IVF doctors should stop advising unproven treatments to their patients
Have you ever felt like your IVF journey is turning into a list of expensive extras that nobody really explains? You hear about new tests, “boosters,” or add-ons at every clinic visit. You want to do everything possible to have a baby, but deep down, you wonder: do any of these things really help, or am I just being sold hope when what I need is honest advice?
Why So Many “Extras” in IVF?
When you walk into a fertility clinic, you’re already carrying the weight of dashed hopes, confusion, and the desperate urge to do something, anything, to make IVF work for you. Private IVF clinics know this. That’s why you’ll often find yourself being offered a menu of “add-on” treatments, each promising to improve your chances. But most couples are never told: many of these treatments lack solid scientific proof that they work.
Let’s be honest. IVF is expensive, emotionally, physically, and financially. It’s only fair that you get clarity about what you’re paying for. At Malpani Infertility Clinic, our guiding principle is: never recommend any treatment, test, or intervention unless there’s real evidence it helps you bring home a baby. Not every clinic follows this rule. Some see vulnerable patients as an opportunity to boost their profits, not their outcomes.
What Are IVF “Add-ons” and Should You Consider Them?
“Add-ons” are extra procedures or tests offered alongside standard IVF treatment. They’re marketed as ways to boost your success rate. But here’s what most clinics won’t tell you: few of these have strong evidence behind them. Examples include:
- Embryo glue
- Sperm DNA fragmentation testing
- Time-lapse embryo imaging
- Preimplantation genetic screening (PGS/PGT-A) for all patients
- Mitochondrial DNA load measurement
- Assisted hatching
- Endometrial scratch
- Endometrial receptivity testing
- Routine hysteroscopy before IVF
Some of these may have a place in very specific, rare situations. But for the vast majority of patients, they don’t improve pregnancy rates. What’s worse, clinics often don’t explain that these treatments are experimental or still under debate in the scientific community.
Most clinics are happy to offer expensive, unproven treatments because they know how desperate IVF patients are for hope.
When you are struggling month after month, hearing about “the latest breakthrough” can feel like a lifeline. But you deserve more than hope built on shaky ground. You deserve transparency, and the power to make informed choices.
How to Know If a Treatment Is Really Worth It
Here’s a rule of thumb: If your doctor suggests a test or treatment, ask for the evidence. Reliable clinics will:
- Explain what the treatment is and why it might help in your specific case
- Clearly state whether it is proven, experimental, or unproven
- Discuss risks, side effects, and costs
- Provide written information so you have time to consider your options
If you feel pressured or sense that your questions are unwelcome, consider it a red flag. At Malpani Infertility Clinic, we believe patients should never be used as guinea pigs. We document every procedure and follow up so you know exactly what’s happening at every step.
of IVF patients report being offered additional unproven treatments, but only 37% say the risks are explained to them.
Your Right to Honest, Patient-Centered IVF Care
No one understands the drive to try “just one more thing” better than someone going through infertility. But you should never have to pay for the privilege of being experimented on. The burden of proof lies with the clinic, not you. If an add-on is truly going to help, your doctor should be able to show you clear, unbiased evidence, not just marketing brochures or anecdotal stories.
Every couple’s situation is unique. Some patients may benefit from advanced diagnostics or new technologies, but those decisions must be made together, with full transparency. Our promise at Malpani Infertility Clinic is to empower you with honest information and recommend only what is necessary and evidence-based for your case. We’ll never sell you false hope or expensive extras just to pad a bill.
How You Can Protect Yourself from Unnecessary Treatments
You are not alone if you feel overwhelmed or pressured by the barrage of options. Here’s how you can take back control:
- Ask for written details about any suggested add-on, including the published scientific evidence for its effectiveness
- Don’t hesitate to get a second opinion
- Trust your instincts, if something feels off, speak up
- Remember: saying “no” to an unproven treatment is your right
IVF is hard enough. You shouldn’t have to worry about being taken advantage of along the way. If you ever feel lost or unsure about what’s being offered, you can always reach out to us for a candid, expert opinion, no pressure, just the truth you need to make the right choice for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are IVF “add-ons” and are they necessary?
A: IVF add-ons are extra procedures or tests offered alongside standard IVF, often with claims of improving success. Most have not been proven to work for all patients, and many are unnecessary unless you have a very specific diagnosis.
Q: How do I know if an add-on will help me?
A: Ask your doctor for clear evidence and whether the treatment is recommended for your exact situation. If you don’t get a straightforward answer or feel pressured, seek a second opinion.
Q: Is it okay to refuse extra treatments my doctor suggests?
A: Absolutely. You have every right to decline any treatment or test, especially if there’s no strong proof it will help. A trustworthy clinic will respect your decision and guide you honestly.
Q: Can add-ons make my IVF more successful?
A: For most patients, add-ons do not improve IVF success rates. There are rare exceptions, but these should be tailored to specific medical needs, not offered to everyone as standard.
Q: What should I do if my clinic pushes expensive extras?
A: Ask for published research proving the benefit. If you feel uncomfortable or your questions aren’t answered, consider consulting a transparent clinic like Malpani Infertility Clinic for unbiased advice.
Q: How can I get advice on the best IVF plan for me?
A: You can contact our team for a clear, honest review of your case and guidance on what’s truly necessary for your success.