02/06/2006

HFEA publishes IVF clinic guide

The Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority has published an online guide to fertility clinics in the UK.

The data combines details of every licensed fertility and infertility treatment in the UK, bringing together details of the various causes and conditions which give rise to infertility and information on the range of the various treatment options available.

Dame Suzi Leather, Chair of the HFEA, said: "One in seven couples across the UK, roughly 3.5 million, have trouble conceiving and we know that when people start to experience fertility problems they eagerly search out all the information they can on the subject.

"Patients are becoming increasingly demanding of information to help them choose their medical care. The new HFEA Guide to Infertility and interactive clinic search provides the single and authoritative source of expert information that people can trust."

The figures show that there was an increase in UK birth rates following IVF treatment, rising to 21.6% from 20.4% the previous year. Birth rates also increased across all age groups.

However, multiple births - the single biggest risk of IVF - remained high, despite falling from the previous year. Nearly 1 in 4 (23.6%) of IVF births resulted in either twins or triplets.

Angela McNab, Chief Executive of the HFEA, said: "We are still concerned about the levels of twin and triplet pregnancies, which provide the single biggest risk to mothers and their children from IVF treatment.

"Multiple births risk endangering the health of both mother and the children they are carrying and can lead to problems which can last a child's lifetime."

(KMcA)

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