In vitro fertilization (IVF) has become a well-established and widely used fertility treatment for couples experiencing infertility. Assisted reproductive technology (ART) has revolutionized the ability to help couples achieve pregnancy, offering hope to those struggling with conception.
During IVF, multiple eggs are harvested and fertilized, leading to the development of viable embryos, which are then transferred into the uterus. One of the most important decisions in the IVF process is whether to opt for Single Embryo Transfer (SET) or Multiple Embryo Transfer (MET). This decision can significantly impact the outcome of the IVF cycle and the health of both the mother and the child.
In this article, we will discuss the risks and benefits of SET and MET to provide a comprehensive understanding of each approach, helping patients make an informed decision that suits their medical and personal circumstances.
SET involves transferring a single embryo into the uterus during an IVF cycle. This approach has gained prominence due to its ability to reduce the risks associated with multiple pregnancies, while still offering a high chance of pregnancy.
One of the primary benefits of SET is the reduced risk of multiple pregnancies, such as twins or higher-order multiples (triplets, etc.). Multiple pregnancies are associated with significant risks for both the mother and the babies, including:
Babies born from SET are more likely to be born at full term and have healthy birth weights, reducing the need for intensive neonatal care. This significantly lowers the risks of complications such as respiratory distress syndrome and other health problems commonly seen in preterm infants.
Children born from SET typically experience fewer developmental issues and are less likely to have chronic health conditions compared to those born from multiple embryo transfers. SET reduces the risk of long-term cognitive and physical disabilities associated with multiple births.
Parents of singleton children generally experience less stress and anxiety compared to those with multiple children. The psychological burden of managing multiple infants is significantly reduced, allowing parents to focus more on their child’s individual development.
One downside of SET is a lower immediate pregnancy rate compared to MET. This may be a concern for patients with limited time or those who have had previous IVF failures. However, the cumulative live birth rate for SET can be comparable when multiple cycles are considered.
Due to the lower success rate per cycle, some couples may need to undergo multiple IVF cycles to achieve a successful pregnancy, which can lead to emotional and financial strain. The need for additional IVF cycles increases the overall cost and time commitment.
MET involves transferring two or more embryos into the uterus to increase the chances of pregnancy. This approach is often considered for patients who want to maximize their chances of conception in a single cycle, particularly for women over the age of 35, where egg quality may be reduced.
MET increases the likelihood of pregnancy per cycle, making it a preferred choice for women with lower egg quality, or those who have experienced.
previous IVF failures. It can significantly improve success rates for couples with certain fertility issues.
With MET, the chances of pregnancy are higher in a single cycle, which is beneficial for patients who are under time pressure, whether due to age, medical concerns, or personal circumstances.
The most significant risk of MET is the increased chance of multiple pregnancies, which can lead to complications such as:
Multiple pregnancies require more intensive prenatal care, which can significantly increase the financial burden on patients. The need for frequent doctor visits, additional tests, and specialized care during pregnancy can add considerable costs.
Raising multiple infants can cause emotional, physical, and mental strain on parents. The added stress of caring for several newborns can affect family dynamics and individual health. Additionally, parents of multiples often report greater fatigue and higher levels of anxiety.
Babies born from multiple pregnancies are at a higher risk of developmental delays, cognitive impairments, and physical disabilities. These children may require long-term medical support, including physical therapy and special education services.
SET: The live birth rate for SET is typically lower compared to MET, with a reported rate of approximately 27%.
MET: The live birth rate for MET can be higher, averaging around 42%.
SET: The rate of multiple births in SET is very low, at about 2%.
MET: The multiple birth rate is significantly higher in MET, around 29%.
Implantation Rates: Implantation rates are influenced by factors such as embryo quality and maternal age. For frozen embryo transfers (FET) or gestational carrier cycles, implantation rates can be as high as 70-80%. For women aged 40 and older, the implantation rate can drop to 10-15%.
While SET offers a safer approach by minimizing the risks associated with multiple pregnancies, it comes with a lower immediate success rate and may require multiple IVF cycles to achieve a live birth. On the other hand, MET increases the chances of pregnancy per cycle but carries significant risks for both the mother and the babies, including higher rates of preterm birth, low birth weight, and long-term health complications.
Ultimately, the choice between SET and MET should be based on individual factors, including the patient’s age, medical history, fertility diagnosis, and personal preferences. It is crucial for patients to discuss their options with a fertility specialist, who can provide personalized guidance based on their specific circumstances and help them make an informed decision that aligns with their goals for a healthy pregnancy and family.
If you are considering IVF and need expert advice, Aveya IVF Centre specializes in providing personalized fertility treatment. We offer a comprehensive consultation to help you navigate through the IVF process and achieve your dream of starting a family.
Please contact us today for a free consultation.