What are the medical risks of IVF?
IVF technology is a major breakthrough in the medical field in recent years, giving many infertile couples the opportunity to realize their reproductive dreams. However, this technology is not perfect, and there are certain medical risks. This article will elaborate on the medical risks of IVF from the aspects of genetic risk, pregnancy complications, psychological pressure, success rate, etc.
Genetic risk
An important part of IVF technology is embryo culture and screening. In this process, chromosomal abnormalities may occur in embryos. Chromosome abnormalities may lead to termination of pregnancy or birth defects if embryos are transplanted into the uterus. In addition, chromosome abnormalities are also related to the occurrence of some genetic diseases. For example, an embryo with abnormal chromosomes carrying three of chromosome 21 may produce offspring with Down syndrome.
In addition, the artificial assisted reproduction technology (including in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer) used in IVF technology may lead to the transmission of some genetic diseases. For example, in the process of in vitro fertilization, if the man carries a genetic defect and injects his sperm into the egg by technical means, it may cause some risks of genetic diseases to the offspring.
Therefore, in IVF technology, genetic risks need to be paid attention to and guarded against.
Pregnancy complications
The success of IVF does not mean that the mother has no risk during pregnancy. In fact, IVF babies have a relatively high risk of pregnancy. First, because IVF technology usually produces multiple ovulations through hormone therapy, it increases the risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome. In addition, the probability of IVF multiple pregnancy is also high, which may lead to premature delivery, low birth weight, placental insufficiency and other complications.
Pregnancy complications also include pre eclampsia and an increased risk of gestational diabetes. Once preeclampsia occurs, it may lead to serious consequences such as decreased maternal urination, liver and kidney function damage, and endanger the life and health of mothers and fetuses. Gestational diabetes will increase the risk of birth defects and macrosomia.
Therefore, before IVF technology, couples should fully understand the risks of related pregnancy complications and be prepared.
Psychological pressure
For many infertile couples, IVF technology is the last glimmer of hope for them to realize their reproductive dreams. However, the success rate of IVF is not 100%, which brings great psychological pressure to couples.
In the process of IVF, couples need to go through a series of examinations, treatment and waiting. This uncertainty and long-term process may lead to psychological problems such as anxiety and depression. Couples may feel great pressure and even doubt and blame themselves for their fertility.
Therefore, before using IVF technology, couples should fully understand the possibility of their psychological pressure, and try to reduce the pressure through psychological counseling and other means.
Success rate
The success rate of IVF technology is affected by many factors, including age, egg and sperm quality, uterine environment, etc. According to statistical data, the success rate of IVF technology is about 30% to 40%.
However, this does not mean that every couple can successfully achieve IVF. Age is an important influencing factor. When women are over 35 years old, the success rate of IVF will decline significantly. In addition, if the quality of eggs or sperm is poor, the success rate will also be reduced.
Therefore, before using IVF technology, couples need to understand the uncertainty of success rate and be prepared psychologically and economically.
Summary
Although IVF technology has brought hope to many infertile couples, it also has certain medical risks. Genetic risk may lead to embryo chromosome abnormalities and transmission of genetic diseases. Pregnancy complications include ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, multiple pregnancy, pre eclampsia and gestational diabetes. Psychological pressure is a big challenge that couples need to face in the process of IVF. The uncertainty of success rate also brings pressure and anxiety to couples. Therefore, before IVF technology, couples should fully understand these medical risks and be prepared, including psychological counseling and financial preparation.
