Attitudes about genetic risk of couples undergoing in-vitro fertilization

Abstract

Many couples undergoing in-vitro fertilization (IVF) are at a higher risk of having a child with a genetic abnormality. In a sample of 55 consecutive couples starting IVF, only 33% had no genetic risk factor. The most common genetic risks were advanced maternal age and possible abnormalities associated with severe male infertility. Despite education on these risks, 71% of couples had no interest in receiving formal genetic counselling. Only 14% of couples at risk would consider using a gamete donor to avoid transmitting a genetic disorder to a child. The triple test to screen for fetal abnormalities was acceptable to 82% of couples, but only 47% planned to have amniocentesis or chorionic villi sampling. Couples were significantly more likely to opt for prenatal testing if they would consider terminating a pregnancy should the fetus have a severe genetic abnormality (P < 0.01). Roman Catholic couples tended to have more conservative attitudes about pregnancy termination. Socio-economic status and whether the infertility factor was male or female were not predictors of a couple's attitudes.