Last Updated on January 25, 2024 by Shabnam Sengupta
IVF stands for in vitro fertilisation. It is a type of assisted reproductive technology (ART) used to help individuals or couples conceive a child when they are facing difficulties in achieving pregnancy naturally. In this article, we will discuss whether IVF pregnancies are high-risk and the reasons behind it.
Can pregnancies achieved through IVF be high-risk?
In general, in vitro fertilisation (IVF) pregnancies may have a slightly higher risk than natural pregnancies. However, it’s important to note that the overall risk of IVF pregnancy can vary depending on individual factors, such as the age and health of the mother, the number of embryos transferred, and any pre-existing medical conditions. If you are considering IVF, it is important to talk to your doctor about the risks of high-risk pregnancy. Your doctor can help you decide if IVF is the right option for you and can develop a plan to manage any potential risks.
Why are IVF pregnancies high-risk?
IVF pregnancies can be high-risk for several reasons. However, not every IVF pregnancy can be high-risk. A few reasons which can make it high-risk as follows:
Miscarriage
The risk of miscarriage is slightly higher in IVF pregnancies than in natural pregnancies.
Multiple births
IVF pregnancies are more likely to result in multiple births, such as twins or triplets. Multiple births are considered high-risk pregnancies because they can lead to premature birth, low birth weight, and other health problems for the babies.
Preterm birth
It is a serious condition that occurs when a baby is born before 37 weeks of pregnancy. Preterm babies are at an increased risk for health problems, such as respiratory distress syndrome, necrotizing enterocolitis, and cerebral palsy. IVF increases the risk of preterm birth.
Low birth weight
It is a condition that occurs when a baby is born weighing less than 5.5 pounds. IVF pregnancies can be at an increased risk of low birth weight. It causes an increased risk of health problems.
Placenta previa
It is a condition that occurs when the placenta implants in the lower part of the uterus, near or covering the cervix. Placenta previa can cause bleeding during pregnancy and childbirth. Research states that the risk of placenta previa can be as high as six-fold in pregnancies conceived by assisted fertilisation compared with naturally conceived.
Preeclampsia
It is a serious condition that can occur during pregnancy. Pregnant women with IVF are more susceptible to preeclampsia. It is characterised by high blood pressure, protein in the urine, and swelling. Preeclampsia can lead to serious health problems for the mother and the baby, such as seizures and preterm birth.
Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS)
OHSS is a potential complication of IVF treatment that can cause abdominal pain, bloating, and fluid accumulation in the abdomen and chest. Severe cases of OHSS can be dangerous and require medical intervention.
Older age
Age may also be a contributor to the high risk of IVF pregnancies. Women who use IVF are often older than women who conceive naturally, and older women are at an increased risk for complications such as gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and placenta previa.
In conclusion, if you are pregnant after IVF, it is important to see your doctor regularly for prenatal care. Your doctor can monitor your pregnancy and make sure that you and your baby are healthy.
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