FERTILITY GUIDANCE
Frequently Asked Questions
Find clear answers to common fertility care and treatment questions.
FAQ
Common Questions
These answers are general and should be reviewed with the clinic for personal guidance.
When should I consider visiting a fertility specialist?
You may consider speaking with a fertility specialist if you have been trying to conceive without success, have irregular menstrual cycles, a known reproductive health condition, previous fertility treatment, recurrent pregnancy loss, or concerns about male fertility. The appropriate timing can vary depending on age, medical history and individual circumstances.
What happens during the first fertility consultation?
The first consultation usually includes a discussion of your medical and reproductive history, previous reports, menstrual cycle, pregnancy history and any prior treatments. Based on your situation, the doctor may recommend further evaluation or tests before discussing possible treatment options.
What tests may be advised during a fertility evaluation?
Fertility evaluation can involve different tests for female and male partners. Depending on the case, these may include hormone tests, ultrasound, assessment of ovarian reserve, semen analysis and other investigations recommended by the doctor.
What is IVF treatment?
IVF, or in-vitro fertilization, is an assisted reproductive treatment in which eggs and sperm are combined in a laboratory as part of the fertilization process. Whether IVF is appropriate depends on the couple’s fertility evaluation and clinical situation.
What is the difference between IUI and IVF?
IUI generally involves placing prepared sperm into the uterus around the time of ovulation, while IVF involves fertilization of eggs outside the body in a laboratory before an embryo is transferred to the uterus. The suitable option depends on the underlying fertility concerns and medical evaluation.
What is ICSI and when may it be considered?
ICSI, or intracytoplasmic sperm injection, is a laboratory technique in which a single sperm is introduced into an egg. It may be discussed in certain fertility situations, including some cases involving male-factor infertility or previous fertilization concerns.
Can male infertility also affect the chances of conception?
Yes. Fertility concerns can involve either partner or both partners. Male fertility evaluation may include discussion of medical history and tests such as semen analysis, depending on the doctor’s recommendation.
What are some common causes of female infertility?
Female fertility may be affected by factors related to ovulation, ovarian reserve, fallopian tubes, uterus, endometriosis, hormonal conditions or age. A fertility evaluation helps identify which factors may be relevant in an individual case.
What is egg freezing?
Egg freezing is a fertility-preservation option in which eggs are collected and stored for possible future use. Whether it is suitable and the expected outcomes depend on several factors, including age, ovarian reserve and individual medical circumstances.
Does age affect fertility?
Age can influence fertility, particularly because ovarian reserve and egg quality generally change over time. However, fertility varies between individuals, so a personalised evaluation is more useful than relying on age alone.
Can couples who have had unsuccessful IVF treatment seek a second opinion?
Yes. Couples with previous IVF, IUI or other fertility treatment may discuss their treatment history, reports and previous outcomes with a fertility specialist to better understand possible next steps.
How long does fertility treatment take?
There is no single timeline for fertility treatment. The duration depends on the evaluation, treatment type, response to medication, menstrual cycle and individual medical circumstances.
Is fertility treatment painful?
Experiences vary depending on the treatment and the individual. Some procedures may involve temporary discomfort, injections or minor procedures. The clinical team can explain what to expect before each stage of treatment.
Can PCOS affect fertility?
PCOS can be associated with irregular ovulation and may affect the ability to conceive in some women. Evaluation and treatment depend on symptoms, medical history and fertility goals.
Can low AMH mean pregnancy is impossible?
No single test can determine whether pregnancy is possible. AMH is one measure used when assessing ovarian reserve, and it should be interpreted together with age, ultrasound findings, medical history and other relevant factors.
What should I bring to my fertility consultation?
It can be helpful to bring previous fertility reports, blood tests, ultrasound reports, semen analysis results, records of earlier IVF or IUI cycles, current medicines and any relevant medical history.
Do both partners need to attend the fertility consultation?
Where possible, evaluation of both partners can provide a more complete understanding of fertility concerns. However, the doctor can advise what is appropriate depending on your circumstances.
How do I book a consultation at Irene IVF Centre?
You can request an appointment through the website consultation form or contact Irene IVF Centre using the phone or contact details provided on the website.
