......This could be because ART couples are generally older .....

Reported July 27, 2007
Assisted Reproduction Creates More Risks of Complications


Researchers analyzed data on in-vitro fertilization (IVF) and intracytoplasmic sperm injection published between 1980 and 2005. They mainly focused on ART single births.

Besides a risk of multiple births, the authors report couples interested in ART should also be aware of other possible problems. For example, the rates of miscarriage are between 20-percent and 34-percent higher for ART couples than for those conceiving naturally. This could be because ART couples are generally older and more likely to have conditions like endocrine disorders.

The review also shows ART increases the risk of preeclampsia by 55 percent, raises the chances of stillbirth by 155 percent and very low birth weight by 170 percent to 200 percent. Other findings include a 30-percent higher risk of major malformations in babies born to ART couples and a higher risk of cerebral palsy.