Multiple pregnancy is a well-known risk associated with in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatments, particularly with the transfer of multiple embryos to increase the chances of successful implantation. Twin or higher-order pregnancies resulting from IVF can pose various risks to both the mother and the babies. Some potential risks include:

1. Maternal Health Risks:

– Increased risk of gestational diabetes.

– Higher likelihood of developing pregnancy-induced hypertension (preeclampsia).

– Elevated chance of cesarean section delivery due to complications.

– Increased risk of postpartum hemorrhage.

2. Fetal and Neonatal Risks:

– Premature birth is a common risk as multiple pregnancies are more likely to deliver early.

– Low birth weight and related complications.

– Higher incidence of birth defects compared to singleton pregnancies.

– Increased risk of neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admission and associated medical issues.

– Growth restriction and developmental delays in some cases.

3. Psychological and Emotional Challenges:

– Increased stress on the parents due to the higher complexity and demands of caring for multiple babies.

– Postpartum depression may be more prevalent in mothers of twins or higher-order multiples.

To mitigate these risks, fertility clinics and healthcare providers often emphasize the importance of elective single embryo transfer (eSET) to reduce the likelihood of multiple pregnancies, especially in cases where the mother’s age or health does not warrant the transfer of