Abstract
Objectives: To review the evidence regarding the magnitude of infertility as well as the various proposed approaches highlighting the use of the most cost-effective investigatory and treatment regimens.
Data Sources and Methods: Medline and Pubmed were searched for all relevant papers published between 1975 and 2009 using a combination of the following keywords: affordable, cost-effective, infertility, IVF, investigations, treatment.
Results: In an era of evidence-based medicine, we often fail to specify the most cost-effective regimen for an infertile couple. Setting a predetermined algorithm can help simplify the management approach. Prevention and education are important as well.
Conclusions: A cost-effective approach that does not compromise success rates should be offered to all couples seeking help for infertility. This includes making evidence-based choices when choosing investigatory tools and treatment options. The “patient- friendly” regimen should not necessarily be equated with “minimal stimulation IVF” because to provide the best medical care for patients, it should be evidence-based and without bias. The ESHRE Task Force is working to tackle the challenge of providing a cost-effective simplified assisted reproduction program in developing countries.
Keywords: Infertility, low cost, cost-effective, cheap, investigations, treatment, IVF
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