A new website headed 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 university’s Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Newborn Health, was launched on Tuesday, April 8.
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 and jointly funded with the federal 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.
“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.”
Dr Lensen said the new website would provide Australian IVF patients with accurate, impartial and evidence-based information about optional extras and help them make an informed decision.
Details: www.unimelb.edu.au/ivf
