Infantile Prognosis of Neonates Conceived by Assisted Reproductive Techniques: A prospective Study

Abstract Background: Outcomes of neonates of infertile couples that are golden babies and care of them is an issue of importance. But it is not yet clear if the prognosis is different between them and neonates from fertile couples. The purpose of this study was to determine the outcome of neonates conceived by assisted reproductive techniques.Methods: In this cohort study, a total of 165 newborn who were conceived by ART and 165 naturally concieved newborns were enrolled. The study was prospective from April 2016 to October 2017. All newborns were examined by neonatologist after birth and their outcome were followed up to one year. The outcomes were compared with neonates from fertile couple using appropriate statistical tests.Results: The preterm neonates (60% vs. 38%) were higher in ART cases (P<0.001). The mean gravid and parity were lower in ART group (P<0.001) and the nulliparity was higher in them. Multiple pregnancies were higher in ART cases (45% vs. 10%; P<0. 001). C/S rate was higher (91% vs 67%) in ART cases (P<0.001). Pre-eclampsia rate was higher in ART cases (16 % vs. 6%; P=0.004). Female sex was higher in ART group (P=0.035). Birth weight was significantly lower in ART group (P=0.002) and the Apgar was also lower (P=0.002; P=0.012). IUGR was significantly higher (17% vs. 7%) in ART group (P=0.006). NEC and RDS were more common in ART group (P<0.001). Hospital stay was longer in ART group (P<0.001). Re-admission, and weight less than 5th percentile were more common after one year in ART group (P=0.021).Conclusion: According to the obtained results, pregnancy after ART has more side effects before and after birth and also in infancy; not only because of multigestation but also due to manipulations in ART.