Case Studies
& FAQ’S
FAQ's
Frequently Asked Questions
We hope that our website has given you much of the information you need about SEFC, but in case you still have questions about obtaining or undergoing treatment, we’ve compiled some of the most frequently-asked questions people ask us. Just scroll down and click the question that interests you or contact us – our friendly staff will be happy to advise you.
Questions related to obtaining treatment
Why should I choose SEFC?
We offer a consultant-led service through all stages of treatment, so whatever the procedure being carried out, you can rest assured knowing it will be managed and directed by one of our two highly experienced consultant gynaecologists. As a private, dedicated clinic, SEFC is also committed to providing the very best standards of modern care and treatment in the relaxed and comfortable surroundings of Amberley House. Along with our state-of-the-art in-house laboratory, on-site pharmacy and friendly and understanding staff, it means we provide a convenient, self-contained and highly professional and supportive environment dedicated to helping you start your much-wanted family.
What is the first step to using your services?
If you have been trying to conceive for a year without success, we ask that you first consult your GP about the possibility of investigation. We then prefer you to be directly referred to us by your GP. However, you may also book an appointment with one of our consultants directly, although we recommend that you keep your GP informed of any treatment you receive.
Is there a waiting list?
No. Once you have been referred, you can expect to receive an appointment within 2 or 3 weeks.
How long does treatment take?
This very much depends on the type of treatment you receive. However, IVF and ICSI cycles typically take around 3-4 weeks.
How much will it cost?
The complexity and expertise needed for modern fertility treatments make them expensive. We offer an inclusive, fixed price fertility assessment service and from there, we will inform you of the cost of your recommended treatments in advance. For information on our charges, see Price Guide page or if you are concerned about affording treatment, you may want to consider our egg-sharing programme, which offers a low-cost route to
IVF treatment.
Can I increase my own chances of conceiving?
There are some steps you can make to increase your chances of starting a family. The first sensible step is to ensure you and your partner are in good health when you are trying to conceive. Maintaining a healthy diet is important and taking a folic acid supplement is also recommended. If you smoke, you should stop and if you drink alcohol, you should limit your intake – both smoking and alcohol can reduce your fertility.
Do you accept single women and same sex couples for treatment?
Yes. Our services are available to single women, unmarried couples and couples in same sex relationships.
Are there any age restrictions?
In general treatment may be offered to women of any age using their own eggs so long as ovulation is still occurring. However it is important to understand that the age factor is extremely significant in terms of achieving pregnancy. Once a woman is over the age of 42 years, any form of assisted conception is associated with a relatively low success rate, in the order of
1 – 2 % per cycle. So as long as this fact is accepted and understood, SEFC is able of offer treatment over the age of 42 years. With regard to egg donation there is an upper age limit for treatment of 48 years. Although older women do achieve pregnancy, beyond the age of 48 years even with egg donation programmes the pregnancy rates start to reduce. The waiting list for treatment of egg donation shows significant variation around the country. At SEFC treatment maybe offered up to the age of 48 years, other than in exceptional circumstances.
Do I need to live locally to obtain treatment?
Our services are open to individuals and couples who live in Kent and East Sussex, although many people choose to travel to our clinic to benefit from the individually tailored services of a dedicated unit.
Questions related to undergoing treatment
What should I do once my pregnancy test is positive?
Obviously, your pregnancy will be good news. Once you’ve had time to take it in, you should contact us to arrange for an early pregnancy ultrasound scan. You should also continue taking your Cyclogest pessaries twice daily – we’ll arrange for a repeat prescription.
What about my lifestyle during treatment?
During the ovulation stimulation phase of treatment, you may carry on as normal, including continuing in any job you have. We recommend you take
light exercise, maintain a healthy diet and drink alcohol only in moderation.
You may continue having sexual intercourse throughout your treatment (unless otherwise instructed) as this will not affect your chances of pregnancy. If you are working, we advise you to take a day off for your egg collection and embryo transfer. Once embryos have been transferred, you should avoid strenuous exercise and bearing in mind that you might be pregnant, avoid alcohol completely.
Can I take any other medication during treatment?
If you have been prescribed any regular medication by your GP, please let us know, although you will usually be able to continue taking it. If you take vitamin supplements, you should also check with us that it is safe to continue with them. Whilst trying for pregnancy and until you are three months pregnant, we recommend you take 0.4mgs of folic acid supplements daily, as this has been shown to reduce the incidence of spina bifida in babies.
How long should I take my treatment medications?
At the start of your treatment cycle, we will tell you how and when to take your medication. Following egg collection or Intrauterine Insemination, you will be advised to take Cyclogest pessaries 200 mgs twice daily. You may also be advised to take progesterone injections. You should continue with the Cyclogest pessaries for two weeks until your pregnancy test. If this is positive, you should continue with the pessaries until you are 12 weeks’ pregnant. If negative, you should stop your medication (including Progynova if you are an egg recipient). A period will usually follow three to five days later. You should contact us to confirm your pregnancy test results and book a follow-up consultation in order to discuss your treatment.
What if I start bleeding before my pregnancy test?
Bleeding before your pregnancy test could occur for several reasons. Some women experience implantation bleeding, whilst for others, bleeding may result from an embryo coming away – although it is still possible that a remaining embryo will continue and implant, thus still creating a pregnancy. If you start bleeding, continue with your Cyclogest pessaries and let us know what has happened on the next working day. You should continue with your pessaries until you are 12 weeks’ pregnant.
How should I take my Cyclogest pessaries?
You can take the pessaries either vaginally or rectally. If you take them vaginally, it is normal to experience a white vaginal discharge for some time afterwards – so don’t worry if this occurs. Once you have inserted the pessary, you should rest in bed for 15 minutes to allow the hormone to enter your bloodstream. If you use the pessaries rectally, there is no need to
rest afterwards.
What about my diet during treatment?
Try and eat a healthy balanced diet throughout your fertility treatment. You should bear in mind that following embryo transfer or insemination, you might be pregnant, so you should take extra care about you eat and drink.
Please avoid unpasteurised dairy products and ensure that your food is properly prepared.
What can I take to relieve pain after egg collection?
Simple painkillers such as paracetamol will usually suffice. This should be taken at the recommended dose on the packet.
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It takes 64 days for a sperm to be manufactured
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South East Fertilty Clinic Ltd, Amberley House, 9 Queen's Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN4 9LL
Directors: Mr M Wilcox & Mr M Rimington. Registered in England & Wales. Company No: 6546136