Child Development

With IVF, fertilization and the first development of the embryo take place outside the mother's body. This has raised questions about the physical and psychological development of IVF children. Does IVF lead to an increased risk of congenital defects or to retardation in the cognitive and motor development in the child? Does parents' strong desire for a child lead to overprotection or exaggerated expectations? Does the unusual conception history result in a deviant parent–child relationship? In this review, various studies concerning these questions are analyzed. The conclusion, based on the studies to date, is that no serious problems have arisen concerning either the physical or the psychological development of IVF children. On the contrary, there are indications of superior parental competence and warmth.