Potential Complications of IVF

Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS): OHSS is a rare complication of controlled ovarian hyperstimulation for IVF. We do purposefully hyperstimulate your ovaries to produce multiple eggs, however on rare occasions the ovaries respond too vigorously. A moderate degree of hyperstimulation with mild abdominal distention and discomfort about a week after egg retrieval is expected and will resolve on its own. Less than 1 percent of IVF cycles are complicated by severe enlargement of the ovaries in response to hormones used to stimulate the ovaries. This can be associated with fluid accumulating in your belly making you feel uncomfortable and possibly short of breath. Close observation including monitoring your weight, fluid intake, blood tests and serial ultrasounds can be required. On occasion we may place a needle inside your belly to remove the extra fluid to make you feel better. This is often accomplished by placing a needle through the vaginal wall into the abdomen under ultrasound guidance and anesthesia. Rarely, hospitalization may be required for intravenous fluids and very close monitoring of your vital signs and symptoms. Unfortunately, this complication is worsened or prolonged by the pregnancy itself.

Cancer Risk and IVF: There have been many articles in the medical literature evaluating the association between the use of fertility drugs and ovarian cancer. We have used these drugs for over 30 years in the treatment of infertility, which is a known risk factor itself for ovarian cancer. It is very important to know that most of the articles published have shown no increase in the risk of ovarian cancer with the use of these drugs.