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In-Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) Fertility Treatment

In-Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) Fertility Treatment - Symptoms

In-Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) Fertility Treatment - How to prevent?

In-Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) Fertility Treatment - Causes and Risk Factors

WHAT ARE THE POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS AND RISKS OF IVF FERTILITY TREATMENT?

Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS)

OHSS refers to excessive stimulation of the ovaries during ovulation induction.

It is a side effect of the medications that are given to you.

Symptoms include

  • Abdominal discomfort and/or pain
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Bloatedness or swelling of the abdomen and genital area
  • Shortness of breath
  • Dehydration
  • Reduction of urine volume

OHSS is usually mild and causes no more than slight lower abdominal discomfort in most cases. However, immediate medical attention is required should the symptoms persist or worsen. They include

  • Vomiting
  • Urinary problems
  • Severe discomfort from abdominal bloating
  • Chest pain or any difficulty in breathing

A small percentage of patients undergoing IVF may need to be admitted due to severe symptoms of OHSS. If you experience any of the above symptoms, please inform your doctor.

Multiple Pregnancy

Although the prospect of twins or triplets may seem attractive to some couples, multiple pregnancies are associated with increased risks of maternal and fetal complications. These include an increased risk of

  • miscarriage
  • premature labour which can result in a child with physical or learning disabilities
  • pregnancy associated problems such as bleeding, diabetes and high blood pressure
  • caesarian section and its complications
  • stillbirth

Failure of Fertility Treatment

The likely reasons for the failure are

  • cancelled cycles
  • failure to collect eggs
  • failure of fertilisation
  • failure of the embryo to implant

This can be due to a significant portion of embryos poor quality or abnormal.

Failure of treatment can lead to emotional strain and depression. Psychological counseling and support is available. Do not hesitate to inform your doctors if you require help.

Ectopic Pregnancy

IVF increases the likelihood of an ectopic pregnancy. Patients who become pregnant through IVF treatment are advised to schedule an early scan to make sure that the pregnancy is correctly positioned. If an ectopic pregnancy is detected at an early stage, a medication called methotrexate can be used to dissolve the pregnancy tissue. Otherwise, surgical procedures will be considered to treat the ectopic pregnancy. Your specialist will discuss the appropriate treatment should this happen to you.

Miscarriage

Miscarriage is a common complication of pregnancy. You will experience some abdominal cramps and bleeding. This diagnoses needs to be confirmed by your doctor. Depending on your condition and assessment by your doctor, surgical procedures may be required. Please consult your specialist for further information.

In-Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) Fertility Treatment - Diagnosis

In-Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) Fertility Treatment - Preparing for surgery

In-Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) Fertility Treatment - Post-surgery care

The information provided is not intended as medical advice. Terms of use. Information provided by SingHealth

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