There are some ways in which the risk of experiencing a multiple birth can be mitigated. For example, if a woman is taking hCG injections, the ultrasound shows the physician the amount of follicles that have developed. If it appears that there are two many -- which increase the risk for a multiple birth -- the physician may withhold an injection.
If too many babies are actually conceived, physicians may also remove one or more the existing fetuses. Called multifetal pregnancy reduction, this gives the remaining fetus better odds at survival -- and at thriving even.
This procedure though also carries serious questions -- both emotional and ethical ones -- for many couples. This is one of those possible complications in fertility treatment that is best discussed before treatment begins. It's a decision that just can't be made lightly.
Surgery as an option treatment
Depending on your cause of infertility, your physician may recommend that you undergo surgery. Used in many instances to remove blockages in the fallopian tubes, new laparoscopic techniques allow delicate operations on the fallopian tubes that prior generations could not have imagined.
The art of ART
ART has arrived and it has revolutionized the way doctors now approach and treat infertility. Every year thousands of babies are born to couples formerly unable to have children thanks to ART, assisted reproductive technology.
These couples are now blessed with their own biological child or in some cases children. ART is indeed an art form in itself. This approach to infertility is a team approach.
ART is most effective when the female part possesses a healthy uterus and responds well to fertility drugs. It's also effective when the woman ovulates naturally or uses donor eggs.
For the male partner's part, these varied techniques stand the best chance of succeeding when he has healthy sperm, or through the use of donor sperm. ART loses some of its inherent effectiveness as a treatment for couples after they turn age 35.
A couple using this treatment has on their team not only their physician, but psychologists, embryologists, laboratory technicians, nurses as well as a variety of allied health professionals to assist them.
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