Fardeen Khan, a notable actor in the Indian film industry, has recently made a commendable return to the screen. His re-entry after a 14-year hiatus through Sanjay Leela Bhansali's "Heeramandi" on an OTT platform has been widely praised. Beyond his professional comeback, Fardeen Khan has shared poignant details about his personal life, including his decision to take the IVF route to have children and the complications associated with it.
Coping with Loss and Life's Challenges
In an interview with Bollywood Hungama, Fardeen Khan opened up about the emotional turmoil he faced after the death of his father, the legendary actor Feroz Khan, in 2009. This event was a significant factor in his decision to step away from the limelight. "I needed some time after I lost my father. It was a tough time for me on a personal level," he revealed. The grief and the need to find personal balance influenced his prolonged absence from the industry.
The Decision to Opt for IVF
Fardeen also shared the challenges he and his wife faced in their journey to parenthood, leading them to choose In Vitro Fertilization (IVF). "We were having challenges having children, and that’s when we decided to take the IVF route," Fardeen said. Initially, he planned a short break to settle things, but the birth of his daughter deeply moved him, prompting a more extended hiatus. Reflecting on his prolonged absence, Fardeen expressed both gratitude for the time spent with his family and regret for not returning to his career sooner.
Understanding IVF and Its Complications
As per Dr Amrita Singh, Sr Gynecologist and Infertility specialist, Pristyn Care, IVF, while a beacon of hope for many struggling with infertility, is not without its challenges and complications. The procedure, though generally safe, involves several potential risks and issues.
Failure of IVF Treatment
The most common complication associated with IVF is the failure of the treatment. Approximately 10% of cycles are abandoned before egg collection and about 5% face fertilisation failure. Moreover, implantation failure can occur due to various factors, including defective embryos or issues with the endometrium. The emotional and psychological impact of such failures can be profound, often requiring psychological counselling for affected couples.
Risks of Multiple Pregnancy
One notable risk of IVF is the increased likelihood of multiple pregnancies, which can seem appealing initially but come with significant maternal and fetal complications. Multiple pregnancies can lead to financial strain, emotional distress, and physical exhaustion for parents. For mothers, the risks include miscarriage, hemorrhage, pregnancy-induced hypertension, and the need for cesarean sections, especially with triplets or higher-order multiples.
Fetal Complications
Fetal complications associated with multiple pregnancies are significant. Preterm delivery is common, with twins often born around 35 weeks and triplets at 33 weeks, compared to 39 weeks for a singleton. Preterm births carry higher risks of lifelong disabilities, including cerebral palsy. Low birth weight is also a concern, with a notable increase in stillbirth rates and neonatal death rates for multiples compared to singletons.
Also Read: Ayushmann and Aparshakti Never Tried Smoking, Drinking; How do Smoking and Drinking Harm You?
Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS)
OHSS is one of the most serious complications of IVF. It occurs when the ovaries respond excessively to fertility drugs, leading to swollen, painful ovaries and fluid accumulation in the abdomen and chest. While most cases are mild, severe OHSS can be life-threatening, requiring urgent medical intervention to manage symptoms and restore fluid and electrolyte balance. Severe cases may also necessitate the termination of pregnancy to safeguard the mother's health.
Bottomline
Fardeen Khan's candid sharing of his IVF journey underscores the multifaceted challenges and risks associated with the procedure. While IVF offers hope to many, it also brings a host of complications that require careful consideration and management. Fardeen's return to the screen, coupled with his personal revelations, highlights the resilience needed to navigate both personal and professional spheres amidst life's unpredictable challenges. His story serves as a reminder of the importance of balancing career ambitions with personal well-being and the profound impact of family and personal experiences on one's life journey.