Diagnostic phase
At LFC we will propose the fertility treatment that best suits your medical situation
An essential first step in fertility treatment is the assessment of the best treatment options for you. To do this, we will need to do certain diagnostic investigations. First of all we need a semen analysis from the male partner (if using partner/husband sperm), a "Female Fertility Profile" blood test and an ultrasound scan for the female partner. The blood test is usually performed between days 2 – 4 of the menstrual cycle and includes: Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH), Luteinzing Hormone (LH), Oestradial (E2), Prolactin (PRL) and Anti-Mullerian Hormone(AMH). Depending on these results, options can be reassessed and further investigations may be needed.
The following investigations may also be needed: Hycosy (to assess the uterine cavity and the patency of your tubes) or HSG (Hysterosalpingogram - radiology procedure to investigate the shape of the uterine and fallopian tubes), screening blood tests (for infectious markers), Hysteroscopy and/or Laparoscopy or blood tests for genetic screening. Some of these investigations may take place elsewhere.
Initial consultation and planning
In most cases an initial consultation is necessary after the diagnostic phase. During the consultation we will discuss the results of the diagnostic tests and discuss the best possible treatment options. Once all the options are discussed and we can plan the treatment, we will talk you through the process. We will give you all the relevant protocols, prescriptions and consent forms.
Fertility treatment
Research has shown that many couples are uncertain and afraid of initiating infertility treatment. Fears about treatment are often based on out-dated or erroneous information.
Fertility treatment is a safe and effective way of achieving a pregnancy. Recent improvements in medication, micro-surgery and advanced fertility treatments have made healthy pregnancy a possibility for the patients who seek expert infertility advice.
From the variety of assisted reproduction treatments available at the LFC we will propose the one that best suits your medical situation, having in the front of our minds your safety as well as cost-effectiveness.
For more details on the individual treatments and what is involved, visit out fertility treatments page.
After your fertility treatment
After the egg collection you will be transferred to the recovery area where the nurses and health care assistants will ensure you have a comfortable recovery. You will stay with the nurses for approximately one hour following the sedation and you will be offered light refreshments.
When the time comes for you to go home you will be feeling well, however, we insist that you arrange for an escort to take you home.
Luteal support in the form of Cyclogest (progesterone pessaries) will be given to you to begin using on the evening of your (or your donor's) egg collection. This is to ensure that your progesterone level remains high and will hopefully assist in the implantation of the embryo/s into your womb.
You will be given information leaflets which will be discussed with you before going home, giving you the opportunity to ask any questions that may arise.
Confirmation of pregnancy
The pregnancy test (blood test) is usually arranged 14 days after the day of egg collection. If you are unable to attend the centre for a blood test, you may perform a urine test (morning sample) 2 days later. For the initial pregnancy test (blood test) you will be charged a small fee.
If the test cannot confirm either a positive or negative result (known as equivocal) the doctor may request a repeat BHCG (pregnancy blood test). If this occurs, there will be no charge.
If you have a positive pregnancy test we will ask you to have an ultrasound scan 3 weeks later, which is to confirm the viability of the pregnancy, the location of the pregnancy and the number of foetuses. You will need to continue taking the Cyclogest (progesterone pessaries) until 12 weeks of pregnancy.
If the result is negative, you will be asked to stop using the Cyclogest. The team at LFC will assess your cycle and you will receive a letter offering you a complimentary follow-up consultation to come in and discuss your next steps.