Epidemiology of multiple pregnancy and the effect of assisted conception

Multiple pregnancy is one of the greatest perinatal challenges facing clinicians today. In a society of rising expectations among fertility and maternity service users, the potential for adverse outcomes associated with multiple pregnancy is a source of concern. This article examines the impact of assisted conception on the incidence of multiple pregnancies and associated complications. It explores some of the reasons for the strong association between assisted reproductive technology and multiple pregnancies and suggests possible ways of addressing this continuing problem.