Octuplets Born Using IVF
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In southern California last month, a set of octuplets were born via Cesarean section. The mother, Ms. Nadya Suleman, recently divulged that this pregnancy resulted after undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment. Most previous cases of high-order multiple births have occurred after treatment with injectable fertility drugs combined with intrauterine insemination (IUI). This case is unusual in that the treatment was IVF, where the number of embryos transferred back to the patient is a conscious decision on the part the patient and her physician. We are reassured to hear that Ms. Suleman and the octuplets are thus far doing well, but certainly the potential complications of premature birth may not present themselves until much later in each of these octuplets’ coming days, months, or even years.
We are very concerned that such an event of a high-order multiple pregnancy has occurred, and would like to reiterate that PFC takes the issue of multiple gestation very seriously. PFC has been taking steps to minimize the risk of multiple pregnancy for several years. Balancing high pregnancy rates with low pregnancy risk improves pregnancy outcomes. Achieving that balance and reducing the risk of multiple pregnancy is our goal. In all treatment cycles that we perform here at PFC, our ultimate aim, and any recommendations we provide, are with the hope of achieving a singleton pregnancy- the safest pregnancy.
Fertility physicians are very aware that one of the most important side effects of fertility treatment is multiple gestation. Our governing organization, the American Society of Reproductive Medicine (ASRM), as well as the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology (SART) have worked steadily to formulate evidence-based guidelines for the number of embryos to be transferred in assisted reproductive technology (ART) cycles. These guidelines were first established in 1996 and were updated in 2006 to reflect improved success rates with ART. Over the past decade we have seen a significant decrease in the number of high-order multiples in the US.
We at PFC adhere to the ASRM and SART guidelines. These guidelines provide the flexibility to give each patient treatment individualized to her needs, and her best chance to become pregnant; while minimizing the risks of a high-order multiple pregnancy.
SART member clinics are committed to following these guidelines, although it would appear that the guidelines were not followed in Ms. Suleman’s case.
