Abstract
The rising use of complementary medicines and therapies (CM) by patients in infertility care and treatment is controversial. Evidence is emerging that between 30-60% of infertility patients use CM whilst also engaged with assisted reproductive technology (ART) for treatment of infertility [1]. Women in particular, are reported to be turning to CM because of dissatisfaction with the approach of mainstream medicine, coupled with a desire for a more personalized approach in treatment. Others prefer the holistic philosophy of CM and/or a wish to take control of their healthcare decisions [2]. Increasingly, CM is being used in conjunction with mainstream medical treatment in a wide variety of health care settings. This combination may provide choice and complementary effects but may also potentially confound outcome measures for both therapies.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Title of host publication | How to Improve your ART Success Rates |
| Subtitle of host publication | An Evidence-Based Review of Adjuncts to IVF |
| Editors | Gab Kovacs |
| Place of Publication | Cambridge, UK |
| Publisher | Cambridge University Press |
| Chapter | 41 |
| Pages | 208-212 |
| Number of pages | 5 |
| ISBN (Electronic) | 9780511894756 |
| ISBN (Print) | 9781107648326 |
| DOIs | |
| Publication status | Published - 2011 |