IVF Pregnancy: Understanding the Risks and Complications Involved

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The success rate of IVF procedures has given a ray of hope to every couple who is facing infertility. This process allows the couples to enjoy parenthood in their relationship. But there is no denying that the IVF process can be intricate and is not a bed of roses. It involves various stages, be it ovarian stimulation, embryo transfer, and much more. It can be challenging depending on the age, health issues, embryo quality, etc.

Thus, a person undergoing this procedure needs to be mentally and emotionally strong.
Moreover, before jumping directly to the IVF cost in India, it is essential to be aware of the risks and complications involved in it. This will ensure that you are fully prepared for whatever will come your way. Thus, in this article, we will delve into the IVF pregnancy risks and complications while focusing on your medical, physical, and various other aspects during this procedure.

Understanding the medical risks involved in IVF pregnancy

The IVF procedure can involve various medical risks that can occur due to the use of certain medications or treatments. Here are the details:

Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome
OHSS is the primary risk which is involved in IVF pregnancy. It is a condition that results in overstimulation of ovaries because of fertility medications. This can lead to mild bloating, extreme abdomen pain, blood clotting, fluid retention, and much more. A doctor’s assistance will help in reducing its severity.

Ectopic pregnancy
This is a serious issue that can be faced by women undergoing IVF pregnancy. In this situation, the embryo gets implanted outside the uterus. This happens mainly in the fallopian tubes. Ectopic pregnancy can be life-threatening and immediate medical help is needed. To avoid this situation, regular pre-screening and monitoring is required.

Multiple pregnancies
This situation occurs when multiple embryos are transferred during the IVF process. Thus, it can result in pregnancy of twins, triplets, etc. However, the risks involved in this situation are:

Premature birth – It can lead to preterm birth which can affect the development of the baby. Plus, it can cause various health problems.
Low birth weight – A premature baby having low birth weight can result in development delays and various other complications.
Mother at risk – Women who are having multiple pregnancies can be at risk of high blood pressure, preeclampsia, or gestational diabetes. In this situation, frequent monitoring is required.

Placental complications
Another complication that can be faced is placental previa or placental abruption during an IVF pregnancy. These issues can even result in preterm birth, and bleeding, and can even require cesarean delivery. Under this condition, it is essential that a woman follows close monitoring sessions to manage the risks.

Miscarriage
No wonder miscarriage is possible in natural as well as IVF pregnancy. However, women after the age of 35 years can face an increased risk of it. Also, it can happen due to embryo quality or any other health issue.

Understanding the maternal health issues involved in IVF pregnancy

Here are a few maternal health problems that can be faced by women experiencing IVF pregnancy:

Gestational diabetes
Women can even face gestational diabetes. This can occur due to hormonal changes related to fertility treatments and can cause issues like preterm birth, delivery complications, etc. Thus, following a good lifestyle, maintaining weight, and proper monitoring can be helpful.

Postpartum haemorrhage
There is also a risk of postpartum haemorrhage. In other words, it is excessive bleeding that happens after delivery. This can happen because of placental issues or uterine atony. Overall, it can affect childbirth and requires surgery.

Preeclampsia
This is a situation of high blood pressure and proteinuria. It can lead to serious health issues for mothers and children. As a solution, early delivery is required. Plus, regular monitoring is required to detect blood pressure and protein levels.

Understand the fetal health issues faced during IVF pregnancy

For a successful IVF pregnancy, it is essential to understand the complications related to it which can impact fetal health.

Preterm birth
Preterm birth or delivering a baby before 37 weeks is common in IVF pregnancy. This can happen mostly in multiple pregnancies. Under this issue, the babies can face respiratory issues, feeding issues, and even some development concerns. Thus, to avoid it, it is essential to choose the embryo carefully and limit the embryo number.

Low birth weight
Multiple pregnancies can lead to low birth weight. Also, it can lead to various issues like development delays, chronic health problems, and much more.

Understanding emotional setbacks during an IVF pregnancy

While going through an IVF pregnancy, women can face various emotional and psychological setbacks. Some of these setbacks are mentioned below:

Anxiety and stress
Couples experiencing IVF pregnancy can face major stress which can complicate things and often affect the health of the body. This is why it is essential to manage stress via the help of counseling, open communication, and other measures.

Relationship issues
IVF treatments can create a lot of stress among couples. To manage the emotional strain, it is essential to seek counseling, emotional support, and other measures. This can help couples to experience healthy pregnancy and relationships.

Depression
Depression can enter into the lives of individuals and couples who are undergoing IVF procedures and its related complications. This can be managed by addressing the issues getting through counselling and managing everything.

IVF pregnancy: Simple steps to follow to avoid the risks and complications

It is not possible to manage or eliminate all the risks of IVF pregnancy. But being aware of everything and taking all the preventive measures can be beneficial. Here is what you can do:

Opt for single embryo transfer. This will minimize the risk of multiple pregnancies and related risks.
Get your embryos tested to understand the chromosomal abnormalities. This minimizes the chances of genetic conditions and even miscarriage.
Follow a balanced diet. Also, it is essential to opt for a light exercise routine. It is essential that an individual should avoid indulging in drinking or smoking for a healthy IVF pregnancy.
Go through regular monitoring sessions to detect the issues and minimize the risks of IVF pregnancy.
If you are facing emotional stress then it is advised to get counseling and join emotional support groups.

Conclusion

IVF procedure is a positive way to enter the parenthood phase. But IVF pregnancy comes with worrisome risks and complications. So, before being a parent, it is essential to be aware of everything and go through it with a strong will. The above-mentioned information will help you to be aware of everything and follow the right solution methods. Thus, follow them religiously so that you don’t add up to the IVF cost in Jalandhar and avoid going over the entire process again.

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