Health risks of second-generation IVF infants
The second generation of IVF is a method of using assisted reproductive technology to achieve fertility. However, although the second-generation IVF can bring joy to healthy babies, there are still some health risks in this process. This article will elaborate on the health risks of the second generation IVF from the aspects of genetic diseases, multiple pregnancy, preterm delivery and mental health.
Genetic disease
One risk of second-generation IVF is the spread of genetic diseases. Because some infertile families suffer from hereditary diseases, their diseased genes may be transferred to IVF. This means that IVF may face the risk of suffering from some genetic diseases in the early stage of life.
In order to reduce this risk, doctors will carry out embryo gene screening during IVF to detect whether there are disease genes. However, detection cannot completely eliminate the risk of genetic diseases, and there may be some errors. Therefore, even the screened embryos cannot completely exclude the existence of some genetic diseases.
In addition to embryo gene screening, genetic counseling can also be considered to understand the potential risks of family genetic diseases, and to develop appropriate fertility planning and genetic counseling.
Multiple pregnancy
Another risk of second generation IVF is multiple pregnancy. In order to improve the success rate of pregnancy, some families may choose to implant multiple embryos during IVF. However, multiple pregnancy brings a series of risks, including premature delivery, low birth weight, fetal development abnormalities, etc.
Multiple pregnancy poses a threat to the health of pregnant women and fetuses to a certain extent. Pregnant women may face higher risk of pregnancy complications, such as anemia, hypertension and pre eclampsia. However, there may be competition in the growth and development of multiple embryos, leading to abnormal cell differentiation or underdevelopment.
In order to reduce the risk of multiple pregnancy, doctors will choose to implant a single embryo in the process of IVF, that is, single embryo transfer technology. This can significantly reduce the incidence of multiple pregnancies and improve the health of mothers and infants.
premature delivery
IVF babies are more likely to give birth prematurely than naturally conceived babies. Preterm delivery refers to the birth of a baby with a gestation period of less than 37 weeks. Premature infants may face many health problems, including immature respiratory system, weak immune system, and incomplete brain development.
The reason for the high preterm birth rate of IVF may be related to multiple pregnancies, related health conditions of mothers, insufficient monitoring during pregnancy and other factors. In order to reduce the risk of premature delivery, pregnant women need to pay attention to pregnancy health care, carry out regular prenatal examination and monitoring under the guidance of doctors, and receive necessary treatment or prevention measures.
mental health
For parents and children of IVF, mental health is also an important issue. Parents of IVF infants may face higher risk of anxiety and depression, especially during pregnancy and infant rearing. They may be worried about the baby's health and future development.
In addition, IVF babies may face psychological problems such as identity and self-esteem. They may be curious or dissatisfied with their own way of reproduction, and they will be questioned and discriminated against by the surrounding society during their growth.
In order to solve these problems, families can seek psychological counseling and support. Professional psychological consultants can help families cope with anxiety, depression and other emotions, and provide appropriate support and guidance.
Summary
In the process of second-generation IVF, the transmission of genetic diseases, multiple pregnancy, premature delivery and mental health are the existing health risks. However, measures such as genetic screening, single embryo transfer technology, pregnancy health care and psychological support can reduce these risks and adverse effects on families and infants. For families considering second-generation IVF, it is recommended to fully understand these risks before making decisions, and consult and discuss with doctors and professionals in detail.
