New Website Guides Patients on IVF Extras Choices
A new website led by University of Melbourne academics and designed for people undergoing IVF treatment will help them navigate and decide on optional extras or so-called “add-ons” during their treatment.
The ‘Evidence-based IVF’ site, spearheaded by Dr Sarah Lensen from the Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Newborn Health, was launched today.
Aimed at IVF patients who are unsure about extra, non-essential procedures, techniques and medicines, it’s hoped the website will help reach people looking for evidence around these treatments.
“We know that these sorts of extras are quite widespread and some are claimed to increase the chance of a successful IVF outcome,” Dr Lensen said.
“These extras are advertised on IVF clinic websites and social media forums and there are over 20 different add-ons available in Australia.
“Some of the most common are pre-implantation genetic testing of embryos for aneuploidy, embryo glue, acupuncture and so-called ‘immune therapies’ such as corticosteroids.”
The website is being hosted by the University of Melbourne.
It is funded by the University of Melbourne and the Australian Government through a grant from the National Health and Medical Research Council, in collaboration with Cochrane – an international not-for-profit profit organisation which produces systematic reviews to support informed healthcare decisions.
Dr Lensen said IVF patients often learn more about these optional add-ons through their IVF clinics, social media or online patient forums, which can be problematic.
She said the website brings together high-quality research to guide patients through add-ons, some of which there’s no evidence of any benefit and others which may increase the chance of a successful pregnancy.
“We have shown in our research that these sources frequently include unsubstantiated claims of benefit and lack important details relating to potential harms and costs,” Dr Lensen said.
“Our research in 2021 found that 77% of the 40 Australian IVF clinic websites make unsubstantiated claims of benefit about add-ons.”
Patients can be left confused and frustrated by the lack of availability of high quality evidence, Dr Lensen said.
“The widespread use of unproven IVF add-ons has been flagged in multiple government reports, which recognise that many people pursuing IVF are emotionally vulnerable and willing to try anything to help improve their chances of having a baby.
“This new website will provide Australian IVF patients with accurate, impartial and evidence-based information about the benefits and risks of these optional extras, so patients can feel more empowered to speak to their IVF specialist and to make informed decisions about their IVF treatment.”
Dr Petra Wale, President of the Fertility Society of Australia and New Zealand (FSANZ), said the website is a good resource patients can use as a starting point for further discussions with their healthcare providers.
“We recognise the value of providing patients with transparent, unbiased information, and we applaud this initiative for prioritising patient education,” Dr Wale said.
“By ensuring individuals have a clear pathway to delve deeper into the evidence provided, this resource represents a significant step forward in supporting informed, evidence-based decision-making for individuals and families pursuing IVF.”
https://www.unimelb.edu.au/newsroom/news/2025/april/new-evidence-based-website-to-help-patients-decide-on-ivf-extras