Risk of Thrombosis in Women Undergoing In Vitro Fertilization: A Narrative Review

This narrative review summarizes the available literature on the association between In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) treatments and thrombosis, focusing on epidemiology and pathophysiology. Thrombosis is a rare IVF-related complication, with an incidence of approximately 0.2%, dramatically increased by ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS). Arterial thrombosis, primarily associated with OHSS, is a rare and early event, while venous thrombosis, although more common, remains a rare complication of IVF. Venous thrombosis often affects the upper body. The thrombotic risk is higher during the first trimester of pregnancy obtained through IVF. This review discusses the impact of risk factors such as OHSS, thrombophilia, obesity, advanced maternal age, and polycystic ovarian syndrome, which predispose women to thromboembolic events during and after IVF stimulation.