When you start to think about IVF, you’ll probably feel confused. The first thing that will cross your mind is, “Which treatment do I need?”. However, as there are many things to consider, some people can find it overwhelming. That’s why we decided to compile a list that will help you take those first steps towards your IVF journey.
Is my treatment available? Not all clinics offer the same treatments. For example, some may offer embryo donation, and you can transfer an already formed embryo that has kindly been donated by a former patient. Others may only allow you to transfer newly formed embryos by selecting both the egg and sperm donor.
Genetic testing also varies; some will offer PGT, some NGS (this is desirable for family balancing). Once you have your test results, have multiple consultations. This will help you find the clinic that best suits your needs.
Are there any age restrictions? This will vary from country to country. Some clinics have a maximum age limit of 45 for treatment. But many clinics are happy to accommodate older ladies. If you need such a clinic, check if you require any special permission from the government. This could result in extra testing and even delayed treatment.
Do I need to be married? In some countries, like the Philippines, only married couples can go ahead with donation treatment. If you are a single lady considering treatment, be sure to ask this question, as the answer will differ.
What about my budget? If you are looking to have IVF and are on a budget. Ask how many times you will need to visit. If you are having genetic testing and the biopsies are being sent away, ask where they are being sent. Also, ask how long the results will take. This will give you an idea of how soon you will need to return.
In terms of payment, it may be worth asking what the options are. Is a deposit required? Can you pay in installments? Some clinics, especially in Spain, even offer financing. Check with your insurers to see if they can help. If you are reading this in France, then they most certainly can!
How can I plan my trip? If you’re working, you’ll need to know how much notice to give your employer. Starting treatment at home means that you won’t have your egg collection date confirmed until a few days before. If you need to travel at the last minute, will it be easy to arrange? For embryo transfer, this planning is a lot easier, and a lot more notice is given. If you are able to, we recommend doing everything at the clinic.
Do I need a visa? If you are planning to travel to, say, America or India, then yes, you’ll definitely need a visa. This will take some planning and won’t be granted overnight. Please check the process before you commit to a country. Once you know the process, get your clinic on board to help with any required paperwork. Don’t be shy to ask; they will be used to it.
Where can I stay, and how do I get there? Once you have selected a clinic, ask if they work with any hotels that offer their patients discounts. Check the distance from the hotel to the clinic. You will need help with airport transfers. Make sure you have assistance getting to and from the clinic. Ensure the clinic has a dedicated team of drivers. Don’t forget to ask whether you pay directly to the hotel and driver or if you pay the clinic directly. Remember to find out the preferred currency.
Are there any language barriers? If you are having treatment abroad, then you will want to be assigned a doctor that you can communicate clearly and openly with. Check which languages are spoken at the clinic. If a translator is required, you need to find out how to arrange it. Any good clinic should have multilingual staff.
Does the clinic accommodate children? This sounds like a rather unusual question, but more and more families are combining IVF with their family holidays. Ask your clinic if they have any childcare facilities. If there aren’t any childcare facilities, request that your appointments be staggered. This way, one of you is always available for childcare.
What are the legal implications? If you are having either a donation treatment or using a surrogate, this is important. For donation treatment, you’ll want to know just how much information you can learn about your chosen donor(s). You should also find out if they are contactable when your child reaches a certain age.
If you are going ahead with surrogacy treatment, then checking out the legal implications is a must. Be certain that the clinic will provide you with all of the correct paperwork. They are also responsible for the translator, lawyer, and notary services. Above all, make sure that they will help you with registering the birth. You should confirm that the surrogate has no legal right to the child. Make sure she can’t change her mind during the treatment process.
Your happiness: Above all, be happy. Choose a clinic that you feel comfortable with and have the utter most confidence in. If necessary, consult with multiple clinics until you find one that fits you.
If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact us.
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