What are the risks of IVF?
IVF is generally a safe treatment, but like any medical procedure it has some risks. The main ones are ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), multiple pregnancy (especially when more than one embryo is transferred), ectopic pregnancy and rare problems related to the egg retrieval procedure. Most of these risks are reduced by measures such as monitoring, appropriate dosing and single embryo transfer. Risks vary from person to person; your doctor will discuss your situation and the precautions being taken with you.
When preparing for IVF, knowing the risks honestly both eases anxiety and makes it clearer what to watch for. The good news: IVF is generally a safe treatment, and most of the main risks are reduced with monitoring and simple precautions. Here are the possible risks and the precautions taken against them:
Overview
Like any medical treatment, IVF has some risks; however, most of them are predictable and manageable. The level of risk varies from person to person — age, diagnosis, ovarian reserve and previous responses all play a role. In modern practice, the aim is to minimize risk while preserving the chances.
Ovarian hyperstimulation (OHSS)
OHSS occurs when the ovaries have an excessive response to the stimulation medication. Symptoms may include abdominal bloating, a feeling of fullness and discomfort.
- Most cases are mild and temporary,
- Rarely, it can be more serious (marked bloating, nausea, shortness of breath),
- Today, the risk is markedly reduced through monitoring, dose adjustment, different trigger methods and, when needed, freezing the embryos and postponing the transfer.
If after stimulation you have rapidly increasing abdominal bloating, severe pain, nausea and vomiting, or shortness of breath, contact your doctor or clinic without waiting. Early assessment is important.
Multiple pregnancy
The best-known risk is multiple pregnancy (twins or more). This risk increases especially when more than one embryo is transferred. A multiple pregnancy carries additional risks for both the mother and the babies, including preterm birth and other complications.
That is why, today, single embryo transfer is preferred when appropriate. This preserves the chance of a healthy pregnancy while reducing the likelihood of a multiple pregnancy. The number of embryos transferred is decided according to age and embryo quality.
Ectopic pregnancy
Rarely, the embryo may implant in the fallopian tube instead of the uterus (ectopic pregnancy). This can happen both with IVF and with natural pregnancy, and early diagnosis is important. That is why, after the pregnancy test, the location of the pregnancy is checked with ultrasound. If you have abdominal pain or unusual bleeding, you should see a doctor.
Procedure-related risks
Egg retrieval (oocyte pick-up, OPU) is a short procedure that usually goes smoothly; still, as with any intervention, there are rare risks:
- Rarely, bleeding or infection,
- Rare problems related to sedation.
These risks are low, and the procedure is performed under safe conditions. If you have severe pain, fever or noticeable bleeding after the procedure, you should see a doctor.
Emotional strain and support
A less discussed but very real side of IVF is the emotional strain: waiting periods and the mix of hope and anxiety can be exhausting. This is normal.
- Knowing each step of the process in advance reduces anxiety,
- Sharing with your partner and, if needed, with mental health support can help,
- You have every right to ask your team your questions without hesitation.
Knowing the risks is not meant to turn you away from IVF; it is meant to help you approach the process prepared and calm. Your doctor will discuss the risks that apply to you and the precautions being taken, based on your personal situation.
Frequently asked questions
Is IVF safe?
IVF is generally a safe and widely used treatment. As with any medical procedure, it has some risks, but most of them are reduced through monitoring and precautions. Your doctor will explain your personal level of risk and the precautions being taken.
What is OHSS, and is it dangerous?
OHSS (ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome) is an excessive response of the ovaries to the medication. Most cases are mild and temporary; rarely, it can be serious. Today, the risk is markedly reduced through monitoring, dose adjustment and, when needed, freezing the embryos and postponing the transfer. If you have severe bloating, pain or shortness of breath, you should see a doctor.
Is the risk of twins high with IVF?
The risk of a multiple pregnancy increases especially when more than one embryo is transferred. Because a multiple pregnancy carries additional risks for the mother and the babies, single embryo transfer is preferred today whenever possible. This reduces the likelihood of twins or a multiple pregnancy.
Is egg retrieval surgery, and is it risky?
Egg retrieval (oocyte pick-up, OPU) is a short procedure usually done under light sedation, and it mostly goes smoothly. Risks such as bleeding or infection are rare. If you have severe pain, fever or noticeable bleeding after the procedure, you should see a doctor.
Does IVF cause cancer?
Current scientific evidence does not show that the medications used in IVF significantly increase the risk of cancer. This topic continues to be studied. If you have concerns, discuss them with your doctor together with your personal history.
Sources
- ESHRE — Reproductive medicine guidelines (including OHSS)
- ASRM — ReproductiveFacts (patient information)
- World Health Organization (WHO) — Infertility
Note: This content was written independently, based on current scientific information published by the institutions above; it is not a direct copy of any text.
This article is for general information only; it is not a diagnosis or treatment recommendation and does not replace a medical examination. Please consult your doctor about your own situation. The content reflects scientific knowledge as of the update date above.