5 frequently asked questions from women starting in fertility treatment

wawa fertility
2 min read

When should I seek the advice of a fertility specialist? What should I think about when choosing a fertility specialist and clinic? What questions should I ask my doctor when considering IVF? Does IVF affect the long term health of babies?

When should I seek the advice of a fertility specialist?

Speak to your GP about referral to a fertility specialist if you have been trying to get pregnant for 12 months or more of unprotected sex without success. If you are 35 years or older, it is recommended to seek advice after six months of trying unsuccessfully.

What should I think about when choosing a fertility specialist and clinic?

Fertility treatment is physically and emotionally demanding, and depending on your needs it can be expensive, so it is important to find a clinic and doctor that’s right for you. You can ask your GP for advice about choosing a fertility specialist, but you can also do your own research before committing to a doctor and clinic.

What questions should I ask my doctor when considering IVF?

It is important to understand the success rates with different treatment options. Here are some questions to ask to help you get a realistic idea of your chance of having a baby with IVF.

  • Considering your circumstances and medical history, what chance of having a baby can you expect?
  • What is the clinic’s chance of a baby per started stimulated treatment cycle?
  • What is the clinic’s chance of success for women of your age?
  • What proportion of women in your age-group have embryos available for freezing after a stimulated treatment cycle?
  • What is the cumulative chance of having a baby for a woman of your age if she has three stimulated treatment cycles?

Does IVF affect the long term health of babies?

Studies over the years have shown that babies born after fertility treatment are more likely to be born prematurely and to weigh less at birth, and they have a slightly greater risk of birth defects. However, by the time they become adults, research has shown that they are just healthy as other people.

Where can I find out more about my fertility treatment options?

It’s helpful to know your options so you can make well-informed decisions. Talk to your fertility specialist and nurses about what to expect as part of your treatment and for resources about your treatment.

Where can I find out more about my fertility treatment options?

It’s helpful to know your options so you can make well-informed decisions. Talk to your fertility specialist and nurses about what to expect as part of your treatment and for resources about your treatment.