The Egg Whisperer Show The Real Risks with IVF that Everyone Should Know with Dr. Jie Deng
May 20, 2025
Dr. Jie Deng, an Obgyn and Maternal Fetal Medicine specialist at Stanford, dives into the real risks associated with IVF. She discusses the potential links between IVF and birth defects, autism, and cancer, emphasizing the importance of prenatal testing like fetal echocardiograms. The conversation also explores the unique challenges faced by women over 40 and the role of donor eggs in mitigating risks. With her expertise, Dr. Deng advocates for informed decision-making, aiming to educate prospective parents about the realities of IVF.
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Egg Quality vs. Age Risks
- Women over 40 have increased risk of miscarriage and chromosomal abnormalities in babies due to egg quality decline.
- Using donor eggs from younger women significantly lowers these risks regardless of the carrier's age.
Prepare Health for Pregnancy
- Before pregnancy after 40, manage chronic conditions and consult a maternal fetal medicine specialist.
- Take prenatal vitamins, quit smoking, reduce alcohol, and maintain healthy weight.
Monitor IVF Pregnancies Closely
- IVF pregnancies have doubled risk of congenital heart anomalies; fetal echocardiogram is recommended.
- Early glucose screening and monitoring for hypertension and fetal growth are important in older moms.