IVF twins: buy one get one free?

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Medicine
• Public Health
• Health Economics

Background:

• Assisted reproduction technologies, particularly in vitro fertilization (IVF), have led to an increased incidence of multiple pregnancies.
• Multiple pregnancies, including twins, are associated with significant adverse health outcomes for neonates, mothers, and families, alongside substantial financial burdens on healthcare systems.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness and implications of implementing an elective single embryo transfer (eSET) policy to reduce multiple pregnancies resulting from IVF.
• To identify key factors influencing the successful adoption of eSET and discuss considerations for individual patient cases.

Main Methods:

• Review of strategies to minimize twin pregnancies in IVF, focusing on the practice of transferring a single embryo.
• Analysis of factors critical for the success of eSET, including embryo selection, cryopreservation, and healthcare funding.

Main Results:

• Elective single embryo transfer (eSET) is an effective strategy for reducing the rate of twin pregnancies following IVF.
• eSET can minimize risks and financial costs without compromising overall IVF success rates.
• Individualized assessment is crucial, as transferring two embryos may be more cost-effective in specific situations, such as for older women.

Conclusions:

• The adoption of an eSET policy is a viable approach to mitigate the risks and costs associated with IVF-induced multiple pregnancies.
• Successful implementation of eSET requires improvements in embryo selection, cryopreservation, adequate state funding, and continuous education for all stakeholders.
• A nuanced approach, considering individual patient circumstances, is essential for optimizing the benefits of eSET.