Objective: To evaluate the neonatal outcomes of pregnancies resulting from in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer (IVF-ET) in relation to the occurrence of congenital malformations of the neonates.
Methods: A total of 1274 infants born after IVF-ET were reviewed. The neonatal outcome was evaluated based on gestational weeks, body weight, congenital malformations, manner of spermatization, maternal age and multiple gestation.
Results: IVF-ET resulted in 930 deliveries, giving birth to a total of 1274 newborns. Spontaneous delivery occurred in 115 cases (12.37%), with preterm birth in 224 cases (24.09%). Among these newborns, 363 (28.49%) had very low born weight (VLBW), 13 (1.02%) had congenital malformations, and neonatal mortality occurred in 15 cases (1.18%).
Conclusion: IVF increases the risks of twin pregnancies, preterm birth and VLBW, but does not increase the rate of congenital malformations and neonatal mortality. Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) is at higher risk of congenital malformations. Maternal age and twin pregnancies are not associated with congenital malformations. IVF can be safe for treatment of infertility.