Common Questions and Answers from Fertility Patients Regarding Covid-19

2020 has thrown everyone through a loop. The novel Coronavirus has affected every aspect of our lives, with fertility being no exception.

We get a lot of questions from our clients regarding their fertility plans and how Covid-19 will affect those.

Here are the most common questions we get. Hopefully, these answers will help as you try to navigate this global Pandemic.

Question: Should I Stop Trying to Get Pregnant Due to the Coronavirus?

Answer: As far as we can tell, there is a very low risk for pregnant women and infants when it comes to Covid-19. That being said, routine prenatal care can be harder to get. Some doctor offices and clinics have modified hours and more strict guidelines. 

There is no medical reason to change your plans, but you may want to wait out of caution. This is a very personal decision. 

Also, be sure to consider your emotional state. This Pandemic has caused more anxiety and depression than most people are aware of. Make sure you are in a healthy state of mind before you make any significant life changes.

Question: Can we Start Fertility Treatments during the Pandemic?

Answer: As of March 2020, the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, or ASRM, issued their recommendations regarding fertility treatments. These include:

  1. Don’t start new treatment cycles.

  2. Consider canceling embryo transfers.

  3. Continue to care for patients who are “in-cycle.”

  4. Postpone elective procedures.

  5. Use telemedicine instead of in-person contact.

 

These recommendations came at a time when the virus was beginning to spread in the United States, and there were still a lot of unknowns. 

Since then, the recommendations regarding fertility patients have changed. As of August 2020, the ASRM only suggests waiting if the egg donor or surrogate lives in a different country. There are still many travel restrictions, and this needs to be taken into consideration when planning. 

New treatment cycles are allowed to start as long as the patients follow the CDC guidelines regarding handwashing, face coverings, and social distancing.

Question: Does COVID-29 Impact Fertility?

Answer: Research is still ongoing. Because Covid-19 is new, we don’t know the long-lasting effects the virus will have on those exposed. 

But, as of now, there is no evidence that the virus has any impact on fertility. The global Pandemic has created fear and has caused some individuals to freeze their eggs as a preventative measure. There is no known medical reason to freeze your eggs in response to the Coronavirus.  

Question: What if I Test Positive?

Answer: If you test positive for Covid-19, the ASRM suggests waiting to get pregnant until you have fully recovered. 

If you are pregnant and test positive, try not to panic. The World Health Organization says that pregnant women don’t seem to be at any higher risk. Only 1% of pregnant women who have tested positive have had to see additional medical attention.

If you give birth while positive, there is a chance of transmitting the virus from the mother to the baby after birth. Extra precaution would need to be taken if this was the case. 

Question: How Do I Deal With Extra Anxiety Caused by the Pandemic?

Answer: Sadly, mental health is not being addressed as much as it should be during this Pandemic. 

Having to deal with fertility issues is hard enough. Then add a global pandemic, and the depression and anxiety can be overwhelming. Remember, we are all in this together. We are here to help you in any way we can. Yes, Covid-19 has caused plans to change, but there is hope that you can have the family you want. Don’t give up.

Question: Are Frozen Eggs and Embryos Safe During the Pandemic?

Answer: Yes! There is no immediate threat to cryopreserved embryos, eggs, or sperm. Because clinics have strict procedures that maintain the liquid nitrogen tanks, there is no reason why your frozen embryos would be harmed during this time.

Question: What Can I Do to Stay Safe

Answer: There is no doubt that this Pandemic has created feelings of uncertainty. The best way to keep yourself and loved ones safe is to practice the CDC guidelines. This includes wearing a mask in public, frequent hand washing, and social distancing. 

While this won’t guarantee that you won’t get infected with Covid-19, it will decrease our chances. We are also hopeful that those who do get sick will be able to recover. 

We’re in This Together

We want all of our clients to know that we are in this together. We are here to support in any way we can. Don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns. We only want what is best for you and your future family.

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