Introduction

For individuals and couples navigating their way through the intricate landscape of fertility treatments and clinics, the journey often involves exploring many avenues to increase your chances of conception. In addition to conventional treatments such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) and intrauterine insemination (IUI), a range of additional therapies, known as add-on treatments, have recently emerged to, as the name suggests, bean add-on to your fertility treatment.

In this blog, we'll delve into the deep world of add-on treatments within fertility care, exploring their potential benefits, considerations, and the importance of informed decision-making.

What are Add-On Treatments?

Add-on treatments is an umbrella term to describe a diverse array of therapies and interventions designed to optimise the success of fertility treatments. These may include techniques such as embryo glue, endometrial scratching, assisted hatching, and preimplantation genetic testing of the embryo. An in-depth list can be seen in Table 1. While some add-on treatments have been shown to improve embryo implantation, some of them focus on enhancing ovarian response to an embryo transfer or addressing underlying reproductive health issues.

Table 1. Add-on treatments that areavailable in fertility treatments. Definition taken from the HFEAwebsite.

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Understanding the rationale behind each add-on treatment and its potential impact is essential for individuals and couples considering their inclusion on their fertility journey.

The Evidence

One of the key challenges associated with selecting add-on treatments is the different levels of scientific evidence supporting their efficacy and safety when undergoing fertility treatments. Although some therapies have been heavily researched and shown positive outcomes in certain populations, there is a lack of evidence for some add-on treatments, and some may even pose risks without clear benefits.

It's crucial for individuals and couples to critically evaluate the available evidence, consult with fertility specialists, and weigh the potential risks and benefits before incorporating add-on treatments into their treatment plan.

The Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority have generated a traffic lightsystem which grades each add on treatment based on current evidence. This canbe seen in Figure 2. The ratings of the treatment add-ons have been rated bythe scientific and clinical advance advisory committee (SCAAC) and they give aguidance on whether the add-on treatment is effective in increasing the chancesof having a baby according to current research.

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Figure 2. HFEA traffic light system

Personalised Treatment

Your fertility treatment is a personal journey and the decision to include an add-on treatment should be guided by you own individual circumstances, preferences, and medical history. Fertility specialists play a pivotal role in guiding patients through this process and offer tailored recommendations based on the existing evidence. A personalized approach to care ensures that treatment plans align with the unique needs and goals of each individual or couple, maximizing the likelihood of achieving a successful outcome while minimizing unnecessary risks.

Balancing Hope and Realism

While add-on treatments hold promises for many individuals and couples struggling with infertility, it's important to approach them with a neutral perspective. While some therapies may offer incremental improvements in fertility outcomes, others may not yield the desired results or may come with significant financial burdens. Balancing hope with realism involves having realistic expectations, understanding the drawbacks of current fertility treatments, and considering the emotional and financial implications of each decision.

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 You would have heard from other couples that some treatment add-ons helped them get a baby. However, it is important to remember that everyone is different and can respond to things differently.Speaking to an embryologist or doctor can help in the selection of an appropriate treatment add-on for you.

The Importance of Informed Consent

When it comes to add-on treatments, Informed consent lies at the heart of ethical fertility care. Individuals and couples undergoing fertility treatment have the right to receive the right information about the risks, benefits, alternatives, and the unknowns associated with any proposed treatment or intervention. Doctors and embryologists in fertility clinics should proritise transparent communication and allow patients to make informed decisions about their care, ensuring that they have the knowledge and agency to navigate their fertility journey with confidence.

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If an add-on treatment is being offered to you, it is important to ask questions about it. What is it? Why am I being offered it? Will it benefit me?

Conclusion

Add-on treatments are a diverse spectrum of therapies and interventions that aim to optimise fertility outcomes for individuals and couples undergoing fertility treatment. While these therapies hold promise for many, navigating the selection of add-on treatments requires careful consideration, informed decision-making, and a personalized approach to care. By speaking to embryologists and doctors, you can make an empowered choice that align with your values, preferences, and goals on the path to parenthood.

NB! Information taken from the officialHFEA website: https://www.hfea.gov.uk

By Alfreda Osei

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