Fertility assessment reduced to two hours with new One-Stop Clinic

June 20, 2008

Couples across Hampshire that are experiencing difficulties conceiving naturally can now benefit from a new One-Stop Fertility Clinic launched by Southampton-based Wessex Fertility.   The first of its kind in the South East, the new service aims to speed up the lengthy process of tests and evaluations by providing a fertility assessment in a single, two-hour outpatient visit, saving as much as two years under the current system.

With an average of one in seven couples having difficulties in conceiving naturally, Wessex Fertility anticipates strong demand for this new service. 

“The One-Stop Fertility Clinic is a comprehensive and quick service that allows couples to be seen in a single outpatient assessment visit.  It enables us to diagnose the cause of infertility, to offer specialist advice and to recommend possible treatments without further delay,” said Dr. Chantal Simonis, consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist at Wessex Fertility.

Some tests do have to be arranged at a specific time before the visit, in order to have the results available for discussion with the consultant.  By the end of the appointment, the consultant will usually be in the position to advise the most effective treatment for the patient. 

Dr. Sue Ingamells, consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist at the clinic, added: “We are delighted that we are able to offer a solution to the lengthy waiting times couples have to go through.  With our One Stop Clinic we aim to provide a service that will not only speed up the process considerably, but will hopefully take away some of the emotional turmoil couples have to go through once they embark on a course of fertility treatment.

“The testing is quite intensive, but we are sure our patients will be prepared to undergo these tests in one session to minimise repeat consultations over a long period of time; time that is precious in terms of fertility.  Our One-Stop Clinic will speed up the process so that couples can realise their dream of having a baby sooner rather than later.”