Genetic defects in test tube infants
IVF refers to the baby developed through artificial assisted reproduction technology, after in vitro fertilization, culture, and then transfer the embryo to the mother's uterus. Although IVF technology has brought good news to many infertile couples, there are also risks of genetic defects. Hereinafter, we will elaborate on the possible genetic defects of IVF from four aspects: genetic diseases, multiple pregnancy, neonatal diseases and long-term follow-up observation.
Genetic disease
In the process of IVF embryo transfer, there may be genes of genetic diseases. Some genetic diseases are caused by gene mutations carried by parents, such as cystic fibrosis, hereditary hearing loss, etc. In the process of IVF embryo screening, these genes can be screened by means of genetic testing to avoid the transfer of embryos carrying genetic diseases. However, the current screening method is not perfect, there are certain errors, and it cannot comprehensively detect all genetic diseases.
In addition, some genetic diseases may be caused by new mutations. New mutations refer to genetic diseases caused by gene mutations during embryonic development, and parents themselves do not carry related gene abnormalities. These new mutations may not be detected by early screening and can only be known after the baby is born. Therefore, even after embryo screening, the risk of genetic diseases cannot be completely excluded.
Multiple pregnancy
A common side effect of IVF technology is multiple pregnancy. To improve the success rate, doctors usually implant multiple embryos in the uterus at the same time. However, multiple pregnancies pose a higher risk to both mothers and infants.
Multiple pregnancy is easy to lead to premature delivery, low weight infants and other complications. During IVF pregnancy, mothers need to receive more rigorous monitoring and care to reduce the risk of premature delivery. For infants, premature delivery and low weight may cause a series of health problems, including dyspnea, immune system problems, etc.
In addition, multiple pregnancy will also increase the risk of pregnant women suffering from pregnancy induced hypertension, diabetes and other diseases, and will also have adverse effects on the health of mothers.
Neonatal diseases
IVF babies may face various neonatal diseases after birth. Compared with naturally conceived babies, IVF babies have lower birth weight, weaker immune system and are prone to upper respiratory tract infections, pneumonia and other diseases. In addition, since most of the mothers of IVF are older women, they may face risks such as chromosome abnormalities and Down syndrome after the birth of the baby.
These neonatal diseases need to be treated and nursed accordingly. The hospital usually carries out special monitoring and care for IVF babies to ensure that they receive timely and effective treatment.
Long term follow-up observation
The genetic defects of IVF are not only limited to diseases found early, but also include problems that may occur during the growth of the baby. Some studies have shown that IVF may be more likely to suffer from mental and physical development problems, such as autism and hyperactivity disorder, than children who are naturally pregnant.
Therefore, long-term follow-up observation of IVF is very important. The hospital usually keeps close contact with parents, and regularly carries out child development assessment, as well as necessary treatment and counseling.
Summary
The possible genetic defects of IVF mainly include genetic diseases, multiple pregnancy, neonatal diseases and long-term follow-up observation. Although there are screening and nursing measures, due to the limitations and complexity of technology, the risk of genetic defects cannot be completely eliminated. Therefore, parents should fully understand the relevant risks when choosing IVF technology, and fully communicate and make decisions with doctors.
