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Semin Reprod Med 2012; 30(02): 116-122
DOI: 10.1055/s-0032-1307419
Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Catastrophic Consequences of Assisted Reproduction: The Case of Turner Syndrome

Megan F. Karnis
1   Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hamilton Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
2   Ontario Network of Experts in Fertility (ONE Fertility), Burlington, Ontario, Canada
› Author Affiliations
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Publication History

Publication Date:
27 April 2012 (online)

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Abstract

Women with Turner syndrome are generally infertile due to premature ovarian failure. Few may achieve a spontaneous pregnancy, and others may conceive through assisted reproductive technologies including oocyte donation. These pregnancies are high risk due to the medical conditions associated with Turner syndrome. Maternal death from aortic dissection in pregnancies of women with Turner syndrome is estimated at 2%. These pregnancies are also complicated by severe hypertensive disorders and fetal morbidity and mortality. Guidelines for preconception screening and counseling now exist that may mitigate the maternal and fetal risks associated with pregnancy in women with Turner syndrome.

Keywords

Turner syndrome - pregnancy - maternal mortality - aortic dissection - oocyte donation
 

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