Side effects of In vitro fertilisation

All fertility treatments have risks and side effects although these tend to be quite small. But it’s as well to be aware of them.

Risks include:

• Multiple births: this is due to multiple embryo implantations. Having more than embryo implanted increases the chance of pregnancy but it also increases the risk of twins, triplets or even quadruplets! Some women are happy to have a multiple birth but it can be a shock for many others.
• Ectopic pregnancy: this is where pregnancy occurs outside of the womb – usually the fallopian tube.
• Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS): this is a condition in which cysts form on the ovaries and fluid builds up in the abdomen. Symptoms of this include pain, nausea and vomiting.
• Mild side effects such as headaches, hot flushes and mood swings

And there are emotional side effects to take into account. IVF can be stressful and emotionally draining – especially if a treatment cycle fails, so talking to someone can help.

In vitro fertilisation Treatment Guide Index:

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• In vitro fertilisation
• What does ‘in vitro?’ mean?
• IVF procedure

• Side effects of IVF
• IVF failure

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