COVID-19 Frequently Asked Questions
We are here to answer any specific questions you have. Please feel free to call our office to speak with one of our team members. We will continue to provide updates on our website and social media.
We are honored you have chosen us to manage your care during your fertility journey and are here to help guide you.
Q: Does COVID-19 impact fertility?
Currently, there is no published data or information to suggest that COVID-19 impacts fertility.
Q: Should I delay seeing a fertility specialist in light of COVID-19?
Most individuals of reproductive age are not considered “high-risk” for COVID-19, and therefore it is not necessary to delay your new patient consult. We are offering telemedicine appointments for both new patient and follow-up consultations that do not require in-office examination. Scheduling this appointment now will push you further down the path to starting your family. There are many steps that can be completed now through telemedicine appointments.
Q: Do you recommend that I postpone any attempt at getting pregnant until the virus is contained?
Please continue to review guidance from the CDC related to COVID-19 and pregnancy. You may wish to delay pregnancy if you have traveled to high-risk areas, been in close contact with someone who has traveled to high risk areas, or if you are feeling ill. If you think you might have been exposed to the virus, self-quarantining for 14 days after the last known exposure to the virus has been recommended by the CDC. If you are ill, have your primary care provider order a COVID-19 test from a commercial lab. The result will determine if you have an infection or are free of COVID-19.
Q: Are my eggs/embryos/sperm at risk of exposure to COVID-19?
No. Our laboratory is designed to specifications for complete containment of recombinant DNA. It has a positive pressure air handling system, HEPA filtration system, and maintains extremely rigorous cleaning and quality assurance protocols at all times. It is also located separately from areas where patients are seen for monitoring, appointments, examinations, or procedures. Our laboratory is CAP accredited and therefore adheres to all best practices for safety and infection prevention.
Q: What happens if I get exposed to COVID-19 during my IVF cycle?
If you demonstrate symptoms of COVID-19, or if you are confirmed to have COVID-19, your cycle will mostly likely be delayed or canceled. This decision is not made lightly, as we understand the impact of cycle cancellation on our patients and their fertility journeys.
This decision will protect you (if your respiratory system is compromised due to infection, it is unsafe to undergo anesthesia, which further suppresses respiration), and will also protect thousands of patients and staff from potential exposure.
If one of our providers determines that your cycle must be delayed or canceled due to COVID-19 illness-related issues, we will issue a credit balance in accordance with services rendered during the cycle. Credit balances will be established on a case-by-case basis. We are not able to extend credit toward products or services provided by third parties (products or services provided by third parties include but are not limited to medications, phlebotomy, anesthesia, genetic testing, tissue storage fees, etc.).
Q: Will my clinic shut down for a period of time?
No. We do not intend to shut down for any period of time. We have a team of clinical and administrative staff who are committed to providing the most effective care possible, in the safest environment possible. While the day to day practice might not look the same, there are many people behind the scenes still committed to helping you achieve your dream of having a family.
