362 Comparison of Neonatal Outcome Between Spontaneous Twin Pregnacies and Twins After in Vitro Fertilization:Is it Really a Problem Being Born After IVF?

Abstract

Background: The increased risks of prematurity, twin pregnancies, and low birth weight associated with the use of assisted reproductive technology have been well published. However, there are a few reports about Korean infants. The purpose of this study was to investigate and compare neonatal outcome and perinatal outcome in twin in vitro fertilization(IVF) pregnancies to those of spontaneously conceived twin pregnancies.Methods: A retrospective review of all twin infants born at Kangnam Sacred Heart Hospital, Hallym University from 1 January 2000 to 31 December 2004 was done. 204 neonates from spontaneous twin pregnancies and 54 from IVF twin pregnancies were taken into consideration with regard to: premature birth, low birth weight, Apgar score, major neonatal diseases, maternal characteristics, paternal age, obstetric complications, neonatal outcome, and mortality.Results: The incidence of prematurity and low birth weight was significantly higher in twins after IVF than in twins from spontaneous pregnancies. Mean birth weight, mean gestational week were significantly lower, and the duration of hospitalization was significantly longer in the IVF twin. Mean maternal age, proportion of nulliparous women, the incidence of premature rupture of membranes, cesarean section, and the incidence of incompetent internal os of cervix were significantly higher in the IVF twin. Furthermore, the incidence of sepsis and twin opposite sex was significantly higher in twins from IVF.Conclusion: When compared with spontaneous twins, IVF twins have higher incidence of preterm birth, low birth weight, and have lower gestational weight, longer hospital stay.