Risks of IVF technology
In vitro fertilization (IVF) and embryo transfer technology are used to help couples who cannot conceive naturally achieve fertility. Although IVF technology has brought hope and happiness to many couples, there are also some potential risks when using this technology. This article will elaborate on the risks of IVF technology from four aspects: pregnancy risk, embryo selection risk, mental health risk and economic cost risk.
1. Pregnancy risk
In vitro embryo transfer after in vitro embryo cultivation has significantly improved the success rate of female pregnancy. However, the risk of pregnancy still exists. First, multiple pregnancy is one of the common complications of IVF technology, because in order to increase the success rate, doctors may choose to transfer multiple embryos. Multiple pregnancies increase the risk of premature delivery, low birth weight, pre eclampsia, and other related complications. Secondly, compared with natural pregnancy, IVF technology has a higher chance of suffering from diabetes, hypertension, anemia during pregnancy and other problems during pregnancy.
In addition, IVF technology uses hormones to promote egg development and embryo implantation, which may lead to a series of side effects, including mood fluctuations, abdominal distention, nausea, breast pain and headache. These side effects may have a negative impact on women's physical and mental health.
2. Embryo selection risk
In IVF technology, doctors will select one or more embryos from multiple cultured embryos that are most likely to be implanted successfully for transplantation. However, there are some risks in the process of embryo selection. First, some embryos may be affected by chromosomal abnormalities, which may increase the risk of miscarriage or children suffering from genetic diseases. Secondly, chromosome detection during embryo selection may cause damage or death of the embryo.
In addition, embryo selection also involves gender selection. Some couples hope to be able to choose the gender of their children, but this choice may cause ethical disputes and may have a negative impact on society.
3. Mental health risks
The impact of IVF technology on the mental health of couples also needs attention. Because they cannot conceive naturally, couples may face great psychological pressure and anxiety. They may experience a cycle of failure, face the risk of miscarriage, and be unable to continue to use IVF technology due to some physical limitations.
In addition, when dealing with the failure cycle or other complications in IVF technology, couples may feel depressed, angry, ashamed and inferior. These negative emotions may have a long-term impact on the relationship between husband and wife and personal mental health.
4. Economic cost risk
The use of IVF technology usually requires a lot of financial support. Various expenses, including drug treatment, surgery, laboratory, in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer, may have a significant impact on the economic situation of couples. If one attempt is unsuccessful, the couple may need to try many times, which will further increase the financial burden.
In addition, the success rate of IVF technology is not 100%. Couples may spend a lot of money but cannot realize their fertility aspirations, which may lead to more economic and psychological pressure.
Methods to improve the success rate of IVF
Although there are some risks in IVF technology, some methods can improve the probability of success. First, it is very important to seek professional and experienced doctors and hospitals. Choosing well-known hospitals such as Beijing Reproductive Hospital or Shanghai Reproductive Hospital can increase the possibility of success. Secondly, maintaining good living habits, such as quitting smoking, limiting alcohol intake, healthy diet and moderate exercise, will help improve the probability of success. In addition, a comprehensive physical and psychological assessment of individuals and couples before the adoption of assisted reproductive technology can help doctors better understand the potential risks and develop more appropriate treatment plans.
Summary
Although IVF technology has brought new hope to those couples who cannot conceive naturally, the risks associated with it cannot be ignored. These risks mainly involve pregnancy risk, embryo selection risk, mental health risk and economic cost risk. In order to improve the success rate of IVF technology, couples can seek professional doctors and hospitals, maintain healthy living habits, and conduct a comprehensive physical and mental assessment. However, every couple's situation is unique, so before choosing whether to use IVF technology, it is best to consult professional doctors and psychological consultants to better understand personal risks and success probability.
