Getting started with FertilitySA

If you're under 35 and have been trying to conceive for 12 months without success, or if you're over 35 and have been trying for 6 months, it's advisable to consult a fertility specialist. However, you should seek help earlier if you have known fertility issues, irregular periods, or a history of miscarriages.

An initial fertility assessment typically includes:

• A detailed medical history review

• Physical examination

• Hormone level tests

• Ultrasound to assess ovarian reserve and uterine anatomy

• Semen analysis for male partners

• Discussion about your fertility goals and concerns

The time to achieve pregnancy varies depending on individual circumstances and the type of treatment. Some may conceive within the first few cycles, while others may require multiple attempts. Your fertility specialist will discuss realistic timelines based on your specific situation.

Success rates vary depending on factors such as age, cause of infertility, and type of treatment. At Fertility SA, our success rates consistently exceed the national average. However, it's important to discuss your individual prognosis with your specialist, as general statistics may not apply to your specific case.

The cost of fertility treatments varies widely depending on the type of treatment and individual needs. Some treatments are partially covered by Medicare and private health insurance. We provide detailed cost breakdowns during consultations and offer financial counseling to help you understand your options.

While fertility treatments are generally safe, there are some potential risks. Your specialist will discuss all potential risks based on your individual situation and how we minimize them before starting any treatment.

Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) involves placing prepared sperm directly into the uterus around the time of ovulation. In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) involves stimulating the ovaries to produce multiple eggs, which are then fertilized with sperm in a laboratory before the resulting embryos are transferred to the uterus. IVF is generally more complex and has higher success rates, especially for certain types of infertility.

The most appropriate treatment depends on various factors, including the cause of infertility, age, and personal circumstances. After a comprehensive assessment, your fertility specialist will recommend the most suitable treatment options for your situation.

Yes, certain lifestyle changes can positively impact fertility. These may include maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, limiting alcohol consumption, reducing stress, and improving nutrition. Your fertility specialist can provide personalized advice on lifestyle modifications that may benefit you.

There's no strict upper age limit for fertility treatments, but success rates decline significantly with age, especially for women over 40. Each case is evaluated individually, considering overall health, ovarian reserve, and other factors. For women over 45, egg donation may be recommended as an alternative.

Medically, it's often safe to try to conceive after one normal menstrual cycle following a miscarriage. However, the emotional readiness to try again varies for each individual or couple. We recommend discussing your specific situation with your healthcare provider.

Fertility preservation involves freezing eggs, sperm, or embryos for future use. It's often recommended for individuals facing medical treatments that may affect fertility (such as cancer treatments), those wishing to delay childbearing for personal or professional reasons, or individuals with conditions that may impact future fertility.

Male factor infertility can be addressed through various treatments, depending on the specific issue. Options may include lifestyle changes, medication, surgical sperm retrieval, IUI, or IVF with ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection). Your fertility specialist will recommend the most appropriate approach based on comprehensive male fertility testing.

At Fertility SA, we offer a range of support services, including ongoing nursing support throughout your treatment and fertility counselling. We always recommend reaching out to ask for support if you feel you need it.

The first step is to book an initial consultation with one of our fertility specialists. During this appointment, we'll review your medical history, perform necessary tests, and discuss your fertility goals. Based on this assessment, we'll work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan.

Some patients find complementary therapies such as acupuncture, nutrition therapy, or mindfulness practices helpful in managing stress and promoting overall well-being during fertility treatment. While there's limited scientific evidence supporting their direct impact on fertility, these approaches may be used alongside conventional treatments. Always discuss any alternative therapies with your fertility specialist to ensure they don't interfere with your treatment plan.

At Fertility SA, we take patient privacy very seriously. We adhere to strict confidentiality protocols and comply with all relevant privacy laws. Your medical information is securely stored and only accessed by the healthcare professionals directly involved in your care. We also offer private consultation rooms and discrete communication options to ensure your comfort and privacy throughout your treatment journey.