Abstract
This study seeks to assess practices in meeting the psychosocial needs of women at risk for multifetal pregnancy and multifetal pregnancy reduction (MFPR). Interviews with twelve practitioners, including reproductive endocrinologists, embryologists, in-vitro fertilization (IVF) coordinators, nurses, genetic counselors, therapists, perinatologists and maternal fetal medicine specialists, were conducted to explore current practices. Even though women are counseled on the clinical risks of multifetal pregnancy and MFPR, counseling practices greatly differ in terms of the type, timing, quantity and quality of information provided. Further investigation is needed to explore the challenges involved in counseling women so that risks are minimized and positive psychosocial outcomes maximized. Practices designed to help women accurately assess psychosocial risks, and enhance supportive services, may help reduce the rates of multifetal pregnancy and MFPR.