Helsinki/ Finland: A significant study has revealed that babies conceived through in vitro fertilization (IVF) may be at a higher risk of developing serious heart defects. The research, which analysed health records from Denmark, Finland, Norway, and Sweden over a span of 20 to 31 years, found that heart defects are approximately 36% more prevalent in children born via assisted reproductive technologies (ART) compared to those conceived naturally, as reported by Daily Mail. Photo courtesy: Shutterstock.

The study involved a comprehensive examination of live births resulting from various assisted reproduction methods, including IVF, intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), and embryo freezing. Researchers found that multiple births—common in assisted reproduction—exhibited an even greater risk, with IVF twins showing a 6.47% incidence of major heart defects compared to 8.15% for the general population.

Professor Ulla-Britt Wennerholm from the University of Gothenburg in Sweden led the study, emphasizing that understanding which infants are at heightened risk can facilitate early diagnosis of heart conditions. "The knowledge gained from this research can be vital for timely intervention," she noted.

The study, published in the European Heart Journal, highlights that congenital heart defects are the most frequent type of birth defect, with some leading to severe health complications. The increased risk associated with ART is particularly concerning, given that previous research has already identified higher incidences of preterm birth and low birth weight in children conceived through these methods.

The analysis encompassed over 7.7 million live births, comparing those born through ART to naturally conceived infants. Researchers accounted for various factors that may contribute to congenital heart defects, such as maternal age, smoking habits during pregnancy, and pre-existing health conditions.

Findings indicate that the risk of major heart defects remains consistent across different assisted reproduction techniques, suggesting a potential underlying link between infertility in parents and congenital heart disease in their offspring. "This connection warrants further investigation to understand the mechanisms at play," Professor Wennerholm stated.

In a related commentary, Dr. Nathalie Auger from the University of Montreal Hospital Research Centre cautioned that while ART procedures are increasingly utilized in reproductive medicine—accounting for 4% to 9% of births in various countries—there are inherent risks involved. She noted that parents using assisted reproductive technology often have unique health considerations that may influence both fertility outcomes and the likelihood of heart defects in their children.

As more families turn to ART for conception, this study underscores the need for increased awareness and monitoring of potential health risks associated with these methods, particularly regarding the heart health of newborns.