In Vitro fertilization and adverse obstetric and perinatal outcomes

Abstract

Most IVF-conceived children are healthy, but IVF has also been associated with adverse obstetric and perinatal outcomes as well as congenital anomalies. There is also literature suggesting an association between IVF and neurodevelopmental disorders as well as potentially long-term metabolic outcomes. The main driver for adverse outcomes is the higher risk of multiple gestations in IVF, but as the field moves toward single embryo transfer, the rate of multiple gestations is decreasing. Studies have shown that singleton IVF pregnancies still have a higher incidence of adverse outcomes compared to unassisted singleton pregnancies. Infertility itself may be an independent risk factor. Animal models suggest that epigenetic changes in genes involved in growth and development are altered in IVF during the hormonal stimulation and embryo culture. Further animal research and prospective human data are needed to elucidate the mechanisms by which IVF may contribute to adverse outcomes and to decrease risks.