Voluntary multifetal pregnancy reduction: who should decide and select, and why?

Abstract

Over the last four decades, the increase in assisted reproductive medicine has led to a growing incidence of multiple pregnancies. As a result, Multifetal Pregnancy Reduction, which consists of reducing the number of fetuses, usually in the late first trimester, has become a method to avoid complications associated with multiple pregnancies, such as fetal loss and preterm birth. In this paper, we will discuss the ethical dilemmas surrounding this issue by reviewing various possible situations and reexamining the laws regulating elective abortion to develop a bioethical discussion underlining clinical practice.