However, delving deeper into the issue, patients were asked about their acceptance of SET if it meant it could reduce their chances of becoming pregnant. With this prospect, 50% said they would opt for a double-embryo transfer.
Moreover, when asked whether SET would be acceptable to them if it gave them an equal chance at pregnancy compared with double-embryo transfer, 25% of the subjects said no.
Shortly after this study, Dr. Ryan's clinic implemented a mandatory SET program for women considered high risk for multiple pregnancy, so she could not evaluate whether the education campaign resulted in fewer women choosing double-embryo transfer.
However, she said the study highlights the fact that despite education, a substantial number of patients still want twins.
“While patient desires should be acknowledged, it is equally important to balance this against clinical judgment regarding the health of the patient, offspring, and society,” Dr. Ryan said.