Fertility Drugs Giving Twins

Double Trouble Risks with Some Fertility Drugs

With some fertility drugs, you need to be aware that there is the likelihood of giving birth to twins, triplets or other multiples. The truth of the matter is that many of the drugs used to combat infertility in women also increase the risk of twins at the very least and even more children in some instances.

We have all witnessed the news stories of extreme multiple births that came about because of fertility treatments back in the nineties. Though there have been dosage adjustments made since then and these births are quite rare overall, the fact remains that the risk for twins, and in some cases triplets is increased greatly as the result of fertility treatments.

I bring this up because it is a reality that those considering fertility treatments should understand and carefully consider before going through fertility treatments. You should discuss the possibility of multiple births with your doctor and let him or her know exactly how you feel about the idea. Some couples yearning to have a child of their own welcome the idea of multiple births in hopes of never going through some of the more invasive aspects of fertility treatments again while others are properly intimidated by the thought of two or more infants (or toddlers for that matter) at the same time.

Whether you are seeking fertility treatments for your first child, or these treatments are for a child later in life, you should make a point of becoming aware of the toll that one child will take on your body during pregnancy and your life afterwards. Then you should find out what the possible ramifications of a 'multiples' pregnancy can be. The costs involved in many types of fertility treatments are not insignificant in the least. When you combine that with the cost of bringing a child into the world and providing for the needs of that child, they rise exponentially. Multiply one child by two or three and you could find your financial situation isn't as solid as you may have thought.

You should also consider the costs of child care compared to the worth of the mother returning to work after the babies are born (in the case of multiple births especially) and the financial toll that can be the result of extended maternity leave because of complications later in the pregnancy.

Once you've considered the options, the ramifications, and the possible toll that a multiples birth will take on your mental and financial situation you should also consider double (or more) 2 a.m. feedings, diaper changes, diaper rashes, baths, bed changes, sleepless nights, and on occasion stuffy noses. Of course there are double rewards as well. You get two (or more) sets of firsts. First smiles, first photos, first giggles, first grins, and first little tugs on your heartstrings.

Most people find that the risk of multiples is rather insignificant compared to the risk of going through life never experiencing the firsts mentioned above. This is however, an issue you need to discuss as a couple and with your doctor before taking the plunge. There are medications and treatment methods that carry a less significant risk of multiple births and those can be pursued before the riskier treatment options.