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What are Common IVF Risks?

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Common in vitro fertilization (IVF) risks include multiple pregnancy, complications related to ovarian stimulation, and failure of IVF treatment. Risks vary, depending on a patient's age and a doctor's level of experience. Patients interested in minimizing risks should discuss them thoroughly with their doctors so they can learn more about IVF risks and make an informed decision about IVF and the management of an IVF pregnancy.

Many of the IVF risks identified in studies of IVF pregnancies, such as miscarriage and ectopic pregnancy, are believed to be related not to IVF, but to multiple pregnancies. Using assisted reproductive technology is more likely to cause a multiple pregnancy, and such pregnancies come with increased risks, including birth defects for the babies, preterm labor, and other potential complications. Studies linking IVF with increased genetic risks like the development of birth defects have difficulty controlling for all factors, and some researchers suggest that many of these risks could be better attributed to carrying multiples than to using IVF for pregnancy.

A diagram of the female reproductive system.
A diagram of the female reproductive system.

People using their own eggs for IVF are at risk of some complications as a result of ovarian stimulation, including an increased risk of cancer in the future, the development of cysts, and a condition called ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome. Medications used during this process can also potentially have side effects, creating IVF risks. Once the eggs are harvested and embryos are cultured in the lab and implanted, the primary concern is failure of treatment. IVF can fail for a wide variety of reasons and in addition to being costly and frustrating, can also be emotionally traumatic.

During IVF, sperm and embryo are joined in a laboratory setting.
During IVF, sperm and embryo are joined in a laboratory setting.

If the pregnancy implants successfully, the risks are similar to those associated with any other pregnancy, with no known special IVF risks. A woman carrying a single fetus who is in good health has a relatively low risk of complications as long as she receives regular prenatal care. Women carrying multiples have increased risks associated with the pregnancy because of the multiple fetuses. For this reason, people are sometimes advised to consider a procedure called selective reduction, where the size of the pregnancy is reduced for safety.

Miscarriage is a common risk of IVF pregnancies.
Miscarriage is a common risk of IVF pregnancies.

A fertility specialist should be able to provide a patient with a comprehensive overview of specific IVF risks for a particular case and can offer information on reducing or addressing risks. Patients concerned about risks may also find it helpful to meet with people who have successfully completed IVF to learn more about their pregnancies and experiences during IVF treatment.

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a WiseGEEK researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Learn more...
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a WiseGEEK researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Learn more...

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    • A diagram of the female reproductive system.
      By: isyste
      A diagram of the female reproductive system.
    • During IVF, sperm and embryo are joined in a laboratory setting.
      By: Giovanni Cancemi
      During IVF, sperm and embryo are joined in a laboratory setting.
    • Miscarriage is a common risk of IVF pregnancies.
      By: 9nong
      Miscarriage is a common risk of IVF pregnancies.
    • Regular prenatal care is recommended for women who become pregnant during IVF.
      By: WavebreakMediaMicro
      Regular prenatal care is recommended for women who become pregnant during IVF.