Selective Reduction
from the fertility booklet The A.R.T. of Fertility: A patient guide
by the Fertility & IVF Center of Miami
table of contents
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Selective reduction is a technique that is used when multiple embryos have implanted as the result of assisted reproductive technologies. The procedure is usually performed between 9 to 12 weeks gestation to selectively abort the extra embryos. Selective reduction is performed by a perinatologist on an outpatient basis by inserting a needle guided by ultrasound either through the abdomen or vagina to inject potassium chloride into the fetus. The incidence of miscarriage associated with this procedure is felt to be 4 to 5%.
The decision of whether or not to undergo selective reduction can be a traumatic one, and couples who have invested time and effort to achieve pregnancy may often be unprepared to make this choice. If this procedure is morally or ethically unacceptable, then the number of embryos transferred should be strictly limited. It is helpful for couples considering selective reduction to undergo professional counseling prior to the procedure.
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