Long-Term Health Outcomes of Children Born After In Vitro Fertilization (IVF): A Narrative Review.

The aim of this narrative review is to present long-term health outcomes of children conceived after in vitro fertilization (IVF). The narrative synthesis has mainly been based on systematic reviews/meta-analyses and cohort studies. Various effects were examined, spanning the neurodevelopment, cardiovascular function and metabolism, respiratory system, malignancies, reproductive health, gastrointestinal system, and endocrine glands. As a rule, children born after IVF, when restricted to singletons and cryopreservation of embryos is avoided, did not face a significant risk to the most health conditions versus their spontaneously conceived peers. However, some higher risks concerning neurodevelopment, cardiovascular function, metabolism, and allergies have been noted. Given the limited data despite the popularity of IVF, more investigation and continuous surveillance in adulthood of this group are imperative.