IVF and risks of birth defects or chromosomal abnormalities

Fertility Specialist Kristin Bendikson, MD, explains the possible birth defects or chromosomal abnormalities associated with In Vitro Fertilization pregnancies
In Vitro Fertilization & Risks of Birth Defects or Chromosomal Abnormalities
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IVF and risks of birth defects or chromosomal abnormalities

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When one thinks about the risks of birth defects or the risk of a chromosomal abnormality in conjunction with the use of advanced reproductive techniques likve IVF, there's certain things that you have to take into consideration. Chromosomal abnormalities are mainly related to the age of the woman. Therefore as a woman gets older, she's more likely to have an embryo that's chromosomally abnormal, that can either lead to a miscarriage or a BB with a chromosomal abnormality for example like down syndrome. IVF per say doesn't increase your risk of having a baby with a chromosomal abnormality. However, women who are older oftentimes are going through IVF. So you may see babies being born that may have chromosomal abnormalities more often in women, older women going through IVF. Birth defects have been studied extensively with the use of IVF. There's large population base studies that have shown that there's a slight increased risk of congenital anomolies with the use of IVF. We don't understand the mechanism for this. However, in the general population, about two to three percent of the population will have a baby with a congenital anomally. This can range from something as minor as a pinky being shorter, or as large as a heart defect. Now, with IVF congenital anomoly rates are increased up to about three to four percent.

Fertility Specialist Kristin Bendikson, MD, explains the possible birth defects or chromosomal abnormalities associated with In Vitro Fertilization pregnancies

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Kristin Bendikson, MD

Fertility Specialist

Dr. Kristin A. Bendikson joined USC Fertility after finishing her obstetrics and gynecology residency at Harvard Medical School and completing her subspecialty training in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility at the internationally renowned Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility at Cornell University Medical College. During that time, she received intensive training in ovulation induction, in vitro fertilization and fertility surgery, as well as the management of other disorders including recurrent pregnancy loss, endometriosis, and polycystic ovarian syndrome. Kristin received her undergraduate degree from UCLA and attended the prestigious New York University School of Medicine. Her extensive training and years in practice have prepared her to deal with the most difficult and challenging cases.

Kristin holds the title of Assistant Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology in the Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility at the USC Keck School of Medicine. She is the currently the principal investigator of several research projects including the study of zygote intrafallopian tube transfer for women of advanced reproductive age, aging of the uterine endometrium and vitamin D and its role in infertility. It is her goal to provide the highest quality care for her patients and to help them fulfill their desire of having a healthy baby. In addition, she strives to guide her patients through what can be a trying and difficult journey by providing them with the support and personal attention they need.

Fertility expert, teacher, and researcher, Kristin is also a married mother of two. She resides in West Los Angeles with her family.

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Transcription: 
When one thinks about the risks of birth defects or the risk of a chromosomal abnormality in conjunction with the use of advanced reproductive techniques likve IVF, there's certain things that you have to take into consideration. Chromosomal abnormalities are mainly related to the age of the woman. Therefore as a woman gets older, she's more likely to have an embryo that's chromosomally abnormal, that can either lead to a miscarriage or a BB with a chromosomal abnormality for example like down syndrome. IVF per say doesn't increase your risk of having a baby with a chromosomal abnormality. However, women who are older oftentimes are going through IVF. So you may see babies being born that may have chromosomal abnormalities more often in women, older women going through IVF. Birth defects have been studied extensively with the use of IVF. There's large population base studies that have shown that there's a slight increased risk of congenital anomolies with the use of IVF. We don't understand the mechanism for this. However, in the general population, about two to three percent of the population will have a baby with a congenital anomally. This can range from something as minor as a pinky being shorter, or as large as a heart defect. Now, with IVF congenital anomoly rates are increased up to about three to four percent.