Carrot Fertility has announced the launch of Sprints, a metabolic-fertility program designed to address root causes of infertility including obesity, blood sugar dysregulation, and sperm damage. The West Des Moines-based company positions the program as targeting one of the fastest-growing causes of fertility challenges through pre-pregnancy metabolic care.
The program aims to reduce the number of IVF cycles needed by addressing metabolic dysfunction before conception attempts. Carrot estimates the approach could save plan sponsors up to $30,000 per avoided IVF cycle while reducing physical and emotional stress for members.
“IVF is critical in fertility care, but it’s not the only answer. One-size-fits-all strategies built on misaligned incentives simply don’t work,” said Dr. Asima Ahmad, Carrot’s Chief Medical Officer. “Sprints is about addressing root causes of fertility challenges, like metabolic issues, either alongside or instead of surgical interventions.”
Carrot reports that nearly 60% of engaged members choose less expensive and less invasive fertility interventions before IVF, with 30% successfully achieving pregnancy without IVF. The Sprints program builds on this trend by providing personalized pathways during what the company terms the “Premester” period – the 3 to 12 months before a positive pregnancy test. Key components include a pre-conception habit-building program offering daily coaching for nutrition, movement, sleep, and stress management. Members receive a Carrot Welcome Kit with smart-scale integration and can invite partners to participate jointly.
Sprints features hyper-personalized app experiences shaped by members’ health concerns, fertility goals, and motivational profiles. The adaptive platform combines clinically-validated guidance with real-time content tailored to individual progress and engagement patterns. The program also includes managed access to fertility-supporting medications such as metformin and GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide and tirzepatide for members facing obesity-related fertility challenges. Hormone supplements are also available through the platform’s clinical oversight.
“Accelerating access to IVF has never been more important, but avoiding unnecessary procedures when possible is what savvy employers, health plans, and plan sponsors now demand,” said Tammy Sun, Carrot Founder and CEO. “With Sprints, we’re committed to leading innovation and delivering even more financial ROI through hyper-personalized, optimized care.”
