Scientists find simple 'scratch' technique improves IVF treatment success We are now carrying out a follow-up study in Nottingham to provide further guidance into the use of endometrial scratching and early results are encouraging. A spokesman added that despite widespread use of the scratching technique, which first came to prominence in 2003, the mechanism behind its success remains unknown. The trial involved 158 women who had previously received unsuccessful courses of reproductive treatment, which costs an average of £4,500 per cycle. Of the total number of patients 77 received the scratching priocedure between one and two weeks before core reproductive treatment began. Of the 77, 39 women achieved pregnancy and 33 resulted in live births, compared with 23 live births in the control group. The short procedure takes just 15 minutes in clinic and can be carried out by trained nurses using simple equipment already in use. The procedure may add less than £100 to the cost of an IVF cycle. Results of the latest research will be presented at the International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology World Congress in Sydney.