Why we cite
On a health topic, a claim is only as good as its source. We attribute medical statements to identifiable, reputable references so you — or your doctor — can verify them. If we cannot support a figure with a credible source, we either state it qualitatively or leave it out.
Which sources we prioritise
We work down a hierarchy of evidence quality:
- Highest: systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and clinical-practice guidelines (ESHRE, ASRM, WHO, ICMR).
- Strong: peer-reviewed primary studies indexed in PubMed, with India-specific data prioritised where available.
- Supporting: reputable institutional and registry data.
- Avoided: marketing material, unsourced claims, and predatory or non-peer-reviewed outlets.
How we attribute claims
Statistics and medical claims carry a named source, and guides link out to the original references where possible. We name the publisher and the study or guideline — not just a brand — so a citation can actually be traced. Population-level figures are presented as such, never as predictions for an individual.
Keeping citations current
When we re-review a guide, we re-check its citations: superseded references are replaced with the current best evidence, and broken links are repaired. If you find a citation that no longer supports its claim, tell us at editorial@ferti.health.