We turned to the team at Manchester Fertility and asked them to help us answer your frequently asked questions concerning IVF.
How long will a round of IVF take?
The duration of a complete IVF cycle typically ranges from six to eight weeks, including an initial consultation, medication, monitoring, egg collection, fertilisation, embryo culture, and embryo transfer.
Are there physical side effects from IVF that will be visible to friends and work colleagues?
There are very few physical side effects from IVF. Patients may likely experience bloating and mild discomfort, which are not usually visible.
Some patients may experience a change in mood, which others may observe, but it’s important to point out that individual experiences may vary.
Will I feel emotional due to the medication?
Hormonal medications used in IVF can affect emotions in some individuals. Mood swings and increased sensitivity are common, but not everyone experiences these effects. Emotional support from friends, family, or a counsellor can be helpful during this time.
Can I take my injections in the evening, or will I have to do them at work?
The timing of injections can often be adjusted to fit your schedule. Many people take injections in the morning as part of their daily routine as they find it easier to remember. This reduces the risk of missing a dose, which can be critical in IVF cycles where precise timing is essential. However, this may not suit everyone; some patients opt for nighttime injections. It depends on the individual and their routine.
Will I need to have quite a bit of time off for work for scans?
IVF monitoring appointments are a necessary part of treatment. Here at Manchester Fertility, our usual practice is to scan a patient at least twice. However, the frequency of scans depends on how your body responds to the medications. We have early appointment slots for scans, which means minimal disruption to your daily routine.
When it is time for transfer, will I get much notice so that I can get time off work?
You will typically receive a week’s advance notice for the embryo transfer procedure. This allows you to plan time off work and make necessary arrangements. Notice for egg collection will be around 48 hours, but patients will be prepared for this following their monitoring scans.
Can I buy the medication in the clinic so no one sees me in the local chemist?
We work with a pharmaceutical company that can send the medication to a patient’s home address so they don’t have to leave the house.
Do you have fertility counsellors to talk to so I can turn to someone if I find it all too overwhelming?
Yes, we have BICA-registered fertility counsellors as part of our team. They can provide emotional support and help you cope with the stress and challenges associated with fertility treatments.
What are the chances of an IVF cycle working the first time around?
Whatever your age or fertility status, our expert team will work hard to give you the best possible chance of having a baby. If you’re under 35, our pregnancy rates are 49%. You can see our latest success rates by visiting our website at www.manchesterfertility.com.
Success rates for IVF vary based on several factors, including age, overall health, and the cause of infertility. It’s best to discuss your specific case and potential for success with our team.
How quickly can I start fertility treatment with you?
We currently do not have a wait list for treatment. So you can book your appointment immediately. You can book an appointment online at www.manchesterfertility.com/get-started or call our friendly team on 0161 300 2737.
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