In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a type of assisted reproductive technology (ART) where egg and sperm are fertilized outside the body. People choose this method to become parents if they struggle to conceive the baby naturally. However, there can be certain in vitro fertilization complications. In the following article, IVF baby complications are discussed in detail.
The Procedure of IVF Treatment
The following are the procedures followed in the IVF treatment:
- Stimulation
A woman typically produces one egg during each mensurational cycle. However, IVF needs multiple eggs. Using multiple eggs improves the chances of developing an embryo. The woman will receive fertility medications to increase the number of eggs the body produces. During this time, the expert will conduct ultrasounds & blood tests to monitor eggs' production and when is the right time to retrieve them.
- Egg Retrieval
Egg retrieval is called follicular aspiration. It is a surgical method performed with anesthesia. A specialist will use an ultrasound probe to guide a needle through the vagina into the ovary. The needle is attached to a suction device that collects the eggs. An expert performs this method on each ovary.
- Insemination
An expert will mix the sperm and the eggs in a petri dish. If that does not produce embryos, the doctor may use ICSI (intracytoplasmic sperm injection) technology.
- Embryo Culture
Embryologists will observe the fertilized eggs to ensure they divide from two or more cells until the blastocyst stage. In addition, the embryos may undergo testing for genetic conditions.
- Embryo Transfer
A catheter (thin tube-like equipment) is inserted into the vagina through the woman’s cervix into the uterus. Then the embryo is transferred into the woman's uterus. Gestation happens when the embryo is implanted in the uterus wall. It can take 7-10 days. A blood test will determine if she is pregnant.
It is best for couples to have a basic knowledge of IVF procedures and the possible complications of IVF. This will help them preplan and enjoy parenthood without any trouble.
In Vitro Fertilization Complications
Various IVF baby complications are mentioned below-
- Multiple Births: Having a gestation with more than one child is more likely with in vitro fertilization. IVF increases the risk when more than one embryo is transferred. Multiple pregnancies raise the risk of preterm labor, gestational diabetes, high blood pressure, etc.
- Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS): It is the most common complication of IVF. Rarely the medicines used to stimulate ovaries to make eggs can cause ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS). This occurs when there is an over response to the medicines being used, and the hormone levels become very high. OHSS symptoms are typically mild and lead to problems such as weight gain, bloating, and nausea.
- Complications by Egg-Retrieval Procedure: Mild to moderate pelvic & abdominal pain can be felt after or during the method. In rare cases, the egg retrieval process can cause infections, bleeding, or damage to the bladder, blood vessels, etc. Anesthesia-related risks can also be there.
- Low Birth Weight & Premature Delivery: Research shows that IVF slightly raises the risk that the child will be born prematurely or with a low birth weight.
- Ectopic pregnancy: It occurs when the embryo grows outside the uterus in the fallopian tubes. It is a serious & rare IVF baby complication.
- Wrong Birth: Accidental handling, labeling, and other errors with the samples are among the common In Vitro Fertilization Complications. If the couple has just had their child with IVF or is expecting, DNA testing can assist in accurately identifying if the baby is biologically related.
How Can DNA Forensics Laboratory Pvt. Ltd. Help?
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