Self-medicating with fertility drugs ends in low birth weight babies

Women who bypass specialist clinics in their attempts to become pregnant could be putting their unborn children in serious danger. Babies born to these women are 250 grams lighter than average. This is a bigger impact than if their mother had smoked through her pregnancy. - says University of Adelaide Professor Michael Davies.

"Our study has unmasked a group of Australians who appear to be at substantially increased risk." Prof Davies, whose team has compared more than 300,000 births over the 17 years until 2002. The study shows infertile women who conceive without the help of a specialist clinic are nine times more likely than average to have a baby with very low birth weight of less than 1.5kg.

✨ Trying to Conceive?

Our fertility supplements combine Myo-Inositol with essential vitamins to support healthy hormone balance and regular ovulation.

Shop Now — $36.00

✓ Free shipping available  |  ✓ Trusted by millions of couples worldwide

Their babies are also seven times more likely to be born very preterm. "This may be due to the underlying medical conditions related to their infertility, or the use of fertility medications or therapies," Professor Davies said. "We are not sure what therapies they are using, but we suspect it may be drugs that stimulate ovulation." The drugs are particularly dangerous if they are taken by a woman who does not realise she is pregnant.

Part of the problem is that there is confusion over what type of doctor may prescribe the drugs.

Prof Davies said the drugs had good outcomes when taken under the close supervision of a specialist IVF clinic. However, the PBS covers a GP prescription with enough repeats to cover 10 menstrual cycles. The study, which includes 4300 births from assisted reproduction, shows even babies born with the help of a specialist clinic tend to be born earlier and lighter than average. The risk of low birth weight in non-twin births is 10 in 100, almost double that of the general population. A low birth weight is less the 2.5kg.

There is a two per cent risk of a very low birth weight. Compared with one per cent for the general population. Part of the problem could be that infertile women are prone to underlying health problems that could interfere with the supply of nutrients from their placenta.

They are also at increased risk of gestational diabetes. Prof Davies said outcomes could also have improved since the data was collected. Because IVF technology had got much better in recent years. He aimed to do follow up studies using more recent data. AAP

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to buy fertility drugs online without a prescription in the UK?

No, self-medicating with fertility drugs without proper medical supervision can be dangerous for both you and your baby. Research shows babies born to women who use fertility medications without specialist oversight are significantly more likely to have very low birth weight and be born prematurely. Always consult your GP or a fertility specialist before taking any fertility treatments.

Can my GP prescribe fertility drugs like Clomid on the NHS?

Yes, GPs can prescribe certain ovulation-stimulating drugs like Clomid, but NICE guidelines recommend that these medications should ideally be prescribed and monitored by a specialist with expertise in fertility treatment. If your GP does prescribe fertility drugs, you should be referred for ultrasound monitoring to reduce the risk of complications such as multiple pregnancies.

Why are babies conceived with fertility drugs sometimes born with low birth weight?

Research suggests this may be due to underlying medical conditions related to infertility, or the effects of fertility medications themselves, particularly when not properly supervised. Ovulation-stimulating drugs can be especially risky if taken by someone who doesn't realise they're already pregnant. Under specialist clinic supervision, outcomes are significantly better due to careful monitoring and dosage control.

How do I get referred to a fertility clinic on the NHS?

If you've been trying to conceive for 12 months without success (or 6 months if you're over 36), your GP can refer you to an NHS fertility specialist. Around 1 in 7 UK couples experience fertility issues, so this is a common referral. Be aware that NHS waiting times and funding criteria vary by Integrated Care Board (ICB), so ask your GP about local eligibility requirements.

What does the HFEA say about taking fertility medication without clinic supervision?

The Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA) regulates fertility clinics in the UK and strongly advises that all fertility treatments be carried out under proper medical supervision. Fertility drugs require careful monitoring through blood tests and ultrasound scans to ensure they're working safely and to reduce risks of complications like ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) or multiple pregnancies.

Are fertility supplements the same as fertility drugs?

No, fertility supplements containing vitamins, minerals, and compounds like myo-inositol are not the same as prescription fertility drugs such as Clomid or gonadotropins. Supplements are designed to support overall reproductive health and can be taken without a prescription, whereas fertility drugs actively stimulate ovulation and require medical supervision due to their potential risks.

What are the risks of self-medicating with Clomid bought online?

Self-medicating with Clomid or similar drugs purchased online carries serious risks, including very low birth weight babies, premature birth, and multiple pregnancies. Without proper monitoring, you won't know how your body is responding to the medication, and taking it unknowingly while pregnant can harm your developing baby. Always seek treatment through a registered fertility clinic or your GP for the safest outcomes.