Embryo reduction is most commonly performed when a woman is pregnant with triplets or quadruplets. In the case of a twin pregnancy, it will depend on each woman's individual circumstances. If the specialist deems it appropriate due to it being a high-risk pregnancy, embryo reduction may also be indicated.
It is important to note that a multiple pregnancy can involve various risks, such as:
- Intrauterine growth restriction
- Intrauterine fetal death
- Preterm birth
- Severe cardiovascular complications
- Hemorrhages
In addition, psychological and economic factors may also play a role in the decision to undergo embryo reduction.
Read the full article on: Multifetal pregnancy reduction – the how and why of the procedure ( 59).
By Paloma de la Fuente Vaquero M.D., Ph.D., M.Sc. (gynecologist), Zaira Salvador B.Sc., M.Sc. (embryologist) and Michelle Lorraine Embleton B.Sc. Ph.D. (biochemist).
Last Update: 06/18/2025