A recent study has come out showing that the use of IVF does not pose a risk for developmental issues in childhood. More than 400,000 children, including 11,000 conceived through IVF, were part of the study. The goal was to discover whether children conceived through fertility treatments have a greater risk of adverse developmental outcomes during their elementary school years.
This period of time in a child’s life is a critical one for developing the social skills and learning patterns they will need in adulthood. The study looked at outcomes using the Australian Early Development Census (AEDC) and the National Assessment Program for Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN).
No statistically significant differences were found between children conceived through IVF and children born without the use of fertility treatments. Past evidence is more concerning and seems to indicate that IVF-conceived children have poorer educational outcomes. However, this new study found no information to back up that claim.
Expectant parents, physicians, and others involved in the fertility area of healthcare can cite this study as reassurance that there is no additional risk to children conceived with the help of fertility treatments. Not only can that provide additional peace of mind, but it can also pave the way for couples who may be avoiding IVF due to developmental concerns.
About eight million babies worldwide are born through IVF. Different studies at different times have mixed findings as to whether there is any difference between these children and others. However, with new studies like this one that include a large number of children, it’s easier to see that IVF is risk-free.
Couples who want to explore IVF to start or grow their families need not worry about developmental issues in their children. While developmental problems are possible in any child, the risk does not appear to be higher with IVF.
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