On January 4th, the Prime Minister announced a third, nationwide lockdown.
We understand the anxiety and concern fertility patients continue to face following the announcement. We remain committed to supporting you through this difficult time and keeping you updated with the latest information.
What does lockdown mean for Altrui and fertility planning?
As in previous lockdowns, Altrui will continue to find egg donors for people needing egg donation to start a family. More than ever, we are amazed and inspired by the wonderful women who continue to come forward to donate eggs.
After egg donation matches are made, our partner, Apricity, offers treatment for recipients and donors conveniently – as close to home as possible to avoid unnecessary travel, and with phone support seven days a week. All of Apricity’s HFEA-licensed partner clinics will stay open, in line with the government guidelines.
If you have any questions regarding fertility treatment during Covid-19, Apricity would be happy to answer any questions.
Pregnancy and COVID-19
We continue to monitor the situation with our medical experts on a daily basis and are committed to keeping you informed. In this spirit, our sister company Apricity asked Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Mara Kotrousou, to answer the most frequently asked questions around the Coronavirus (Covid-19) and pregnancy. Watch the video to hear the medical advice on the following questions:
- Am I more likely to be impacted by Covid-19 if I am pregnant?
- If I’m pregnant and I get Covid-19, is there a risk of transmission to the foetus?
- I’m trying to conceive. Should I get the vaccine, or delay pregnancy?
Information and support
According to the WHO, there is no evidence that COVID-19 is transmitted from mother to baby, that pregnant women are at higher risk, or that COVID-19 manifests differently.
Nevertheless, as pregnant women are generally a sensitive category for any severe illness, we advise that pregnant women take extra caution to protect themselves.
Higher risk groups include those who are older, overweight, or with pre-existing medical conditions such as hypertension and diabetes. If you have any questions or concerns about egg donation or IVF during this time, Apricity’s fertility doctor is available to answer questions by virtual consultation.
We continue to monitor the situation with our medical experts on a daily basis and are committed to keeping you informed through our website.
The challenges presented by COVID-19 continue to affect us all, but we feel the world of fertility is much better equipped for this lockdown. Our familiarity with safety procedures, extended knowledge of the virus and plans to keep clinics opens in line with HFEA and government guidelines means that while fertility treatment is still different, it should continue.
If you have any questions and would like to talk with one of us about egg donation or becoming an egg donor recipient, simply get in touch with us via the form below.