According to medical experts, an IVF prenatal period is the same as a regular conception

Abu Dhabi, UAE 25  of April 2019:  For couples who’ve been struggling to conceive for a long time, a successful round of In-Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) is a major achievement. However, most patients are of the opinion that an IVF pregnancy is different from natural conception, which can lead to complications and challenges as the gestation continues. In the opinion of Prof. Dr. Human Fatemi, Medical Director, IVI Middle East Fertility Clinic, UAE, an IVF prenatal period is the same as a regular conception.

“Every pregnancy is different, be it normal or through Assisted Reproductive Techniques.  It is recommended that patients should seek adequate information from their doctors to be able to transition from the three trimesters smoothly,” said Prof. Dr. Human Fatemi.

IVF is the process of removing the eggs from the ovaries of the woman, fertilizing them with the husband’s sperm in a laboratory (in vitro) and then transferring the resulting embryo back into the uterus to achieve a successful pregnancy. In an IVF pregnancy, patients remain under the care of the fertility clinic as they have to be closely monitored compared to patients who conceive naturally. Regular ultra sounds, every one or two weeks is common with an IVF gestation, but it is always recommended to have regular prescribed ultrasounds in a natural conception as well.  In addition, doctors opt for regular blood tests to monitor hormonal levels. 

“An IVF conception includes all symptoms of a normal pregnancy. From morning sickness to cravings, increased urination and mood swings, most women go through the same indications,” added Dr Desislava Markova, the Fetal Medicine expert at IVI. 

While gestation achieved through IVF is similar to a natural conception, it is to be noted that the procedure might take longer than required. Some couples will see success over one to three cycles, while others may take long. Also, a woman’s chance of becoming pregnant through IVF depends on many factors, including the proficiency of the doctor or clinic performing the procedure, her infertility diagnosis and her age.

“While most procedures in an IVF and a natural pregnancy are same, it is important that patients improve the in-take of a nutritious diet and maintain a healthy weight. Their diet should include whole grains, legumes, such as beans, chickpeas and lentils in their daily diet. Healthy fats, such as avocado, extra-virgin olive oil, nuts and seeds can also be included in the diet plan. It is suggested that pregnant women avoid the in-take of meat, sugar, refined grains, and other highly processed foods, for increasing the chances of a successful IVF pregnancy,” concluded Dr. Fatemi.

Studies indicate that obesity is a key factor that leads to decreased success with IVF. It is, therefore, recommended that individuals opting for IVF maintain an ideal weight, with a BMI of less than 30kg/m2 to avoid harming the quality of eggs and increase the success rate for live births.

With an excellent team of over 300experts IVI delivers a success rate of over 70 percent, the highest in the Middle East. IVI Fertility has three clinics in the Middle East – Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Muscat, which strive to offer patients fertility treatments that are honest, transparent and customised to their medical conditions coupled with the best clinical practices.