In vitro fertilization is trusted by fertility specialists around the country to help patients overcome infertility, which is often described as an inability to get pregnant after a year of unprotected sex. For women over 35, it’s typically considered infertility after six months of unprotected sex. Risk factors for infertility include age, smoking, alcohol consumption, or over or underweight. Exercising too much may contribute as well. If you’re experiencing difficulty getting pregnant, it’s often helpful to speak with a specialist about possible causes of the condition, as well as treatment options such as in vitro fertilization.
Like any procedure, though, there are certain risks involved with IVF that patients should be aware of when seeking treatment. Women often take fertility drugs to produce eggs for this procedure, which may cause ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome. This is a condition in which the ovaries become enlarged. It may be very painful, and women may experience bloating, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, or diarrhea. Severe symptoms may include shortness of breath or weight gain. Those who experience these symptoms should inform their doctor. Some fertility drugs may increase the risk of ovarian cancer, so women should discuss this risk with their doctor before beginning any fertility medication.
IVF also carries a risk of multiple pregnancies when more than one embryo is transferred to the uterus for implantation. With multiple pregnancies come other risks such as low birth weight or early labor. Some studies indicate that the procedure itself may also increase these risks. Other potential risks involved with this procedure include bleeding in the first trimester, miscarriage and ectopic pregnancy. Some studies have indicated that in vitro fertilization carries a higher risk of birth defects like heart problems and cleft lip. The risk remains low, however, and more research is needed.
During the actual egg retrieval procedure, complications may occur. These are rare, but women should be aware of them nonetheless. Risks may include bleeding, infection and damage to internal structures such as the bowel, bladder and blood vessels. If you undergo general anesthesia, other complications are possible as well.
Before undergoing IVF or any fertility procedure, it’s important that couples discuss the risks with a specialist in their area. Be forthcoming with your fertility specialist and inform him or her of any medical problems or family medical histories. Doing so may help to identify certain heightened risks with some procedures such as this one, allowing patients to undergo other treatments that may be helpful.
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