Study views cost balance in IVF cases

A NEW study by Scottish researchers has called for IVF treatment to be put "on a more equal footing" with chronic diseases when it comes to decisions being taken about the cost effectiveness of fertility treatment options.

The study, based on data from 6,135 women from three Scottish fertility centres, looked at the costs and consequences of single and double embryo transfer in women of different ages.

The results indicate that single embryo transfer is likely to be preferred in most women under 37. However, in older women who have a lower chance of pregnancy, including twin pregnancy, double embryo transfer may be considered cost-effective.

Graham Scotland of Aberdeen University led the study which included researchers from NHS Glasgow and Aberdeen Maternity Hospital.

He said: "No other economic analysis has looked at a strategy of single versus double embryo transfer over multiple cycles in women of different ages."