What are the fertility treatment options?
Fertility treatment options can be divided into three broad categories, which may require the use of one or more options: Medicines Assisted Conception (Procedures such as IVF) Surgical Procedures Medicines Certain conditions, particularly polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), require medications to treat hormone imbalances that can cause problems with ovulation. The most common examples are shown […]
In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) in the UK
Each country offers something slightly different for IVF patients, ranging from treatment designed to be convenient and affordable to “high-end”, advanced IVF packages. The UK fertility sector prides itself on delivering high quality treatment and safe care. All UK IVF clinics are monitored by an independent regulator, (the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority, or HFEA). That […]
What should you know about Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
Do I meet NHS fertility funding criteria?
If you’re considering IVF, check your local Clinical Commissioning Group’s (CCG) funding policies to see whether you qualify for NHS funding to pay for your treatment. Checking your local CCG policy You can check your local CCG policy to see whether you qualify for NHS funding to pay for your treatment (download the policy through […]
The most common questions on egg freezing we have been asked
Q: I am in my late 30s / early 40s. Is it too late to freeze my eggs? A: It all depends on your ovarian reserve. Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) and antral follicle count (AFC) are the most common ovarian reserve tests. If you are in your late 30s or early 40s and you are not […]
Understanding fertility success rates
Becoming familiar with the way success rate statistics work can be tricky and also rather daunting. Looking at some simple examples of success rate and how they are derived, helps you to understand how to interpret the results presented by a fertility clinic. This data tells you how many hormone stimulation cycles went on […]
Returning from maternity for the same job, but is it really still the “same job”?
Becoming a mother is the most mind-blowingly happy experience, it is truly life changing. There are some tough days, but overall, it’s a blessing that I do not take for granted. Some challenges I anticipated, others I did not. When and how to take maternity leave I remember, became a real worry as the weeks […]
A guide to egg collection
Egg collection (or oocyte retrieval) follows the hormone stimulation stage of your treatment. But it can only go ahead when you have enough follicles measuring 16-22mm. Your fertility nurse will get in touch to let you know when to give yourself the final trigger injection (usually 36 hours beforehand). This ensures your eggs are mature […]
What can I do after embryo transfer to increase success?
What can I do after embryo transfer? You will be told what medication to take by the clinic nurse after embryo transfer. You will need a supply of panty liners or sanitary pads; in case of spotting or bleeding. Relax for the rest of the day and evening. Full bed rest is not required following your […]
When should see a fertility doctor?
How long should I try to get pregnant? Despite what we’re told about unprotected sex, it can take longer than you’d expect for a perfectly healthy couple to conceive. After a certain amount of time, it’s worth booking in to see a doctor to check that everything is working as it should: If you’re 35 […]