Do IVF babies have more health problems? Gynaecologist clears the air
Many couples who come to me for in-vitro fertilisation (IVF), which entails fertilisation of an egg by a sperm in a laboratory and subsequent implantation of the embryo into the woman's uterus, ask me one question: Will the baby born to them be healthy or be more susceptible to infection?
As an assisted reproductive technology (ART), most people assume that IVF children are somehow unnatural and hence vulnerable to illnesses. This presumption, however, is misplaced.
Studies show that the vast majority of IVF-conceived children develop normally and achieve milestones as well as naturally conceived children. They go to regular schools, live ordinary lives and enjoy similar long-term health outcomes. Some findings do indicate that IVF babies tend to have a slightly increased risk of low birth weight, premature birth or being small for gestational age. But such a risk is most frequently associated with circumstances such as multiple conception like twins or triplets, older age of the mother or underlying infertility but not IVF. Also premature or low birth weight babies do not develop significant illness later in life.
That largely depends on factors such as the health of the parents, the quality of the embryo and the expertise of the fertility clinic providing the treatment.
Notably, as IVF technology improves, through single embryo transfer, freezing technology, and improved embryo testing, risks have diminished considerably.
Opt for single embryo transfer instead of multiple embryos to reduce the risk of multiple pregnancies, which are associated with higher health risks for both babies and mothers.
Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) can be performed on embryos before they are implanted. This can help identify and select embryos without chromosomal abnormalities, reducing the risk of birth defects.
Ensure the health of the mother before and during pregnancy is optimum. This includes a lifestyle discipline, managing pre-existing health conditions and addressing any potential risks that may affect pregnancy. Couples need to be counselled so that they can make informed decisions based on their specific circumstances. Regular monitoring and follow-ups during pregnancy can help both the mother and the developing foetus last out the full term.
Science has revolutionized IVF to the extent that it is not only effective but also safe for mothers and babies alike. Couples considering IVF ought to see fertility specialists, adhere to set guidelines and not be discouraged by myths.
(The author is Chairman & HOD, Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Elantis Healthcare, New Delhi)
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Infertility affects 10–15% of Indian couples. Firstpost brings out expert views on India's growing infertility crisis, examining how lifestyle, pollution, and delayed parenthood are affecting reproductive health, IVF success rates and access to fertility care in urban and tier-2 and tier-3 cities. read more Infertility is emerging as a pressing public health concern in India, affecting an estimated 10–15% of couples according to studies published in The Lancet and other medical journals. The issue has been further spotlighted by government data and clinical observations pointing to a surge in conditions like PCOS, endometriosis and declining sperm quality, particularly in urban centres. Environmental stressors such as air pollution and exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals, combined with sedentary lifestyles and delayed family planning, are compounding the crisis. 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Medically, rising cases of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, thyroid disorders, diabetes, and obesity in women are significant contributors. In men, conditions like varicocele, hormonal imbalances, and poor sperm parameters are commonly seen. Environmentally, increasing exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), air pollution, and unhealthy lifestyle habits—such as poor diet, lack of exercise, smoking, alcohol consumption, and chronic stress—are worsening reproductive health. Additionally, delayed marriages and late pregnancy planning have become major socio-cultural factors contributing to declining fertility. How are declining sperm quality and ovarian reserve due to air pollution and sedentary lifestyles impacting IVF outcomes, especially in urban India? Dr Mannan: In urban settings, declining sperm counts and ovarian reserves have become major challenges for successful conception—both naturally and via assisted reproduction. Studies show increasing DNA fragmentation in sperm and diminished anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) levels in women exposed to high-pollution environments. These directly reduce embryo quality and negatively impact IVF success rates. Sedentary habits, obesity, and poor sleep hygiene further impair hormonal health. As a result, we often require multiple IVF cycles and personalised stimulation protocols to achieve a viable pregnancy, especially in metropolitan cities. How accessible and affordable is IVF treatment across India, particularly in tier-2 and tier-3 cities? Dr Mannan: While IVF is gaining popularity and acceptance, affordability and access remain significant hurdles outside metro cities. In tier-2 and tier-3 areas, there is limited availability of advanced infrastructure, skilled embryologists, and fertility specialists. Many couples are forced to travel to metro cities, which increases emotional and financial burdens. Moreover, infertility is still considered taboo in several regions, leading to delayed medical intervention. Although some states are considering subsidised treatment or insurance coverage for infertility, there is still a long way to go in terms of accessibility and affordability at the national level. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD What realistic expectations should couples, especially those over 35, have when starting IVF? Dr Mannan: IVF success rates typically range from 30% to 50%, depending on factors like the woman's age, the cause of infertility, and the clinic's expertise. For women above 35, success rates start to decline due to reduced ovarian reserve and egg quality. It is crucial for couples to understand that IVF is not a guarantee of pregnancy in the first cycle. It may require two or more attempts, and in some cases, advanced techniques like donor eggs or preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) may be recommended. 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Dr Mannan: Yes, there is a growing shift towards single embryo transfer (SET), especially in younger women with good-quality embryos. While earlier practices often involved transferring two or more embryos to boost chances, we now understand that multiple pregnancies increase maternal risks such as hypertension, preterm birth, and NICU admissions. With improved embryo culture systems, blastocyst transfers, and technologies like vitrification (rapid freezing), SET has become a safe and effective option. However, adoption still varies across clinics and regions based on patient preference, cost considerations, and expectations. What does current evidence suggest about egg freezing and fertility preservation in working women and cancer patients? Dr Mannan: Egg freezing has emerged as a valuable tool for fertility preservation. For working women who wish to delay childbearing, freezing eggs before the age of 35 offers the best chance of future success. 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