New research reveals huge stigma associated with IVF treatment

New research released by Bump today reveals 85% of Australian women aged 25-44 believe there is a social stigma associated with seeking IVF treatment and nearly half (48%) believe it is due to a perception that seeking IVF treatment means you have ‘failed’.

Added to this, almost a third of 25-44 yo women (32%) believe the stigma is because women can feel responsible and guilty even when it’s their partner who has the fertility problem.

The other main reasons for stigma revealed in the Bump Fertility Fairy Tales Study were general ignorance about IVF, fertility and different treatments (45%) and the perception that falling pregnant is ‘easy’ (34%).

“Our research findings have inspired the development of ‘Bump’, our clinic that will be  opening on the 8^th September. What we’ve been hearing from women is there is such an urgent need for open, transparent discussion about fertility and for affordable, accessible IVF treatment.

“When we consider the social impact these misconceptions are having on couples, we know that normalising fertility treatment, by simplifying the process, empowering our clients and giving them as much control as possible is the only way forward,” explains Dr. Kylie de Boer, General Manager of Bump.

According to the Bump study, 88% of women believed there would be significant barriers to IVF if they were finding it difficult to fall pregnant. The main barrier for 72 per cent of women aged 25-44 was identified as cost.

Also, when asked to describe the factors influencing their choice of IVF clinic, the following five factors had the most impact:

1. Cost – 70%
2. Claimed success rates of the clinic– 55%
3. Location of the clinic– 51%
4. Doctor / GP running the clinic– 50%
5. Word of mouth from friends / family for a clinic – 43%

“Bump provides women with the highest quality fertility science and makes it available in a smart, straightforward way. And as part of Monash IVF group we offer our clients world-class expertise and technology at a more affordable rate.” continued Bump General Manager, Dr. Kylie de Boer.

The first Bump clinic, opening in Mosman on Sydney’s lower north shore, offers a suite of affordable, more convenient options that address many concerns uncovered in the study including:

• An out of pocket cost that is about a third of the cost compared to the larger IVF clinics in Sydney – cost is the biggest concern for most women considering treatment.
• Reduced complexity to get started: 89% of women believe the process of having IVF is complex. Bump doesn’t require a referral for the first appointment, making it easier for women to take that first step.
• Simple process: Nearly a third (27%) of women believe a lack of willpower will prevent them going through what is perceived to be a very tough process. Bump promises the most effective fertility treatment in the simplest and most contemporary way. For example, Bump offers a simple, digitally accessible service together with a reduced number of visits for lengthy appointments, and IVF medication delivered to your door.  All within an ultra modern day clinic with the latest IVF technology.

For a free discussion please call 1800 bumpivf. For more information on Bump IVF, please click here.