Getting answers to fertility questions amidst the COVID-19 coronavirus crisis isn’t easy, but we’ve assembled them in one place.
Is it safe to have fertility treatment?
A report released by the Fertility Society of Australia has reassured that there is no evidence to suggest that fertility treatment should be ceased during this time, nor does it appear that there is any increased risk to pregnant women.
Furthermore, it has been reported by the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists that there is no evidence to suggest there is an increased risk of miscarriage with COVID-19 or that the virus can pass to your developing baby while you are pregnant.
If Australia is placed into lockdown, will my treatment be cancelled mid-cycle?
Australia is managing the crisis thus far, and even in countries like Italy which have implemented lockdown strategies, medical treatments are still continuing as usual.
As from midnight, March 25th 2020, NSW Health has stated that to manage medical services and resources, all non-urgent elective surgery will need to be postponed until further notice. This includes all upcoming IVF cycles.
If you have started an IVF cycle requiring a day surgery procedure, you will be allowed to continue and complete your cycle.
Please be assured that our team is doing everything we can in the midst of this crisis to help support you. If you have any questions or concerns, please call our clinic on (02) 9586 3311.
What precautions are Fertility First taking to minimise the risk to patients?
We are taking the appropriate precautions that have been recommended in accordance with NSW Health and the World Health Organisation. Throughout this time, our staff will be providing our patients with ongoing updates and support to provide you with the most up to date advice.
Our staff will be closely monitoring the most up-to-date advice from the Australian Department of Health and would like to assure our patients that precautionary measures have been put in place regarding COVID-19.
Our clinic kindly requests that patients also follow current preventative measures:
- Please maintain good hygiene by washing your hands with soap and water
- Use the hand sanitiser at the front desk upon your arrival
- Notify the staff if you, your partner or your support person have experienced any cold or flu-like symptoms or you have been in contact with someone who is likely to be at an increased risk of contracting the virus.
- Please limit the number of support people attending the clinic with you.
- If coming into the clinic makes you uncomfortable, all consultations can be changed from face to face to telephone appointments.
At Fertility First, we regularly clean all surfaces with disinfectant, including door handles, computers, EFTPOS machines, and front counters, we also monitor our staff for any symptoms consistent with the COVID-19 coronavirus, strictly adhering to current health warnings.
How can I protect myself against COVID-19 coronavirus?
To protect yourself from COVID-19, the Australian Department of Health have provided the following advice:
- Practice good hygiene
- Cover your nose and mouth when you sneeze or cough
- Dispose of your tissues appropriately
- Wash your hands regularly using soap and water
- Use alcohol-based hand sanitisers
- Clean surfaces with disinfectants and sanitise items such as keys, phones, wallets regularly
- If you are sick, avoid contact with others and self-isolate
- Protect those that are most vulnerable by practicing social distancing
What are the symptoms of COVID-19 coronavirus?
The symptoms of COVID-19 can range from mild illness to pneumonia. The most common symptoms are:
- Fever
- Shortness of breath
- Stomach ache
- Flu-like symptoms such as coughing, sore throat and fatigue
The team at Fertility First sincerely thanks you for your assistance and cooperation during this time and will endeavour to provide the most accurate up to date information regarding COVID-19 on our social media pages and website.
Will Fertility First be open throughout the COVID-19 coronavirus crisis?
The Australian Medical Association has confirmed with both state and federal government that medical services are not subject to the shutdown, and therefore practices are able to continue to operate.
As such, Fertility First will not be shutting down, and treatments and appointments will continue as normal. We will of course be following all Health Department guidelines. Please ring Fertility First if you are uncertain or have any questions.
