Frequently Asked Questions
Starting Your Treatment with Confidence

IVF is a process where eggs are gently retrieved from the ovaries and combined with sperm in our specialized lab to create embryos. One or more of these embryos are then transferred into the uterus, where they can implant and grow.

ICSI, or Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection, is a highly advanced form of IVF. It involves selecting a single healthy sperm and injecting it directly into an egg to facilitate fertilization, which is especially helpful for male factor infertility.

• Under 35 with regular periods: We generally recommend trying to conceive naturally for one year.
• Irregular periods: This can indicate irregular ovulation, and we suggest seeking advice sooner.
• Over 35: We recommend preliminary testing right away to ensure there are no immediate concerns, as fertility naturally declines with age.

We begin with a complete assessment, including hormonal blood work, to understand your ovarian health and how it may respond to treatment. While fertility decreases with age, we will discuss all available paths and options, including prenatal testing to screen for genetic conditions.

A thorough assessment, including a semen analysis and blood work, helps us understand the specific issue. We work closely with urologists to ensure you have a complete picture and access to the full range of treatment options.

To help us best understand your history, please bring any previous medical records related to fertility, such as operative reports, semen analyses, blood work, or details of past treatments.

Your comfort is our priority. Egg retrieval is performed under mild sedation, so you will be comfortable and pain-free during the procedure.

Any embryos not transferred in your fresh cycle can be safely frozen for future use. Before your cycle, we will have a detailed conversation with you about your options for these embryos, including freezing, donation for research, or disposal, and will guide you through the consent process.

We advise against using herbal medications during your fertility treatment, as some can have powerful biological effects and may interfere with your medications.

An IVF cycle typically takes 2-3 weeks. While monitoring appointments are scheduled to be convenient, you will need to take the day off for the egg retrieval procedure.

Fibroids are non cancerous growths in the uterus. Their impact depends on their size and location. Those inside the uterine cavity can interfere with implantation and may need to be removed, while many others do not affect success.

Endometriosis can reduce the chances of natural conception. However, with IVF, your chances of success are similar to others your age, as long as any accompanying factors are identified and managed appropriately during your treatment.

Simply complete an Authorization for Release of Information form at our centre. Please be specific about the records you need. Please allow 10 business days for requests within one year of treatment, and 20 business days for requests after one year.

As with any medical treatment, it’s important to be aware of potential risks. Our team will discuss these with you in detail to ensure you feel fully informed.

• Reactions to Fertility Drugs: Some women may experience mild, temporary side effects like hot flushes, feeling irritable, headaches, or restlessness.
• Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS): This is a rare but potentially serious over-reaction to fertility drugs. Symptoms can include a swollen, painful stomach, nausea, and shortness of breath. Please contact us immediately if you experience these symptoms.
• Ectopic Pregnancy: There is a slightly higher chance of a pregnancy developing in the fallopian tube instead of the womb. Report any vaginal bleeding or stomach pain to us right away for evaluation.