Elective single embryo transfer, or eSET, is a procedure that has become more popular in recent years as more couples are choosing to have children through IVF. This approach involves the transfer of a single embryo into the uterus rather than multiple embryos. While this approach has some potential downsides, there are also some compelling reasons why couples may want to consider this option.
Here are seven reasons to consider elective single embryo transfer:
1. Reduced Risk of Multiple Pregnancies
One of the biggest benefits of eSET is that it significantly reduces the risk of multiple pregnancies. When multiple embryos are transferred, there is a higher likelihood of twins, triplets or more. While some couples may be excited about the prospect of having multiples, there are also significant risks associated with carrying and delivering more than one baby at a time. These risks include preterm labor, low birth weight and other complications.
2. Higher Success Rates Per Embryo
While it may seem counterintuitive, studies have shown that eSET can result in higher success rates per embryo. This is because when multiple embryos are transferred, they may compete with each other for resources in the uterus, which can reduce the chances of any individual embryo implanting successfully. Transferring just one embryo increases the chances of that embryo successfully implanting and resulting in pregnancy.
3. Lower Overall Cost
IVF can be expensive, and transferring multiple embryos can increase costs even further. By opting for eSET, couples can potentially save money on IVF’s overall cost. While additional costs may be associated with freezing and storing unused embryos, these costs may still be lower than those associated with a multiple pregnancy.
4. Reduced Need for Selective Reduction
If a multiple pregnancy does occur, there may be a need for selective reduction. This is a procedure in which one or more fetuses are selectively terminated to reduce the risks associated with a multiple pregnancy. While this can be a difficult decision for parents, opting for eSET can eliminate the need for this procedure altogether.
5. Lower Risk of Pregnancy Complications
Carrying multiples can increase the risk of pregnancy complications, including preterm labor, preeclampsia, and gestational diabetes. By opting for eSET and reducing the risk of a multiple pregnancy, couples can potentially lower their risk of experiencing these complications.
6. More Control Over Family Size
Having more than one child at once may not be desirable for some couples. By choosing eSET, couples can have more control over their family size and plan to have additional children in the future if desired.
7. Reduced Emotional Stress
IVF can be emotionally challenging, and the prospect of multiples can add additional stress. By opting for eSET, couples can potentially reduce the emotional stress associated with IVF and increase their chances of a successful pregnancy.
While eSET may not be the right choice for every couple, it is an option that should be considered. By reducing the risk of multiple pregnancies, increasing success rates per embryo, and potentially lowering overall costs, eSET can be a viable option for couples seeking to start or grow their families through IVF. To learn more about eSET and whether it is right for you, contact our team at Neway Fertility in NYC.
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