A recent study has come out revealing that the use of IVF doesn’t pose a risk for developmental issues in childhood. More than 400,000 children, including 11,000 who were conceived through IVF, were part of the study. The goal was to discover whether children conceived through fertility treatments had a greater risk of adverse developmental outcomes during their elementary school years.

This time period in a child’s life is a critical one for the development of the social skills and learning patterns they will need as they grow older and become adults. The study looked at outcomes by using the Australian Early Development Census (AEDC) and the National Assessment Program for Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN).

There were no statistically significant differences found between the children conceived through IVF and children born without the use of fertility treatments. Past evidence was more concerning and seemed to indicate that IVF-conceived children had poorer educational outcomes. However, this new study found no information to back up that claim.

Would-be parents, physicians, and others involved in the fertility area of healthcare can cite this study as reassurance that there are no additional risks to children conceived with the help of fertility treatments. Not only can that provide additional peace of mind, but it can also pave the way for couples who may have been avoiding IVF due to developmental concerns.

Nearly eight million babies around the world have been born through IVF. Different studies at various times have had mixed findings as to whether there were any differences between these children and others. However, with new studies like this one that include such a large number of children, it can be more easily seen that IVF poses no risk.

Couples that want to explore IVF to start or grow their families should not be worried about development issues with their children. While developmental problems are possible with any child, the risk doesn’t appear to be any higher with IVF.

The Surrogacy Law Center helps couples and individuals in either traditional or non-traditional families and from all over the country and the world. Request a complimentary initial consultation today!