Increase in serious IVF complications raises concerns over use of fertility drugs

Stronger fertility drugs could be linked to last year's increase in cases of potentially life-threatening ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, warn doctors

Increased numbers of women suffered from a serious complication of IVF last year, according to official figures that raise concerns about the use of powerful fertility drugs.

In 2015, 60 women were admitted to hospital with severe ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), a 40% increase on the previous year. The condition, which is triggered when the ovaries swell up and leak fluid, is potentially life-threatening. Symptoms include abdominal swelling and pain, nausea, dehydration and blood clots in the legs.