How Are Traits Passed Down?
The physical appearance of a child, including features like eye color, hair type, and facial structure, is determined by genetics. Whether a baby is conceived naturally or through IVF, the genetic material comes from the parents. Here’s how it works:
- Egg and Sperm DNA
- The egg from the mother contains 23 chromosomes, as does the sperm from the father.
- During fertilization, these chromosomes combine to form the baby’s unique DNA, dictating physical and genetic traits.
- Dominant and Recessive Genes
- Certain traits, like dark hair or brown eyes, may dominate over others depending on genetic combinations.
- The child’s appearance is a blend of both parents' genetic material, whether conceived naturally or through IVF.
Does IVF Change Genetic Traits?
IVF is a medical procedure that facilitates conception but does not alter or interfere with genetic inheritance. The process only aids in fertilizing the egg with the sperm and transferring the resulting embryo into the uterus.
- Parental DNA: An IVF baby inherits the same genetic material from their parents as in natural conception.
- Advanced Techniques: Technologies like Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) do not impact the genetic traits but are used to enhance fertilization for specific infertility issues.
Why Might IVF Babies Look Different?
Some parents notice subtle differences in appearance when compared to family members, but this occurs for the same reasons as in natural conception.
- Combination of Genes
- Each baby is a unique genetic blend. Some children may inherit more prominent traits from one parent, while others display a balanced mix.
- Environmental Factors
- Factors like nutrition during pregnancy and the environment after birth can also influence physical appearance.
- Epigenetics
- This refers to how external factors, like the mother’s health and stress levels, can influence the expression of certain genes.
What About Donor Eggs or Sperm?
In cases where donor eggs or sperm are used during IVF, the baby will inherit genetic traits from the donor and the other biological parent. While this means the child may not share all physical traits with both parents, their upbringing, environment, and emotional connection play a much larger role in defining family bonds.
Real-Life Examples of IVF Babies
IVF has brought joy to millions of families, and countless IVF babies grow up to look just like their parents or close relatives. Advanced technologies like Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) can even help detect genetic disorders without altering the inherited traits.
Conclusion:
Yes, IVF babies look like their mom or dad because they inherit their genetic material in the same way as naturally conceived children. The IVF process only facilitates conception, ensuring that the child carries the biological legacy of the parents.
If you’re considering IVF, rest assured that your child will reflect the unique combination of traits that make your family special. At the Australian Concept Infertility Medical Center, our expert team in Lahore is here to guide you through every step of the IVF journey, helping you build the family you’ve always dreamed of.
For More Details: https://acimc.org/ivf-lahore/