In vitro fertilization: health risks
In vitro fertilization refers to artificial insemination achieved through in vitro fertilization technology. In recent years, with people\’s emphasis on reproductive rights and the continuous advancement of medical technology, in vitro fertilization has gradually become an option for infertile couples. Although people are very concerned about the success rate of IVF, little attention is paid to the adverse effects of IVF. This article will start from the health aspect and discuss the possible health risks of in vitro fertilization.
Impact 1: Increased birth defect rate
According to statistics, among all causes of human birth defects, the birth defect rate of IVF babies is higher than that of babies born through natural conception. Possible birth defects of IVF include congenital heart disease, spina bifida, cleft lip, etc. Among them, neural tube malformations are the most common. These defects may be caused by problems with sperm, egg, or embryogenesis during in vitro fertilization or transfer.
However, the cause of these birth defects is not entirely clear and scientists are still conducting further research. For example, a study in the United States showed that girls undergoing in vitro fertilization have a 40% higher risk of female reproductive organ malformations than ordinary girls.
Impact 2: Complex health conditions
After birth, IVF babies generally need to undergo some more complex examinations and treatments, such as progesterone support therapy, fetal amniocentesis, etc. These operations may bring certain risks to the health of the child, such as causing infections in pregnant women, premature birth and other problems. For multiple pregnancies in IVF, pregnant women face greater health risks, such as premature birth, anemia, placental abruption, etc.
In addition, IVF also carries risks that may cause other health problems, such as a higher risk of autism and mental illness. However, the evidence related to this is not clear yet, and we still need in-depth discussion and research.
Impact 3: Social and psychological pressure
It is extremely important in the lives of infertile couples to have a child of their own. However, in the process of in vitro fertilization treatment, people often fall into a state of great psychological pressure. For example, countless attempts and failures, as well as the long-term task of waiting for pregnancy, will bring great challenges to the couple\’s psychological state and marital relationship. Especially in the case of an unsuccessful IVF or transplant, couples can feel frustrated, exhausted, and lose hope.
Of course, after the in vitro fertilization embryo transfer, the pregnant woman needs a period of pregnancy and postpartum recovery time, and there are also additional difficulties and burdens in the parenting process. Therefore, fetal monitoring and subsequent family care of IVF require the understanding and support of more family members to overcome problems such as anxiety and worry caused by manual operations.
Impact 4: High cost
It is an indisputable fact that IVF is an extremely expensive procedure. Different countries and regions have different implementation standards, and prices also vary. But overall, IVF is usually very expensive. Moreover, the treatment process requires multiple attempts and may cost more time and money.
Infertile couples who lack close relatives are seeking to tryTube baby assistance also requires some genetic history and genetic testing, and these additional examinations will also increase the cost of treatment. Patients who lack insurance and medical protection need to bear the cost of treatment themselves, which further complicates the treatment situation.
Summary
In vitro fertilization is a common infertility treatment that can help infertile couples fulfill their wish for a child. However, due to the potential health risks caused by in vitro fertilization, this also requires more attention and discussion. From increased rates of birth defects, complex health conditions, social and psychological stress, and high costs, we need a more comprehensive exploration and analysis of this social system. Moreover, infertile patients need to overcome the frustrations that may arise from failed attempts, muster the courage to face the life in front of them, and create a more positive future for themselves and their families.
