Congenital abnormalities in children born after assisted reproductive techniques: how much is associated with the presence of infertility and how much with its treatment?

Fertil Steril. 2005 Nov;84(5):1318-9; discussion 1327. doi: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2005.04.065.

Abstract

Although there is increasing evidence to link couples with infertility undergoing all assisted reproductive technologies, particularly intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), and congenital abnormalities, the reasons remain unclear. Much evidence suggests that infertility itself might be a risk factor, and further long-term follow-up studies involving different possible control groups will help determine whether these abnormalities are directly related to treatment.

Publication types

  • Comment
  • Comparative Study
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Child
  • Congenital Abnormalities / epidemiology*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Infertility / epidemiology*
  • Infertility / therapy*
  • Male
  • Reproductive Techniques, Assisted / adverse effects*
  • Reproductive Techniques, Assisted / statistics & numerical data