Managing CKD While Undergoing IVF
Undergoing fertility treatments can be a draining experience. In particular, in vitro fertilization (IVF), although one of the most popular assisted reproductive technology (ART) methods, is most famous for also being especially difficult on a woman’s body. In particular, hormone therapy through ovulation stimulation can not only cause bloating and physical discomfort, but also mood swings, fatigue, nausea and even breast tenderness. Independently, those symptoms would be frustrating, but when combined with other potential side effects of undergoing other medical treatments such as for chronic kidney disease (CKD), learning how to navigate the experience is crucial.
What is CKD?
CKD is when a person’s kidneys have experienced extensive damage to the point that the organs aren’t functioning properly. The kidneys are tasked with removing waste and excess water from the body, supporting the production of new red blood cells, maintaining mineral balance and blood pressure, and keeping the bones healthy. With CKD, those roles aren’t managed effectively, and is sometimes caused by other conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, obesity, and may even develop over time if a family history of the disease exists.
Treating CKD
Currently, no cure exists for CKD. As a result, people are encouraged to work with a healthcare provider to create a treatment plan to keep the condition well managed. Treatments can include a combination of taking specific medications to slow disease progression, and adopting lifestyle changes such as improving dietary choices, exercising more, getting enough sleep, managing and reducing stress, and quitting the use of tobacco products. Additionally, managing co-occurring diseases such as diabetes or hypertension is also part of CKD management.
Trying IVF with CKD
While CKD can be dangerous if not well managed, women undergoing treatment for kidney disease can still pursue IVF treatment to start or expand a family. However, experts agree that hopeful participants should expect a multidisciplinary approach where a fertility specialist works together with a nephrologist, or kidney doctor, for careful monitoring. IVF naturally can present complications because of the increased hormones required for ovulation stimulation. Likewise, pregnancy can inherently be difficult with CKD because of the increased workload placed on the kidneys.
Know the risks
Hormone stimulation is a key step during IVF but can create adverse reactions. Even for women who don’t have CKD, the ovulation stimulation presents the biggest risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS). OHSS can lead to swelling of the ovaries, and fluid leaking into the abdomen. For women with CKD, undergoing IVF means that these participants might have a heightened risk of OHSS. If the cycle is successful and results in pregnancy, that woman will need to work closely with a nephrologist throughout the gestation period to maintain monitoring and receive interventions if possible.
CKD and pregnancy
IVF can be challenging even if a woman doesn’t have underlying medical conditions. Although CKD can present new challenges and does require additional healthcare supports for a safe experience, having kidney disease doesn’t mean that a person can’t pursue fertility treatments. If a woman is considering IVF to start or expand a family, speak with a fertility specialist but also consult a nephrologist for advice and monitoring.
