Multiple pregnancy (twins, triplets or more) can occur after fertility treatment, particularly when more than one embryo is transferred, or when ovulation induction or IUI leads to more than one egg being fertilised. Compared with a single pregnancy, multiple pregnancy carries higher risks of complications such as preterm birth, low birth weight, gestational diabetes, high blood pressure in pregnancy, and the need for caesarean birth. India's ART (Regulation) Act and associated rules place limits on the number of embryos that can be transferred in an IVF cycle, reflecting a national policy aim of reducing the rate of multiple pregnancy from fertility treatment while balancing the chance of a successful pregnancy. The treating clinic will discuss the number of embryos suitable for transfer based on individual factors such as age, embryo quality and treatment history. Anyone who conceives a multiple pregnancy after fertility treatment is usually referred for closer antenatal monitoring by an obstetric team experienced in managing multiple pregnancy, given the higher-risk nature of the pregnancy.
Also known as: twin pregnancy ivf, multiple pregnancy risk
Related India guides
Sources
- ICMR Standard Treatment Workflows (icmr.gov.in/standard-treatment-workflows-stws)
- Federation of Obstetric and Gynaecological Societies of India (fogsi.org)
Last reviewed: 9 September 2026. Written by the Antega Editorial Team. General information only — always follow the advice of your own clinic, doctor or pharmacist.