Managing the risks of fertility treatment

Most forms of fertility treatment involve some degree of increased risk of multiple pregnancy. To combat this risk, it is important to be aware of and to follow the appropriate guidelines and to do everything possible to minimise the risk to the patient.

Fertility drugs

Although gonadotrophins and anti-oestrogens increase the risk of multiple pregnancy, appropriate administration can greatly minimise these risks. A suitable protocol should include ensuring the patient understands the risks, minimising the dosage and careful monitoring.  More about fertility drugs>>

IVF

To implement best practice for in vitro fertilisation (IVF) treatment, the latest guidelines from the BFS and ACE should be used. An eSET protocol should be in place and patients should be given full information about the risks of multiple pregnancy associated with IVF.  More about IVF>>

IUI

Stimulated IUI treatment should include targeting suitable patients and giving full information about the risks of multiple pregnancy and their link with stimulated IUI.  More about IUI>>

GIFT

Although GIFT is rarely used these days, it is still important to minimise the risk of multiple pregnancy. Treatment should tailored depending on the patient’s prognosis and where relevant, information on the risks of multiple pregnancy and birth should be given.  More about GIFT>>