International, collaborative experience of 1789 patients having multifetal pregnancy reduction: A plateauing of risks and outcomes

Abstract

To develop the most up-to-date, complete data base of multifetal pregnancy reduction (MFPR) from cases, and to provide the best counseling for couples with multifetal pregnancies. From nine centers in five countries, 1789 completed MFPR cases were collected and outcomes evaluated. Pregnancy losses were defined as through 24 weeks and deliveries categorized in groups of 25-28, 29-32, 33-36, and 37 or more weeks. Overall, the pregnancy loss rate was 11.7% but varied from a low of 7.6% for triplets to twins and increased with each additional starting number to 22.9% for sextuplets or higher. Early premature deliveries (25-28 weeks) were 4.5% and varied with starting number. Loss rates by finishing number were highest for triplets and lowest for twins, but gestational age at delivery was highest for singletons. Multifetal pregnancy reduction has been shown to be a safe and effective method to improve outcome in multifetal pregnancies. Outcomes are worse with higher-order gestations and support the need for continued vigilance of fertility therapy.