Surrogacy has gained substantial popularity among couples and individuals longing for children, especially those encountering challenges with natural conception. Nonetheless, one of the critical issues that often arises when contemplating this path is the risk of experiencing a multiple pregnancy.
What elements lead to this scenario, and what strategies can anticipate parents and healthcare providers employ to mitigate these risks?
The transfer of multiple embryos during in vitro fertilization (IVF) is an exceptional practice to increase the chances of success, especially when the quality of the embryos is not optimal. But what additional risks does this practice entail, and what strategies exist to mitigate them?
In this article, we will explore the factors behind multiple pregnancies during the surrogacy procedure and the potential complications that can occur.
What is the likelihood of experiencing a multiple pregnancy in surrogacy?
Several factors, including the number of embryos transferred and their quality, can influence the possibility of multiple pregnancies in surrogacy.
Historically, the practice of transferring multiple embryos was prevalent to enhance the success rates of the in vitro fertilization (IVF) technique.
Nonetheless, the practice of transferring a single high-quality embryo has gained traction due to advancements in assisted reproductive technologies, including embryo vitrification and time-lapse embryo selection.
Multiple pregnancies are still a possibility, despite these developments. Recent studies indicate that various pregnancies obtained through assisted reproductive technologies account for about 24% of pregnancies. It’s important to note that the success rates of singleton pregnancies vary depending on the clinic and methodology used.
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 might encounter health issues like hypertension, 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 implanted and to be equipped to handle any complications that may occur. While surrogacy presents a feasible solution for many individuals looking to have children, it is vital to understand the risks and potential outcomes 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: makes your dream of starting a family possible
Family Aims is a dedicated family-building agency that specializes in surrogacy, offering extensive support on assisted reproductive technologies and various conception methods.
In order to accomplish this, if you are from United Kingdom, the agency has collaborated with a state-of-the-art fertility clinic committed to turning your aspiration of building a family into a reality.
For more information, to schedule a consultation with a specialist, or to have your questions answered, visit here.