A study published in Patient Education and Counseling examined how physicians advise patients about embryo transfer decisions. The research compared perspectives from fertility specialists and IVF patients regarding elective single embryo transfer (e-SET) versus double embryo transfer (DET).
Key Findings from the Physician Survey
Only 24% of doctors offered e-SET to all patients, limiting shared decision-making opportunities. When asked why, physicians cited patient preferences for pregnancy achievement over concerns about multiple pregnancy complications. Notably, 93% of doctors wanted better educational materials to support these discussions.
What Happens When Patients Are Truly Informed?
Just 21% of surveyed patients initially preferred e-SET. However, patient choice shifted dramatically based on physician communication:
30% of patients who felt they had enough time to discuss the topic chose e-SET. Among those who did not have time to discuss it, the e-SET choice was 0%.
Additionally, simply participating in the survey prompted 10% of patients to reconsider their transfer preferences — demonstrating that information alone changes decisions.
Our Approach
Cumulative pregnancy rates are similar between e-SET and DET approaches. Multiple pregnancies carry elevated risks for maternal complications and preterm birth. We prioritize blastocyst-stage transfers and patient autonomy — and we take the time needed to ensure patients understand their options before making this important decision.
