International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics

Multiple births are the "single biggest risk" of in vitro fertilisation (IVF) treatment, for both mothers and babies, it has been suggested.

A spokesperson for the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA) said it is working with professional bodies and patient groups "to promote the birth of a single healthy baby as the best outcome of fertility treatment".

This week, it was reported that the HFEA is considering moves to try and discourage fertility tourism, which it believes is the reason behind egg and sperm shortages in IVF clinics in the UK.

Women who donate eggs are currently paid £250, but this could rise to as much as £700 to try and promote donation within the UK.

The HFEA will be holding a public consultation before implementing the changes.

It was claimed that IVF clinics outside the UK may be more likely to implant more than one embryo during the treatment, which could increase the risk of a mother having multiple births, posing a danger to the mum-to-be and her unborn babies.

Posted by Carla Mackenzie