Multifetal pregnancy reduction and halakha

The frequency of multifetal pregnancies has increased dramatically in recent years with the advent of assisted reproductive technologies. In an effort to ensure a successful outcome for both the fetus(es) and the mother, multifetal reduction is often medically recommended. Multifetal reduction may present a challenge to Orthodox Jewish law, as there is an apparent threat to the preservation of the fetuses lives. Yet, without medical intervention there is an increased risk of fetal and maternal morbidity and mortality. The issues involved in multifetal reduction have been thoroughly analyzed and recorded in Orthodox Jewish responsa, setting guidelines for rabbinic authorities to rule on the matter in specific cases based on the specific circumstances. The present article will analyze the medical procedure with respect to the halakhic literature published to date on the subject of multifetal reduction.