One serious complication for multifetal pregnancies is preterm labour and delivery. This is reflected in the significant increase in cerebral palsy among twins and greater multiples. Prevention of either superovulation or a restriction on embryos inserted at in-vitro fertilization (IVF) has played a major role in reducing the need for fetal reduction. However, there is still a small demand and evidence suggests that the technique does lead to reductions in preterm delivery. Fetuses for reduction are selected on position and whether or not they appear normal. Careful counselling both before and after the procedure is essential.
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