In vitro fertilisation (IVF) has revolutionised the dream of parenthood for countless couples. The advent of this miraculous technology has allowed families who once struggled with infertility to experience the joy of becoming parents, turning hope into reality.
While IVF has brought joy to families worldwide, it also brings some questions and anxieties. One of the most common concerns is whether IVF increases the risk of preterm birth, which means a baby being born before 37 weeks of pregnancy. Since preterm birth is associated with neonatal complications, every parent wants to understand the risks and realities of preterm birth associated with IVF before they can confidently opt for it.
To parents’ relief, not every early birth is severe, and not every IVF baby is born too soon. There are, in fact, many myths that are associated with preterm birth and IVF. 9M fertility, which stands on four strong pillars of ethical and transparent service, individualised approach, evidence-based treatments, and advanced technology, utilises the best clinical protocols to minimise the risk of preterm birth with IVF.
What are the Myths and Realities About IVF and Preterm Birth?
Let’s break down some of the most common beliefs parents have, and look at what science actually says.
Myth 1: IVF pregnancies are always high-risk and preterm
Reality: Not all IVF pregnancies are complicated. Many women who go through IVF experience a normal pregnancy and deliver a full-term, healthy baby. Doctors often recommend extra scans and check-ups for IVF pregnancies. But this isn’t because complications are guaranteed, but because a lot of effort has gone into achieving the pregnancy, and both parents and doctors want to take all possible steps for healthy outcomes. Extra monitoring helps detect issues early, but it doesn’t mean the pregnancy is automatically unsafe.
Myth 2: IVF itself causes preterm birth
Reality: IVF as such is not the only cause of preterm birth in women who undergo this procedure. Several other factors also come into play, these include advanced maternal age, underlying health conditions like high blood pressure or thyroid problems, etc. Apart from these, the underlying cause for infertility in many women who undergo IVF include uterine conditions such as polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) or structural abnormalities of the uterus. These conditions can also contribute to preterm birth.
9M fertility, one of the most trusted IVF centre in Hyderabad, has the presence of experienced infertility experts who monitor each pregnancy closely with personalised care, to minimise any associated risk of preterm birth.
Myth 3: IVF always results in twins or triplets, thus premature birth
Reality: IVF can lead to the conception of twins or triplets if multiple embryos are transferred to the womb together. This was done earlier to increase the success rate of IVF. Since multiple pregnancies are far more likely to deliver early, this gave IVF a reputation for prematurity. With the advanced technology of single embryo transfer, the risk of twins or triplets with IVF has significantly reduced, thereby reducing the risk of preterm birth as well.
Single embryo transfer is a modern IVF practice where only one embryo is placed in the uterus at a time. The infertility expert selects the healthiest embryo and gently places it into the uterus using a thin catheter. This careful procedure is usually guided by ultrasound to ensure the embryo is positioned for the best chance of implantation. At 9M fertility, the technology of single embryo transfer is used by the most-trusted and experienced infertility experts to maximise the chances of a healthy, full-term pregnancy while minimising the risk of multiple births and preterm delivery.
Myth 4: All IVF babies are born early or underweight
Reality: The belief that all IVF babies are born early or underweight itself is a myth. The reality is that vast majority of IVF babies are born healthy. While the chance of preterm birth in cases of IVF is somewhat higher compared to naturally conceived pregnancies, most IVF babies are born close to their due date. Even in cases where babies are born early, it is often in the late preterm weeks, where babies usually do very well with little extra support. Concerns about low birth weight are also often overstated.
While some IVF babies may be smaller at birth, most grow and thrive just like any other child. It’s also worth noting that in many cases, doctors may choose to deliver an IVF pregnancy a little earlier as a precaution. Such deliveries are purely a medical decision and are done with the best interest of the mother and baby in mind, leading to healthy outcomes. However, these add to the number of preterm deliveries, thereby strengthening this myth. With advanced evidence-based treatments at 9M fertility, parents can expect a healthy full-term baby in most cases.
Myth 5: One can’t do anything to minimize the risk of preterm birth once IVF is done
Reality: After IVF, several important steps can help reduce the risk of preterm birth. Good preconception care is essential; addressing health issues such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or weight concerns before pregnancy can create a healthier environment for the baby. Careful embryo transfer strategies, like single embryo transfer as discussed above, can reduce the chance of twins or triplets, which are more likely to be born early. Close monitoring throughout pregnancy, including regular scans and check-ups, helps detect any early warning signs such as cervical shortening, growth restrictions, or placental issues.
Finally, personalized obstetric management ensures that any complications are addressed promptly, providing the best chance for the pregnancy to reach full term. Proactive care in IVF pregnancies can make a real difference in outcomes. By providing personalised care and advanced treatments, 9M fertility has been providing predictable and successful outcomes for IVF. 9M has revolutionized fertility treatment in Gachibowli, your neighbourhood.
Apart from the above, at 9M Fertility, trusted IVF centre in Pune, Bhubaneswar, and Hyderabad, advanced laboratory technologies, carefully optimised culture media, and precise embryo selection are used to support healthy early development. These measures help minimise risks related to placental complications and preterm birth, ensuring the best possible outcomes for both mother and baby.
What is the Role of Expectant Parents?
Expectant parents too play a big role in improving the outcomes of IVF. Simple steps like maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, avoiding smoking or alcohol, managing stress, and keeping chronic conditions like diabetes or hypertension under control all make a difference. Couples should maintain regular follow-ups with their gynaecologist and attend all scheduled appointments, as this helps in the early detection and management of any potential issues.
What Every Expectant Couple Should Know?
For parents, the most important thing to remember is that IVF does not automatically mean complications or a difficult pregnancy. With modern practices, careful monitoring, and supportive medical care, outcomes for IVF babies are overwhelmingly positive, and it has allowed millions of couples to experience the joy of parenthood. IVF pregnancies require more attention, and there is a slightly higher risk of preterm birth but there is a lot that can be done to lower that risk. Modern evidence-based treatments and infertility experts at 9M Fertility have helped countless couples deliver healthy babies through IVF.
By focusing on health before and during pregnancy, working closely with the doctor, and understanding the difference between myths and realities, expecting couples can look forward to their IVF journey with confidence.
Begin your journey to parenthood with complete trust and reassurance at 9M fertility, the best IVF centre in Hyderabad, Pune, and Bhubaneswar.
