The Use of Elective Single Embryo Transfer (eSET) to Reduce the Risks of Multiple Gestation

Abstract

In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a common method used in assisted reproductive technology (ART) to help patients achieve pregnancy. One of the risks of IVF is the possibility of multiple gestation, especially when more than one embryo is transferred per cycle. Multiple gestation can introduce several significant complications into the pregnancy and birth, which can range from short-term conditions to long-term disabilities. Elective single embryo transfer (eSET) is a way of reducing these risks by choosing to transfer only one embryo when multiple embryos are available for transfer. With eSET, the chances of multiple gestation and its associated complications are significantly lowered, increasing the chances of the patient having a healthy pregnancy. However, eSET appears to have low rates compared to other methods of transfer, despite its benefits. This thesis investigates the use of eSET in fertility clinics, in order to gain insight on the level of patient awareness on eSET, how fertility clinics provide eSET, and methods that can encourage patients to choose eSET. Physicians at fertility clinics will be interviewed, and the interviews will be used to analyze how to improve the rate of eSET and reduce the rate of multiple gestation in fertility treatments.