What are the potential risks of Generation 1 IVF?
The first generation of IVF refers to the babies who are fertilized in vitro and transplanted into the mother's body through assisted reproductive technology (ART). Although IVF technology has been widely used in many hospitals, this technology also has some potential risks. This article will elaborate on the risks of IVF from four aspects: genetic factors, pregnancy complications, mental health and long-term effects.
1. Genetic factors
The genetic factors of the first generation IVF are an important risk factor. First, the operation of fertilization process may lead to chromosome abnormalities or gene mutations, increasing the risk of abnormal embryonic development and congenital diseases. Secondly, because babies come from in vitro fertilization and transplantation, many times only one or a few embryos are available for selection, which may lead to the transmission of genetic diseases. Therefore, it is very important for couples carrying genetic disease genes to consult genetic experts.
In addition, IVF also faces the risk of multiple endometriosis and multiple pregnancy. Multiple endometriosis may lead to early abortion, ectopic pregnancy and infertility, while multiple pregnancy increases the risk of premature delivery, low birth weight and other related complications.
2. Pregnancy complications
There are also some potential risks in the pregnancy part of IVF. These risks include but are not limited to pre eclampsia, gestational diabetes, gestational hypertension, and preterm delivery. Since IVF technology is usually used to treat infertile patients, these patients may have some pregnancy related health problems, which further increases the risk of pregnancy complications.
In addition, IVF pregnancy usually needs to be assisted by hormone drugs, which may also bring some side effects and risks, such as ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS). This symptom can lead to problems such as ovarian swelling, abdominal discomfort and breathing difficulties.
3. Mental health
IVF is often an important psychological pressure and challenge for couples. Infertility itself will bring troubles to the couple's mental health, while the IVF process needs to face both expected and uncertain results. If repeated attempts fail or pregnancy complications occur, it may have a serious impact on the couple's mental health, leading to anxiety, depression or psychological trauma.
In addition, for IVF, there may be some complex emotional entanglements with biological kinship. For example, for couples who use donated eggs or sperm, the genetic relationship with infants may need further processing and adaptation.
4. Long term impact
The long-term effects of IVF need further research and observation. Current research shows that IVF may have a slight delay in development and growth, including language development, intellectual development and motor ability. However, the specific reasons are not clear, which may be related to premature delivery, pregnancy complications and genetic factors related to infertility.
It should be noted that the situation of each IVF is unique, and the above risks and impacts may only be the case of some cases, not all IVF cases. Therefore, before choosing IVF technology, we should fully understand its risks and potential impacts, and have in-depth discussions and consultations with doctors.
Summary
Although the generation of IVF is an important technology for infertile couples to obtain fertility opportunities, there are some potential risks in the implementation process. Genetic factors may lead to abnormal embryonic development and risk of genetic diseases; Pregnancy complications include pre eclampsia, gestational diabetes and premature delivery; Mental health may face pressure and emotional distress; The long-term impact needs further study. Therefore, when choosing IVF technology, patients should fully understand the risks and have full consultation and discussion with doctors.
