The reality of add-on tests in IVF treatment
Patient: Dr. Malpani, I’ve heard that there are a lot of new technologies and tests available for IVF now. My previous doctor never mentioned them. Shouldn't I be trying all these to increase my chances of success?
Dr. Malpani: I understand why you'd feel that way, especially when you've been through several failed IVF cycles. But it's important to be cautious. The reality is that while IVF technology has advanced, the success rates are still limited, and we don't have control over some crucial aspects, like embryo implantation.
Patient: But aren't these new tests supposed to help with that? I've read about things like the endometrial receptivity assay, genetic testing, and immune therapy. Wouldn't they improve my chances?
Dr. Malpani: That’s what many patients believe, especially when they hear about these tests from a "brand name" doctor. However, the truth is, a lot of these tests are unproven. For example, we’re good at making embryos and transferring them, but whether the embryo implants is still a bit of a mystery. Our knowledge about implantation is still quite limited, and these tests often don't provide the certainty patients are looking for.
Patient: So you're saying these tests might not actually help?
Dr. Malpani: Exactly. While they sound promising, most of these add-on tests, like the endometrial receptivity assay or immune therapy, are not backed by solid evidence to show they increase pregnancy rates. In fact, their primary purpose seems to be increasing the clinic's revenue rather than the patient's chance of success.
Patient: But my previous doctor didn’t mention any of this. Does this mean they weren't doing everything they could?
Dr. Malpani: Not necessarily. A good doctor will acknowledge the limitations of IVF with humility. Unfortunately, some doctors take advantage of patients’ desperation for certainty. They'll suggest a lot of expensive tests and treatments, creating the illusion of doing everything possible. But the reality is that these tests often don't change the outcome. In fact, you can check the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA) website, which provides objective clinical information and confirms that many of these tests are unproven.
Patient: That’s frustrating. Why would doctors do this if these tests don't really help?
Dr. Malpani: It's unfortunate, but it's a way for clinics to make more money. These tests are often used in clinical practice without proper patient education or counseling. Patients are sometimes treated like guinea pigs for these unproven technologies, which I believe is completely unfair. The tests might sound impressive, and because they’re expensive, patients often assume they must be better. But that’s not the case.
Patient: So, what should I do then?
For more direct advice, you can also book a video consultation with me for ₹3000/- here: https://pages.razorpay.com/ivf-online-consultation. This could help ensure you're on the right path and potentially save significant costs in the long run.