Ectopic pregnancy and spontaneous abortions following in-vitro fertilization and embryo transfer

In-vitro fertilization and embryo transfer was performed in 25 patients with diseased oviducts. Three pregnancies were achieved, but all ended in early abortion. One patient had ectopic pregnancy, one spontaneous abortion having a severe autosomal chromosome abnormality, and one had a rise in serum hCG but vaginal bleeding started 18 days after embryo transfer. We conclude that repeated ultrasonic examinations of all pregnancies following in-vitro fertilization and embryo transfer is recommendable until intra-uterine implantation has been confirmed and that amniocentesis should be offered to all these patients.