January 12, 2010: One among the six couples are generally affected with infertility problems and such couples thereby seek to different techniques such as assisted human reproduction (AHR), intrauterine insemination, in vitro fertilization. However, increased risks of birth defects are associated with these techniques. Birth defects may be structural, functional, metabolic abnormities occurred during the birth.

A study was conducted in 2005; information about the reproductive assistance was reported in 61,569 deliveries. The risk of birth defects in infants associated with assisted human reproduction (AHR) was assessed. The prevalence of birth defect was higher showing a prevalence of 2.9% in AHR when compared to 1.86% non-AHR population. Gastrointestinal, cardiovascular and musculoskeletal disorders were seen and increased related to AHR. Among the study population 2.35% suffered from birth defect by ovulation induction, 2.89% in intrauterine insemination (IUI) and 3.45% was associated with In Vitro Fertilization (IVF). Reports showed substantially increased risk of birth defect and other hazardous effects related to IUI and IVF.

Thereby, the risk of birth defects in procedures such as IUI and IVF are relatively high. Counseling should be given to infertile couples undergoing AHR procedures. Birth defect allied due to AHR is unclear. Study should be conducted in larger population for finding the reason for birth defect.

Sources: http://www.fertstert.org/article/S0015-0282(08)03574-7/abstract