The disadvantages of using IVF to have a baby - and why you should not be concerned
For couples facing fertility challenges, IVF offers hope, but it can also come with questions and concerns. Will my baby be healthy? Could IVF have long-term effects on development? On this page, we answer those questions.
IVF is a complex and invasive process, raising concerns for many couples considering this option. Some even worry about potential impacts on the baby’s development or health. However, research shows that there is no reason to worry, as there is no difference between children conceived through intercourse and children conceived through IVF/ICSI or other forms of assisted reproduction.
Even though no evidence supports a link between IVF and a child’s development, there are still disadvantages of using IVF to conceive. However, the risks and side effects of IVF only affect the patient and are considered small. Continue reading to learn more about the most common risks of IVF.
Let us help you on your journey to parenthood
At Cryos, we give you full access to all donor profiles including pictures, voice recordings, handwritten letters, and more. Just create an online account by providing only your name, email, and country. A Cryos account is free and non-binding.
The risks/disadvantages of IVF
The disadvantages of IVF differ very much in terms of severity and regularity. Here are the most common disadvantages of IVF treatment.
Multiple births/pregnancies
In some cases, IVF can increase the chances of multiple pregnancies. Multiple pregnancies are linked with a higher risk for the woman carrying the child and the children and may cause high blood pressure, gestational diabetes, premature labour, and low birth weight.
Side effects of fertility medication
In IVF, fertility medication is used to stimulate egg production, which can cause side effects like mood swings, fatigue, abdominal discomfort, and headaches.
Ovarian hyperstimulation (OHSS)
OHSS is a rare side effect of fertility medications and occurs when the ovaries are overstimulated. Symptoms include pain, bloating, nausea, and swelling in the ovaries, and it may cause fluid to leak into the abdomen.
Complications from egg retrieval
During egg retrieval, the patient is sedated before a fertility doctor retrieves the eggs from the ovaries. While the procedure is safe the patient should take the rest of the day off as many experience mild discomfort and dizziness from the sedation.
Ectopic pregnancy
Ectopic pregnancy occurs when the embryo attaches outside the uterus causing abdominal pain and vaginal bleeding. There is no way a pregnancy can occur outside the uterus, which means that it must be removed, often through surgery.
Do not worry, with proper care these risks are manageable and if you have any questions or experience any of the symptoms above, you can always contact your fertility clinic. Continue reading for studies researching the link between children born through IVF and their future development.
Relevant articles about IVF
Research on the risks of having a baby through IVF
Here below you can read some of the research studying the link between children's development and being born through IVF treatment. Both studies are peer-reviewed and can be read in their full version by following the link.
Development of Children Born After IVF and ICSI
By Michael Ludwig
This study compared the cognitive, physical, and behavioural development of children conceived through IVF to their peers. Results from the study showed that children born through IVF or ICSI do not experience significant developmental disadvantages compared to children conceived through sexual intercourse. However, there may be small differences in birth weight and premature birth, but these do not extend into long-term cognitive or behavioural issues.
Cognitive and Behavioral Outcomes of Children Born After IVF at Age 9 years
By K.R. Heineman, D.B. Kuiper, Sla Bastide-van Gemert, M.J. Heineman, and M. Hadders-Algra
The researchers examined factors such as IQ, emotional and behavioural health, and school performance for children conceived through IVF. The results showed no significant difference in IQ scores or behavioural outcomes between children born through IVF or ICSI and those conceived through sexual intercourse.
Preparing for IVF
Depending on your fertility and lifestyle, there are many ways to prepare for IVF:
- Relax: IVF usually involves several clinic appointments and perhaps hormone stimulation, which can be stressful and full of hope as well as anxiety. Therefore, many prepare for IVF by trying to relax, enjoy their time and get their mind on anything else than the upcoming treatment.
- Increase your fertility through lifestyle changes: If you struggle with low fertility, try to change your lifestyle to include a more varied and healthy diet alongside regular exercise. Lifestyle affects your fertility, and a healthier lifestyle may increase your chances of success.
- Do your research: While some try to increase their chances of success or enjoy the – perhaps - last quiet time before pregnancy and parenthood, others feel the need to research the process to understand what they are about to go through. Follow the link to read an in-depth explanation of IVF.
FAQ about the disadvantages of using IVF to have a baby
Can IVF babies have problems?
Yes, but not because they are born through fertility treatment. Studies show that babies born from IVF are no different from other children.
What are the side effects of IVF on babies?
There are no side effects of IVF on babies, as studies show no significant difference between babies born from sexual intercourse and children born from IVF or any other type of assisted reproduction.
Could babies conceived through IVF face fertility issues later in life?
Current research indicates that individuals conceived through IVF generally have similar fertility to those conceived naturally, with no increased risk of reproductive issues. Long-term studies are ongoing to confirm these findings.