Building Your Family
Sydney Fertility and IVF Clinic
Your Path to Parenthood Begins Here.
We understand the importance of your journey to parenthood and the unique challenges it may bring. Dr. Greg Jenkins leads our dedicated team in Fertility & Reproductive Surgery, offering exceptional care and unwavering support throughout the process.
Seamless Continuity of Care.
Your Fertility Treatment, Guided by Expertise
With extensive experience in both obstetrics and fertility, Dr. Jenkins offers a unique proposition: you can have your fertility treatment, including IVF, performed by the doctor who will continue on to look after your pregnancy.
The Advantage of Continuity
This unique approach presents a significant advantage for your journey to parenthood. By having your fertility treatment, including procedures like IVF, overseen by the same skilled physician who will subsequently guide you through pregnancy, you ensure a seamless continuum of care. This continuity not only fosters a strong patient-doctor relationship but also optimises communication, understanding, and personalised care.
Dr. Jenkins' intimate familiarity with your fertility treatment ensures a smooth transition into the stages of pregnancy, as he remains attuned to your medical history, preferences, and specific needs. This integrated care model minimises potential gaps in information and treatment, offering you the confidence and reassurance needed during this transformative and pivotal period.
Dr Greg Jenkins
Specialist in Fertility, Obstetrics and Gynaecology.
Head of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Westmead Public Hospital.
Clinical Assoc Professor O&G, UNDA.
Excellence in Collaboration.
In partnership with Minerva Fertility, a state-of-the-art laboratory nestled within the new Bond Day Hospital in Bella Vista Sydney, Dr. Jenkins and our team are at the forefront of excellence in Fertility & Reproductive Surgery. Our patient-centred approach prioritises your needs and aspirations, ensuring personalised care tailored to your circumstances, whether you are considering IVF or exploring other fertility treatments.
Compassionate Guidance.
Rest assured, our focus is on compassion and understanding, making us your trusted partners on this transformative journey towards parenthood. We are here to provide you with reliable and well-informed guidance, enabling you to make confident decisions throughout your journey.
The Struggle of Infertility.
Infertility affects an estimated one in six couples and is defined as the inability to conceive after trying for one year or more. It can be caused by various factors, including hormonal imbalances, medical conditions, and lifestyle choices. We offer tailored solutions to help you overcome infertility and achieve your dream of starting a family.
Female Infertility: Causes and Solutions
Female infertility can result from a variety of factors, including ovulation disorders, fallopian tube damage, endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, uterine fibroids, and hormonal imbalances. Dr. Jenkins offers customised solutions for female infertility, including lifestyle changes, medical interventions such as ovulation induction and laparoscopic surgery, and in some cases, IVF.
Male Infertility: Causes and Solutions
Male infertility can be caused by a range of factors, including low sperm count, poor sperm motility, abnormal sperm shape, and environmental exposure to toxins or radiation. Dr. Jenkins offers personalised treatment options for male infertility, including lifestyle changes and medical interventions such as intrauterine insemination, and in some cases, IVF with Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI).
What is In-Vitro Fertilisation (IVF)?
In-Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) is an assisted reproductive technology that offers hope to couples and individuals struggling with infertility. In this process, a woman's eggs are fertilised with sperm in a laboratory setting, providing an opportunity for conception when other treatments have failed or when there are specific medical issues that prevent conception. Dr. Jenkins is dedicated to helping you understand the IVF process and guiding you towards building your family.
Benefits of IVF.
IVF offers several benefits to individuals and couples who are struggling to conceive. Some of these benefits include:
Increased chances of pregnancy
IVF can help increase the chances of pregnancy by increasing the number of eggs that are available for fertilisation.
Options for couples with male factor infertility
IVF can also be used to treat male factor infertility, as the sperm can be directly injected into the egg in a process known as ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection)
Control over timing
IVF allows individuals and couples to control the timing of conception, which can be beneficial for those who are facing fertility challenges.
Treatment for a variety of fertility issues
IVF can be used to treat a wide range of fertility issues, including endometriosis, unexplained infertility, and ovulatory disorders.
Understanding Different Options in IVF Treatment.
IVF is a highly advanced and ever-evolving fertility solution for individuals and couples facing infertility challenges. Explore the different IVF types available to help you on your journey to starting a family:
Conventional IVF
Traditional IVF is the most basic form of IVF and involves the retrieval of eggs from the ovaries, fertilisation with sperm in a laboratory dish, and transfer of the resulting embryos back into the uterus. This type of IVF is typically recommended for patients with fertility issues such as endometriosis, fallopian tube damage, or for those who have failed other forms of infertility treatment.
ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection)
ICSI, or Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection, is a specialised form of IVF that is used when the sperm quality is poor or when fertilisation has failed with traditional IVF. In this procedure, a single sperm is directly injected into an egg to promote fertilisation.
Frozen Embryo Transfer
Frozen Embryo Transfer is a type of IVF that involves the transfer of embryos that have been previously frozen and stored. This type of IVF can be useful for patients who have unused embryos from a previous IVF cycle.
Choosing the Right IVF Treatment Option for You.
Infertility is a complex issue that affects many individuals and couples. We understand the unique challenges that come with trying to conceive and are here to help you find the right IVF treatment option for your specific needs. With a range of options available, it can be overwhelming to determine which one is best suited for you. That's why our team of experts is here to help guide you through the process and answer any questions you may have.
Here are a few factors that can help determine which IVF treatment option is right for you:
Age and Ovarian Reserve: If you are over 35 years old or have a low ovarian reserve, you should move more quickly to IVF
Sperm Quality: If you or your partner have low sperm count or motility, ICSI may be the best option for you.
Previous IVF Attempts: If you have undergone unsuccessful IVF treatments, getting a second opinion and exploring new approaches with us may increase your chances of success.
Health Considerations: If you have any health conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or endometriosis, our medical team will work with you to determine the best IVF treatment option.
We believe that every patient is unique and deserves personalised care. That's why we take the time to understand your specific needs and work with you to determine the right IVF treatment option. Whether you are just starting your journey or have been struggling to conceive for some time, our team is here to support you every step of the way.
The IVF Process: Understanding the Journey to Starting a Family
Infertility can be a difficult and emotional journey, but IVF has helped many couples overcome this challenge and fulfil their dream of starting a family. IVF is a complex and multi-step process, but with the right support and guidance, it can be a successful and rewarding experience.
Step 1: Medications
The first step of the IVF process is to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs. This is done using medications that are usually self-administered through injections. The goal is to produce the optimum number of mature eggs for you, which will increase the chances of success.
Step 2: Egg Retrieval
Once the eggs are mature, they are retrieved from the ovaries in a procedure known as an egg retrieval. This procedure is performed under anaesthesia and typically takes less than 30 minutes.
Step 3: Fertilisation
After the eggs are retrieved, they are fertilised in the laboratory. The fertilisation process can be done in two ways: conventional IVF or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). In conventional IVF, the eggs are combined with sperm in a dish. In ICSI, a single sperm is injected directly into each egg.
Step 4: Embryo Culture
Once the eggs have been fertilised and have become embryos, they are cultured in the laboratory for several days until they reach the blastocyst stage, which is around five days after fertilisation. The blastocyst stage is a critical developmental milestone where the embryo forms a fluid-filled cavity and begins to differentiate into two distinct cell types: the inner cell mass (which develops into the fetus) and the outer layer (which becomes the placenta).
Reaching the blastocyst stage is important as it indicates that the embryo is healthy and has the potential for successful implantation in the uterus. Embryos that reach this stage are often chosen for transfer during IVF procedures because they have a higher likelihood of resulting in a successful pregnancy.
Step 5: Embryo Transfer
Once the eggs have been fertilised and have become embryos, they are cultured in the laboratory for several days. When the embryos are ready, one or two of the best-quality embryos are selected for transfer back into the uterus. This procedure is done using a thin, flexible catheter and typically takes just a few minutes.
For couples electing to do Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT), the process differs. Instead of an immediate embryo transfer, all embryos are biopsied and then frozen. The biopsy samples are sent for genetic testing, which takes about a week. The results will indicate which embryos are normal. Once the results are available, the normal embryos can be thawed and transferred at a later date.
Step 6: Monitoring and Pregnancy Test
After the embryo transfer, patients will need to wait for about 11 days to find out if the procedure was successful. This time is called the "two-week wait." At the end of this time, patients will need to take a pregnancy test to determine if they are pregnant.
Length of the Process
The length of the IVF process can vary depending on a number of factors, including the type of IVF being performed, the patient's medical history, and their response to the medications. However, the typical IVF cycle can take anywhere from four to six weeks from start to finish.
The IVF process can be complex, but with the right support and guidance, it can be a successful and rewarding experience. Whether you are just starting your journey or have been struggling with infertility for some time, we are here to help. Dr. Jenkins and our team of highly qualified and experienced specialists are dedicated to providing patients with the best possible care and support during every step of the IVF process.
IVF Success Rates: Understanding the Statistics
IVF has become a widely popular fertility treatment option for individuals and couples struggling with infertility. While IVF success rates vary, the procedure has helped many couples achieve their dream of starting a family. In this section, we will discuss the success rates of IVF and the factors that can impact them.
Understanding IVF Success Rates
Success rates of IVF depend on a number of factors, including age, infertility diagnosis, and previous fertility history. On average, the success rate of a single IVF cycle is around 40%.
It is important to keep in mind that success rates do not guarantee a successful pregnancy, but rather provide an estimate of the likelihood of success. Additionally, success rates can vary widely between clinics, so it is important to research and compare the success rates of different clinics before making a decision.
Factors That Impact IVF Success Rates
There are several factors that can impact the success rates of IVF, including age, infertility diagnosis, and previous fertility history. Some of the most significant factors include:
Age: Women over the age of 35 have lower success rates compared to younger women.
Infertility Diagnosis: Different infertility diagnoses can impact success rates, with some conditions such as endometriosis having a lower success rate compared to others.
Previous Fertility History: Women with a history of fertility problems or previous failed IVF cycles may have lower success rates compared to women with no prior fertility history.
Improving Your Chances of Success with IVF
While success rates can vary, there are steps that patients can take to improve their chances of success with IVF. Some of these include:
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle: A healthy lifestyle can improve the chances of a successful pregnancy, so it is important to maintain a healthy diet, regular but light exercise, and avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
Choosing a reputable clinic: Researching and comparing success rates between clinics can help you choose a reputable clinic with a high success rate.
Timing is key: Timing is important in IVF, as the timing of the egg retrieval, fertilisation, and embryo transfer can impact success rates.
By taking these steps and working with an experienced IVF specialist, individuals and couples can improve their chances of success with IVF and achieve their dream of starting a family.
Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT)
Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) is a state-of-the-art technology used in IVF to test embryos for genetic abnormalities before they are implanted in the uterus. This testing helps increase the chances of a successful pregnancy and reduces the risk of genetic disorders.
What is PGT and How Does it Work?
PGT is a highly advanced genetic screening process that is performed on embryos before they are implanted in the uterus. During the IVF process, a small sample of cells is taken from the developing embryo and tested for genetic abnormalities. This allows our medical team to determine which embryos are most likely to result in a successful pregnancy.
Benefits of PGT for IVF Patients
PGT can provide a number of benefits for IVF patients, including increased chances of a successful pregnancy, reduced risk of genetic disorders, and the ability to identify embryos that are most likely to implant and develop into a healthy pregnancy. This technology can also help couples make informed decisions about their future family planning and improve the chances of having a healthy child.
Expert PGT Services at the Bond Day Hospital
At Minerva Fertility, Dr Jenkins and our medical team are dedicated to providing the latest and most advanced fertility solutions, including PGT. Our highly qualified and experienced specialists are equipped with state-of-the-art technology and advanced techniques to ensure the best possible outcomes for our patients.
Understanding IVF Terminology
The world of Fertility and IVF can be confusing and filled with medical jargon. To help you navigate this complex process with confidence, we have put together a comprehensive glossary of terms commonly used in the industry.
Understanding these terms can help you feel more informed and confident in your treatment journey.
Fertilisation: The process by which sperm and egg combine to form a single cell, called a zygote.
Zygote: The first stage of embryonic development, which occurs when a sperm fertilises an egg.
Embryo: The product of fertilisation that develops into a foetus.
Blastocyst: A stage of embryonic development that occurs 5-6 days after fertilisation, when the embryo has divided into multiple cells.
Embryo Grading: The process of evaluating the quality of an embryo based on its appearance and potential for successful implantation and pregnancy.
Ovarian Stimulation: The process of using medication to encourage the ovaries to produce multiple eggs for fertilisation.
Ovulation Induction: The process of inducing ovulation in women who are not ovulating naturally.
Follicle-stimulating Hormone (FSH): A hormone that stimulates the growth of follicles in the ovaries.
Luteinizing Hormone (LH): A hormone that triggers ovulation in women and testosterone production in men.
Gonadotropins: Hormones that stimulate the gonads (ovaries in women, testes in men) to produce hormones and gametes (eggs or sperm).
Ovarian Reserve: The number of eggs remaining in the ovaries and their potential to develop and mature.
Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS): A condition that can occur as a result of ovarian stimulation, causing fluid to build up in the abdominal cavity, leading to discomfort and other symptoms.
Semen Analysis: A laboratory test that evaluates the quantity and quality of a man's sperm.
Embryo Transfer: The process of transferring an embryo into a woman's uterus, with the goal of achieving a successful pregnancy.
Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET): The process of transferring a previously frozen embryo into a woman's uterus.
Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI): A technique where a single sperm is injected directly into an egg to achieve fertilisation.
Endometrial Lining: The lining of the uterus, which is prepared to receive a fertilised egg.
Endometrium: The lining of the uterus, which thickens each month in preparation for a potential pregnancy.
Luteal Phase: The portion of the menstrual cycle that occurs after ovulation and before the next menstrual period.
Frequently Asked Questions
We understand that starting the IVF process can be overwhelming and confusing, which is why we've compiled a list of the most common questions to provide you with valuable information and help you make informed decisions.
If you have any additional questions that are not answered here, or if you would like to schedule a consultation, please don't hesitate to reach out to us for further assistance.
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IVF, or in vitro fertilisation, is a type of assisted reproductive technology (ART) in which fertilisation of an egg by sperm occurs outside the body, in a laboratory dish. The process involves stimulating the ovaries to produce multiple eggs, retrieving the eggs, fertilising them with sperm in the laboratory, and then transferring one or more embryos into the uterus. The goal of IVF is to help couples who are struggling with infertility to conceive a pregnancy.
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IVF may be recommended for couples who have been trying to conceive for at least 12 months (or six months if the woman is over the age of 35) and have not been successful. It may also be recommended for individuals or couples who have been diagnosed with infertility or other conditions that make it difficult to conceive, such as endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or male infertility.
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Costs for IVF and frozen embryo transfers vary depending on your specific circumstances and treatment options, as well as your health care cover. Generally, out-of-pocket expenses for standard IVF start around $10,000. For a detailed breakdown and personalised estimate, please contact our office.
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The length of the IVF process can vary from couple to couple and can depend on a variety of factors such as the complexity of the case and the response to medication. On average, the entire process can take between 4 to 6 weeks, with the actual stimulation and retrieval process taking approximately 2 weeks. This is followed by a waiting period for the embryos to develop and then the transfer, which typically occurs 2 to 5 days later.
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The success rate of IVF can vary depending on a number of factors, including the patient's age, the cause of infertility, and the type of IVF cycle being performed. The overall live birth rate for IVF is about 40% per cycle started, although success rates can range from 20% to as high as 80% or more for certain patients.
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If the first IVF cycle is not successful, it does not necessarily mean that future cycles will not be successful. In many cases, couples or individuals may need to undergo multiple IVF cycles before achieving a successful pregnancy. Dr. Jenkins will work with you to assess the reasons for the failure and to develop a plan for future cycles, if necessary, which may involve modifying the treatment plan.
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The number of IVF cycles required can vary for each individual and can depend on a number of factors, such as the cause of infertility, the age of the patient, and the patient's overall health. In some cases, patients may only need to undergo one cycle, while in others, multiple cycles may be necessary to achieve a pregnancy. Dr. Jenkins will be able to give you a more personalised estimate based on your individual circumstances.
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As with any medical procedure, there are some risks associated with IVF. Some of the most common risks include bleeding, infection, multiple pregnancy, and ectopic pregnancy. IVF can also increase the risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), a condition in which the ovaries become swollen and painful. Dr. Jenkins will be able to discuss these and any other potential risks with you in more detail.
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Preparing for IVF involves various steps, such as medical evaluations, adopting healthy lifestyle habits, and familiarising yourself with the IVF process. Discuss any concerns and questions with Dr. Jenkins to ensure clarity and peace of mind. Building a support system of friends and family can also provide valuable emotional support throughout this journey.
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The number of embryos transferred during IVF can vary depending on the individual case and the age and reproductive history of the patient. Typically, the recommended number of embryos to transfer is one, with the goal of increasing the chances of a successful pregnancy while minimising the risk of a multiple pregnancy.
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Fresh embryo transfers involve the transfer of embryos that have been created and then transferred into the uterus within the same menstrual cycle. On the other hand, frozen embryo transfers involve the transfer of embryos that have been created and then frozen for later use. Both fresh and frozen embryo transfers have similar success rates, although frozen embryo transfers may have a slightly higher success rate. This is because frozen embryo transfers allow for better synchronisation with the recipient's natural cycle, potentially improving implantation and pregnancy rates. Additionally, frozen embryo transfers offer the advantage of allowing for embryo testing through preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) before transfer. PGT can help identify chromosomal abnormalities and select healthier embryos for transfer, further enhancing the chances of a successful pregnancy.
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Yes, it is possible to have a multiple pregnancy as a result of IVF, especially if more than one embryo is transferred during the procedure. While multiple embryos can increase the chances of a successful pregnancy, they also carry an increased risk of complications such as preterm labour and low birth weight. Normally, only one embryo is transferred.
Fertility Insights
Book an appointment with Dr. Greg Jenkins
Are you ready to take the first step towards starting your fertility journey? Dr. Jenkins and our dedicated team of fertility specialists are here to support you every step of the way.
Phone
02 8805 7900
Fax
02 8882 9733
E-mail
norwestog@outlook.com
Find us
Norwest Private Consulting Rooms
Dr Greg Jenkins consults out of Norwest Private Hospital.
Norwest Private Hospital
Suite 110
9 Norbrik Drive
Bella Vista NSW 2153
Phone
02 8805 7900
Minerva Fertility
Dr Greg Jenkins works in partnership with Minerva Fertility, a state-of-the-art laboratory nestled within the new Bond Day Hospital in Bella Vista Sydney.
Bond Day Hospital
201 / 8 Elizabeth Macarthur Drive
Bella Vista NSW 2153
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the various causes of male infertility, diagnostic procedures, and the wide range of treatment options available. We will also delve into the emotional and psychological aspects of infertility, lifestyle changes that can enhance fertility, and the importance of fertility preservation.