Can assisted reproductive technologies help to offset population ageing? [Letter to the editor]

TY - JOUR

T1 - Can assisted reproductive technologies help to offset population ageing? [Letter to the editor]

AU - te Velde, R.

AU - Eijkemans, M.J.C.

AU - Beets, G.C.N.

AU - Habbema, J.D.F.

N1 - Reporting year: 2008

PY - 2008

Y1 - 2008

N2 - In conclusion, we think that IVF is the most important treatment for couples who have no or little chance of conceiving naturally and that all these couples should have the opportunity to have IVF. However, early IVF is only indicated in the minority of couples: those who have a clearly identifiable cause of their infertility. Many couples need more time for realizing a natural pregnancy. Hoorens et al. grossly overestimate the impact of IVF as a policy measure to boost birth rates. If governments would follow their recommendations, this would have serious health consequences for mothers and children.

AB - In conclusion, we think that IVF is the most important treatment for couples who have no or little chance of conceiving naturally and that all these couples should have the opportunity to have IVF. However, early IVF is only indicated in the minority of couples: those who have a clearly identifiable cause of their infertility. Many couples need more time for realizing a natural pregnancy. Hoorens et al. grossly overestimate the impact of IVF as a policy measure to boost birth rates. If governments would follow their recommendations, this would have serious health consequences for mothers and children.

U2 - 10.1093/humrep/den235

DO - 10.1093/humrep/den235

M3 - Article

VL - 23

SP - 2173

EP - 2175

JO - Human Reproduction

JF - Human Reproduction

SN - 0268-1161

IS - 9

ER -