Womb transplant success

Wednesday October 8th, 2014

A Swedish doctor has talked about the first birth of a child achieved after a womb transplant procedure.

The baby was born early last month to a woman who was among nine who have received new wombs from live donors.

Seven of the women have been trying to become pregnant this year.

The first successful mother received a womb donated from an unrelated woman of 61.

The baby was born by Caesarean section after 32 weeks of pregnancy and weight just under 4lbs (1.775g).

Researcher Professor Mats Brännström, of the University of Gothenburg, said: "The baby screamed right away and has not required any other care than normal clinical observation at the neonatal unit. The mother and child are both doing well and have returned home.

"The new parents are of course very happy and thankful."

The baby was delivered after the mother developed pre-eclampsia.

Professor Brännström said: "The reason for the woman’s preeclampsia is unknown, but it may be due to her immunosuppressive treatment combined with the fact that she is missing one kidney. The age of the donated womb may also be a factor.

"Also, preeclampsia is generally more common among women who have become pregnant through IVF treatment."

He added: "It gives us scientific evidence that the concept of uterus transplantation can be used to treat uterine factor infertility, which up to now has remained the last untreatable form of female infertility. It also shows that transplants with a live donor are possible, including if the donor is past menopause."

Livebirth after uterus transplantation. Lancet October 2014, doi:10.1016/S0140-6736(14)61728-1

Tags: Childbirth and Pregnancy | Europe | Transplant | Women's Health & Gynaecology

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