US scientists have found that assisted reproductive technologies increase the risk of preeclampsia, a dangerous pregnancy complication, more than twice compared to natural pregnancy. The study was presented at the annual scientific session of the American College of Cardiology.
Researchers examined the medical records of more than 2.2 million women. Reproductive technologies – 5874 pregnancies occurred by in vitro fertilization, intrauterine insemination and other methods. Researchers found that reproductive technology use more than doubles the risk of developing preeclampsia and increases the average time a woman spends in hospital by 33%.
Preeclampsia is a pregnancy complication associated with high blood pressure and possible organ damage. In addition, preeclampsia increases the risk of heart disease and stroke later in life.
The authors noted that the risk of preeclampsia should not deter women from considering assisted reproductive technologies, but highlights the need for more careful medical oversight.