TREATMENTS & SERVICESIVF Frequently Asked Questions
How long will I have to wait for an appointment?We guarantee an appointment within 14 days. Call reception on 5564 8455 and they will organize an appointment for you. You will then visit your GP for a referral to one of our infertility specialists.
How long does a cycle take?
This depends on what type of cycle you are having. For IVF and ICSI cycles, it takes 2 months. This is because we use the oral contraceptive pill to “prepare” you in the month before your stimulation. The little follicles in your ovary begin to mature in the month before they begin to grow into eggs. We believe that using the pill for 18-21 days will maximize your chances of having several eggs available for harvest at your egg collection. Insemination cycles take 1 month.
What are my chances of success?
This is the hardest question of all; your chance of falling pregnant depends on several factors. Your reason for needing treatment (cause of infertility), weight, lifestyle and age all contribute. The female partners age is probably one of the biggest factors in determining what your chances may be. Variable factors like egg and sperm quality, and individual variations that occur during the cycle will have an effect. Your doctor is the most qualified person to discuss whether your chances may be higher or lower than the average. Generally in the last 8 months we separated our rates per age group:
18-34=32%
35-39=22%
40-45=11.5%.
An on-going pregnancy rate means you will have passed the critical time for miscarriage. Biochemical pregnancy rates are 10-20% higher. It is normal for 1 in 5 early diagnosed pregnancies to fail and miscarry.
I work full-time; will I need to take time off to have treatment?
Depending on the type of cycle your doctor feels is best for you, we can minimize your time away from work as we open at 7.30am, and most patients can visit us on their way to work. There will be times when you will need more time. The following is a guide; depending on where you live, add travelling time Initial Doctors consultation both partners 1 hour Nurse interview ideally both partners 1- ½ hours Blood tests ½ hour Blood tests and scans ½ to ¾ hour Egg collection day off (may need 2 days) Embryo transfer 1-2 hours (Ideally day off). Insemination 1-2 hours.
How can I prepare for treatment?
You and your partner need to be healthy. We know smoking, drinking and recreational drug use have a negative impact on fertility. Diet, exercise and a healthy weight are very important. We use the phrase “live well” this means moderation. Eat lots of healthy foods, i.e. green leafy vegetable, lean meat, fish, nuts and drink lots of water. No need to join a gym just be active. Walks along the beach, a game of tennis all add to your health, and therefore maximize your preparation for treatment. Take daily multi-vitamins; we recommend Elevit and Menevit. Bring with you any tests you may have had recently, if you have a family doctor (GP) ask for a health summary. Think about your menstrual history, and bring any relevant information with you.
Have another question?
Please call our friendly team today on 07 5564 8455.