7 things to know when picking a Fertility Clinic?

You’ve been diagnosed with infertility and you’re in need of help. You have questions, like what do I do now? What are my options? What does this mean for my future? How much is this going to cost? How long is this going to take? And one of the big questions: Which Clinic is best for me?

Well, it’s only fair to start to by offering you Medistella services. We are not only happy to help, but we also have a passion to help build families. We offer terrific services to help match you with a great clinic plus ensure your journey is smooth along the way plus so much more. 

And now...on to the article
You may become a seasoned pro in IVF terminology in the near future, but for now, let’s take this one step at a time.

First, it’s likely you were diagnosed with infertility by a gynecologist, obstetrician, or the internet. Basically, if you’re under 35 and have been attempting to get pregnant for a year without success, or if you’re over 35 and have been trying for six months, then you are facing infertility.

So, what do you do now? Your next step is to visit an infertility clinic. The clinic will begin to evaluate your situation, ask you a series of questions about your history, and schedule some ultrasounds and tests to help narrow down what may be a problem.

How do you pick a fertility clinic? 

You don’t have to settle for any clinic. You should research clinics to determine from which one you’d like to receive treatment. Many people begin in their hometowns. And that is perfectly fine. There are many excellent clinics located across the world. Initially, there may be several visits, and a local clinic will be convenient.

BUT, something to keep in mind, is that clinics that work with a lot of foreign clients have a method of completing your evaluation in less visits and usually during your available travel dates.
Another thing to keep in mind is just because you start in one clinic, it doesn’t mean you have to keep their services. Changing clinics is fairly common in the IVF industry for a number of reasons including finding a better-suited clinic towards your needs.

Here are some things to consider and look for in a fertility clinic:

1) It’s a good place to start by narrowing down which Country fits your budget and your classification.

a) Budget/Cost? Clinics may post their price list on their website, but for a quick comparison of basic pricing in popular IVF, countries visit this page.

b) A country's IVF laws may prevent services to certain classifications. Here are some common classifications: a single female without a partner; a female couple; a heterosexual couple in need of a surrogate; female age. For a quick review visit this link.  

2) If you have a known underlying condition, most clinics are familiar with these conditions and help individuals achieve pregnancy. However, identifying clinics that specialize in treating your condition is better for you as they have more experience in using multiple treatment plans. (Some conditions are endometriosis, PCOS, cancer, sperm quality, difficult cases, multiple miscarriages, etc).

3) Look through online Reviews, Recommendations, and Success Rates - rely on multiple sources such as Google and other review sites; the Clinics website; Facebook groups; Word of Mouth; etc.

4) Within the reviews be sure to watch for keywords that can help you determine the Communication style of the clinic (quick; thorough; slow; confusing). This is also something you should watch for throughout your experience when you select a clinic. A good way for you to set expectations is simply to ask a clinic coordinator how long it may take them to respond in certain situations (such as a weekend; delayed menstrual cycle; trouble acquiring meds, etc). You may also ask what they consider urgent - so that you have a clear understanding.

5) What type of Facility would you feel most comfortable with? A smaller clinic that is more selective with their patients offering a more personal experience OR a big clinic that has a lot of patients that may have many perspectives on how to approach your treatment but may not feel super personal.

A modern facility with lots of clean lines OR a traditional facility with lots of warmth.

A facility that offers additional perks like an on-site genetic lab; on-site accommodations; on-site cafe; on-site children’s area?

Or maybe these things don’t matter to you.

6) Make a list of Additional Services that interest you such as embryo time-lapse monitor; advanced sperm methods (MACS, ZYMOT, etc); genetic testing (PGT-A); embryo glue, etc. Not all clinics offer these, but some may offer an equivalent, be sure to ask.  

7) Timing is everything! What is the wait time to start with a recommended treatment? Or if you are in need of specific phenotypes for your donor, then you will need to find a country that offers that phenotype AND ask if there is a longer than usual wait for that phenotype. How long will you need to remain in the country for your treatment? How many visits to the country will you need to make if you’re not able to stay for long? Also, how long until you can get a consultation with the doctor?

Notes:

Keep in Touch

Medistella recommends you to continue your contact with your local gynecologist, obstetrician, and local fertility clinic (if applicable) - these relationships can help you along the way with last-minute tests or medications.

Information

There is a lot of free information on the internet. Most sites are designed to help you understand IVF and different options. Medistella has a wonderful library of free information for you - including a YouTube channel with many great IVF videos. It’s a great place to start if you’re looking for instant information, visit Medistella.com.

Tests

You’ll need a series of tests to determine your infertility case. This may include AMH & TSH levels, a dye test to determine if your Fallopian tubes are functioning properly (HSG), a basic PAP Smear, a vaginal ultrasound to determine how many follicles you may have, a detailed semen analysis, and so forth. Usually, these tests are performed prior to your diagnosis of infertility, but some may be required by your fertility doctor. Tests are usually good for 4 months, with a few acceptable for 6 months or longer.

For GREAT resources to begin your research, Medistella has combined this information into a comprehensive website called: www.ivfscanner.com. And for a personal touch, simply click here.