QuestionI am on my 7th IUI cycle (a mc on the 4th attempt). This month I have 7 follicles mature and ready to go. I am 36 years old. We would gladly welcome twins or even triplets. What is the risk of higher order?
AnswerHello Amanda from the U.S.,
I would not continue the cycle with 7 ovulatory sized follicles (>15 mms)because of the risk of a super-multiple gestation (>2). I cannot give you a statistical risk as that number does not exist, but I would expect the risk to be high. Keep in mind that even twins are a high risk pregnancy and should not be taken lightly. I had an IVF patient with twins that just lost both at 23 weeks due to premature labor and delivery. That is why we try not to have twins and definitely, try not to have triplets. I will allow up to 5 mature follicles at 36 years old, but no more than that. Some RE's will not allow more than 3. I don't think you should take that chance.
Good Luck,
Edward J. Ramirez, M.D., FACOG
Executive Medical Director
The Fertility and Gynecology Center
Monterey Bay IVF Program
www.montereybayivf.com
Monterey, California, U.S.A.
for additional information check out my blog at http://womenshealthandfertility.blogspot.com check me out on twitter with me at @montereybayivf and facebook @montereybayivf.com
