Comparing parents' perceptions of IVF conceived children's behavior with naturally conceived children

Abstract

Conception after assisted reproductive methods is associated with considerable emotional as well as physical stress. Parents often have to wait ten years or more before conceiving. As part of an ongoing U.K. study, we assessed 140 intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) conceived children and 101 naturally conceived control children via parental completion of the Eyberg Child Behaviour Inventory when their children were two years old. Parents of children conceived after assisted reproductive methods reported fewer behavioral problems. Implications for long-term development are discussed. © 2004 Michigan Association for Infant Mental Health.