When comparing outcomes of various infertility treatments, we must make allowance for a variety of confounding factors. Couples seeking infertility treatment are likely to be slightly older and this confers a negative bias. Those who follow all possible treatment options including IVF tend to be educated and of higher socio-economic status and these confer a more positive influence. Treatment regimens using ovulation induction drugs and particularly gonadotrophins, are more likely to result in multiple pregnancy resulting in a higher birth rate but greater obstetric (childbirth) risks.
Results reported from individual departments are more likely to be from pioneers or those achieving the best results. National statistics and meta-analyses (Q33.23) indicate a more appropriate reflection of the situation. Treatment advances are occurring so frequently that trends are difficult to interpret. Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI -25), for example, has resulted in a fall in donor insemination treatment cycles.
Related Medical Abstracts - Click on the paper title:-
Reliability of league tables of in vitro fertilisation clinics: Retrospective analysis of live birth rates. (1998)
Please click on the required question.
- 1 How successful is infertility treatment?
- 2 How can we compare infertility treatments?
- 3 How can we compare outcomes between different fertility units?
- 4 Are treatments for infertility improving?
- 5 Is there an increased chance of miscarriage following infertility treatment?
- 6 Is there an increased chance of ectopic pregnancy following infertility treatment?
- 7 What is a heterotopic pregnancy?
- 8 What problems can occur with multiple pregnancy?
- 9 What is selective termination of pregnancy?
- 10 How can the pregnancy risks following infertility treatment be reduced?
- 11 We have had infertility treatment which has been successful. How will our pregnancy be cared for?
- 12 If we have infertility treatment, will our baby be healthy?
- 13 What are the psychological effects of infertility? information?
- 14 Where can I obtain more information?
- 15 Infertility Support Groups.
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This is the personal website of David A Viniker MD FRCOG, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at Whipps Cross University Hospital, London - Specialist Interests - Reproductive Medicine including Infertility, PCOS, PMS, Menopause and HRT.
I do hope that you find the answers to your women's health questions in the patient information and medical advice provided.














