Esophageal atresia in an in vitro fertilization pregnancy

Major congenital anomalies occur in approximately 4% of the newborn population. Although this risk is apparently the same for in vitro fertilization (IVF) pregnancies, couples having assisted reproduction therapy should receive appropriate genetic counseling, because coincidental maloccurrences are often erroneously linked to the technology. We report a case of newborn esophageal atresia with tracheoesophageal fistula occurring in an IVF pregnancy. Physicians are encouraged to educate all prospective parents regarding the rate of congenital anomalies in the general population so that they have realistic expectations concerning newborn outcome.