Assisted reproductive technology and neonatal intensive care unit: A retrospective observational study from a single center.

Background: An increasing number of infants are being conceived using assisted reproductive technology (ART). The effects of infertility treatments (IFTs) on infant outcomes have been extensively debated; however, a consensus has not yet been reached. In the present study, we investigated the impact of IFTs on neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) managements using data collected at a single large NICU center. Methods: We retrospectively investigated patients admitted to the University of Tokyo Hospital NICU during three different time periods (2010, 2015, and 2020). We included 131, 201, and 323 infants, respectively, and compared a number of factors among groups classified by the mode of conception: spontaneous pregnancy (SP), non‐ART (conceived with assisted ovulation or artificial insemination), and ART. We also compared the mode of conception among inborn singletons. Results: The rate of admission of ART infants significantly increased from 2010 (9.1%) to 2015 (22.9%) and 2020 (25.7%) (p values of <0.05 and <0.01, respectively). When compared among inborn singletons, ART infants were more often admitted to NICU (p < 0.01). Congenital anomalies and surgical interventions were significantly more frequent in the SP group than in the ART group (p < 0.01). No significant differences were observed in neonatal outcomes among ART infants from 2010 to 2015/2020. Conclusions: The rate of ART infants admitted to the NICU has significantly increased, with ART pregnancies now accounting for 25% of admissions to the perinatal medical center. ART procedure may be a risk factor for NICU admission. Neonatal intensive care is becoming increasingly indispensable for ART pregnancies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]