The octuplets aside, there are fewer multiple births

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The octuplet births last month in Bellflower brought much-needed attention to a little-known guideline that is supposed to apply to in vitro fertilization treatment. Studies now show that in healthy women, especially those under age 35, doctors should transfer only one or two embryos to the uterus. Research has shown that, in those women, the chances of giving birth to one child are substantial even if just one embryo is transferred. There are provisions allowing for transfer of a greater number of embryos, but that depends on the mother’s age and other medical criteria.

Statistics released today show that efforts to reduce multiple births appear to be working -- at least outside of Los Angeles. According to the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, the percentage of live triplet births to mothers under 35 fell from 6.4% in 2003 to 1.8% in 2007.

Moreover, in 2003 in women under 35, only 0.7% of patients opted for a single embryo transfer and the average number of embryos transferred was 2.6. But in 2007, 4.5% had a single embryo transfer and the average number of embryos transferred was 2.2.

Multiple births from elective reproductive medical services should be avoided, experts say, because such babies are often premature or low birth weight and are at higher risk for other complications. Still, fewer than 5% of women under 35 elected for a single-embryo transfer in 2007, showing there is a long way to go to convince doctors and women that it’s not always necessary to risk multiple births.

‘Our latest numbers show our progress in decreasing the incidence of multiple pregnancies,’ said Dr. Elizabeth Ginsburg, Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology president, in a news release. ‘As our members continue their efforts in implementing ASRM-SART guidelines, we should see future improvements in patient care and outcomes.’

Patients can go to the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology website to search for SART member clinics and view each clinic’s individual data.

-- Shari Roan