Can individuals engaged in high-risk occupations undergo in vitro fertilization (IVF)?
May 08, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
In general, whether individuals engaged in high-risk occupations can undergo in vitro fertilization (IVF) needs to be determined based on specific circumstances. If individuals in high-risk occupations have not experienced physical damage due to occupational factors, IVF is usually feasible. However, if their health has been compromised due to occupational impacts, undergoing IVF is generally not recommended. It is advisable to undergo a medical evaluation before deciding to proceed with IVF.
Generally speaking, whether individuals engaged in high-risk occupations can undergo in vitro fertilization (IVF) depends on the specific circumstances. If those in high-risk professions have not experienced physical damage due to occupational factors, they are usually eligible for IVF. However, if their physical condition has been compromised due to occupational influences, IVF is generally not recommended. A detailed analysis is as follows:
IVF technology is primarily suitable for couples experiencing infertility due to various causes, such as fallopian tube blockage, sperm quality issues, premature ovarian failure, and similar conditions. If individuals in high-risk professions, such as firefighters or metallurgical workers, have not been affected by their occupation in ways that lead to the aforementioned conditions, and if medical evaluation determines that IVF is an appropriate treatment option, they may generally consider undergoing IVF treatment.
However, if individuals in high-risk occupations are frequently exposed to dust, irritant gases, high temperatures, or other harmful conditions that result in a significant decline in sperm or egg quality, and medical evaluation determines that their physical condition is unsuitable for IVF procedures, they should follow medical advice and consider alternative methods of reproduction or consider forgoing biological parenthood.
It is recommended that prior to deciding on IVF, individuals should undergo a comprehensive medical evaluation to understand their physical condition and fertility potential. Maintaining healthy lifestyle habits and a positive mindset, as well as actively preventing and treating fertility-related diseases, are also important considerations.
