Cochrane Review Finds IVF Preparation Techniques Lack Proven Benefit

A Cochrane systematic review of 11 randomized studies involving 2,524 women undergoing embryo transfer examined three common preparatory practices – full‑bladder positioning, cervical mucus removal and afterloading. The analysis concluded that none of these techniques showed reliable evidence of improving live‑birth or pregnancy rates, with the included trials described as small, at high risk of bias and yielding low or very‑low certainty evidence.

Experts highlighted the gap between routine practice and solid data. Prof Dusko Ilic of King’s College London noted, “Absence of reliable evidence is not evidence of absence of benefit.” Dr Ryosuke Akino of Kato Ladies Clinic called the situation “a case of tradition driving practice rather than the evidence,” while Dr James Brown of the Women’s Health and Research Institute Australia added, “While these techniques are generally considered safe, it’s still important to test their effectiveness.” The review urges more robust, well‑designed trials before endorsing any preparatory method as standard care.