What are the risks of preterm IVF babies?
IVF is an embryo that is fertilized and cultured in the laboratory through assisted reproductive technology, and then transferred to the mother's uterus for development. However, for various reasons, IVF babies may sometimes be born prematurely than normal pregnant babies. Preterm delivery refers to babies born before 37 weeks of pregnancy. Premature infants may face a series of health risks and complications, including respiratory insufficiency, cardiovascular problems, digestive problems and neurodevelopmental disorders.
Incomplete respiratory system
Premature infants may not have a fully developed respiratory system, which means they may be at risk of breathing difficulties or respiratory failure. IVF preterm infants may face a higher risk of respiratory problems because their lungs may not have enough time to fully develop. This may lead to the need for a ventilator to assist breathing, and may even require long-term oxygen treatment.
In addition, premature infants may also be at risk of respiratory distress syndrome, a serious respiratory problem caused by insufficient pulmonary surfactant. This may require that infants receive hormone therapy or synthetic surfactants to help their lungs develop and improve respiratory function.
Cardiovascular problems
Premature infants may be at risk of cardiovascular problems, including structural abnormalities in the heart, arrhythmia, and blood pressure problems. These health problems may require cardiac examination and monitoring after the birth of the baby, and treatment, including surgical intervention or drug treatment, as required.
In addition, premature infants may face lower weight and smaller size, which may lead to insufficient blood supply, making them more prone to cardiovascular problems. To reduce these risks, doctors may monitor the baby's blood flow and heart function and provide appropriate treatment.
Digestive problems
The digestive system of premature infants may not be fully mature, which may affect the ability of food digestion and absorption. Preterm IVF infants may face a higher risk of intestinal problems, such as poor gastrointestinal development and bowel failure. These problems may need to be managed through feeding tube or surgical intervention, and appropriate feeding strategies should be adopted to ensure adequate nutrition for infants.
In order to help the digestive system development of premature infants, doctors may provide nutritional support for infants, including special formula milk or other diets containing specific ingredients. In addition, preterm infants may also need regular intestinal examination and evaluation to ensure the normal development and function of the digestive system.
Neurodevelopmental disorder
Premature infants may be at risk of neurodevelopmental disorders, including brain damage, mental retardation and motor development problems. IVF babies born prematurely may face a higher risk because their brains may not be fully developed.
To help prevent and manage these risks, doctors may assess and monitor the neurodevelopment of premature infants, as well as early intervention measures. This may include the provision of appropriate early rehabilitation treatment, special education and other support measures to help the infant's neurodevelopment.
Summary
In vitro preterm infants may face a variety of risks such as incomplete respiratory system, cardiovascular problems, digestive problems and neurodevelopmental disorders. These risks need to be managed and treated through regular monitoring and intervention by doctors. When considering IVF babies, prospective parents should understand and accept these potential risks, and work closely with doctors to ensure that they can provide appropriate care and support to promote the healthy development of premature infants.
