Fertility clinics must stop unproven treatments, watchdog warns

The UK's fertility regulator, the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA), has issued a draft guidance warning fertility clinics to stop offering unproven treatments. The guidance advises against several popular add-on treatments, such as endometrial scratching, assisted hatching, and time-lapse imaging, as there is insufficient evidence to support their effectiveness in improving fertility outcomes. The HFEA emphasizes that clinics should only provide treatments with proven benefits and clear evidence of safety and efficacy. The regulator also stresses the importance of transparent communication with patients, ensuring they understand the limitations and risks associated with any proposed treatments. The move aims to protect patients from potentially misleading claims and ensure they make informed decisions about their fertility treatments. The draft guidance is open for public consultation, and the HFEA plans to finalize the recommendations in the coming months, aiming to establish a consistent standard of care across the fertility industry.