Complications of assisted reproductive techniques.
OBJECTIVE
To review and appreciate the relevant data on assisted reproduction techniques and their potential complications.


METHODS
Major publications on assisted reproduction that include the information concerning complications associated with this practice.


RESULTS
Assisted reproduction is a common practice in modern reproductive medicine. Complications are associated with ovulation induction and the extracorporeal methods that are used for IVF-ET, GIFT, and zygote intrafallopian transfer (ZIFT). These complications are associated with laparoscopy, anesthesia, oocyte retrieval, and laboratory facilities. Pregnancies resulting from assisted reproduction are more complicated than spontaneous pregnancies. There are higher rates of ectopic, heterotopic, and multifetal pregnancies; abortions; and premature deliveries. Increased rates of perinatal mortality and morbidity result from prematurity, and higher rates of maternal diseases in pregnancy (preeclampsia, diabetes mellitus, bleeding, anemia) contribute to fetal intra-uterine growth restriction and maternal morbidity.


CONCLUSIONS
Assisted reproduction practice should be well controlled in view of the potential for complications before and during pregnancies.
Schenker
J G
JG
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hadassah University Hospital, Ein Kerem, Jerusalem, Israel.
Ezra
Y
Y
D004624:Embryo Transfer; D005260:Female; D005307:Fertilization in Vitro; D015181:Gamete Intrafallopian Transfer / Q000009:adverse effects; D006801:Humans; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000209:etiology; D016471:Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome / Q000150:complications / Q000209:etiology; D010062:Ovulation Induction / Q000009:adverse effects; D011247:Pregnancy; D011248:Pregnancy Complications / Q000209:etiology; D037841:Pregnant People; D012099:Reproductive Techniques / Q000009:adverse effects*; D018570:Risk Assessment; D012307:Risk Factors