Fertility expert welcomes HFEA's new grading system

News that fertility treatment 'add-ons' are to be colour-coded by the sector’s official watchdog to highlight any that are unproven or unsafe has been welcomed by the medical director of BCRM, which serves patients throughout the South West.

The new system being implemented by the Human Fertility and Embryology Authority (HFEA) means that such treatments will be colour-coded to help would-be parents decide if a treatment is likely to help them have a baby and avoid spending on procedures that may not work.

Valentine Akande, medical director for Bristol Centre for Reproductive Medicine (BCRM), said: "The new fertility treatment add-ons guidance serves a dual purpose for patients and clinics.

“Firstly, it enhances awareness by furnishing in-depth information on whether a particular add-on can Improve success rates.

“Secondly, it introduces a systematic ratings system to assess their effectiveness.

"Both patients and fertility clinics share a common goal: optimizing success rates.

“It's evident that, for the vast majority of patients, add-ons are an unnecessary expense. Patients should not be burdened with additional costs. However, in specific cases, add-ons may offer a valuable opportunity to enhance success rates.

"The determination of whether an add-on is beneficial can only be made through a thorough discussion with a fertility expert. This dialogue should take into account the patient's unique circumstances while providing clarity on the potential benefits, risks, and available alternatives."

BCRM www.fertilitybristol.com is one of the UK’s leading fertility clinics and the longest established in Bristol, helping people from throughout the South West and Wales with fertility treatment for both private and NHS patients. The clinic is involved in innovative research and has one of the best success rates with IVF and other fertility treatments in the UK.