Does in vitro fertilization trigger cancer cell growth?

Breast cancer is a classic model of a hormone-dependent malignancy. Since the drugs used for ovulation induction as part of in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment increase the levels of endogenous gonadal hormones, concerns have arisen regarding a possible association between IVF and the risk of developing breast cancer. read more

News anchor Giuliana Rancic made her breast cancer diagnosis public, there was speculation about whether fertility treatment might have been a factor. On NBC's Today show, Rancic, 37, said she got a mammogram when her doctor strongly recommended it before starting another round of IVF (in vitro fertilization). read more

In vitro fertilization is done in stages beginning with hormonal treatments to stimulate the growth of multiple eggs needed in the event that one or more may not develop or fertilize during the later process. read more