IVF clinics worldwide sell add-on treatments — optional extras that promise to improve your chances of success. Some are evidence-backed. Some are experimental. Some have been disproven. And all of them cost extra.
This guide rates the most commonly offered IVF add-ons using an evidence-based framework similar to the UK's HFEA traffic-light system, adapted for the Colombian clinic landscape. Our goal isn't to tell you what to do — it's to give you the information to have an informed conversation with your reproductive endocrinologist.
Evidence Rating System
Strong Evidence Multiple large RCTs showing consistent benefit for appropriate patient groups.
Moderate Evidence Some RCT evidence of benefit, but inconsistent or limited to specific subgroups.
Limited Evidence Observational data or small trials only; more research needed.
Insufficient / Disproven No credible evidence of benefit, or evidence of no benefit.
The Add-Ons Rated
| Add-On | Evidence | Typical Extra Cost (Colombia) | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| PGT-A (preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy) | Strong ✅ | $800–$2,000 per batch | Standard of care for 36+; reduces miscarriage, improves per-transfer rates |
| ICSI (intracytoplasmic sperm injection) | Strong ✅ | Often included in package | Essential for male factor; routine use debated for normal sperm |
| Embryo glue (hyaluronan-enriched transfer medium) | Moderate 🟡 | $50–$150 | Small benefit suggested in some studies; low cost makes it reasonable |
| Time-lapse incubator monitoring (EmbryoScope) | Moderate 🟡 | $200–$500 | Better embryo selection possible; stable culture environment is the real benefit |
| Endometrial scratch | Insufficient ❌ | $100–$300 | Recent large RCTs show no benefit; falling out of favor globally |
| Assisted hatching | Limited 🟠 | $100–$300 | May help frozen embryo transfers and older patients; blanket use not supported |
| ERA (endometrial receptivity analysis) | Limited 🟠 | $500–$1,000 | Personalized transfer timing; evidence of benefit in RIF patients is mixed |
| Growth hormone co-stimulation | Limited 🟠 | $300–$800 per cycle | Some evidence for poor responders; not universally beneficial |
| Intralipid infusion | Insufficient ❌ | $100–$300 | Immunological theory not supported by robust evidence |
| PRP uterine infusion | Limited 🟠 | $200–$500 | Experimental; thin-lining patients only; minimal safety concerns |
The Three You Should Seriously Consider
PGT-A — For patients over 35, PGT-A testing of embryos before transfer is the single most impactful add-on. It doesn't create better embryos — it identifies which ones are chromosomally normal, preventing transfers that would result in miscarriage or failed implantation. The cost ($800–$2,000 for a batch of embryos) is substantial but often pays for itself by eliminating failed transfer cycles. Note: PGT-A in Colombia is scoped to chromosomal screening and genetic disease detection — never for family balancing or sex selection.
ICSI — If male factor infertility is involved (low count, motility, or morphology, or surgically retrieved sperm), ICSI is essential, not optional. Many Colombian clinics include ICSI in their base IVF package. If it's quoted separately, expect $400–$800.
Time-lapse monitoring — The EmbryoScope or equivalent time-lapse incubator allows continuous monitoring without removing embryos from optimal culture conditions. The embryo selection advantage is debated, but the culture-stability benefit is real. At $200–$500 in Colombia, it's a reasonable investment.
The Ones to Question
Endometrial scratch — Once widely promoted, recent large randomized controlled trials have failed to show benefit. If your Colombian clinic recommends it, ask what evidence they're relying on. It's not harmful, but it's uncomfortable and costs $100–$300 for a procedure that likely doesn't help.
Intralipid infusions — Based on the theory that some implantation failures are caused by immune system overreaction, intralipid infusions were briefly trendy. The immunological hypothesis hasn't held up in rigorous studies. If offered, ask for the specific evidence — don't accept "it can't hurt" as a rationale for spending money.
Questions About Your Treatment Plan?
We can help you evaluate the add-ons your clinic has recommended — and connect you with Colombian RE's who practice evidence-based fertility medicine.
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