10 Dec
Are IVF Babies More Likely to Be Premature — and Why?

A Complete, Expert-Backed Guide for Parents

Bringing a baby into the world through IVF (In Vitro Fertilisation) is a joyful journey for many couples. But one common concern among expecting parents is whether IVF babies are more likely to be born early (premature) and what causes this difference.
Premature birth — defined as delivery before 37 weeks of pregnancy — can bring challenges like low birth weight, breathing difficulties, feeding issues, and longer NICU stays. Understanding why this may happen with IVF pregnancies helps parents prepare, manage risks, and make informed decisions.
This blog explains the science in simple language and offers clarity backed by medical reasoning — not fear.
 

Are IVF Babies More Likely to Be Premature?

Yes, research shows IVF babies have a slightly higher chance of being born prematurely compared to naturally conceived babies. However—
  • The difference is not very large,
  •  Most IVF babies are born healthy, and
  •  Many of the risks can be managed with proper care.
Prematurity in IVF pregnancies is often due to underlying factors in the parents' health—not the IVF procedure itself.
 

How Much Higher Is the Risk?


While exact numbers vary, studies suggest:
  • IVF pregnancies may have 1.5 to 2 times higher risk of preterm delivery.

 

  • BUT: Single embryo transfers (SET) significantly reduce this risk.

In short:

  •   Twin IVF pregnancies → Higher risk
  •  Single IVF pregnancies → Only slightly higher than natural conception
     

Why Does Prematurity Happen More Often in IVF Pregnancies?

Let’s look at the reasons in a simple, parent-friendly way.

1️⃣ Multiple Pregnancy (Twins or Triplets)
This is the number one reason for prematurity in IVF.

  • Carrying more than one baby stretches the uterus.
  • Increased chances of early contractions.
  • Higher risk of high blood pressure & gestational diabetes.
  • Increased likelihood of C-section.

Even though most IVF clinics now prefer single-blastocyst transfers, older studies with twin transfers increase the statistics.

2️⃣ Underlying Fertility Issues in Parents
Sometimes, the reason for infertility also affects pregnancy.
Common conditions include:

  • PCOS
  • Endometriosis
  • Fibroids
  • Adenomyosis
  • Blocked tubes
  • Thyroid disorders
  • Autoimmune conditions

These conditions may increase risks like:

  • Placental problems
  • High blood pressure
  • Gestational diabetes
  • Poor uterine environment

This increases chances of early delivery—not IVF itself.

3️⃣Maternal Age
Many women starting IVF are over 35 or 40.
 Advanced age is itself a risk factor for:

  • Pre-eclampsia
  • Placental insufficiency
  • Preterm labour
  • Gestational diabetes

Thus, age + IVF increases the risk slightly more.

4️⃣ Placental Issues in IVF Pregnancy
Some studies show IVF pregnancies may have:

  • Placenta previa
  • Abnormal placental implantation
  • Reduced blood flow to placenta

This may lead to:

  • Early delivery for the baby’s safety
  • Fetal growth restriction
  • Premature rupture of membranes

5️⃣ Frozen vs. Fresh Embryo Transfer Factors
Interestingly:

  • Frozen embryo transfer (FET) often leads to higher birth weight
  • Fresh transfer sometimes carries slightly higher risk of early birth
     due to ovarian stimulation hormones affecting the uterine lining.

However, the difference is small and improving with better protocols.
 

6️⃣ Immune and Hormonal Imbalances
Some IVF pregnancies need:

  • Progesterone support
  • Estrogen support
  • Immune therapies

These do not directly cause premature birth but represent underlying imbalances which can influence pregnancy outcomes.

7️⃣ IVF Technology Is Not the Cause
A common myth:
❌ “IVF babies are weak or less healthy.”
 ✔️ Scientific studies prove: babies from IVF are as healthy as naturally conceived babies.
The prematurity risk is linked to:

  • Parental health
  • Multiple embryos
  • Age - NOT the IVF technique.

How to Reduce the Risk of Premature Delivery in IVF Pregnancies

The good news:
 MOST risks can be reduced with modern care.
Here’s how:

✔️ 1. Choose Single Embryo Transfer (SET)
This is the most effective way to reduce early birth risk.
 It reduces twin pregnancy and complications.

✔️ 2. Treat underlying fertility conditions
Managing:

  • Thyroid
  • PCOS
  • Diabetes
  • Uterine issues
  • Endometriosis

can significantly improve outcomes.

✔️ 3. Regular Antenatal Check-ups
Close monitoring allows doctors to:

  • Detect early complications
  • Manage blood pressure
  • Track fetal growth
  • Prevent preterm labour

✔️ 4. Lifestyle Improvements

  • No smoking or alcohol
  • Healthy diet
  • 30 minutes walking
  • Stress management
  • Adequate sleep

These help stabilize hormones and uterine health.

✔️ 5. Expert IVF centres with advanced protocols
Embryo grading, blastocyst transfer, genetic screening (PGT) all improve success rates and reduce complications.
 

Are IVF Babies as Healthy as Normal Babies?


YES.
Studies confirm IVF babies:
  • Have normal intelligence
  • Grow normally
  • Have normal immunity
  • Are as healthy as naturally conceived babies

Prematurity—when it happens—comes from pregnancy-related issues, not IVF technology.

When Should IVF Moms Be Extra Careful?


Seek immediate medical care if you notice:
  • Strong contractions
  • Bleeding
  • Fluid leakage
  • Severe cramping
  • Reduced baby movements
  • Swelling in face/hands
  • High BP readings
  • Sudden headaches or blurred vision

These could indicate early labour or pre-eclampsia.

Final Summary


IVF babies are slightly more likely to be born premature, but this is mostly due to parental health factors and multiple pregnancies—not IVF technology.
With:
  • Single embryo transfer
  • Proper medical care
  • Management of underlying conditions
  • Healthy lifestyle
  • Experienced IVF specialists


MOST IVF pregnancies result in full-term, healthy babies.

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