It is impossible to know the answers to all of the questions you might have.
However, listed below are the most common questions that patients ask nurses and the administration team. If the information you need is not here, you can contact the Nursing Team on 029 2074 5102 between 8.30 – 16.30 Monday to Thursday, and 08.30 – 16.00 hrs on Friday.
Q 1: Can I take any medication for pain during treatment?
A: Paracetamol used according to the normal dosage instructions is safe, even in pregnancy. If paracetamol does not work we ask that you call for advice.
Q 2: Can I smoke?
A No. It makes sperm and eggs poorer quality and the WHSSC will not pay for treatment for couples who smoke.
Q 3: Can I drink alcohol whilst having treatment?
A: There is no clear evidence that small amounts of alcohol have any adverse effect on fertility treatment. We advise both partners to restrict their alcohol intake to less than 10 units each week during treatment. As the production time for sperm is up to 100 days, we suggest that men restrict their alcohol intake for about 3 months before treatment. 1 unit of alcohol = ½ pint beer, a small glass of wine or 1 measure of spirit.
Q 4: Can I use complementary medicine whilst receiving treatment?
A: Whilst we do not have research to support the benefits of complementary medicine, we acknowledge that many people may want to use them. We would advise against the use of herbal treatments which we know can have an adverse effect, such as Agnus Castus, or treatments whose ingredients are unknown. Physical complementary treatments may be more acceptable, particularly if they reduce stress. We cannot accept responsibility for the effects for any of these treatments but advise that, if you are using them, you attend a qualified practitioner and inform them of treatments you are undergoing at our Centre. We are unable to facilitate complementary medical treatment sessions at the Centre.
Q 5: Can I come and see the doctor sooner than the date given?
A: Your appointments are set at particular intervals in your care pathway, if you require clinical advice please call the Nursing Helpline on 029 20974 5102.
Q 6: Can we have sexual intercourse?
A: There is no evidence that sexual intercourse in the early stages of your treatment, or after embryo transfer or IUI, has any adverse effect. If anything, the limited information we have is that normal sexual intercourse may have a small beneficial effect.
For optimal sperm quality the man should ejaculate 3 days before egg collection and IUI and intercourse is fine . You may however wish to avoid intercourse for approximately a week after embryo transfer.
Q 7: Can I have a bath following embryo transfer?
A: It would be better to have shower instead because there is a small risk of infection.
Q 8: Can I use a tampon if I start to bleed?
A: It is better to use sanitary towel instead because there is a small risk of infection.
Q 9: What exercise can I do whilst in treatment?
A: Any exercise that is usual for you. Treatment is tiring and you may find your stamina and exercise tolerance are not up to your usual level.
Q 10: Can I have treatment at the dentist, colour my hair, or go swimming?
A: Yes. There is no evidence that any of these activities can be harmful. However, we would advise women to avoid water-skiing or using water slides during treatment. You should live your life as normally as possible during your treatment. It is important that you are relaxed and comfortable with yourself at this time and during any resulting pregnancy so that if you look back, you have no regrets about anything you might have done. Whilst we may advise a particular activity is safe (for example, to fly), if anything were to go wrong would you blame yourself, despite our reassurance? If you have concerns about any specific activity, please ask us.
Q 11: Can I fly whilst having treatment?
A: Yes. There is no evidence that flying has an adverse effect on the outcome of fertility. You will need to ensure however that you are available for your treatment.
Q 12: When should I take my pregnancy test?
A: A pregnancy test is usually taken 2 weeks and 2 days after your egg collection. This however will depend on the stage of your embryo transfer.
Q 13: My period has started whilst taking my Suprecur injection what should I do?
This is normal and is the expected result of the Suprecur working and “switching off” your hormones
Q 14: I have spotting after the transfer of the embryos or blastocyst – what does this mean?
A: Sometimes there can be a brownish discharge after the embryo transfer or egg collection which is normal due to having an egg collection and transfer, please continue to use your prescribed pessaries.
Following your treatment cycle, and if you are not pregnant you will expect a period 2 weeks after egg collection and sometimes, even though you are on the pessaries you may have a bit of spotting prior to your test. If you have spotting or bleeding continue with the pessaries, contact the Unit and do your pregnancy test at the time requested.
Q 15: What are the times I can call the unit for advice?
A: The Nurse Query Line is open from 9 am to 1pm, and then 2pm to 4pm Monday through to Friday.
If you need emergency medical advice outside of these times you should contact the emergency gynaecology ward on 029 2074 3857 or your General Practitioner.
Q 16: How can I get a sicknote?
A: We are able to provide a letter to support your self certificate (from your employer). If you require additional time off work, you should see your GP for a certificate.
Whilst we have aimed to cover the majority of the questions that are frequently asked by patients/couples attending the Unit we understand that we are not able to cover all individual questions. If you have questions please do not hesitate to contact a member of the IVF Wales Team.
