Study: Uterus transplant associated with high birth rates, but significant risks

Editor's Note

Uterus transplants are feasible, but the procedure is associated with considerable risks for both patient and organ donor, according to a study published August 15 in JAMA.  

Conducted at a large US tertiary care center, the study involved 20 women with absolute uterine-factor infertility—a condition that prevents pregnancy due to an absent or non-functional uterus—and at least 1 functioning ovary who received transplants between September 2016 and August 2019. Organs were sourced from 18 living donors and two deceased donors. Transplant was successful in 70% of the cases, with 14 recipients achieving at least one live birth following the procedure.

Although the study underscored the potential of uterus transplants as a viable option, complications were common. Of the 20 participants, 11 experienced at least one complication, including gestational hypertension, cervical insufficiency, and preterm labor. However, they reported no congenital abnormalities or developmental delays among the 16 live-born infants. Risks extend to donors as well, with four of the 18 living donors experiencing significant complications.

Limitations of the study include small sample size, results reflecting the experience of a single center, and the prohibitive cost of the transplant procedure.