Does IVF Treatment Make You More Prone To Cancer?
Disclaimer: This blog provides the following information to offer general guidance on IVF and cancer risk. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalised recommendations and treatment plans.
In vitro fertilisation (IVF) has transformed the lives of many, turning the aspiration of parenthood into a beautiful reality. Studies suggest a link between IVF and cancer risk, so it is important to stay vigilant.
This blog will walk you through whether IVF treatment increases the risk of cancer or not. So, keep reading!
What are the top 4 IVF treatments and their associated cancer risk?
IVF treatments involve several steps, each with its own potential cancer risks. Understanding these risks can help you make informed decisions and take proactive steps to protect your health. Here’s a breakdown of the main IVF treatments and their associated cancer risks:
1. Ovarian Stimulation
Ovarian stimulation is often done with medications like gonadotropins (for example, FSH and LH) and specific drugs such as Menopur 1200 IU Injection, which contains the active ingredient menotrophins. These help develop many ovarian follicles.
Cancer Risk: Multiple studies suggest a slightly higher risk of ovarian cancer from these medications for a long time. But overall, this risk seems low. It is believed that more IVF cycles may increase the risk of cancer.
2. Egg Retrieval
Egg retrieval means taking eggs out of the ovaries. This is done with a needle that is guided by ultrasound.
Cancer Risk: This procedure is usually not invasive and does not raise cancer risk much. Stress & hormonal changes can have indirect effects, but there's not much documentation on this.
3. Embryo Transfer
After fertilisation, embryos are placed into the uterus, aiming for implantation & pregnancy.
Cancer Risk: There’s no strong evidence showing that embryo transfer increases cancer risk. Worries about cancer are often linked to pre-existing factors & fertility medication use.
4. Hormonal Treatments (e.g., Estrogens and Progesterone)
Hormonal treatments prepare the endometrial lining for implantation & support early pregnancy.
Cancer Risk: Using hormones like estrogen & progesterone for a long time has been linked to higher risks for certain cancers, including breast & endometrial cancer. However, the risk from short-term use during IVF is less clear and considered to be lower.
What are the most common types of IVF-related cancers?
IVF treatment can be associated with an increased risk of certain cancers, but the overall risk varies depending on the type of cancer and individual factors. Most studies suggest that while there are some increased risks, they are not significant for all types of cancer.
A study published in the journal Women’s Health stated that:
1. Breast Cancer: There is no definitive risk shown between the IVF treatment and breast cancer. However, long-term exposure to hormone treatment can increase the risk slightly. The studies are limited, and more studies are needed to quantify the definitive risk.
2. Endometrial Cancer: Some fertility drugs can increase the risk of endometrial cancer, especially with long-term use of estrogen therapies can enhance the risk. Women with PCOS who undergo IVF treatment have a slight increase in risk of endometrial cancer.
3. Melanoma: There’s not much evidence connecting fertility treatments to melanoma risk. The study shows that there aren’t major findings linking these treatments to higher melanoma rates. There can be a possible risk, but more studies are needed to know the risk factor more accurately.
4. Ovarian Cancer: There can be a slight increase in ovarian cancer risk with fertility treatments, especially when doing multiple IVF cycles. The risk seems related more to how often ovaries are stimulated rather than each cycle on its own.
While it can be a risk factor for these cancers, it is not a definitive risk for everyone.
Are children born via IVF at a higher risk of cancer?
A 2024 study published in JAMA Network stated that children born via IVF do not have an overall increased risk of childhood cancer compared to those conceived naturally. However, the study did find a higher risk of leukaemia, particularly acute lymphoblastic leukaemia, among those born after frozen embryo transfer.
What are the cancer-related risk factors associated with IVF?
The cancer-related risk factors associated with IVF are
- Hormone therapy: Prolonged exposure to elevated estrogen levels may stimulate cell proliferation in breast tissues, Which can increase the risk of developing hormone-sensitive cancers such as breast cancer.
- Genetics and age: Older women with a family history of cancer may have a higher risk of developing cancer.
- IVF cycles: Undergoing many IVF cycles has a higher cancer risk compared to a single cycle due to prolonged exposure to fertility medicines.
- Underlying infertility issues: Conditions like endometriosis or PCOS can influence cancer risk in ways that differ from unexplained infertility.
- Pre-existing conditions: Women with pre-existing medical conditions and a history of cancer might have an altered risk.
- Lifestyle factors: Smoking and a poor nutritious diet can affect general health and elevate the risk of cancer.
What are the 8 preventive measures for cancer during IVF treatment?
There are some preventive strategies to reduce cancer risk during IVF treatment, such as
1. Regular screening: Schedule regular health check-ups and screenings, such as mammograms, PAP smears, and colonoscopies. Discuss with your doctor any extra screening that you need post-IVF treatment.
2. Medication management: Discuss IVF medicines, such as hormonal drugs, that can increase the cancer risk with your doctor and make any necessary changes in doses if required.
3. Genetic counselling: Consider genetic counselling to determine your cancer risk and talk about preventative measures if you have a family history of cancer.
4. Healthy lifestyle: Try to maintain a healthy lifestyle by eating healthy food, working out often, & staying away from smoking or too much drinking. These really can lower your chance of getting cancer.
5. Handle Stress: Try activities like yoga or meditation. They can help you feel relaxed. Long-term stress can affect general health and overall well-being.
6. Check-Ups: After IVF treatment, it's super important to go to regular follow-ups with your doctor. That way, you can keep track of your health & deal with any concerns quickly.
7. Stay Informed: Learn about the risks linked with IVF treatment and cancer. Knowing the signs and symptoms of cancer can help you catch things early and help in effective management.
8. Personal Care: Team up with your healthcare crew to make a care plan tailored for you. This plan can value your risk factors and medical background. It helps customise ways to prevent issues based on what suits you best.
Expert insights
Dr. Jaime Knopman, Director of Fertility Preservation at CCRM, New York, stated, “The cancers we see are ductal carcinoma in situ, meaning it was already there in a lot of cases, but the meds just brought it out. Likely, the cancer was there, and it may have grown due to the estrogen after IVF.”
Dr. Astha Dayal, Director of Obstetrics & Gynaecology at CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram, stated, "There is a myth that the hormonal treatments used in IVF can increase the risk of cancer, particularly ovarian and breast cancer. However, extensive research has shown no significant link between IVF treatments and an increased risk of these cancers.
The medications used in IVF are carefully monitored and adjusted to each patient's needs, ensuring safety throughout the process."
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’S)
1. Can you have IVF if you have cancer?
Yes, it is possible to undergo IVF if you have cancer. However, it depends on the type and stage of cancer, along with the treatment plan, which are important considerations. Oncologists and fertility specialists will assess your overall health and treatment options. The fertility treatment strategies are discussed with the oncologists to overcome any issues that may arise.
2. Are IVF babies healthy?
IVF babies are normal and healthy as other babies. In fact, it is impossible to distinguish between normal and IVF babies until it is told.
3. What are the chances of getting cancer from IVF?
IVF has a slight but typically lower risk of cancer. Some studies suggest a minor increase in risk for certain cancers, such as ovarian cancer. Overall, the risk is minimal and manageable with proper monitoring and care.
4. Does repeated IVF cause cancer?
Undergoing many IVF cycles has a higher cancer risk compared to a single cycle due to prolonged exposure to fertility medicines.
5. How does IVF affect women’s health?
IVF treatments have some side effects, such as bruising or soreness at the injection location, nausea, fatigue, breast tenderness, bloating, and hot flashes
Wrapping up
Reducing cancer risk after IVF treatment involves a proactive approach to health and wellness. Regular screening, awareness of medications, and knowledge about prevention and risk factors are required to make informed decisions and reduce any potential risk. Working closely with your doctor ensures better outcomes with a personalised approach and treatment.
“IVF is not about creating life, but about giving hope where hope is scarce.”
References
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10560672/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7475593/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16526416/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23255514/
- https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/pdf/10.2217/WHE.14.58
Note: The information provided in this blog is intended for general knowledge. It is important to remember that it should not replace professional medical advice. If you have any concerns about cancer or related symptoms, please consult a healthcare provider.
