Does IVF affect health?
IVF is an artificial reproduction method that combines eggs and sperm in the laboratory to produce embryos, and then implant the embryos into the mother through IVF technology. Although the development of IVF technology provides a hope for the fertility of infertile couples, people generally pay attention to the impact of IVF on health. This article will elaborate on this from four aspects.
Physical health - 1 Birth defect rate
Some studies show that the birth defect rate of IVF is slightly higher than that of naturally conceived infants. This may be related to the control technology and the environment of embryo implantation. According to a study conducted by University College London, the risk of birth defects in test tube babies is about 1.4 times that of naturally conceived babies. However, this risk is still relatively low because most IVF babies are healthy.
In addition, many IVF babies are born in special fertility clinics, which usually have a set of strict operating procedures and quality control standards to ensure the normal development of embryos. Therefore, if qualified hospitals and doctors are selected, the birth defect rate of IVF can be effectively controlled.
Physical health - 2 Pregnancy complications
Since IVF technology usually requires the use of assisted reproductive drugs, this may increase the risk of pregnancy complications. For example, multiple pregnancy is one of the common risks of IVF. The birth rate of twins is significantly higher than that of naturally conceived infants, which brings certain risks to the health of both mother and fetus.
In addition, IVF pregnant women may also face some common pregnancy complications such as hypertension and gestational diabetes. However, strict pre pregnancy assessment and individualized monitoring can help reduce the risk of these complications. If pregnant women receive appropriate support and medical care during IVF, these risks can be effectively controlled.
Physical health - 3 mental health
The process of IVF may have some impact on women's mental health. For infertile couples, IVF is a way to achieve their fertility aspirations. However, many women may feel disappointed, anxious and depressed when there are unsuccessful results during IVF.
Professional psychological counseling and support can help IVF couples deal with these emotional problems and provide positive psychological counseling. Hospitals also usually provide relevant psychological support services to help couples maintain good mental health during IVF.
Physical health - 4 Long term impact
Although there are not enough long-term studies to assess the long-term health impact of IVF, some preliminary research results show that IVF may face some specific health problems in adulthood. For example, one study found that test tube babies may have relatively high cholesterol levels and blood pressure.
However, these studies have not yet reached a clear conclusion, so further studies are needed to assess the long-term health of IVF infants. At the same time, reasonable diet, healthy lifestyle and regular physical examination are important factors to keep healthy, whether in vitro or naturally conceived infants.
summary
Although IVF technology has brought fertility hope to infertile couples, there are still some concerns about health. The slight increase of birth defect rate, the risk of pregnancy complications, mental health problems and potential long-term effects need to be paid attention to. However, qualified hospitals and doctors, strict operating procedures and quality control standards, and comprehensive medical care can help reduce these risks. IVF couples should actively seek professional support and advice, and follow the doctor's advice to ensure the health of the baby and mother.
