In Vitro Fertilization - Risks

Losing the pregnancy

Twenty percent of pregnancies are lost, regardless of how conception occured. In vitro fertilization carries the same risk.

Ectopic pregnancy

In a small percentage (less than 1%) of cases, the egg implants outside of the uterus.

Ovarian Hyper Stimulation Syndrome

By stimulating the ovaries, there is a risk of hyper stimulation, which causes the ovaries to become swollen and painful. This is rare, and usually mild and involves potential side effects, like nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, or feeling bloated. In about one percent of cases, the symptoms are more serious, and can come with severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, decreased urinary frequency and dark urine, shortness of breath, and rapid weight gain.

Standard Risks Associated with Surgical Procedures

Invitro fertilization is a medical procedure, and standard risks apply, like possible allergies to any medications used, infection, and the normal risks associated with anesthesia.

How long until I can resume my normal activities?

Most doctors agree that a patient that receives IVF should be sedentary for at least 24 hours after embryo placement, until regular activities should resume. As for especially strenuous activies, like jogging, swimming, etc - these should be avoided until pregnancy is confirmed.

Multiple Pregnancies

Nearly thirty percent of in vitro pregnancies produce twins, about five percent produce triplets, and about a half of a percent result in pregnancies of more than three children. Multiple pregnancies carry a higher health risk for both the mother and fetuses.

For more complete answers to these and any question you may have about the IVF process, please contact us.