Earlier in this space, we discussed various types of assisted reproductive technologies (ART) that exist for LGBTQIA couples. Here, we are going to discuss advantages and disadvantages of ART so that you can make an informed decision. In vitro Fertilization, or popularly known as IVF increases a couple's chances of having a healthy pregnancy and childbirth by a significant margin.
When previous infertility treatments have failed, IVF can help - Before arriving at the IVF "station," patients may undergo a variety of reproductive therapies, including fertility drugs, intrauterine insemination, and so on. Certain infertility diagnosis, on the other hand, will prompt your doctor to recommend IVF right away so you don't waste time and money on fertility treatments that aren't likely to work. Blocked fallopian tubes, severe male infertility factor, diminished ovarian reserves, and/or advanced mother age are examples of infertility diagnoses (typically any woman over the age of 38).
Anyone can make use of it -In-vitro fertilisation isn't just for the baby's mother; it can also be utilised by surrogates or gestational carriers, allowing a wider spectrum of people to become parents and share in the pregnancy and childbirth process. To mention a few, this includes same-sex couples, women who are physically unable to carry a baby to term, and single women.
Donated eggs and/or sperm can be used - A fertility professional may consider using donated eggs and/or sperm in some cases. In some circumstances, the egg can be manually fertilised in the clinic, and the resulting viable embryo can be utilised for IVF, increasing your chances of becoming pregnant on the first or second try.
You have complete control over the timing -IVF aids patients who are focused on their employment or who have a unique life scenario that influences when they want their baby to be born by allowing them greater overall control. Embryos or eggs that have been cryopreserved can be utilised in the future.
Boost your chances of giving birth to a healthy child - Genetic testing is a valuable tool for ensuring that your kid is born healthy. You may guarantee that the foetuses utilised in IVF are devoid of known genetic markers by using genetic screening, also known as preimplantation genetic testing (PGT). These have been related to life-threatening diseases such cystic fibrosis, Down syndrome, sickle cell anaemia, and Tay Sachs. The tests are performed only if the mother and/or father test positive for these diseases, or if there is a family history of serious genetically related disorders.
Reduce your risks of having a miscarriage - A genetic defect is the most prevalent cause of miscarriage, which leads the body to naturally terminate the pregnancy. Mothers have a better chance of having a healthy pregnancy and carrying the baby to term if they use PGT to verify the genetic viability of an embryo ahead of time.
Just like the two sides of a coin, assisted reproductive technologies have their own risks and shortcomings. More often than not, it proves to be a double edged sword. Let’s see how!
Obstetricians–gynecologists and other health care providers should do a comprehensive medical examination to ensure that patients are in excellent health before beginning ART or ovulation induction methods, and they should inform these women about the risks involved with intervention. Any issues with the mother's health or inherited diseases should be addressed.
Couples who are at danger of passing genetic disorders on to their children, such as those who struggle with issues related to infertility should be counselled appropriately.
Even after adjusting for age, stability, and multifetal gestations, studies that compare the obstetric outcome of singleton ART and naturally occurring pregnancies suggest that the former are at an increased risk of preterm birth, low birth weight, and perinatal mortality rate—although the magnitude of relative risk is small.
The use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) has risen substantially around the world, allowing anyone and everyone to get pregnant. However, there are still perinatal dangers associated with any ART or ovulation induction pregnancy, especially in multifetal pregnancies. To achieve the best results, obstetricians–gynecologists and other health care professionals should do a full medical evaluation and address any maternal health concerns or conditions before starting ART, and make every reasonable effort to achieve a singleton pregnancy once ART is started. Patients should be properly counselled on the hazards of ART, particularly the risk of multifetal pregnancy and the benefits of ART.