Key Medical Takeaways
Essential highlights by Dr. Payal BajajOver 2.5 million in-vitro fertilization (IVF) cycles are performed every year worldwide, which means over 500,000 births. In fact, over the four decades, IVF has been used for the birth of more than 10 million babies! Despite being so widel...
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Over 2.5 million in-vitro fertilization (IVF) cycles are performed every year worldwide, which means over 500,000 births. In fact, over the four decades, IVF has been used for the birth of more than 10 million babies! Despite being so widely successful, the process of IVF is often seen being shrouded in myths and misconceptions. If you are considering IVF or just curious about the process, you have probably come across this burning question: Does IVF increase the risk of genetic disorders? These questions might be holding you back, but you should not trust any information (or misinformation) floating on the web. Instead, it’s better to consult the best IVF specialists in Delhi and clear things up.
Source: https://www.volusonclub.net/empowered-womens-health/a-global-view-of-ivf-treatment-and-access/#:~:text=Each%20year%2C%20clinicians%20around%20the,year%20that%20data%20was%20available).
The Big Myth: IVF Babies Are More Likely to Have Genetic Disorders
Science has progressed beyond leaps and bounds, and sometimes the conventional beliefs of people clash with science. In fact, if something isn’t done in the natural way, people tend to think it’s harmful. However, this isn’t true. The same is the case with IVF. You have probably heard people saying: “IVF babies have more health issues” or “Genetic disorders are more common with IVF babies.” While this might sound scary or concerning before you hit the panic button, here’s a clear look at what science actually dictates.The Facts: What’s Really Going On?
The truth is far from this. In fact, here’s how we would debunk the myths surrounding IVF:1. IVF Itself Doesn’t Cause Genetic Disorders
So, IVF doesn’t create genetic disorders because they come from the DNA of the parents, and these can happen in any pregnancy, irrespective of whether it’s natural or assisted. Most people think IVF is the root of genetic disorders, but it’s not because the process of retrieving eggs, fertilizing them in a lab, and implanting the embryo doesn’t suddenly change a baby’s gene.2. Why Do Some Studies Show a Slightly Higher Risk?
Here’s where things get a bit technical. Some research suggests a slightly higher risk of conditions like low birth weight or certain genetic issues in IVF babies. But here’s the actual fact:- Many couples seeking IVF are already dealing with fertility challenges, which can sometimes be linked to underlying genetic factors.
- IVF often involves older parents, and we know that maternal and paternal age play a role in genetic mutations.
- Some advanced IVF techniques, like ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection), where a single sperm is injected into an egg, may carry a slightly higher risk, but this happens only in cases where male infertility is caused by genetic issues.
Genetic Testing
Here’s the great part: IVF actually gives you an opportunity that natural conception doesn’t-genetic screening. With procedures like Preimplantation Genetic Testing or PGT, you can check for certain genetic conditions before the embryo is implanted, which reduces the risk of passing on inherited disorders. This means that parents who have known genetic conditions can get the chance to prevent their children from inheriting them. Looking for the best IVF clinic in Delhi to clear your doubts and schedule a consultation for IVF procedures? Reach out to the team at NANDI IVF today!
Medically Reviewed & Authored By
Dr. Payal Bajaj
MBBS, DGO, Fellowship in ART (Germany & Japan)
Senior IVF & Embryology Consultant with over 20+ years of specialized clinical experience in reproductive endocrinology, blastocyst culture, and complex recurrent IVF failure cases. Over 10,000+ healthy babies delivered.
