Cardiometabolic Function in Offspring, Mother and Placenta After Assisted Reproductive Technology

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating the long-term health effects of pregnancies achieved through assisted reproductive technology (ART), focusing on frozen embryo transfer (FET), fresh embryo transfer (fresh ET), and natural conception (NC). The study aims to understand how maternal cardiometabolic profiles, fetal growth, and placental function differ among these groups, and how these factors influence metabolic and endocrine health in the offspring. It also explores genetic and epigenetic patterns in placenta, fetus, and parents, as well as telomere length and hormone levels in young children. This observational study follows a cohort of pregnant women from three groups: those who conceived by FET, fresh ET, and NC. Pregnant women will undergo three examinations during pregnancy, including blood sampling for growth factors and metabolic biomarkers, fetal ultrasound, and doppler ultrasound. Placental tissue will be collected at delivery for genetic and epigenetic analysis. Newborns will have blood samples taken and undergo DEXA scans within two weeks of birth to assess body composition and metabolic markers. Participants will be followed from early pregnancy through birth and early childhood. Assessments include maternal blood tests once each trimester, detailed fetal growth monitoring, and newborn evaluations at around 2.5 months. Long-term outcomes such as epigenetic changes, reproductive hormone levels, and telomere length will be assessed up to 3 years of age. The study collects clinical data and health records to evaluate links between ART procedures and offspring health, aiming to identify potential biomarkers and targets for preventing obesity and metabolic diseases.

Cardiometabolic Function in Offspring, Mother and Placenta After Assisted Reproductive Technology