The Risks Of IVF Treatment
In Vitro Fertilization
(IVF) is a very complex procedure and there are many potential risks. While
fertility treatment drugs rarely cause serious complications, it is important
that couples understand the potential risks and side effects of IVF treatment before they begin treatment.
Multiple Pregnancies
Multiple pregnancies
occur in around 10-30% of IVF assisted cycles. Recent data from the USA
shows that 32% of pregnancies after IVF were twins and 7% were triplets or
more. The statistics for multiple pregnancies are higher due to the number of
eggs or embryos that are transferred. The number of embryos is directly related
to the risk level and this is a decision that is usually taken in consultation
with the patient's physician.
For many couples who
are struggling with infertility, the prospect of multiple pregnancies is
exciting. However, the risks of maternal and fetal complications are higher in
multiple pregnancies. There is a greater risk of late miscarriage or premature delivery. Women carrying a multiple pregnancy may need to spend weeks or months
in bed resting during the pregnancy.
There is an added
financial, emotional and physical strain with multiple pregnancies that puts
pressure on many couples. A recent option for women concerned with multiple
pregnancies is the use of selective fetal reduction. This is a controversial
procedure and there is about a 10% risk of miscarriage for the remaining fetus
with this procedure.
Ovarian
Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS)
Occasionally ovulation
stimulation from the fertility drugs can lead to ovarian Hyperstimulation
(OHSS). The effects of this condition range from abdominal bloating and
tenderness to the rarer occurrence of liver and kidney disorders.
OHSS occurs when huge
amounts of estrogen pour into the abdominal cavity. This "leakage"
can cause the ovaries and abdomen to swell alongside dizziness and discomfort.
Rarely hospitalization is required for this condition.
Physical Demands
IVF can be a very
physically demanding procedure. It involves many blood tests, hormone
stimulation, anesthetic and operations. It is common for women to suffer from
lethargy and fatigue as a result of treatments.
Additional risks from
IVF include injuries to the bowel, bladder and blood vessels during the removal
of eggs through an aspirating needle.
Emotional Risks
There is also a significant
psychological risk in IVF treatments. The process can require a lot of time,
money and energy and does not guarantee that couples will get pregnant. The
treatments are lengthy and costly and do not have a high first time success
rate. Couples often feel times of anger, frustration and sometimes depression.
Family support is crucial at these times.
Despite the potential
risks and complications of IVF, it is important to remember that the risk for birth
defects is not increased with IVF treatment. Over a hundred thousand babies
have now been born after successful IVF treatment.
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