Why are so many IVF patients being subjected to cruel and unusual punishment

Dr. Aniruddha Malpani June 7, 2026

Have you ever sat in a crowded IVF waiting room, staring at a prescription sheet that feels like a foreign language, wondering: does any of this really help me get pregnant? If you are struggling with fertility and feel overwhelmed, confused, or even a bit mistrustful of all the tests and treatments you are offered, you are not alone. Many patients who come to us at Malpani Infertility Clinic share these same concerns. They are brave, hopeful, and determined, but they are also tired—tired of being treated like a checklist, not a person. If you feel this way, this article is for you.

Why Do So Many IVF Patients Feel Punished by Their Treatment?

Most people starting IVF expect the physical challenges: injections, scans, and the anxious wait for results. What takes many by surprise is the emotional toll of feeling powerless and sometimes exploited by a system that can seem more focused on protocols than people. The truth is: not every IVF treatment plan is rational or necessary. Some clinics still use outdated or excessive approaches, leaving patients questioning their care.

Many IVF patients complain less about the needles and more about not knowing why things are done to them.

At Malpani Infertility Clinic, we believe you deserve honest, clear answers. Here’s what no one else will tell you about what you really need—and what you do not—in IVF.

Are Unnecessary Treatments Common in IVF?

It is a tough pill to swallow: some IVF clinics do prescribe more than you truly need. Usually, it is not about malice, but about:

Defensive medicine (doing “everything possible” to avoid blame)
Financial incentives
Sticking to habits instead of updating knowledge
One-size-fits-all protocols, rather than personalizing care to your biology

Here are some examples of unnecessary add-ons:

Immune therapies like IVIG or intralipids, which often lack solid evidence
Routine use of ICSI (injecting a sperm into every egg), even if there’s no male infertility
Genetic testing (like PGT/PGD) for couples without a genetic risk

These extras can make your IVF more expensive, stressful, and complicated—without improving your odds in most cases.

Key Takeaway: If a test or treatment sounds complicated, expensive, or scary, always ask: how does this help , and is it proven to work?

Is ICSI Needed for Everyone Doing IVF?

ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection) is a powerful tool, but it is not for everyone. It was designed for severe male infertility, when sperm cannot fertilize an egg naturally. But today, many clinics recommend ICSI for nearly all IVF cycles, even for couples with normal sperm counts and no history of fertilization problems. Why? Sometimes out of habit, or because it is easier for the lab, or simply as a way to charge more.

When ICSI helps: Severe male factor infertility (very low sperm count, very poor motility)
When it’s unnecessary: Normal sperm, first IVF cycle without male factor issues

ICSI is more expensive, more invasive, and does not improve outcomes for everyone. If you are told you “must” have ICSI, ask why. Get clarity.

For more, see our article on ICSI treatment.

Do Immune Therapies Work for IVF Failure?

If you have faced repeated IVF failures, you may have been offered immune therapies like IVIG, intralipids, or high-dose steroids. You may hear about “embryo rejection” or “immune incompatibility.” It’s natural to want to try anything that might help. But here’s the reality:

There is no strong scientific proof that these immune therapies improve IVF outcomes for most people.
The idea that your immune system is “attacking” embryos is often oversimplified and overused to justify expensive treatments.

If a treatment is costly, complicated, and not clearly explained—be cautious. The best medicine is honest and evidence-based.

For more details, visit our article on recurrent implantation failure.

Are Daily Blood Tests and Scans Really Needed?

Many patients are told to come in nearly every day for blood tests and ultrasound scans during their IVF cycle. This can be exhausting—physically and emotionally. In reality, while some monitoring is essential, excessive monitoring is not. Usually, periodic ultrasounds and a few key blood tests are enough to track your response safely and effectively.

What’s reasonable: A handful of ultrasounds, a couple of hormone checks
What’s excessive: Daily visits without any change in your plan or explanation

More checkups do not always mean better results. At Malpani Infertility Clinic, we focus on precision, not obsession. Your time and peace of mind matter.

Do I Have to Take Painful Progesterone Injections?

If you have been prescribed daily intramuscular progesterone injections after embryo transfer, you know the pain, the bruises, and the anxiety. The truth: for most patients, vaginal progesterone works just as well. It is easier, less painful, and just as effective at supporting early pregnancy after IVF. So why do some clinics still insist on the old way? Habit. Lack of updated knowledge. Or simply “because we’ve always done it this way.”

Vaginal progesterone: as effective, safer, and more convenient for most
Injections: only needed in rare, special circumstances

You deserve protocols that fit your needs—not just the clinic’s routine.

Is Overmedication a Problem in IVF?

Many patients are prescribed a long list of supplements, “add-on” drugs, and even experimental therapies with unclear benefits. You might hear that “more is better” or that adding more medicines will improve your chances. But in IVF, minimalism works best. Extra drugs can mean more side effects, more cost, and sometimes lower pregnancy rates. A good IVF clinic aims for the fewest medicines needed to get you the best result.

Should I Stay in Bed After Embryo Transfer?

It is a myth that you need strict bed rest after embryo transfer. Many clinics still tell patients to avoid walking, working, or even using the bathroom normally, sometimes for days after transfer. This is not evidence-based. In fact, studies show that moving around normally is safe. Prolonged bed rest can increase anxiety and even risk blood clots. IVF pregnancies are not “fragile” by default. You are not made of glass, and you do not have to put your life on hold.

Why Do So Many IVF Patients End Up Disappointed?

It is not just failed cycles that leave patients hurt—it is feeling:

Overtreated
Under-informed
Financially stretched
Emotionally manipulated

The main issue is lack of transparency. Patients are rarely told what is essential versus what is optional, what is evidence-based versus experimental, or what alternatives they have.

You have the right to know all your options. For more, explore your IVF patient rights.

How Can You Protect Yourself as an IVF Patient?

Ask questions: Why is this test or treatment needed? Will it improve my chances? What if I skip it?
Demand transparency: Request embryo photos and detailed reports.
Seek simplicity: Focus on proven treatments. Avoid unnecessary add-ons.
Get a second opinion: Especially if your plan feels complicated or expensive.
Trust your instincts: If something feels excessive, it probably is.

You are not just a patient. You are a partner in your own care, and you have the right to understand and decide every step.

What Does Ethical, Patient-Friendly IVF Look Like?

The best IVF is:

Evidence-based
Transparent
Minimalist
Respectful of your time, money, and emotions

A good clinic will explain things clearly, avoid unnecessary interventions, and empower you to make choices. You should never feel like a “case file.” You deserve to be treated as a smart, thinking adult, with your own needs and values.

Key Takeaway: IVF should be humane, transparent, and always centered around your best interests—not the clinic’s convenience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I know if a treatment or test is really needed during IVF?

A: Always ask your doctor for the reason behind each recommendation. If the answer is vague, or if it is “just in case” or “everyone gets this,” ask if skipping it would change your chance of success. Get a second opinion if you are uncertain.

Q: Is it normal to feel overwhelmed by IVF protocols?

A: Yes. Many patients feel lost in medical jargon and complex plans. A good clinic will take time to explain everything in simple terms and answer all your questions honestly.

Q: Can I refuse certain treatments or tests?

A: Absolutely. You have the right to decline any procedure or medication. Make sure you understand the pros and cons before making your decision.

Q: Will asking for more information or a second opinion upset my doctor?

A: Ethical doctors welcome questions. Your health and understanding are the priority. If your concerns are dismissed, consider looking for a clinic that values patient empowerment.

Q: Are there alternatives to painful progesterone injections?

A: Yes. Vaginal progesterone is equally effective for most patients and is more comfortable. Ask your clinic if you can use this option.

Q: Why do some clinics overuse ICSI or genetic testing?

A: Sometimes it is out of habit, convenience, or financial reasons. These treatments are only necessary in specific cases. Always ask if they are truly needed for your situation.

Q: What rights do I have as an IVF patient?

A: You have the right to be fully informed, to see your embryo photos, to receive all your reports, and to choose or refuse treatments. Transparency is your right.