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Published on: September 16, 2021
Women's Perspectives on Adjunct Therapies in IVF: Key Considerations and Influences
Gillian Homan1,2, Carole Tilbrook1, Kelton Tremellen1,3
1Repromed, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.
The Australian & New Zealand Journal of Obstetrics & Gynaecology
|August 15, 2026
Summary
Women undergoing in vitro fertilisation (IVF) often use adjunct therapies, prioritizing perceived benefits and control over scientific evidence. Emotional and psychological factors significantly influence these decisions, even with limited data on efficacy or safety.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive medicine and fertility treatments.
- Patient decision-making in healthcare.
- Complementary and alternative medicine.
Background:
- Adjunct therapies are non-essential treatments with uncertain clinical value offered alongside established fertility interventions like in vitro fertilisation (IVF).
- Despite debates on cost, adverse effects, and lack of proven benefit, many patients seek adjunct therapies to enhance IVF success rates.
- Patient interest in alternative or complementary options persists despite ongoing discussions about their efficacy and safety.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore key factors influencing women's decisions to consider or use adjunct therapies during IVF treatment.
- To understand the role of perceived benefits, risks, and information sources in adjunct therapy selection.
- To identify the primary drivers behind patient choices for complementary fertility treatments.
Main Methods:
- An anonymous online survey was distributed to women in Australia who had undergone or considered adjunct therapies during IVF.
- Respondents provided data on types of adjuncts used, perceived benefits and risks, and information sources.
- The survey focused on factors influencing decision-making regarding adjunct therapies in fertility treatment.
Main Results:
- 99 participants completed the survey, with 94% using or considering adjuncts like acupuncture and nutritional supplements.
- Participants valued perceived benefits and a sense of control, despite limited scientific evidence of efficacy or safety.
- Emotional and psychological drivers heavily influenced decisions, with few deterred by a lack of robust data; however, accessible information and clinician discussions were valued.
Conclusions:
- Women undergoing IVF frequently consider and use adjunct therapies, feeling well-informed despite limited evidence.
- Cost, risk, and lack of proven benefit minimally influenced decision-making in the surveyed group.
- Clinicians should engage in open, evidence-based discussions about adjunct therapies to support patient-centred decision-making.
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