Study Shows Single Embryo Implantation Proven Successful
Austin, Texas – August 18, 2010– At the 66th annual meeting of American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM), Dr. Thomas Vaughn will present the findings from his clinical study of outcomes in young patients who are good candidates for single embryo transfer. Vaughn, the founding partner of Texas Fertility Center, studied the results of implantation in 199 women; 31 chose to have one embryo implanted, while 168 chose to implant two embryos. In the combined group, 145 achieved pregnancy and no statistical difference was found between the two groups. However, the number of multiples was much higher within the group that transferred two embryos.
“This study indicates that young women undergoing IVF have an excellent chance of pregnancy when they had only one embryo transferred. Patients should be offered the option of only transferring one embryo,” Dr. Vaughn explained. “The ultimate goal of IVF is to produce one healthy baby.”
In fact, multiples present several challenges for patients and physicians. The costs rise substantially in a multiple pregnancy. Risks to the mother and fetuses increase dramatically as well. Women with multiples are more likely to develop issues such as gestational diabetes, low birth weight, pre-term labor, and premature delivery.
“Many patients and practitioners feel that placing at least two embryos increases the odds of pregnancy,” Dr. Vaughn said. “This study demonstrates that in many cases, a pregnancy is just as likely with only one embryo. Reducing the odds of more than one baby, and therefore the risks associated with multiples, is an important component of IVF treatment.”
Dr. Vaughn will discuss his study during an oral presentation at the ASRM annual conference, held this October in Denver. ASRM is the leading organization dedicated to the advancement and practice of reproductive medicine for North America. The organization works to provide continuing education for physicians in this area and to disseminate relevant information to the general public.
TFC Vaughn Abstract
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About the Texas Fertility Center
Texas Fertility Center (TFC), one of the nation’s leading infertility practices, provides advanced reproductive endocrinology services for patients throughout Texas and the Southwestern United States. With over 100 years of combined medical experience, TFC has been recognized nationally for outstanding pregnancy rates, cutting-edge laboratory procedures, and innovative research programs. For more information, please visit www.txfertility.com.
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