Infertility trials can be a fantastic way of getting the latest treatment or drugs at lower than the usual prices. As with any trials there are risks involved, so ensure that you do your research beforehand!

You can check on the ‘net for institutions (such as the CHR) who are calling for participants.

• To begin with you’ll have to meet the criteria for the trials. For example, they may require couples who both have longer second toes and star-shaped birthmarks. Check who is allowed to participate before you begin filling out forms and getting your hopes up! Your doctor knows your situation best so check things with him or her too.

• Check that you know what the study intends to accomplish. Some studies test treatments, which can benefit you while others are merely trying to gather information in which case you won’t gain directly from the research.

• How do the tests work? You could be given a placebo in which case you could not gain at all. A placebo is when they give you dummy pills rather than pills with the testable stuff in them to check that it is the medication that is working, rather than your positive thinking.

• Check what the cash outlay is, if any. A number of studies are fully funded so you may not be required to pay anything above your transport costs to and from the clinic. Every trial is different, so verify costs prior to getting involved.

• Are there any potential hazards? Check that you are aware of exactly what the risks are and talk about them with your partner. You don’t know if the treatments will work – they could, but then again, they may not. You’ll have to decide for yourself.

Although you may not benefit from a specific trial, your involvement will have helped other infertile couples. Do your research, make your decision, and go with it!

Here is more information on Infertility Cost. Here is a website with a free mini-course dedicated to Infertility.