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Can I dye my hair?

Yes. Most commercial hair dyes are low in harmful chemicals. Use occasionally and with good ventilation.

Can I get Botox or other cosmetic injections?

No. It’s best to avoid any cosmetic procedures or injections (including Botox) due to potential infection or reaction risk during treatment.

Can I get piercings or tattoos during IVF treatment?

It’s not recommended as there is a small risk of infection.

Can I have acupuncture?

Yes, you can have acupuncture. Note that you would need to arrange this yourself.

Can I still work while going through IVF?

Yes. Some people choose to take leave over this time but if you choose to, there is no reason for you to not continue working.

Can I have intercourse during treatment?

Many couples remain intimate during treatment, and this is perfectly fine in most cases. There are times when unprotected intercourse is best avoided and this will be clarified during treatment as it will vary for different patients.

Can I exercise during treatment?

Yes, however we usually say don’t start anything new. It's important to continue with your regular exercise while being mindful not to overdo anything or overheat your body. As you get closer to egg collection we advise you do lighter exercise.

Can I swim during treatment?

Yes but not between egg collection and embryo transfer. The cleanliness of water is very important.

Is it normal to feel anxious about fertility treatment?

Yes, it is very normal to feel anxious about fertility treatment. We have created the wellness lab to provide you with resources to support you.

Does stress affect fertility?

While there is plenty of evidence that fertility treatment causes stress, but very little evidence that stress affects fertility. Find out more in the wellness lab.

How can I increase my chances of having a baby?

Ready to start your fertility journey?

Book a free 20 minute phone consultation with one of our expert fertility nurses.

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The Biological Clock

This tool indicates:

  • Natural conception per month if you have no fertility issues
  • IVF success rate at the same age
  • When to seek help after months of unsuccessful attempts

If you are concerned at any stage – we recommend booking a doctor appointment or a free nurse consultation. The sooner you make a plan the better your chances in the long term.

When to seek advice early

  • If you have polycystic ovaries, endometriosis, or have been through a cancer diagnosis; we recommend you get in touch quickly so we can talk you through all your options and give you the greatest possible chance of success.
  • If you’re a single woman considering motherhood in the future; it’s best to approach us early and consider egg freezing as this can be an option for you while you have a higher ovarian reserve and healthier eggs.
Set your age and the months you’ve been trying to conceive
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Your chance of having a baby per month for fertile couples
Your chance of having a baby per IVF cycle (if experiencing infertility)

Body Mass Index calculator

Being overweight or underweight can reduce fertility, so it is important to keep your body weight within the normal healthy range.

Body Mass Index (BMI) is an indication of your body weight and can be calculated by dividing weight by height. You should aim for a BMI of between 20 and 25, as this will optimise your chances of conception.

Woman’s BMI below 19

Even in these modern times, nature knows best. If a woman's BMI falls below 19, the body senses famine and ovulation is switched off to prevent the risk of having a baby with malnutrition. Excessive exercise can reduce body fat and increase muscle mass to a point where periods cease for the same reason. Risk of miscarriage is also increased in women with a low BMI.

Being underweight

If a woman's BMI falls below 19, the body senses famine and ovulation is switched off to prevent the risk of having a baby with malnutrition. Excessive exercise can reduce body fat and increase muscle mass to a point where periods cease for the same reason. Risk of miscarriage is also increased in women with a low BMI.

BMI’s greater than 30

This can reduce fertility by 50%. Pregnancy for women with a 30+ BMI is often associated with problems such as maternal diabetes, high blood pressure, big babies and increased risk of caesarean section.

Add your height and weight to calculate your BMI