IVF Patients Deserve Doctors Who Answer Their Questions

Patient: Dr Malpani, after my last IVF cycle failed, I asked my doctor why it didn’t work. But he just brushed me off, saying he was “too busy” to explain. It left me feeling abandoned.

Dr Malpani: I’m really sorry you went through that. Sadly, this is something I hear far too often. Many IVF patients tell me the same story—after a failure, instead of getting answers, they get silence or vague reassurances.

“Too Busy Doing What?”

Patient: Exactly! If my doctor can’t make time for me when I need him most, what is he doing?

Dr Malpani: That’s the heart of the issue. Some doctors claim they’re too busy to answer questions. But let’s be honest—this is their job. Taking care of patients means not just performing procedures but also explaining results, clarifying doubts, and supporting you emotionally.

Unfortunately, many IVF clinics focus on maximising patient volume. They try to see as many couples as possible in a day, which leaves little time for in-depth conversations. This factory-like approach may increase revenue, but it comes at the cost of patient care.

The Most Important Time to Talk

Patient: But isn’t it after a failed cycle when a patient needs the most support?

Dr Malpani: Absolutely. After a failed IVF cycle, patients are emotionally raw, financially strained, and full of questions. “Why did it fail? Was it my eggs? The sperm? The embryos? The lab?”

This is when your doctor should sit with you, go over your medical records, and explain what went right, what went wrong, and what can be done differently next time. Without this discussion, patients feel lost—and worse, they may repeat the same mistakes in the next cycle.

Why Some Doctors Avoid Questions

Patient: But why would doctors avoid these conversations? Don’t they realise how important it is?

Dr Malpani: Some don’t want to “waste” time because it doesn’t generate extra income. Others may not have clear answers and find it easier to deflect. Sadly, this is not only unethical—it’s harmful. When doctors avoid questions, they disempower patients, leaving them confused, anxious, and dependent.

Good IVF doctors welcome questions. They understand that informed patients are partners in the treatment journey, not passive recipients.

Patients Deserve Transparency

Patient: So what should a patient expect from a good IVF doctor?

Dr Malpani: You should expect:

• Clear explanations of your treatment plan before you start.
• Detailed feedback after every cycle, successful or not.
• Honest answers about your chances, risks, and alternatives.
• Time and respect for your concerns.

A good IVF doctor doesn’t just measure success in babies born but also in how well patients are cared for along the way. IVF is not just a medical process—it’s an emotional journey, and doctors need to honour that.

How Patients Can Protect Themselves

Patient: What if a patient feels their doctor isn’t giving them enough attention?

Dr Malpani: Patients must advocate for themselves. Here’s how:

• Insist on a written treatment plan. It forces clarity and accountability.
• Prepare questions in advance. Don’t be shy about asking them.
• Look for transparency. If a doctor avoids explaining failures, that’s a red flag.
• Don’t hesitate to seek a second opinion. A fresh perspective often brings clarity and confidence.

Remember, it’s your body, your money, and your future. You have the right to get answers.

The Right Balance: Fewer Patients, Better Care

Patient: So do you think doctors should treat fewer patients?

Dr Malpani: Yes. I’d rather treat fewer couples thoroughly and with compassion than rush through many. IVF isn’t about quantity; it’s about quality. Every patient deserves time, attention, and respect. Sadly, in today’s commercialised IVF landscape, this philosophy is becoming rare—but it’s the only ethical way to practise medicine.

Final Thoughts

Patient: Thank you, Dr Malpani. This makes me realise I should value doctors who actually listen, rather than those who rush me through.

Dr Malpani: Exactly. A good IVF doctor will never be “too busy” for their patients. Answering your questions is not optional—it’s at the very core of good medical care. And when patients are empowered with knowledge, they can make the right decisions for themselves.

Dr Malpani: If you’d like a second opinion, you can book a video consultation with me for INR 3000/- at this link. This could help ensure you’re on the right path and potentially save significant costs in the long run.