stored for future use.