Important information regarding the rollout of the COVID-19 vaccine

The American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM), the American College of Obstetrics and Gynaecology (ACOG) and Society for Maternal Fetal Medicine have released official statements regarding the COVID-19 vaccination in terms of male and female fertility and/or women who are already pregnant.

According to ASRM, ACOG and the Society for Maternal Fetal Medicine, the COVID-19 vaccine should be offered to pregnant and lactating women and does not recommend withholding the vaccine from patients who are planning to conceive. Each organisation has emphasised that “patients undergoing fertility treatment and pregnant patients should be encouraged to receive vaccination based on eligibility criteria”.

For men, the Society for Male Reproduction and Urology (SMRU) and the Society for the Study of Male Reproduction (SSMR) recommend that:

The COVID-19 vaccine should not be withheld from men desiring fertility who meet criteria for vaccination, and
COVID-19 vaccines should be offered to men desiring fertility, similar to men not desiring fertility, when they meet criteria for vaccination.

It should be noted that about 16% of men in the Pfizer/BioNtech COVID-19 vaccine clinical trial experienced fever after the second dose. Fevers can cause temporary declines in sperm production. Thus, if a man experiences fever as the result of the COVID-19 vaccine, he may experience a temporary decline in sperm production, but that would be similar to or less than if the individual experienced fever from developing COVID-19 or for other reasons.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact our clinic or visit the WHO or the Australian government’s Department of Health for additional information. Alternatively, please read the Australian government’s COVID-19 vaccination decision guide for women who are pregnant, breastfeeding or planning pregnancy.

If you would like an additional sources regarding the safety of the COVID-19 vaccine, please visit the following websites:

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FAQ

How does Fertility First keep fertility treatment and IVF costs down?

As a Doctor-owned Medical Practice, our fertility and IVF treatment costs do not need to cover overheads and/or shareholder dividends, all of which have to come out of the income derived from patients’ treatment cycle fees at other fertility clinics in Sydney.

What is the NSW fertility treatment rebates?

From the 1st October 2022, the NSW Government announced a rebate of $2,000 in OOP expenses for all eligible patients. Fertility First is pleased to support the NSW Government’s fertility rebate at our Sydney fertility clinic.

What makes Fertility First different to other Sydney fertility clinics?

Fertility First is privately owned, which means we can place more focus on our patients. We offer a holistic approach to fertility and believe that it’s important to minimise the invasiveness of the fertility testing process and only carry out the necessary investigations, maximising your chance of a successful outcome. We offer extensive preliminary fertility testing, including Halosperm Assay.

We were one of the first Sydney fertility clinics to offer a donor sperm and donor egg program, thanks to our partnership with Central IVF.

How do I choose the best fertilty clinic for me?

Choosing the right fertility clinic in Sydney is a very important decision. You should consider factors like success rates, clinic location and appointment times, fertility treatment costs, repor with the Fertility Specialist and what treatment options are available.

Does Fertility First offer preliminary fertility testing?

Yes. We offer a range of fertility testing for both males and females. We aim to have fertility test results back within 2 to 3 weeks, which means, unless any assessment of the fallopian tubes is required, fertility treatment options can then be considered.

Does Fertility First offer treatment for same sex couples and singles?

Yes. Fertility First offers a range of fertility treatments that are suitable for same sex couples and singles, including our donor sperm program. See our fertility treatment page for a full guide.

Does Fertility First offer Medicare rebates?

Yes. In order to assist you with a Medicare rebate for your fertility treatment, you will need a current referral to Fertility First.

Note: GP referrals are valid for 12 months, and specialist referrals are valid for 3 months.

Does Fertility First offer IVF treatment?

Yes. IVF treatment is offered to suitable patients after preliminary testing.

Important information regarding the rollout of the COVID-19 vaccine