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Frequently asked questions

What can I take for a headache?

Headaches are common during fertility treatment. Avoid anti-inflammatories (like ibuprofen). Check with a pharmacist before taking any over-the-counter medication. Paracetamol is safe.

Can I take antihistamines?

Only take antihistamines that are safe in pregnancy. Check with your pharmacist.

I think I have thrush; can I use over-the-counter treatments?

Yes, these are safe at any stage of treatment. However, oral Fluconazole should be avoided during pregnancy. Check with your pharmacist.

Is it safe to take antibiotics?

Yes, but ensure the prescribing doctor knows you're undergoing fertility treatment to prescribe appropriately.


What supplements are safe to take?

Our recommendation is Folic Acid or pre-pregnancy supplements. You will need to check you have 800mcg Folic Acid; many products have a lower dose. We suggest avoiding other supplements unless advised by our clinicians.

I struggle to sleep or suffer from insomnia. Can I take melatonin or other medication?

Check with your pharmacist or doctor to discuss what's safe in pregnancy. Melatonin is safe during treatment, however we recommend avoiding once pregnant due to the lack of safety data.

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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
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