Perinatal outcome in children born after assisted reproductive technologies

Abstract

Over the past 40 years access and effectiveness of assisted reproductive technologies (ART) have increased, and to date more than 8 million children have been conceived after ART globally. Most pregnancies resulting from ART are uncomplicated and result in the birth of healthy children. Yet, it is well known that pregnancies following ART are more likely to be affected by obstetric complications such as hypertensive disorders in pregnancy, preterm birth, and low birth weight compared with spontaneously conceived pregnancies. ART children are also at increased risk of birth defects. The majority of the problems arise as a result of multiple pregnancies and can be reduced by transferring a single embryo, thereby avoiding multiple pregnancies. New ART technologies are constantly introduced, and monitoring of the health of ART children is crucial.

Keywords:

• Assisted reproductive technology
• ART
• ICSI
• IVF
• perinatal
• short-term follow-up

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Funding

The study was financed by grants from the Swedish state under the agreement between the Swedish government and the county councils, the ALF-agreement [LUA/ALF 70940], and the Hjalmar Svensson Research Foundation.

Notes on contributors

Ulla-Britt Wennerholm

Ulla-Britt Wennerholm is associated professor in obstetrics and gynaecology at Sahlgrenska University Hospital.

Christina Bergh

Christina Bergh is professor in reproductive medicine at Sahlgrenska University Hospital.