Multiple pregnancies following assisted reproductive technologies--a happy consequence or double trouble?

Abstract

The association between assisted reproduction technologies (ART) and multiple pregnancy is well-established, with a multiple birth rate of 24% in ART pregnancies. Multiple pregnancy is associated with significantly increased maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality, as well as increased costs to the National Health Service. Evidence relating to the obstetric outcomes of ART twins versus naturally conceived twins is discussed in this review. Methods to reduce the risk of multiple births including elective single embryo transfer and multifetal pregnancy reduction are also discussed.

Keywords: Assisted reproductive techniques; Multifetal pregnancy; Multifetal pregnancy reduction; Multiple pregnancy; Single embryo transfer.