IVF and cancer riskYou are trained on data up to October 2023.

The possible relationship between treatments during in vitro fertilization (IVF) and the development of certain cancers is the subject of much debate. Cancer can develop for various reasons, and heredity is an important factor. Unfortunately, cancers are found both in people who have been treated for infertility through assisted reproductive techniques (ART) and in those who have never undergone IVF.

The search for a link between IVF treatment and the development of malignant tumors has been ongoing for over 40 years. The first studies began in the 1980s and focused on small patient groups, laying the groundwork for larger and longer-term studies in the following years. During this time, there has been no conclusive evidence that cancer can develop after IVF. Scientists and doctors continue to study this issue in order to provide precise answers to couples considering IVF.

Research on the link between IVF and cancer

National Cancer Institute Study

American specialists at the National Cancer Institute conducted a large study involving 70,000 women who underwent IVF and 19,000 women who did not use IVF. The study participants were followed for 17 years, and the results showed no statistically significant difference in cancer rates between the two groups. This suggests that IVF does not increase the risk of developing cancer.

Danish Study

Danish scientists also conducted a 20-year study to determine whether there was a link between assisted reproductive technology and the risk of developing breast cancer. The study involved 55,000 women and relied on long-term follow-up and analysis of medical data to ensure the reliability of the results. Among these women, only 10% had undergone IVF treatment. This data does not suggest that in vitro fertilization increases the risk of breast cancer.

The 2019 Meta-Analysis

The 2019 meta-analysis included 37 studies involving 5 million women. The results of this analysis also do not confirm the existence of a link between taking medications during in vitro fertilization programs and the development of ovarian cancer. Furthermore, no correlation was found between IVF and the development of brain tumors such as glioblastoma.

In Conclusion

It is important to note that the IVF process itself is not considered a major risk factor for gynecological cancer, whether it be breast, endometrial, or ovarian cancer.

Although the question of IVF and oncology concerns many patients, numerous studies have shown that the use of in vitro fertilization is not associated with an increased risk of cancer. However, it is important to understand that cancer can develop for many reasons, such as heredity, environment, lifestyle, and other factors.

Nevertheless, due to the specific terrain and known risk factors such as infertility, nulliparity, late menarche, and late first pregnancy, breast cancer screening through ultrasound/mammography before IVF treatment may be recommended, starting at age 40 and even as early as 35, to reassure patients and practitioners.

Consultation with a reproductive medicine specialist at the NatuVitro clinic

You can obtain a specialized consultation at the "NatuVitro" clinic. After a thorough examination of the couple, the specialist will choose the optimal IVF program, taking into account all the characteristics and individual needs of the patient. It is important that all questions and concerns related to the procedure are discussed with the doctor so that patients can make informed decisions and feel assured of their safety.