World IVF Day on July 25 is celebrated annually in a way that is representative of advancements in assisted reproductive technologies that have enabled millions of couples to realise their dream of parenthood. Even though science has advanced since then and millions of babies have been born through IVF, we still have myths that create anxiety for couples who go for fertility treatment.
One of the most common concerns is whether children conceived through IVF are more likely to develop Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) or Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). The scientific evidence is not in agreement with fertility professionals that IVF is the cause of these neurodevelopmental conditions, they say.
What Does Medical Research Say?
Experts say there is no compelling evidence for IVF treatment to increase the risk of autism or ADHD in children over the last two decades.
Some earlier studies suggested a slight association, but later studies also found that parents’ age, genetics, premature birth, multiple pregnancies, infertility, and pregnancy complications were more likely to explain the findings rather than the IVF procedure.
Fertility medicine today considers these factors, and the evidence suggests that children conceived using IVF generally have similar long-term developmental outcomes to those conceived naturally.
Myth 1: IVF causes Autism or ADHD
This is one of the biggest misconceptions regarding fertility treatment.
Fertility experts stress that autism and ADHD are complex conditions that are both genetic and environmental. There is no evidence that the IVF process itself affects a baby's brain development or directly causes these disorders.
Doctors advise prospective parents to go based on evidence-based medical advice and not social media rumours or anecdotal stories.
Myth 2: Frozen Embryos Are Less Healthy
Hence, there is another myth that babies born from frozen embryos are not healthy as compared to fresh embryos.
In reality, the advancement of cryopreservation technology has made embryo freezing extremely safe and effective. Many studies have shown that frozen embryo transfers have success rates comparable to—and even higher than fresh embryo transfers.
Children born from frozen embryos generally grow and develop normally.
Myth 3: Fertility Medicines Harm The Baby
Many couples worry that medications for egg production would have adverse effects on the baby’s health.
Specialists explain that fertility medicines are designed to support egg development before fertilisation occurs. Once pregnancy is established, these medicines do not directly influence the baby’s genetic makeup or increase the likelihood of autism or ADHD.
All these drugs have been extensively researched and are under strict medical supervision.
Myth 4: IVF Babies Are Less Healthy
Research involving millions of births worldwide has shown that most IVF babies grow and develop just like other children.
Like any pregnancy, outcomes depend on many factors including maternal health, prenatal care, nutrition, genetics, and lifestyle habits. Regular antenatal check-ups remain essential regardless of whether pregnancy occurs naturally or through IVF.
Why Misinformation Continues
Social media has made it easier for myths to spread fast. Personal experiences of one person are often presented as universal truths, causing unnecessary fear among couples who have already experienced infertility.
Health care professionals encourage patients to seek knowledge from the right fertility specialists and trusted health care providers and not rely on unverified online sources of information.
IVF Continues to Transform Lives
Since the birth of the world's first IVF baby in 1978, assisted reproductive technology has helped millions of families worldwide. Lab techniques, embryo selection, and fertility care have improved drastically in both safety and success rates.
World IVF Day 2026: Scientists stress that couples should make treatment decisions based on scientific evidence instead of misconceptions. No medical treatment can ensure every outcome, but so far the research is good evidence that IVF does not increase the risk of autism or ADHD and therefore is not associated with it.
Intentionally talking with fertility professionals is a good way to understand the benefits, risks, and realistic expectations of assisted reproductive treatment for people and couples suffering from infertility.
