Fertility Clinics – Optimism as the HFEA Release Latest Guidelines for Fertility Clinics

Here at Fertility Help Hub, we’re really pleased to be sharing some hope during this uncertain time. On 24th April last week, the HFEA (Human Fertilisation & Embryology Authority) released their latest guidelines on their website and things may finally be looking up – YIPEE! This latest update is in line with ESHRE’s COVID-19 Working Group guidance, which was also published at the end of this week.

Of course the last few of weeks and even months of lockdown have brought with them disappointment in fertility clinics being shut and, as a result, treatments being cancelled or postponed. On the top of everyone’s mind is WHEN and HOW. When will we be able to walk through our fertility clinic’s doors? When will we be able to fly again to a fertility clinic abroad, to finally give ourselves our best shot at parenthood?

Read here stories of others affected by cancelled treatments due to Covid-19.

So What Have the HFEA Decided?

On 24th April the HFEA sent a letter to all fertility clinics advising them of the need to fulfil 4 criteria with a view to suspended treatments starting soon. The criteria the fertility clinics need to adhere to are as follows:

1. SOCIAL DISTANCING CAN BE MAINTAINED AND PUBLIC TRAVEL TO CLINICS SAFE

2. STARTING TREATMENT WILL NOT HAVE ANY NEGATIVE EFFECT ON THE NHS

3. THERE IS NO EVIDENCE OF A NEGATIVE EFFECT ON THE PREGNANT WOMAN

4. CLINICS CAN PROVE THAT THE CLINIC IS A SAFE PLACE FOR BOTH PATIENTS AND STAFF

In summary – if fertility clinics adhere fully to the criteria laid out above, then there is optimism that treatments will restart soon. Whilst we don’t have an exact date yet, this is promising and we will bring you an update as soon as we hear – SO KEEP YOUR EYES PEELED.

Whilst this is optimistic news for everyone affected by this situation, COVID-19 regulations are changing on a daily basis, so please stay safe, tuned in and cautious.