Fetal Reduction

When Is It Considered?

Reduction is considered in triplet, quadruplet or higher-order pregnancies. Maternal history of preterm birth, cardiac/renal/diabetic conditions or a smaller uterus may also justify reduction even in twin pregnancies. The decision is made together with the family and a perinatologist.

How Is It Performed?

The procedure is performed at 11 weeks of pregnancy. Under ultrasound guidance a thin needle passes through the abdomen into the gestational sac and a small dose of medication stops the heart of the selected fetus. The whole procedure takes 15–20 minutes under local anaesthesia. Twenty-four hours of rest and routine antenatal follow-up are recommended.

Risks and Outcomes

In experienced hands the risk of losing the entire pregnancy is around 1–3%. The remaining pregnancies typically deliver at a significantly higher gestational age and the rate of prematurity-related complications decreases. Standard antenatal care continues with extra ultrasound and genetic surveillance.

Ethical and Psychological Support

Fetal reduction is an emotionally difficult decision. Doğuş IVF Center provides counselling and ethical guidance throughout the process; the final decision rests entirely on the family’s informed consent.

Treatment Steps

1. 1Ultrasound Assessment
2. 2Procedure Planning
3. 3Fetal Reduction
4. 4Follow-up Monitoring

Who Is It For?

• Triplet or higher pregnancies
• Twin pregnancy with significant maternal risk
• High-risk monochorionic pregnancies

Frequently Asked Questions