| Sub-title | |
| Authors | P Soler D Soler |
| Abstract | Background: Epidemiological studies have clearly demonstrated a positive correlation between multiple pregnancy and an increased neonatal morbidity and mortality. Studies have also shown that an increase in the number of multiple births closely follows an increase in the number of couples being treated for infertility. Aim: To determine the effects of high order pregnancy on the survival of babies (singletons, twins and higher-order) admitted to the SCBU in the period 1989-2005. Methods: Retrospective data collection from the SCBU Neoanatal Admission Register: gestation, birth weight, cause of death, pregnancy order, fertility treatment. Results: There is a rising trend in the number of twins and higher-order pregnancies with the increasing availability of assisted reproductive technology; there is a six to ten fold increase in the death rate of babies resulting from highorder pregnancy. The costing of “futile” intensive care delivery is estimated. Conclusion: The findings are in agreement with studies conducted in Europe and USA; the implications on NIC services at a National level are discussed. |
Published in: | |
| Journal | Malta Medical Journal |
| Volume | 18 Supplement |
| Page | |
| Date | 01/12/2006 |
| Link to journal | |
| Key words | artificial reproductive technology, high order pregnancy, neonatal mortality, neonatal survival |