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Is IVF dangerous for health?
Assisted Reproduction Center

Is IVF dangerous for health?

In vitro fertilization (IVF) is the primary method of assisted reproduction that helps many couples become parents. However, the process often raises questions about its effects on a woman's body. Let's examine whether IVF is harmful to health, what the possible risks of IVF are, and what its long-term effects might be.

How does IVF affect the body?

IVF involves a number of medical interventions, including hormonal stimulation of the ovaries to mature multiple eggs, egg retrieval via ultrasound-guided aspiration, fertilization of the eggs in the laboratory, and transfer of the embryos into the woman’s uterus. Each of these steps is carefully monitored by specialists to ensure maximum effectiveness and safety.

These steps can have temporary effects on a woman's body. For instance, hormonal stimulation may be accompanied by physical and emotional discomforts such as mood swings, swelling, or headaches. These effects are generally temporary and resolve within a few days or weeks after the procedure ends, depending on each woman's body.

Side effects of IVF

The IVF procedure is associated with certain side effects, the most common of which include:

  1. Reactions to medications: allergic reactions or discomfort caused by hormone injections may occur.
  2. Complications after egg retrieval: small risk of infection or tissue injury.
  3. Psychological stress: the failure of IVF attempts can lead to emotional exhaustion for the couple.

Consequences of hormonal stimulation

The hormonal stimulation necessary for the development of multiple eggs can impact a woman's health. Although most patients tolerate the procedure well, hormonal disturbances sometimes occur. The long-term effects of hormonal stimulation are not yet fully known. However, current research is actively focusing on the possible effects on women's reproductive and overall health, including potential changes in the hormonal system and risks of developing chronic diseases. Nevertheless, current research does not confirm a significant increase in cancer risk.

One of the main risks is ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS). This condition occurs in 1 to 5% of cases and is characterized by symptoms such as abdominal pain, nausea, enlarged ovaries, and fluid retention in the body. A thorough examination of the woman's health before starting a cycle of hormonal stimulation and strict adherence to the doctor's recommendations help minimize this risk.

Effect of IVF on the child's health: is there a risk?

Many couples wonder if IVF is detrimental to the health of the future child. Scientific data shows that most children born after IVF do not have significant health differences compared to those conceived naturally. However, some studies have noted a slight increase in the risk of premature birth or low birth weight. The effects of IVF on the child's body are therefore minimal and should not raise concern.

Safety of the procedure

Modern IVF protocols aim to maximize the safety of the procedure for both the woman and the baby. For example, the use of gentle stimulation protocols helps reduce the risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, while the introduction of technologies such as preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) increases the chances of successful pregnancy. State-of-the-art embryo cryopreservation methods are also actively used, allowing the viability of embryos to be preserved for a long time.

Regular monitoring, dosage control of medications, and the use of the latest technologies contribute to minimizing risks. Pregnancy after IVF generally proceeds in the same manner as a normal pregnancy, but doctors recommend increased monitoring to quickly detect any potential complications.

What statistics say: side effects and complications of IVF

According to the European Society of Human Reproduction, about 10% of women undergoing IVF experience moderate side effects such as mild nausea, headaches, minor abdominal pain, or temporary mood swings. Serious complications occur in less than 1% of cases. These figures highlight the high degree of safety and effectiveness of the procedure when performed under the supervision of qualified professionals.

IVF is not harmful to health when performed in a quality specialized medical setting. Despite the possible risks, this method remains a safe and effective way for many couples to find the joy of becoming parents.

Dr. Iñaki González-Foruria
Medical Director
Dr. Clàudia Forteza
Gynecologist specialized in assisted reproduction
Dr. Rebeca Beguería
Gynecologist specialized in assisted reproduction
Joan Massó
IVF Lab Director
Dr. Manel Fabó
Anaesthetist Doctor
Monica Mandas
Nursing
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Photo inside of Natuvitro Clinic in Barcelona
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