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03 August 2001

Dear Colleague,

HFEA Embryo Transfer Policy Review

The HFEA has. recently reviewed its embryo transfer policy in the light of further increases in live birth rates following assisted reproductive technology (ART), and the continuing high level of multiple births associated with ART. The need to reduce the rates of multiple pregnancy and birth, in view of the high levels of infant and maternal morbidity, is now generally accepted.

As a consequence of the review, the Authority has decided to revise its policy on embryo transfer, reducing the number of embryos to normally be transferred from three to two. In exceptional circumstances, a three egg or three embryo transfer may be performed. These exceptional circumstances will be case-specific, and indications might include clinical and laboratory criteria. Details should always be recorded in the patient records.

This new policy follows from extensive consultation with professional organisations and is in line with guidance already provided by the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists and the British Fertility Society. The HFEA acknowledges that many centres have already moved to a two embryo transfer policy.

All licensed centres are being alerted to the change in policy now and should introduce it into their work practices with immediate effect, although I appreciate that for some patients already in treatment it would be reasonable to continue on the current basis. The policy will be formalised in the next edition of the HFEA's Code of Practice (6th Edition).

Monitoring of the new policy will be carried out through the HFEA's inspection process. All centres' multiple pregnancy and birth rates will be examined and where these are above average, the centre's records will be examined to establish the range of circumstances in which they have been transferring more than two embryos.

The HFEA is also in the process of putting together a comprehensive information leaflet on multiple births for clinics to circulate to patients.

If you have any questions with regard to this new embryo transfer policy please get in touch with Jo Rippington. Policy Manager on 020 7377 5077. or by e-mail at jo.rippington@hfea.gov.uk.

Yours sincerely,

Ruth Deech
Chairman

Page last updated: 14 April 2009

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