Risks and side effects of IVF protocol
IVF is an assisted reproductive technology that can help couples who cannot conceive naturally achieve their reproductive aspirations. However, there are some risks and side effects associated with IVF programmes. It is important for couples to understand and assess these potential risks before taking action.
1. Physiological risks and side effects
The IVF program involves endocrine drug therapy, egg collection, embryo transfer and other steps, which may bring some risks and side effects.
First, endocrine drug therapy may lead to the occurrence of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS). OHSS is a disease caused by ovarian hyperstimulation. Its main symptoms include abdominal distension, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, etc. In serious cases, OHSS may lead to thrombosis, pulmonary embolism and other complications.
Secondly, the process of egg collection may cause pain, bleeding, infection and other complications. Although the incidence of these complications is low, it still needs attention.
Finally, the side effects after embryo transfer are mainly caused by drugs, for example, hormone drugs may lead to mood fluctuations, breast pain, etc. In addition, a few patients may have abdominal pain, vaginal bleeding, frequent urination and other symptoms.
2. Psychological risks and side effects
In addition to physiological risks and side effects, the IVF program may also have a certain impact on the couple's psychology.
First of all, infertility itself will bring psychological pressure and anxiety to couples. The IVF program may increase this pressure, because it requires a lot of testing, treatment and waiting, and may not be successful.
Secondly, the costs associated with IVF may also become a psychological burden. The IVF program requires considerable funds, and couples need to be financially prepared and take risks.
Finally, the preparation and treatment process in the IVF program may interfere with the couple's life to some extent, for example, they need to give up certain habits or activities and spend a lot of time waiting for treatment in the hospital.
3. Success rate and risk of multiple pregnancy
The success rate of IVF is not 100%. The success rate will be affected by many factors, such as age, egg quality, and other diseases. For some couples, multiple attempts can lead to success, which may increase the psychological and economic burden.
In addition, the IVF protocol may increase the risk of multiple pregnancies. In order to improve the success rate, doctors sometimes implant multiple embryos at the same time during the transfer phase. However, multiple pregnancies increase the risk of complications during pregnancy, such as premature delivery, low birth weight, and developmental problems.
4. Social and ethical issues
The IVF programme also raises some social and ethical issues.
First of all, the high cost of IVF programs makes couples from different social strata face unequal opportunities. Only couples with good financial conditions can afford such treatment.
Secondly, the IVF program has triggered a series of ethical issues. For example, in the process of embryo transfer, the practice of genetic screening of embryos to select certain gender and traits has aroused controversy. In addition, the treatment and use of frozen embryos also involve thinking about life and morality.
summary
Although the IVF program has brought hope to many infertile couples, it also has certain risks and side effects. These include physical risks and side effects, psychological risks and side effects, success rates and multiple pregnancy risks, as well as social and ethical issues. Couples should fully understand and assess these risks before making decisions, choose appropriate programs and rely on doctors' guidance for treatment.
