Nearly 75% of fertility patients in the UK are being offered additional treatments that may not improve their chances of having a baby, a new report reveals. The Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA) found that more than half of those offered extra treatments were not informed about their effectiveness, and even fewer were told about the associated risks.
The 2024 national patient survey, which gathered responses from over 1,500 fertility patients, raised concerns among regulators. The survey showed that some treatments and technologies, which have not been proven to increase pregnancy success, are still being used.
One such treatment, pre-implantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A), which screens for chromosome abnormalities in embryos, has seen increased use. However, the HFEA stated that there is “insufficient evidence” supporting the effectiveness of this treatment. In 2024, 13% of patients opted for PGT-A, compared to just 7% in 2021.
Julia Chain, chairwoman of the HFEA, expressed disappointment that not all patients are being adequately informed about the benefits and risks of these additional treatments. “It’s disappointing to see a significant number of patients still using these add-ons without understanding their effectiveness or risks,” she said.
The HFEA regularly reminds clinics to provide clear information on the costs, risks, and effectiveness of any add-on treatments. Clinics are also encouraged to link their offerings to public ratings systems.
The report also highlighted delays in fertility treatment, especially for those using the NHS. Many patients waited between seven months and a year to begin treatment after visiting their GP, and 16% waited more than two years. Ms. Chain expressed concern over the long wait times for NHS-funded patients, stressing that they highlight broader issues in women’s specialist care.
“We want to see much shorter wait times for patients to start fertility treatment after receiving advice or a referral from their GP,” she added.
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