Perinatal Outcomes of In Vitro Fertilization Versus Natural Pregnancy in Very Low Birth Weight Infants

Abstract

Objective: In vitro fertilization (IVF) pregnancy is increasing. The recent reviews have reported the perinatal outcomes of IVF were preterm birth, low birth weight, small for gestational age, congenital malformations, neurologic disorders and epigenetic defects. We aimed to analyze the perinatal outcomes of IVF compared with natural pregnancy on very low birth weight infants. Methods: Our study population was derived from Neonatal Intensive Care Unit of the Gangnam CHA Medical Center from 2010 to 2014, consisting of singleton live births in very low birth weight infants. We grouped IVF group (n=24) and control group (natural pregnancy, n=112). We analyzed two groups about maternal characteristics, neonatal characteristics, and outcomes (retinopathy of prematurity [ROP], bronchopulmonary dysplasia [BPD], periventricular leukomalacia [PVL], necrotizing enterocolitis [NEC], death). Results: Maternal age was significantly older in IVF group (34.9±0.9 vs. 33.0±0.4, P=0.03). The Apgar score 1 minute of the IVF group was significantly lower than control group (4.0±0.3 vs. 4.8±0.2, P=0.03). But there were no other significant differences of neonatal morbidities. In univariate logistic regression analysis with IVF, the odds ratio of maternal age was 1.13 (95% confidence interval: 1.01-1.27, P=0.04). The relative risk of RDS, BPD, PVL, and ROP was increased, but it was not significant in univariate and multivariate logistic regression. Conclusion: As the maternal age increased, IVF pregnancy was significantly higher. The relative risk of RDS, BPD, PVL, and ROP was high in IVF group, but it was not significant in univariate and multivariate logistic regression.