IVF Kids vs. Normal Kids: Key Differences Explained
Are IVF Babies Healthy As Normal Babies?
It has always been a debated question whether IVF babies are normal. An IVF baby means a baby that is conceived by In Vitro Fertilization (a type of Assisted Reproductive Technology). An IVF baby’s journey begins in a lab, not a woman’s uterus. Therefore, people assume they have a complicated path. However, the later developments of the embryo (fertilized egg) are the same. The baby grows in the womb of the mother just like a naturally conceived child.
Many people face complications with infertility. They keep trying to get pregnant naturally but fail. IVF works as a solution for such couples. That too, with an increasing success rate today.
How is an IVF Child Different from a Normal Child?
IVF starts differently, but these kids are mostly the same as others. In both health and growth, they go through the same stages. Still, some differences exist:
- Conception Method: The biggest difference is how the baby’s life begins. For an IVF baby, a doctor helps the sperm and egg join together. It is done in a special dish (petri dish) outside the mother’s body. With a regular baby, the sperm and egg fuse together naturally inside the mother.
- Parental Planning and Timing: IVF children are often born to parents who had trouble getting pregnant on their own. These are the parents who usually wait a long time to have children. These parents generally plan the pregnancy carefully. They get medical and emotional support.
- Higher Chances of Multiple Births: IVF makes it more likely for parents to have twins or triplets. This happens because doctors sometimes do multiple embryo transfers into the mother’s womb. More than one embryo is used to increase her chances of pregnancy.
- Slightly Higher Risk Factors: Medicine has improved a lot. IVF is much safer today. Old studies mentioned some small risks. For example, babies might be born smaller (or with lower birth weight). But the new technology is very advanced. Additionally, good care before birth also helps. These days, most IVF children are very healthy.
- Medical Record Tracking: In the case of an IVF child, the medical history is preserved. It is like a detailed record that could be helpful to understand their development. This helps in solving health concerns early.
- No Genetic Difference: If the IVF baby is conceived with its parents’ sex cells (eggs and sperm) then their genes will definitely match. The way the baby is made (IVF or not) doesn’t change the genetic makeup.
- Emotional and Social Perception:Some people have different views about IVF. But IVF kids feel just like other kids. They think and feel the same way. How they were born doesn’t change that.
- Higher Parental Attachment (in some cases): IVF can be hard and cost a significant amount of money. It also involves a lot of feelings of hope and anxiety. Because of all this, some parents feel extra love for their IVF baby. They develop a special bond.
What Separates A Normal Conception From An IVF Conception?
Natural Conception: This happens inside the woman’s body without any medical help. It relies on the natural timing of a woman’s menstrual cycle. It also depends on the man’s ability to fertilize the egg.
IVF Conception: This involves doctors and fertility clinics. The egg and sperm are joined together in a lab outside the body. Doctors use special methods and medicines to help this happen. Then they place the fertilized egg in the woman’s womb. It needs careful planning, medical steps, and often a lot of emotional strength from the parents.
Please note: There is no difference between IVF and test tube baby. It is the same thing.
A Message of Hope
IVF is more than just a medical treatment; it is hope. It helps couples become parents. And it’s time to let go of outdated beliefs, IVF children deserve the same love and care as any child. If you are considering IVF treatment, we will guide you through the process with compassion and expertise. Archish IVF is here to support you at every step of your journey.