Pregnancies conceived through IVF carry a slightly higher-than-average risk for birth before 40 weeks, the normal gestation term. Babies born before 37 weeks are preterm, but not necessarily premature. Most of the brain and lung development occurs rapidly toward the end of gestation.
Doctors monitor babies’ development and tend toward early, but safe delivery for IVF babies. Typically IVF babies come into the world at 38 weeks gestation. From embryo transfer on doctors monitor these precious little individuals throughout pregnancy, so delivery induced at or around 38 weeks is safe for them and for you. Let’s have a look at what else you should expect during birth week, the process and health tips for recovery.
Is a Normal Vaginal Birth Possible with IVF?
Of course, a normal vaginal delivery is possible with IVF and that’s a decision left up to you and your doctor. Several factors affect the delivery method, including maternal health, health of the pregnancy and specific complications. But the risks and complications for IVF birth are pretty similar to non-IVF pregnancies. IVF babies are simply monitored more closely.
Some factors influencing delivery methods after IVF include:
- Health of The Mother: age, pre-existing conditions and overall health and well-being determine your baby’s birth. You may deliver via cesarean section, vaginal with induction or simply go into labor naturally.
- Obstetric History: Those females who’ve delivered via c-section before may require a c-section again, depending on the condition of the uterus and other complications.
- Health of The Baby: Throughout your pregnancy your baby’s development is primary concern for your doctor. If they note any concerns, including baby’s position in the uterus, your doctor may recommend a cesarean section for the health of the baby.
- Pregnancy Complications: Certain pregnancy-related complications such as preeclampsia, placental issues, gestational diabetes and certain medical conditions increase your odds for a cesarean section.
This doesn’t mean you should plan a cesarean section with IVF, however, depending on your circumstances, the odds of a c-section delivery are higher when conception occurred via IVF. Of course, the ultimate goal is always a healthy baby and healthy mother so if a cesarean section facilitates that goal so much the better.
What is The Cesarean Section Process?
If you and your doctor determine a cesarean section works best for you then there are a few different ways it works. First you may opt for an elective cesarean section. That means your doctor schedules the surgical delivery for a specific date. You show up at the hospital at the designated time where you’re prepped for your delivery.
If there are complications, your doctor may determine a cesarean section necessary and possibly an emergency. Depending on the complications they may whisk you right into surgery.
Most often, the procedure allows you to stay awake, and your partner of birth coach is with you. You’re numbed from your chest to your feet via spinal anesthesia administered through an epidural. The doctor makes a horizontal incision just above your pubic area and opens your uterus and the amniotic sac and retrieves the baby. The entire process takes about an hour after which you go to recovery (after cuddling your new baby for a few minutes) then you’re admitted to a hospital room in the mother-baby section of the hospital. Once you’re both deemed healthy your baby comes to stay in your room for the duration of your hospitalization, usually about 72 hours.
Of course, should you or your baby have complications before, during or after delivery your cesarean section experience may differ. You may require general anesthesia or extra time in the hospital for recovery.
Health Tips for Mom
Recovery for both cesarean section and vaginal deliveries begins by getting plenty of rest. Bedrest is essential to prevent injury to your incision. Also, follow your doctor’s advice for tending your incision at home. Take your pain medication as needed, but let your doctor know if you breastfeed. Beyond that here are other health tips which aid in recovery:
- Process your emotions just as you did through your fertility journey. Talk with friends and family members, if you’re comfortable or reach out to a professional if you feel overwhelmed by your emotions. If you suspect postpartum depression, seek help as soon as possible.
- Get outside and take regular walks. Start slow as soon as your doctor says it’s ok. Your doctor may recommend you walk short distances a few times a day as soon as you’re released, building in distance and duration little by little. This is a great way to boost feel-good endorphins, prevent blood clots and get your muscles moving.
- Constipation usually happens. It’s a result of anesthesia, pain medications, weakened abdominal muscles and shifts in hormones. Use a dietary approach and eat plenty of fresh fruits, vegetables and fiber-rich grains. Drink lots of water and ask your doctor for a stool softener recommendation.
- Follow your doctor’s instructions and reach out if something doesn’t feel quite right.
Health Tips for Baby
Before you leave the hospital, they check baby out very thoroughly. Your pediatrician already gave the approval, and they’ve monitored baby very closely since delivery. When you get home, you’ll continue bonding with baby. Observe skin-to-skin contact as much and as often as possible. Involve your partner as well. Check in with a lactation consultant, if breastfeeding isn’t going as planned.
Your IVF Partners
For more on what to expect when you’re expecting a baby conceived through IVF, contact LA IVF. We are here for you and we look forward to partnering with you on your IVF journey.
