In vitro fertilization linked with increased risk of spontaneous preterm birth

A new analysis of published studies found an approximate 80% increased risk of spontaneous preterm birth (both before 37 and 34 weeks) when women become pregnant via in vitro fertilization (IVF) than through spontaneous conception.

The Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology analysis included 15 studies with approximately 62,000 patients and about 3800 preterm births events.

"Placental development may play a key role in the pathogenesis of spontaneous preterm birth in IVF pregnancies. We recommend ultrasound cervical screening in this in order to apply timely preventive strategies," said lead author Dr. Paolo Cavoretto, of the IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, in Milan, Italy. "Future research reporting should always emphasize etiological differentiation of preterm birth."

More information: Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology, DOI: 10.1002/uog.18930

Provided by Wiley
Citation: In vitro fertilization linked with increased risk of spontaneous preterm birth (2017, November 8) retrieved 24 April 2024 from https://medicalxpress.com/news/2017-11-vitro-fertilization-linked-spontaneous-preterm.html
This document is subject to copyright. Apart from any fair dealing for the purpose of private study or research, no part may be reproduced without the written permission. The content is provided for information purposes only.

Explore further

Study finds variation of the interval between first and second pregnancy

1 shares

Feedback to editors