Home / Health / Japan ART Pregnancies Surge After Insurance Change
Japan ART Pregnancies Surge After Insurance Change
14 Jun
Summary
- Multiple pregnancies from ART hit record 4,354 cases in 2023.
- Cases rose 36% after fertility treatment became insured.
- Higher risk pregnancies increase due to insurance coverage limits.
Multiple pregnancies resulting from assisted reproductive technology (ART) in Japan reached an all-time high of 4,354 cases in 2023. This marks a substantial 36 percent increase from 2022, following the inclusion of fertility treatments within Japan's public health insurance system.
Researchers believe the rise in multiple births, such as twins and triplets, may be linked to patients opting to transfer multiple embryos. This strategy aims to increase the chances of successful pregnancy within the restricted number of cycles covered by insurance. The Japan Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology advocates for single embryo transfers due to the elevated risks for both mother and child.
The public insurance system in Japan covers embryo transfers for women under 40 up to six times, and for women aged 40 to 42, up to three times. Experts suggest a review of the insurance system is necessary, considering the potential strain on perinatal care from high-risk pregnancies.
While the rate of multiple pregnancies had previously declined to around 3 percent from 2014 onwards, it rose to 3.8 percent in 2023. This recent increase coincided with the expanded insurance coverage for fertility treatments. The study also noted a particular increase in double or multiple embryo transfers among individuals aged 41 and older.
