Women's Perspectives on Adjunct Therapies in
IVF
: Key Considerations and Influences
Gillian Homan, Carole Tilbrook, Kelton Tremellen ABSTRACT
Background
Adjunct therapies are defined by regulatory bodies as non‐essential treatments of uncertain clinical value that may be offered alongside established fertility interventions. Despite ongoing debate regarding their cost, potential adverse effects and lack of proven benefit, many patients' undergoing in vitro fertilisation (IVF) remain interested in trying alternative or complementary options to improve their chances of success.
Aims
To explore the key factors influencing women's decisions to consider or use adjunct therapies during IVF treatment.
Materials and Methods
An anonymous online survey was distributed to women in Australia who had considered or used adjunct therapies as part of their IVF journey. Respondents provided information on the types of adjuncts used, their perceived benefits and risks, sources of information and factors influencing decision‐making.
Results
A total of 99 participants completed the survey. Most participants (94%, n = 93) used or considered adjuncts such as acupuncture and nutritional supplements, valuing perceived benefits and a sense of control despite limited scientific evidence of efficacy or safety. While many acknowledged the lack of robust data, few were deterred by this, highlighting the emotional and psychological drivers of decision‐making. However, participants still valued accessible, independent information sources and open, empathetic discussions with clinicians.
Conclusions
Women undergoing IVF frequently consider and use adjunct therapies and report feeling well informed about their use, despite limited high‐quality evidence supporting efficacy. Cost, risk and lack of proven benefit appear to have minimal influence on decision‐making in the surveyed cohort. Given the ongoing and widespread interest in these treatments, clinicians should remain informed and open to discussing adjunct therapies to facilitate balanced, evidence‐based and patient‐centred decision‐making.