Surrogacy has become an increasingly attractive option for couples and individuals who desire children but face difficulties conceiving naturally. However, one of the concerns that arise when thinking about this process as a possible option is the possibility of a multiple pregnancy.
What elements lead to this scenario, and what strategies can prospective parents and healthcare providers employ to mitigate these risks?
The transfer of multiple embryos in the process of in vitro fertilization (IVF) serves as a unique method to enhance the likelihood of a successful outcome, particularly in cases where the embryos’ quality may be lacking. However, what extra risks does this approach carry, and what measures can be implemented to reduce these risks?
In this article, we’ll examine the causes of multiple pregnancies during the surrogacy procedure as well as the complications that may arise.
What are the chances of a multiple pregnancy in surrogacy?
A variety of factors, such as the quantity of embryos implanted and their overall quality, can affect the likelihood of multiple pregnancies in surrogacy.
Historically, the transfer of multiple embryos was a standard practice to boost the likelihood of a successful outcome in the in vitro fertilization (IVF) technique.
Nonetheless, the practice of transferring a single high-quality embryo has gained popularity thanks to advancements in assisted reproductive technologies, including embryo vitrification and time-lapse embryo selection.
Multiple pregnancies remain a potential outcome, even with these advancements. Recent research shows that approximately 24% of pregnancies achieved via assisted reproductive technologies result in multiple births. It’s essential to acknowledge that the success rates for singleton pregnancies differ based on the clinic and the techniques employed.
Surrogacy and multiple pregnancies: opportunities and challenges
Nevertheless, it is essential to acknowledge that many pregnancies present potential challenges for both the gestational carrier and the infants. The most common risks include premature birth, low birth weight, and various neonatal health issues. While these occurrences are infrequent, they are still possible.
The gestational carrier may face health concerns such as high blood pressure, gestational diabetes, or the likelihood of requiring a cesarean section.
For these reasons, it is essential for prospective parents and fertility clinics to thoughtfully assess the number of embryos to be transferred and to be ready to handle any complications that could occur. Although surrogacy serves as a feasible choice for many individuals desiring children, it is vital to recognize the risks and potentialities associated with multiple pregnancies.
Thoughtful planning and transparent communication with healthcare professionals can effectively diminish these risks and enhance the likelihood of a successful pregnancy and delivery. Family Aims prioritizes maintaining clear and candid dialogue among all parties, while also safeguarding the rights of everyone engaged in this journey.
Family Aims: Turning your dream of creating a family into reality
Family Aims is a specialized family-building agency focused on surrogacy that provides comprehensive guidance on assisted reproductive technologies, and conception methods.
To achieve this if you’re from Australia, the agency has partnered with a fertility clinic with cutting-edge technology, dedicated to making the dream of starting your own family a reality.
For more information, to schedule a consultation with a specialist, or to have your questions answered, visit here.
