Assisted reproductive technology and neonatal intensive care unit: A retrospective observational study from a single center.

BACKGROUND

An increasing number of infants are being conceived using assisted reproductive technology (ART). The effects of infertility treatments (IFTs) on infant outcomes have been extensively debated; however, a consensus has not yet been reached. In the present study, we investigated the impact of IFTs on neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) managements using data collected at a single large NICU center.

METHODS

We retrospectively investigated patients admitted to the University of Tokyo Hospital NICU during three different time periods (2010, 2015, and 2020). We included 131, 201, and 323 infants, respectively, and compared a number of factors among groups classified by the mode of conception: spontaneous pregnancy (SP), non-ART (conceived with assisted ovulation or artificial insemination), and ART. We also compared the mode of conception among inborn singletons.

RESULTS

The rate of admission of ART infants significantly increased from 2010 (9.1%) to 2015 (22.9%) and 2020 (25.7%) (p values of <0.05 and <0.01, respectively). When compared among inborn singletons, ART infants were more often admitted to NICU (p < 0.01). Congenital anomalies and surgical interventions were significantly more frequent in the SP group than in the ART group (p < 0.01). No significant differences were observed in neonatal outcomes among ART infants from 2010 to 2015/2020.

CONCLUSIONS

The rate of ART infants admitted to the NICU has significantly increased, with ART pregnancies now accounting for 25% of admissions to the perinatal medical center. ART procedure may be a risk factor for NICU admission. Neonatal intensive care is becoming increasingly indispensable for ART pregnancies.