New Delhi: World IVF Day is observed every year on July 25 to commemorate the birth of Louise Brown, the world’s first baby conceived through in vitro fertilisation (IVF) in 1978. The day celebrates the remarkable progress made in fertility treatment and raises awareness about infertility, encouraging couples to seek timely medical advice and explore available treatment options.
Over the decades, IVF has emerged as one of the most effective fertility treatments, helping millions of couples across the world achieve parenthood. While the procedure is considered safe and well-established, medical experts say understanding its potential risks and preventive measures enables patients to make informed decisions.
According to Dr Tarang Yadav, Senior Consultant – IVF, Obstetrics & Gynaecology, ShardaCare-HealthCity, modern IVF techniques have significantly improved safety and success rates, with serious complications remaining uncommon.
IVF has become safer over the years
Dr Yadav said IVF has evolved into a highly successful fertility treatment, resulting in the birth of millions of healthy babies worldwide.
He noted that advancements in reproductive medicine, personalised treatment protocols and improved laboratory techniques have made the procedure safer than ever before. However, as with any medical intervention, certain risks remain and require appropriate monitoring.
Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS)
One of the most recognised complications associated with IVF is Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS), which occurs when the ovaries respond excessively to fertility medications used to stimulate egg production.
Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) or a high ovarian reserve are more susceptible to this condition.
Symptoms may range from mild abdominal bloating and discomfort to severe pain, breathing difficulties and fluid accumulation in rare cases.
Dr Yadav said modern fertility practices, including personalised medication plans, GnRH antagonist protocols, agonist triggers and freeze-all strategies, have significantly reduced the occurrence of OHSS.
Multiple pregnancies remain a concern
Transferring more than one embryo during IVF increases the likelihood of twins or higher-order multiple pregnancies.
Although some couples may welcome the possibility of twins, multiple pregnancies carry increased health risks for both the mother and babies.
Potential complications include premature birth, low birth weight, gestational diabetes, pregnancy-induced hypertension and an increased likelihood of caesarean delivery.
To minimise these risks, fertility specialists increasingly recommend elective single embryo transfer (eSET) whenever medically appropriate.
Risk of ectopic pregnancy
Although IVF bypasses several causes of infertility, it does not completely eliminate the possibility of an ectopic pregnancy, where the fertilised egg implants outside the uterus, most commonly in the fallopian tube.
Women with damaged fallopian tubes may face a slightly higher risk.
Doctors monitor IVF pregnancies closely through blood tests and early ultrasound scans to confirm that the pregnancy is developing inside the uterus and to enable prompt treatment if required.
Egg retrieval is generally safe
Egg retrieval is a routine and minimally invasive procedure performed under sedation or anaesthesia.
While considered very safe, it carries a small risk of complications, including bleeding, infection, injury to nearby organs such as the bladder or bowel, and reactions related to anaesthesia.
Experts say these complications are rare when the procedure is performed by experienced fertility specialists using modern equipment and established safety protocols.
Emotional impact of IVF
The IVF journey often presents emotional and psychological challenges alongside the physical aspects of treatment.
Couples may experience anxiety, disappointment, stress and uncertainty while awaiting results or undergoing repeated treatment cycles.
Financial pressures can also contribute to emotional strain.
Doctors recommend counselling, participation in support groups and open communication with healthcare providers and family members to help patients cope with these challenges.
Pregnancy-related complications
Women who conceive through IVF may face a slightly increased risk of pregnancy-related complications, particularly if they are older or have pre-existing medical conditions such as diabetes, hypertension or thyroid disorders.
Possible complications include gestational diabetes, high blood pressure during pregnancy, premature delivery and the need for enhanced antenatal monitoring.
Regular prenatal check-ups and adherence to medical advice can significantly improve outcomes for both mother and baby.
Ways to reduce IVF risks
Experts recommend several measures to improve the safety and success of IVF treatment:
- Undergo a comprehensive fertility assessment before beginning treatment.
- Follow an individualised treatment plan based on age, medical history and ovarian reserve.
- Attend all scheduled monitoring appointments during ovarian stimulation.
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle through balanced nutrition, regular exercise and avoidance of smoking and excessive alcohol.
- Choose an experienced fertility centre with qualified specialists and a well-equipped IVF laboratory.
- Consider elective single embryo transfer whenever recommended by the treating specialist.
Modern IVF focuses on healthy outcomes
Dr Yadav said the biggest advancement in modern IVF has been the shift from simply achieving pregnancy to ensuring the birth of a single healthy baby through the safest possible treatment pathway.
He highlighted that personalised treatment plans, advanced embryology techniques, artificial intelligence-assisted embryo assessment, vitrification and evidence-based clinical practices have made IVF safer and more effective than ever before.
As World IVF Day is observed globally, healthcare professionals continue to emphasise the importance of awareness, early diagnosis and informed decision-making in helping couples overcome infertility and achieve successful parenthood.
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