It is estimated
that around one in six couples, approximately 3.5 million people,
experience some form of fertility problems at some point in their
lives. To help anyone considering treatment, and those going
through treatment, the UK fertility regulator, HFEA has published
a new Getting Started guide.
For people considering fertility treatment there can be an
overwhelming amount of information from various sources,
surrounding the many treatment options available. It is no
surprise that many people seeking fertility treatment feel in the
dark about the choices available at what can be a difficult and
emotional time.
'Getting Started - Your Guide to Fertility
Treatment' is a free easy to follow booklet containing
clear, independent information to take people through the process
of fertility treatment from choosing a clinic, the treatment
options available and where to get support and further
information.
The new booklet contains sections on:
- How to choose a clinic and what to expect
- Questions to
ask the clinic
- Treatment options
- Getting support and advice
Prof. Lisa Jardine, Chair of the HFEA said:
"There is no more personal decision than the one to
start a family. Many people also have to come to terms with
fertility problems. When you're considering fertility
treatment, it can feel as though every answer leads to more
questions. The choices available can make it a very confusing
time. This new guide, along with our website, aims to help make
the decisions people need to make on their journey through
fertility treatment less complicated."
Susan Seenan from Infertility Network UK said:
"We speak to people every day who are looking for
information about the treatment they are considering.
It's important that people have independent, clear
information to help them with the many choices they need to make.
The new HFEA guide will be an invaluable resource for the
thousands of people who seek fertility treatment every year."
Ends
Notes to editors
- Getting Started : Your Guide to Fertility Treatment can be
downloaded from the HFEA website or can be ordered http://www.hfea.gov.uk/order.html
- The HFEA is the independent regulator for IVF treatment and
embryo research. Our role is to protect patients and the public
interest, to drive improvement in the treatment and research
sectors and to provide information to the public and policymakers
about treatment and research.
- The HFEA was set up in August 1991 as part of the Human
Fertilisation and Embryology Act 1990. The HFEA's
principal tasks are to license and monitor clinics that carry out
in vitro fertilisation (IVF), artificial insemination (AI) and
human embryo research. The HFEA also regulates the storage of
gametes (eggs and sperm) and embryos. See www.hfea.gov.uk for further details.
For further information please contact the HFEA press office.
05/33201
Contacts:
NDS Enquiries
Phone: For enquiries please contact the above department
ndsenquiries@coi.gsi.gov.uk
HFEA Press Office
Phone: 020 7291 8226
press.office@hfea.gov.uk