In vitro fertilisation

In vitro fertilisation (IVF) is a technique in which egg cells are fertilized outside the woman's body. IVF is a major treatment in infertility where other methods of achieving conception have failed.

Complications

The major complication of IVF is the development of multiple births. This is directly related to the practice of placing multiple embryos at embryo transfer. Multiple birth are related to increased pregnancy loss, premature labor, obstetrical complications, prematurity, and neonatal morbidity with the potential for long term damage. Strict embryo transfer policies have been enacted to reduce this problem, but are not universally followed or accepted. Spontaneous splitting of embryos in the womb after transfer does occur, but is rare (

Related Topics:
Multiple birth - Prematurity

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Recent evidence suggest that singleton offspring after IVF is at higher risk for lower birth weight for unknown reasons.

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Another major complication, related to the use of ovarian stimulation is the development of the ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome.

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If the underlying infertility is related to abnormalities in spermatogenesis, it is plausible, but too early to examine that male offspring is at higher risk for sperm abnormalities.

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Birth defects

The issue of birth defects remains a controversial topic in IVF. A majority of studies do not show a significant increase after use of IVF. Some studies suggest higher rates for ICSI , while others do not support this finding {{ref|2}}. Major birth defect include chromosomal abnormalities, genetic imprinting defects, and multiple organ abnormalities. Hansen et al conducted a systematic review of published studies (including ICSI) and found a 30-40% increase risk of birth defects associated with assisted reproductive technology when compared to children born after spontaneous conception {{ref|3}}. Possible explanations offered were the underlying cause of the infertility, factors associated with IVF/ICSI, culture conditions, and medications, however, the actual cause is not known.

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