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Semin Reprod Med 2013; 31(05): 340-346
DOI: 10.1055/s-0033-1348892
Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Disparities in Obstetrical Outcomes in ART Pregnancies Compared with Natural Conceptions

Torie C. Plowden
1   Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Bayne-Jones Army Community Hospital, Ft Polk, Louisiana
,
Christopher M. Novak
2   Fort Drum Obstetrics and Gynecology Clinic, Watertown, New York
,
Catherine Y. Spong
3   Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
› Author Affiliations
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Publication History

Publication Date:
09 August 2013 (online)

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Abstract

Health disparities are observed in all fields of medicine and reproductive health is not immune to this phenomenon. The incidence of women using infertility treatments to conceive is increasing. Women undergoing assisted reproduction appear to be at increased risk of adverse outcomes, and minority women tend to be at even greater risk. This article examines several adverse obstetrical outcomes including preterm birth, congenital malformations, and preeclampsia among women receiving infertility treatments compared with those who conceive spontaneously. It will further examine societal costs associated with these procedures.

Keywords

assisted reproduction - spontaneous conception - ethnic disparities
 

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