Twin Pregnancy IVF: What You Need to Know About Twins from IVF

When you undergo twin pregnancy IVF, a fertility treatment where multiple embryos are transferred to increase the chance of pregnancy, often resulting in twins. Also known as multiple gestation from IVF, it’s one of the most common outcomes—and concerns—for couples pursuing assisted reproduction in India. Unlike natural conception, where twins are rare, IVF makes twins significantly more likely. But why? And is it always a good thing?

The answer lies in how IVF works. Doctors often transfer more than one embryo to improve the odds of success, especially for women over 35 or those with lower ovarian reserve. If two embryos implant, you get twins. Sometimes, even a single embryo splits into two—called monozygotic twins—adding another layer to the mix. In India, clinics follow guidelines from the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), which recommend transferring no more than two embryos for women under 35. But in practice, many still go for two, especially if cost is a factor. That’s why IVF success rate, the percentage of cycles leading to a live birth, often includes twins as a positive outcome—but it’s not the whole story.

IVF embryo transfer, the process of placing embryos into the uterus is where the decision happens. More embryos don’t always mean better results. In fact, transferring two embryos raises the chance of twins by about 30%, but also increases risks: preterm birth, low birth weight, gestational diabetes, and preeclampsia. Studies from Apollo and Fortis hospitals show that twin pregnancies from IVF are twice as likely to deliver before 34 weeks compared to singletons. That’s why many top clinics now push for single embryo transfer (SET), especially for younger patients with good-quality embryos. It’s safer, and the overall live birth rate over two cycles is almost the same.

And then there’s the cost. In India, IVF can cost anywhere from ₹1.5 lakh to ₹3 lakh per cycle. If you get twins, you’re not getting double the joy for double the price—you’re getting double the medical risks, double the NICU stays, and double the long-term care needs. One couple in Pune shared how their twins spent 45 days in the NICU after a 32-week delivery. That’s not just emotional stress—it’s financial strain.

But here’s the truth: not all twin pregnancies from IVF are risky. Many parents have healthy twins born at full term. The difference? Careful monitoring, good nutrition, early prenatal care, and choosing a clinic that prioritizes safety over speed. The best clinics now use genetic testing (PGT-A) to pick the single most viable embryo, reducing the need for multiple transfers.

So if you’re considering IVF and hoping for twins, ask your doctor: What’s my chance of twins with one embryo? What’s the risk with two? Are you recommending SET? And what’s your twin pregnancy rate? These aren’t just questions—they’re your rights.

Below, you’ll find real stories, medical data, and expert advice from Indian fertility specialists on how twin pregnancies happen with IVF, what to expect, and how to make the safest choice for you and your future babies.