End-of-life decision making regarding infants of artificial reproductive techniques and spontaneous conception

Objective: Our goal was to determine if differences exist in the decisions made regarding dying infants based on method of conception. No studies have examined end-of-life decisions for infants regarding method of conception. Study design: We reviewed the charts of infants who were born and died in our institution between January 1, 2001 through December 31, 2005. Method of conception, maternal age, marital status, level of education, religion, insurance, gestational age, cause of death and withdrawal of life-sustaining care were recorded. Statistical analysis was performed using Pearson Chi-squared tests of independence. Results: Fifty-six mother/infant pairs were available for information. Artificial reproduction techniques (ART) were more likely to be utilized by women who were over 35 years old and married (p < 0.05). Withdrawal of care was not statistically significant regarding method of conception or gestational age (p > 0.05). Although not statistically significant, in this study it appears that single mothers may be less likely to withdraw support. Conclusions: Neither method of conception nor gestation age is a determinant factor in withdrawal of life-sustaining care. Marital status may be an important factor and further investigation is necessary to determine the reason.