The Hidden Costs of Fertility Add-Ons

You're sitting in your fertility clinic, heart pounding, hoping this next cycle is the one. Then, the doctor mentions a few extra options: embryo glue, endometrial scratching, maybe an immune protocol. It all sounds promising—until you see the price tag and realize no one mentioned if they actually work. If this feels familiar, you're not alone.

The Hidden Costs of Fertility Add-Ons

In fact, recent data shows what many patients already suspect: too many people going through fertility treatment are being offered tests and add-ons. That includes expensive procedures and supplements that often don’t improve outcomes—and may even delay real solutions.

The report from the UK's Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA) reveals approximately three quarters of fertility patients are opting for additional tests, treatments, or technologies—commonly known as "add-ons" that are "not proven to increase the chance of having a baby for most patients". The most common was medications or supplements (39%).

Let’s break down what this means, why it matters, and how you can protect your time, your money, and your heart.

So, What Are Fertility Add-Ons?

Add-ons are optional extras clinics often suggest alongside IVF. Think:

• Embryo glue

• Time-lapse imaging

• Endometrial scratching

• Assisted hatching

• Immune testing or "natural killer cells"

• Extra supplements, scans, or costly bloodwork

• Supplements

They’re usually pitched as ways to increase your chance of success, especially after a failed cycle or if you’re labeled as "unexplained."

But here’s the kicker: many of these treatments don’t have strong evidence behind them. Some might help in very specific situations, but for the vast majority of patients, the benefit is unclear at best—and nonexistent at worst.

The Financial & Emotional Load

According to the HFEA study, half of patients said their clinic explained the effectiveness of add-ons at increasing the chance of having a baby, but only 37% said their clinic explained risks.

We get it—you’re willing to do anything. When you're investing so much of yourself, it's tempting to try "just one more thing" in the hope that it’s the missing piece.

But these add-ons can cost hundreds to thousands per cycle, another aspect patients have outlined stating they are receiving insufficient information on costs, and 40% paying more than what was originally presented to them.

And when providers don’t clearly explain their purpose or effectiveness? That’s not just a cost. That’s a burden. And when those treatments don’t work? It adds another layer of stress that patients simply don’t need.

In the U.S., fertility care is already financially and emotionally exhausting. Unnecessary testing and treatments only add to that weight.

The Real Problem: Lack of Clarity and Consent

It’s not about saying no to every option. It’s about having the full picture.

Too many patients tell us they weren’t fully informed about why something was recommended, what it would cost, or whether it had any proven benefit. That’s a problem.

Because you deserve real answers—not just hope wrapped in a price tag.

How to Advocate for Yourself at Every Step

This doesn’t mean every add-on is bad. It just means you have every right to ask questions. Here’s how:

• Ask for the evidence. If your doctor recommends an add-on, ask: “Is this backed by clinical trials or national guidelines?”

• Look for third-party guidance. The U.S. doesn’t yet have a system like the UK’s traffic-light model, but reviewing global guidelines or studies can still be useful.

• Get a second opinion. If something doesn’t feel right, it’s okay to explore other clinics or specialists. You are not "being difficult."

• Be mindful of "upselling." If it feels more like a sales pitch than a care conversation, that’s a red flag.

• Trust your gut. You don’t need to be a doctor to know when something feels off. Your intuition matters here.

You Deserve Better

At IVF Warrior, we believe in hope—but we believe even more in transparency and informed decision making. You should never feel pressured into paying for treatments without being given the facts. You shouldn’t have to wonder if your care is based on science or sales tactics.

Infertility already asks so much of you. The least you deserve is full transparency, respect, and evidence-based care.

So here’s your reminder: You are not just a patient. You are a person, a partner in your care—and you deserve a say in your journey.

Medical Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider or qualified medical professional with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read in this blog.