In Vitro Fertilisation - Why did one of two successfully implanted embryos die?
I am currently undergoing IVF treatment. I have had two embryos implanted. They both took, but one was found dead at 6 weeks. Is there any reason for this to happen?
Some estimates of embryo loss in a ‘normal’ pregnancy cycle are as high as 2 out of 3. For IVF, the overall pregnancy rate of 25-30% per embryo transfer is similar to the rate in the first month of pregnancy during normal reproduction. Damage may occur with handling, transfer, or in any of the normal ways it does in the uterine cycle itself. The thing about infertility treatment is that, of course, you are literally counting on every egg. Although it seems like a high rate of loss, it is about the same as it would be if nature were taking care of the process - it's just that we aren't so aware of the loss then.
It is perfectly normal and right for you to grieve for this loss, even though you may not get the support you need due to the nature of the fertilisation. People are confused about what to say and the temptation is to tell you to be happy you have one baby or to pass judgement on reproductive technology.
The bottom line may be that your body may have been unable to accommodate a twin pregnancy at this time. A twin pregnancy carries a much higher risk of pre-term labour, miscarriage, and maternal and foetal complications. You may want to contact The Miscarriage Association
Miscarriage Association
c/o Clayton Hospital
Northgate
Wakefield
West Yorkshire WF1 3JS
Tel: 01924 200799
Fax: 01924 298834
Good luck with your pregnancy.
Peg
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