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Assisted Conception Service

What assessments and tests will I have before treatment?

The nurse or doctor at your initial clinic consultation will advise which investigations and tests you need before starting treatment. See Screening tests and Initial Appointments – NHSGGC for a list of common tests and investigations.

Can I decline any investigations or tests?

You can always refuse any investigations or treatments. However, this may limit the advice or treatment we can offer.

What should I be doing while trying to conceive or preparing for fertility treatment?

There are lifestyle changes you and your partner can benefit from at this stage. Visit Lifestyle Advice – NHSGGC for more information. While preparing for your first appointments contact your GP to ensure your smear is up to date, you’ve had 2 MMRs and your partner’s semen analysis is in date.

If you don’t have 2 MMR vaccinations you can visit General Vaccinations – NHSGGC for information on MMR drop-in clinics.

You may also find these websites helpful for further advice Useful Links – NHSGGC

I have been told I’m on the waiting list, what happens next?

There are different waiting lists for each treatment. Once you have reached the top of the waiting list you will receive a letter inviting you to your first appointment with the nurses. While you’re waiting see Lifestyle Advice – NHSGGC

How can I see HFEA and patient ratings for the clinic?

We are regularly inspected by the HFEA and ask patients to submit feedback via their website. See HFEA: UK fertility regulator for recent inspections and patient ratings.

Can I use weight loss injections while having fertility treatment?

No. There isn’t enough evidence to show these drugs are safe in pregnancy. Some studies in animals have shown they are toxic to the developing foetus (baby). Please let your nurse or doctor in the clinic know if you are taking weight loss injections. See GLP-1 medicines for weight loss and diabetes: what you need to know – GOV.UK for more information.

Will I be able to book a treatment cycle when I want?

Once you have been told you can start treatment you can phone the booking line with your next period. However, we may not have a treatment cycle (slot) available for you to start. This is because we need to safely and effectively manage the number of patients having treatment at the same time.

When you phone the booking line to book a cycle they will be able to tell you if you have a slot or whether to call back next month. Sometimes it can take around 3 months to start treatment, particularly if you are planning a frozen embryo transfer cycle.

I don’t have a record of 2 MMRs, what can I do?

There are 3 ways to book MMR vaccinations.

  1. See your GP
  2. Visit General Vaccinations – NHSGGC for information on MMR drop-in clinics
  3. The ACS medics can refer you to a vaccination clinic once you have reached the top of the waiting list. Ask a nurse at your ART appointment.
I’ve been sent vaginal swabs to do, how do I do them?

Before you collect the sample, you can take the sample at any time of the day.

1. Wash your hands using soap and warm water, rinse and dry.

2. Open the swab packet where it says ‘peel here’.

3. Remove the swab container from the packet, (leave the swab INSIDE the packet at this stage) and label the container with your name, date of birth and the date and time the sample is being taken.

4. Twist the cap on the container tube to break the seal. Do not use if the seal is broken or damaged. Pull the cap off the container tube. Rest the container so the open end is uppermost, and the edges are not touching anything (it is a good idea to stand it upright in a clean mug).

5. Remove the swab from the packet. Touch only the blue top. Do not touch the white stalk or soft tip, or lie the swab down. If you touch or drop the swab tip or the swab is laid down, discard the swab.

6. Stand or lie in a comfortable position (as you would when inserting a tampon, for example). Hold the swab by the blue cap with one hand so the swab tip is pointing toward you. With your other hand, gently spread the skin outside the vagina. Insert the tip of the swab into the vaginal opening. Point the tip toward your lower back and relax your muscles.

7. Gently slide the swab no more than two inches into the vagina. If the swab does not slide easily, gently rotate the swab as you push. If it is still difficult, do not attempt to continue. Make sure the swab touches the walls of the vagina so that moisture is absorbed by the swab.

8. Rotate the swab for 10 to 15 seconds. Withdraw the swab without touching the skin. Place the swab in the container tube and push the cap in securely.

During Treatment
Should I contact you if I have a period after my Prostap injection?

A period after prostap is expected and you don’t need to contact us. It is normal after prostap to have a slightly longer, heavier or more painful period.

Should I contact you if I do not have a period after my Prostap injection? 

No, attend your next appointment as arranged and you will have an ultrasound scan and blood test to check your hormone levels. You may need further medication prescribed.

What side effects should I expect during treatment?

Common symptoms include: Tiredness, Nausea (feeling sick), Vomiting (being sick), Diarrhoea, Weight gain and Pain or swelling of the stomach. You may also notice redness, bruising, swelling and/or itching at the injection site.

In cases of severe OHSS you may have: Fluid build-up in the stomach, pelvis and/or chest, Difficulty in breathing, Decreased urination (producing less urine when you go to the toilet or going to the toilet less often), Formation of blood clots in blood vessels (thromboembolism) or Twisting of ovaries (ovarian torsion). If you notice any of the above signs, contact the clinic immediately. Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) | RCOG

I have dropped/smashed/wasted some of my medication, what should I do?

If you have enough medication to last until the next appointment, keep taking it as instructed and we will give you more at the next appointment.

If you do not have enough, please contact the nurses before 6 pm. 
If it is after 6pm and you need to take the medication that night please phone Ward 56 GRI (0141 211 4433) and ask if they have a supply of the medication. Please have the name & dose of the drug prescribed. Please note, the ward do not store every medication and this option should only be used in an emergency.

If I miss a dose of medication, what do I do?

Take a dose as soon as you remember, then continue as instructed.

Can I continue to have intercourse? 

We advise you not to have unprotected intercourse during treatment to avoid the risk of a natural pregnancy, either while taking medication, after egg collection or after embryo transfer.

Male partners should leave 2 days since their last ejaculation when providing a sample of sperm for treatment.

After embryo transfer, it is recommended that you avoid intercourse for 3 days.

Can I fly?

Yes, there is no evidence that flying affects any aspect of your treatment.

While having treatment you should be available to attend appointments as needed.

Travel may have impact on treatment as certain areas are at risk of infection, such as zika and ebola disease. This may mean a delay to treatment as there can be serious consequences to pregnancy.

If travelling abroad, please refer to the Welcome to JPAC website for information on which countries are affected by zika and ebola disease.

Can I have dental treatment? 

You should inform your dentist you are having fertility treatment and they will advise you accordingly

Can I colour my hair? 

Yes, there is no evidence that colouring your hair affects any aspect of your treatment.

After Treatment
Is bed rest recommended following embryo transfer?

No, there is no evidence to suggest that bed rest following embryo transfer improves pregnancy rates. There is some evidence to show bed rest can reduce pregnancy rates.

Can I fly? 

Yes, there is no evidence that flying affects pregnancy rates following embryo transfer.

Can I have dental treatment? 

You should inform your dentist you may be pregnant and they will advise accordingly.

Can I colour my hair?

Yes, there is no evidence colouring your hair affects pregnancy rates following embryo transfer.

If I bleed before my pregnancy test should I contact the department? 

No, continue with the medication you have been prescribed and perform your pregnancy test on the recommended date. If you have a positive test and are bleeding, then contact the department as we may wish to assess you further.

If I experience any symptoms of Ovarian Hyperstimulation syndrome should I seek medical assistance? 

Yes, if you have any symptoms of OHSS you should contact the department and we will provide you with advice or arrange for you to attend the department for assessment by one of our doctors.

If I have had a positive pregnancy test do I continue on my medication? 

Follow the advice on the letter given to you at your embryo transfer / IUI. If you had a fresh embryo transfer you do not need to continue on any medication, unless prescribed by a consultant.

If you have had a frozen embryo transfer you should refer to your protocol for advise on which medication should be continued. To arrange a further supply:

NHS patients – contact the nurses

GRFC patients – contact the admin team 0141 956 0509 option 4

If you were having IUI and were on buserelin injections you should stop.

I have had a positive pregnancy test but have had some bleeding/spotting/discharge, what should I do?

If the bleeding is not heavy, please contact the nurses and a nurse will contact you on or before the next working day. However, if the bleeding becomes heavier or you start to feel unwell, attend your nearest Accident and Emergency (A&E) department.

Can I request copies of my notes?

Yes, you can ask for copies of your clinical notes. Please visit Access to Records – NHSGGC for more information on how to make a request.

Please note, clinic staff are not allowed to provide patients with copies of their notes.

Laboratory FAQs

Semen Analysis
What will a semen analysis test tell me about the quality of my sperm?

A semen analysis is carried out to estimate the number of sperm, their movement (motility) and shape (morphology) in a sample.

When will I get the results from my semen analysis?

A doctor or nurse will explain the results at your next clinic appointment. Unfortunately, we cannot give you these results over the telephone.

Where do I produce my semen sample?

We have dedicated rooms on-site for sample production. We recommend semen samples to be produced on-site, however if you are unable to use our rooms you may produce at home as long as you can get the sample to the ACS within 60 minutes. You must use a sample pot provided by the ACS.

Sperm Freeze
I won’t be available on the day of my partner’s IUI /egg collection. How can I provide a sperm sample for treatment?

If your occupation (i.e. Armed forces, offshore working) means you will not be available to provide a fresh sample of sperm for treatment, you may be able to freeze sperm for back-up. You would need to attend an appointment for blood tests and consents to be taken, and then make a second appointment before the treatment day to ensure we can freeze a sperm sample to use on the day of treatment.

If you are available on the day of egg collection or IUI, a fresh sample is always preferred.

Sperm Preparation
What does “sperm washing” mean?

Before the sperm is used for treatment, the sample is washed to separate the sperm from the ejaculate. The washing procedure can also help to isolate the sperm with more movement.

IUI (Intrauterine Insemination)
What can I expect from an IUI procedure?

The procedure is very similar to a smear test. A speculum is inserted into the vagina in order to pass a catheter through the cervix. Attached to the catheter is a syringe containing prepared (‘washed’) sperm. When the catheter is in the correct position, the operator will depress the syringe and the sperm will be deposited into the uterus. The catheter is very fine and is normally not felt by the patient.

Embryology Laboratory Timeline for IVF and ICSI
Below is a general overview of the laboratory work and what can be expected at each stage of the journey
Oocyte retrieval
What preparation do I need for egg collection?

The nurse will give you a list of instructions to prepare for egg collection once the date of the procedure is known. They will give you an exact date and time to administer the booster injection.

You should fast from midnight before the egg collection, which means no food or fluids, including water.

On the day of egg collection, you should shower in the morning but not use any scented or perfumed products. If your partner is attending to provide a sample of sperm, they should do the same.

Bring any leftover medication and sharps boxes for disposal.

The anaesthetist requests that at least one fingernail be free from gel, acrylics or nail varnish.

Will I find out how many eggs were collected on the day of treatment?

Yes, the doctor performing your egg collection will meet with you after the procedure to discuss the number of eggs that were collected. 

Can my partner stay with me during egg collection and recovery?

Partners are not permitted in theatre during the egg collection.

Due to the limited space in recovery, partners cannot stay with you during recovery.

IVF (In Vitro Fertilisation)
What is IVF?

IVF involves the collection of eggs directly from the ovaries using a needle. Washed sperm are added to a dish containing the eggs and the sperm are left to swim to the eggs on their own. The ‘best’ sperm that reaches the egg first should hopefully enter the egg and fertilise it.

The sperm and eggs are left in the dish together overnight and the eggs checked for fertilisation the following morning.

ICSI (Intracytoplasmic sperm injection)
What is ICSI?

ICSI involves the collection of eggs directly from the ovaries using a needle, then the injection of a single sperm into each mature egg to create embryos. ICSI is often recommended to patients if the sperm quality is not high enough to fertilise your eggs using IVF. ICSI can also be recommended to patients with previously low or complete failure of fertilisation in previous treatment.

I have a normal sperm count, why is ICSI still recommended for our treatment?

For some patients, ICSI is recommended even if sperm parameters are normal. The doctor or nurse will provide you with more information during a clinic appointment. Even when the planned treatment is IVF, this may change on the day of egg retrieval depending on sperm quality and number of eggs collected.

If you wish you can discuss this with your clinician and our embryology team.  

Why aren’t all of my eggs suitable for IVF/ ICSI?

Only mature eggs have the capacity to fertilise, so before an ICSI procedure, your eggs will be assessed for maturity. Only the mature eggs will be used for ICSI.

Fertilisation Check
How many of my eggs should I expect to fertilise?

Our average fertilisation rate with ICSI is around 70%.

Some people may have a higher fertilisation rate and some people may have a lower rate.

When will I find out how many of my eggs have fertilised?

The embryologist will carry out a fertilisation check on your eggs the morning after your egg collection. You will receive a call on the same morning and the embryologist will inform you of your fertilisation results. You should expect the call to be before 12 noon.

Embryo Grading
What is a blastocyst?

A blastocyst is an embryo that has usually formed by day 5 or 6 after fertilisation and has two distinct cell types. The inner cell mass will develop into a baby, and the trophectoderm cells develop into the placenta.

How will you assess my embryos?

Embryo grading is carried out on day 3 and day 5 after your egg collection. On day 3 the embryologist will count the cell numbers and will take into account any fragmentation and unevenness of the cells. On day 5 blastocysts are graded by how expanded they are and the appearance of two cell types, the inner cell mass and the trophectoderm.

We are currently developing information leaflets to help us describe your embryo development in more detail. These should be available in the ACS waiting room and the consultation rooms in the very near future.

Embryo Transfer
What should I expect during an embryo transfer procedure?

The embryo transfer is very similar to a smear test. A speculum is inserted into the vagina and an empty catheter is passed through the cervix. Once the empty catheter is in position, a catheter containing the embryo is passed through the empty catheter and the embryo is deposited from the catheter into the uterus. The catheter is very fine and is normally not felt by the patient.

An abdominal (tummy) scan is used for guidance during the embryo transfer procedure. To ensure the best possible view, we ask that you have a comfortably full bladder in preparation for embryo transfer.

What is the difference between a day 3 or day 5 transfer?

Transfer days are based upon assessment of your embryo/s in the laboratory, which occur on day 3 and day 5. If a group of embryos on day 3 has a similar appearance and embryo selection for transfer cannot be made, a day 5 transfer will be arranged for you. If the embryologists think a transfer on day 3 is better for you, they will arrange this.

Can I take a picture or video during embryo transfer?

As advised by NHS GG&C policy, we do not allow any photography or filming in any areas of the ACS to protect the privacy of patients, staff and visitors.

Embryo Freezing (vitrification)
I didn’t have any embryos frozen. What does this mean?

For an embryo to survive the freezing and thawing process, it must be at the correct stage of development and be of suitable quality. The highest grade of embryo will be selected for transfer and if any surplus embryo/s meet our criteria we will freeze (vitrify) and store those embryo/s for you. 

Some embryos may not reach the correct stage of development, or they may not meet the quality criteria, which is why we are unable to freeze them.

The doctor or nurse will meet with you before transfer to discuss embryo quality and let you know if any embryos are suitable to be frozen.

When will I find out how many embryos I have frozen?

The embryologist will phone the day after embryo transfer to confirm if we have been able to freeze embryos for you.

Frozen Embryo Transfer (warm/thaw)
How many embryos are likely to survive the freezing and thawing procedures?

Currently, our average survival rate for day 5 embryos is more than 95%.

Embryo Biopsies
Why are biopsies performed?

Biopsies are carried out for patients having a certain type of treatment called Pre-Implantation Genetic Testing (PGT). Most patients will not have embryos biopsied.

When are embryos biopsied?

Biopsies are performed on day 5 or 6 of blastocyst embryo development. Embryos are then frozen here in ACS and the biopsied cells are transported to the appropriate genetic lab.

How will I get the results?

An embryologist will call you with the results of genetic testing and explain the next steps.

General
Is there a set timeframe for the clinic to reply when you leave a message?

The clinic staff carry out procedures or see patients in appointments throughout the day; however, we endeavour to reply to all queries until 6pm. Messages after 6pm will be responded to the following day.

Before emailing, please check to see if your question can be answered here first.

What number should I be calling to enquire about treatment/appointments?

GRFC patients should call 0141 956 0509 option 4 for treatment bookings and appointment enquiries

NHS patients:

  • For treatment bookings, please call 0141 201 3478
  • For appointment enquiries, please call reception on 0141 211 8535
What is the current wait times from referral to starting first cycle?

Current waiting times are approximately 10 to 11 months.

How long after finishing a treatment cycle will I wait till I start a new fresh cycle or FET transfer?

If you have had a negative outcome or freeze all and are eligible for further treatment, you can phone with your first normal period to book your next cycle. If you do not have regular periods, you can call 4 weeks after your withdrawal bleed.

Whilst we try to accommodate all bookings, there are times when the numbers of attempted bookings exceed our capacity. In such cases, we advise patients to call with their next period. It may take around 3 months to be able to book a cycle.

When I phone to book a frozen embryo cycle or IUI, how long should I wait to hear if I have a slot?

Although we try to allocate slots daily, it can take up to a week before we can contact you to advise if you have a treatment slot, or not.

If it takes 7 days for a reply, does it mean I need to wait for my next cycle?

Not always. You may have a slot booked and will still have time to attend the necessary appointments.

Can I still do vaginal swabs when having my period?

Yes, please do the swabs as requested before your appointment.

Can I have a scan while on my period?

Yes, sometimes it is necessary to perform a scan at the start of a period, so please don’t worry about attending for a scan at this time.

I need to book a scan on a specific day of my cycle, how do I do this?

Contact the ACS nurses. Contact details can be found on your treatment card.

I’m having IUI or natural FET treatment and have detected a surge.

Call reception on 0141 211 8535 and they will book a blood test for you that morning.

I need more medication.

NHS patients – contact the nurses

GRFC patients – contact admin on 0141 956 0509 option 4

What is the best home ovulation test or pregnancy test to use?

We are unable to recommend specific tests but individual product information will be able to advise on sensitivities.

My case was being reviewed but I haven’t been notified of the outcome.

Every week all treatment cycles which have recently been completed are reviewed by the medics and embryologists. You will receive a letter summarising the outcome of the review meeting and your next steps.

Do I need to come to the clinic for my medication or can it be collected at my local pharmacy?

Most medication dispensed in ACS is very specialised and will not be available in every pharmacy. However, some common medications such as antibiotics may be available to be prescribed locally.

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What is AMH? 

AMH is a blood test used to assess ovarian reserve. AMH is made in the ovarian follicles, which contain eggs, and its levels can be checked at any time during the menstrual cycle. Blood levels of this hormone are measured to assess the remaining ovarian reserve (egg supply) in your ovaries.  

How is an ‘AMH’ test result used? 

This result will be used to help decide which treatment protocol you will follow during treatment.  We will also use it to counsel you on how likely you are to respond to certain treatments, such as hormonal stimulation during IVF.  

A high AMH level raises the possibility that you may over-respond to your treatment (i.e. too many eggs will be produced), increasing the risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS). Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) | RCOG 

A low AMH level raises the possibility that you may respond poorly, or not at all, to hormonal stimulation. This means a low number of eggs, or none, may be produced. 

AMH is not used to decide if you’ll be offered treatment. 

Contact us
Address

Assisted Conception Service, Glasgow Royal Infirmary

Main Outpatient area
Clinic Area B
Ground Floor
Queen Elizabeth Building

Alexandra Parade
Glasgow
G31 2ER

We are constantly striving to improve the quality of our service to you and value your opinions about how we could do that. In particular, if you have any comments and suggestions about the content of this website please speak to a member of staff when in the clinic.

Phone
  • Clinic reception: 0141 211 8535
  • Glasgow Royal Fertility Clinic admin team: 0141 956 0509 (option 4)
  • NHS Treatment bookings: 0141 201 3478
  • Glasgow Royal Fertility Clinic bookings: 0141 956 0509 (option 4)
  • Laboratory team: 0141 211 8549
  • Counselling service admin: 0141 211 8546 or email: ggc.acscounselling@nhs.scot
Opening Times
  • Monday – Thursday: 08:00- 19:00
  • Friday: 08:00 – 15:00
  • Saturday: 08:00 – 15:00
  • Sunday: 08:00 – 15:00

For any emergencies out with these hours please contact your GP, NHS 24 (telephone number 111) or the on call gynaecologist via switch board (telephone number 0141 211 4000).

How to find us

The Assisted Conception Service (ACS) is located in the main Outpatient Area, Clinic Area B on the ground floor of the Queen Elizabeth Building, Glasgow Royal Infirmary.

Hospital Site Map and Directions – Glasgow Royal Infirmary – NHSGGC

There are two entrances to the building. Monday- Friday you can enter the hospital via the Lister Building on Alexandra Parade, go to the lift and go down one level, to the ground floor. The ACS clinic is next to the lifts. Alternatively, you can enter via the main entrance, off Alexandra Parade. Once in the main entrance foyer, turn right at WH Smith and follow the corridor to the end, where you will see signs for clinic area B.

If you need further assistance please ask at the ‘reception and admissions’ desk in the entrance foyer.

The Assisted Conception Team
Dr Helen Lyall, Consultant Gynaecologist

Dr Lyall is a Consultant Gynaecologist for the ACS Unit at Glasgow Royal Infirmary. She qualified in 1988 from the University of Dundee and has always worked in the field of obstetrics and gynaecology. She has been directly involved in assisted conception and reproductive medicine for 20 years. During her training Dr Lyall also worked in Edinburgh, moving to Glasgow in 1995. Dr Lyall has published widely and was awarded a MD from the University of Dundee in 1994. She has been a member of a number of national groups looking at the provision of assisted conception treatment, most specifically equity of access, and is a member of the National Infertility Group, convened by the Scottish Government.

Joanne Leitch – Person Responsible & Lead Embryologist

Joanne has gained over 10 years of experience in Clinical Embryology in both public and private health care settings. In her current appointment as the Person Responsible & Lead Clinical Embryologist, she plays a key role in the largest IVF clinic in Scotland. Joanne is a Diplomat of the Royal College of Pathologists and previously an Executive Board member of the Association of Clinical Embryologists.

Professor Scott Nelson, Professor of Obstetrics & Gynaecology

Scott is the Muirhead Professor of Obstetrics & Gynaecology at the University of Glasgow and HFEA licence holder for Glasgow Royal Infirmary ACS unit. Professor Nelson is a prominent international specialist in reproductive medicine, and world renowned for personalised ovarian stimulation.

Dr Susheel Vani

Dr Vani is a specialist in the field of Reproductive Medicine and Assisted Conception and the Lead Clinician in ACS. He completed most of his training in Obstetrics & Gynaecology, including Subspecialty Training in Reproductive Medicine & Surgery, in Edinburgh.

As a part of this training he completed research studies on the endometrium and he was awarded an MD from the University of Edinburgh. Dr Vani moved to Glasgow to take up a full time post as a Consultant Gynaecologist in the ACS in 2010.

He is the lead gynaecologist for the Male Infertility service which is run in conjunction with the Urologists. He is also actively involved with undergraduate and postgraduate medical training.

Dr Aparna Sastry

Dr Sastry is a consultant in infertility with special interests in Paediatric and adolescent gynaecology, Surrogacy, Fertility preservation and Reproductive endocrinology (Turner’s syndrome, Premature ovarian failure, Differences in sex development, gender dysphoria, post cancer reproductive care etc).

She has over 15 years experience in this field and has worked in Australia, Wales and England. She runs a dedicated fertility clinic at Victoria infirmary. She is an honorary senior clinical lecturer at Glasgow University and is also involved in ultrasound training at Caledonia university.

Dr Samra Khan

Dr Khan qualified as a doctor in 2003 and completed her core obstetrics and gynaecology training in Oxford and Glasgow. To pursue her special interest in subfertility, she joined the assisted conception unit in Glasgow Royal Infirmary in 2011 for advanced training in this field. She attained a certificate of completion of training in 2013 following which she continued to serve as a consultant within the same unit.

Besides offering tertiary level care for management of infertile couples she also leads the oocyte donation service at Glasgow Royal Infirmary and also provides a fertility service for the south side of Glasgow through a dedicated fertility clinic at Victoria hospital. Dr Khan is very enthusiastic about her specialty and committed to provide a high quality care to her patients.

Isabel Traynor, Lead Nurse

Isabel is the Redesign Manager of the Assisted Conception Service. She graduated from Caledonian University in 1992 with BA Honours in Health and Nursing Studies and had an extensive gynaecology career in Western Infirmary, Glasgow. She worked there for 10 years, in a variety of roles ranging from staff nurse, research nurse, ward manager and clinical nurse manager in gynaecology across North Glasgow NHS Trust. Following this experience, she took up post as the Senior Charge Nurse in the Assisted Conception Unit in Glasgow Royal Infirmary in October 2002.

This challenging role includes clinical and service management, with a research and education component. This experience has been transferred to a clinical environment ensuring that evidence based practice is delivered locally. A range of nurse led services have also been developed within the unit. She has completed several post graduated qualifications in Infertility, Ultrasound Scanning and Non Medical Prescribing.

She has had the privilege of both presenting and being chairperson at several national Infertility meetings for nursing and multi-disciplinary groups. She is the previous chairperson of the Senior Infertility Nurses Group.

Joanne McNabb, Senior Charge Nurse ACS

Joanne qualified as a Registered General Nurse in 1981 then as a Certified Midwife in 1982. Her career in midwifery progressed to a Community Midwife then three years later to a Labour Ward Sister.

After a short break she returned to Glasgow Royal Maternity (Rottenrow ) as a Bank Midwife before joining the Assisted Conception Team at Glasgow Royal Infirmary in 1993. As Senior Charge Nurse In the department Joanne leads an excellent team of nurses and HCSWs, helping to plan and deliver the care that provides the best possible experience for patients using the service.

Frances Roebuck, Quality Manager

Frances has 10 years of experience working in Clinical Embryology in a variety of public and private fertility clinics. Frances’ career in embryology began in 2012, with enrolment in the Association of Clinical Embryologists (ACE) certification programme.

She then progressed to attain Clinical Embryologist certification in 2018. She has extensive experience in Quality Control across 3 fertility laboratories and is currently completing an MSc in Healthcare Quality Management Systems. 

As Quality Manager, Frances ensures that the clinics quality management system is implemented, maintained and effective whilst co-ordinating awareness of the clinic user’s needs and requirements.

Craig Spinks, Clinical Services Manager

Craig graduated with a Business Management Honours degree and has significant experience working across various NHS sectors which include Golden Jubilee National Hospital and Oral Health Directorate. He commenced current post in July 2014 and has a wider remit across Women and Children’s directorate in addition to Business Manager role within Assisted Conception Service.

Alison Elliot, Counsellor

Alison has been working at the ACS since May 2016. She has worked for NHS as a counsellor for over thirteen years and is an accredited member of British Infertility Counselling Association (BICA), and accredited member of the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP), Counselling Supervisor and a member of Scottish Infertility Counselling Group.

She studied at Glasgow University spending a year at University of South Florida on an exchange programme to graduate with a degree in Sociology 1994. She worked in the field of complex trauma in Florida, USA and Perth, Australia before returning to Glasgow to study a Masters in Public Health.

She was employed by Glasgow City Council Education Services to progress the Scottish Government’s prevention strategy on Gender based violence before returning to education to study to be a counsellor and worked for the Centre of Women’s Health.

Nursing Team

Most of your appointments in ACS will be with our team of experienced nurses and health care support workers with a range of experience across NHS services. They will provide support, encouragement and advice throughout your treatment.

Specialist services such as egg, sperm and embryo donation; surrogacy; PGT and fertility preservation will be coordinated by specific members of the nursing team, working alongside medics and embryologists.

Scientific Team

Our scientific and embryology team work mainly behind the scenes in the lab looking after your eggs, sperm and embryos. You will normally speak to them on the phone at various stages of your treatment.

Specialist embryologists will work with nurses and medics coordinating donor sperm, eggs and embryos; surrogacy; biopsies for PGT and fertility preservation.

Virtual Tour

If you have difficulty viewing the above video please click the link below to view it on YouTube.

The Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA) are the Government regulatory body for all fertility clinics in the UK. They collect data on all treatment cycles started and outcomes of those treatments, including success rates. They are currently updating their clinic data submission system and once complete in 2025, you will be able to see data on treatments from January 2020 to December 2023, and births from January 2019 to December 2022. In the meantime, you can visit their clinic profile for Glasgow Royal Infirmary ACS for the most recent inspection ratings, reviews and verified success rates.

Clinic profile for Glasgow Royal Infirmary | HFEA

Please note, not all patients will require all tests. Your nurse or doctor will advise on which ones you’ll need, depending on which treatment you’re having. 

Transvaginal Scan (TVS) 

All patients having fertility treatment should have a transvaginal scan (TVS) as part of fertility investigations to assess the health of the uterus and ovaries. It can help identify potential issues like endometrial polyps, uterine abnormalities or ovarian cysts.  It involves inserting a small, lubricated probe into the vagina. The probe emits high-frequency sound waves that create detailed images of the pelvic organs on a monitor. This allows us to see the uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes more clearly than with a transabdominal scan. While some individuals may experience slight discomfort, the procedure is usually well-tolerated and not painful. 

It can:  

  • check the size, shape, and condition of the uterus and ovaries, checking for abnormalities like fibroids or cysts.  
  • assess the number and size of antral follicles, which are small fluid-filled sacs in the ovaries that contain eggs, providing an indication of ovarian reserve.  

Before the scan you will be asked to go into the toilet adjoining the scan room, empty your bladder and remove clothing from the bottom half of your body. You will be given a gown to cover your body. You may also have a TVS as part of a HyCoSy. 

Semen Analysis 

Semen analysis is a routine part of an infertility investigation. A few parameters are examined to determine the quality of semen. This includes the sperm concentration (the number of sperm), motility (how well the sperm are moving) and morphology (the shape of the sperm).  

The results of the analysis help us to determine whether a ‘male factor’ plays a part in the reason why you have not conceived naturally. Several factors can influence the quality of the sample. You may be asked to provide more than one sample if the initial results are not within normal ranges. This is common and helps us to make an accurate diagnosis. 

Initially, you should contact your GP to arrange referral for semen analysis.

Anti-Mullerian Hormone (AMH)

AMH is produced in small ovarian follicles. Blood levels of this hormone are measured to assess the remaining ovarian reserve (egg supply) in your ovaries. This result will be used when deciding which treatment protocol you will have during treatment.  

 Anti-Mullerian Hormone (AMH) – NHSGGC 

Full Blood Count (FBC) 

A full blood count (FBC) test is taken to look for abnormalities such as Anaemia – this means that you have fewer red blood cells than normal or have less haemoglobin than normal in each red blood cell.

Haemoglobinopathy Screen 

This blood test offers Screening for sickle cell and thalassaemia – NHS. If the female partner is found to be a carrier of one of these diseases, the male partner will also be screened.

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) 

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) – NHS is a virus which can cause flu like symptoms. If you catch CMV while pregnant there is a risk to the baby. CMV can be present in body fluids, such as sperm. We test patients for immunity to CMV when using donor sperm. If you are immune to CMV, sperm can be used from a CMV positive or negative donor. If you are not immune to CMV the nurse or embryologist will advise on risks of using a CMV positive donor. 

Chlamydia Testing 

Chlamydia – NHS is one of the most common sexually transmitted bacterial infections and affects both men and women. It often does not cause any obvious symptoms. The disease can be spread during genital contact or unprotected sexual intercourse (including anal and oral sex) with an infected person or from an infected mother to her baby during childbirth. You will either be asked to provide a vaginal swab or sample of urine, depending on treatment type. Should your screening test show that you are infected with chlamydia, you will be offered antibiotic treatment to clear it and encouraged to take precautions to reduce the risks of passing it onto others. 

High Vaginal Swab  

You will be asked to provide a vaginal swab to test for infections such as thrush, bacterial vaginosis, trichomoniasis and group b streptococcus. 

Cervical Screening 

All women between the age of 25 and 60 are invited to attend for cervical screening. Cervical screening aims to detect and treat abnormal changes in a woman’s cervix (the neck of the womb). If left untreated, this may develop into cervical cancer. It is essential that prior to commencing your treatment you have an up-to-date cervical smear test.  

If you have this done as part of NHS Scotland screening programme, we will be able to access your most recent result and advice. If you have had it done in a different country or privately, please bring a copy of your test result to your first appointment with the nurses. If you are over 25 and have never had a smear test, please arrange to have this done via your GP.  

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)

HIV attacks your immune system eventually stopping it altogether, at which point it becomes difficult to combat serious life threatening infections. The virus can be spread during unprotected sexual intercourse (including oral and anal sex) with an infected person and by sharing needles to inject illegal drugs.  Infected mothers can transmit the virus to their baby before or during childbirth. Should your screening test show that you are infected with HIV, you will be offered treatment(s) designed to reduce the harmful effects of the virus and encouraged to take precautions to reduce the risks of passing it onto others.  

Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B is a virus that can cause inflammation (swelling and tenderness) of the liver.  It can take a long time for the symptoms to show. The virus can be spread during unprotected sexual intercourse with an infected person and by sharing needles to inject illegal drugs.  Infected mothers can transmit the virus to their baby during childbirth. Should your screening test show that you are infected with Hepatitis B, you will be offered treatment(s) designed to reduce the harmful effects of the virus and encouraged to take precautions to reduce the risks of passing it onto others.

Hepatitis C

Hepatitis C is also a virus that can cause serious damage to the liver. It can take a long time for the symptoms to show. The virus is mainly spread through contact with the blood of an infected person. Rarely, the disease is passed through other body fluids.  For example, during unprotected sexual intercourse with an infected person or from an infected mother to her baby before or during childbirth. Should your screening test show that you are infected with Hepatitis C, you will be offered treatment(s) designed to reduce the harmful effects of the virus.

Your first visit

Most clinic appointments are being carried out over the phone. At your first consultation a Specialist Fertility Nurse or a Doctor wil phone you, take a detailed medical history from you both and ask for your current BMI. This appointment will last around 30 minutes. They will recommend any further investigations, treatments or advise if you are not eligible for NHS treatment.

If your clinic appointment is in person please attend the ACS unit at Glasgow Royal Infirmary. We may weigh you, do an internal scan and take some blood samples.

Please note that to be eligible for NHS funded treatment you must meet the criteria set by the Scottish Government

NHS funding | Fertility Network

Referral Acceptance Criteria – NHSGGC

Reaching the top of the waiting list

Each treatment has its own waiting list, so times will vary depending on which treatment you’re having. The nurse or doctor at your clinic appointment will be able to let you know estimated waiting times for you.

When your name reaches the top of the treatment waiting list we will send you a letter with your first ART appointment, around 4-6 weeks later.

ART Appointment

Before this appointment you will be sent information about:

  • Setting up e-consent profiles for both partners
  • Doing vaginal swabs
  • Asking your GP for proof of your MMR vaccinations
  • Making sure your smear is up to date

Please ensure you have read all of the information provided and have started to prepare for the appointment. This will help to prevent delays to treatment starting. If you have a male partner and their semen analysis was more than 18 months ago, they should contact their GP to have this repeated.

Your partner is welcome to attend this appointment but we don’t need to see them at this stage.

At the ART appointment (which takes about 30 minutes to complete) You will meet with a Nurse who will:

  • take blood samples for tests that are required (AMH, haemoglobinopathy, CMV etc)
  • check your BMI. At this stage BMI must be 18.5-30 to proceed.
  • take the vaginal swabs from you
  • ask some questions about you and your partner
  • give details about our conselling service
  • give you the date and time for your next appointment

Around 2 weeks after this, the 2nd part of your e-consents will be sent to you both separately and must be completed 24 hours before the post screen appointment to give the nurses time to check them before they speak to you.

Post Screen Appointment

This will be an attend anywhere video call. Please ensure you’re both present and have good data or WiFi connection. At the Post Screen appointment (which takes about 30 minutes to complete) you will meet with a Nurse who will:

  • review your medical history
  • discuss your test results
  • discuss any corrections that need to be made to your consent forms
  • explain your protocol and how to book a cycle of treatment
  • answer any questions you may have

Please visit NHS Inform for the most recent advice on the coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccine and pregnancy. Here you will find information specific to those in the process of having fertility treatment.

Update Friday 11th March 2022

On the 7th January 2022 it was nationally agreed that fertility treatment for unvaccinated women would be deferred with immediate effect. This recommendation was reviewed, as planned, alongside emerging evidence of risk and the prevailing levels of COVID-19, during January and February 2022.

Data from PHS demonstrates that both COVID-19 cases and hospitalisations are stabilising, and a reduced proportion of cases are resulting in hospitalisations, following the emergence of Omicron as the dominant variant. While data specifically on pregnant women is very limited, the available data on unvaccinated individuals suggests that the risk of severe disease requiring hospital or critical care admission has reduced over the last four to six weeks. Therefore, it has been determined that fertility treatment for unvaccinated patients will no longer be deferred.

The JCVI (Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation) advice on vaccinating pregnant women, namely that pregnant women should now be considered as a clinical risk group and part of priority group 6 within the vaccination programme remains the same. Therefore, we will continue to fully inform patients, prior to their treatment, of the evidence concerning the safety of vaccines in those planning pregnancy, undergoing fertility treatment and the pregnant population in respect of maternal and perinatal outcomes, including evidence for continued vaccine effectiveness against symptomatic COVID-19 disease. Furthermore, we will continue to advise patients at the start of the fertility pathway, and at every opportunity thereafter (making every contact count) about the risks of non-vaccination.

In line with the reviews recommendations, we will also ask patients to sign an informed consent form acknowledging that they are aware of the risks prior to treatment, similar to other aspects of the fertility pathway.

The COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective and there is no evidence to suggest that the COVID-19 vaccines will affect fertility in women or men.

More information is available on the NHS Inform website.

Update Thursday 23rd December 2021

The Scottish Intensive Care Society Report, published on 13 October, highlighted that of the 89 COVID-19 positive pregnant women who were admitted to critical care between December 2020 and end September 2021, 88 were unvaccinated, 1 was partially vaccinated, and none were fully vaccinated. Wave 3 has seen increased numbers of pregnant women being admitted to hospital with moderate to severe COVID-19 symptoms requiring critical care, with clinicians reporting a particular peak in September.

On 16 December, the Scottish Government, Chief Medical Officer, Dr Gregor Smith wrote to NHS Chief Executives highlighting recent updates to the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation advice on vaccinating pregnant women, namely that pregnant women should now be considered as a clinical risk group and part of priority group 6 within the vaccination programme.

In addition to this, the latest evidence from the UK Obstetric Surveillance System (UKOSS) and the Mothers and Babies: Reducing Risk through Audits and Confidential Enquiries across the UK (MBRRACE-UK) shows that unvaccinated pregnant women and their babies have died after admission to hospital with Covid-19 and 98 % of pregnant women in ICU with Covid-19 are unvaccinated. We also know that of all the women who have died during pregnancy or up to 6 weeks after birth, 88% of them were unvaccinated. 

In light of the above evidence, the speed at which the Omicron variant is spreading through communities and the safety of pregnant women and their babies, it has been nationally agreed that fertility treatment for unvaccinated women will be deferred with immediate effect. We will review this decision during February 2022 or earlier if appropriate. Older women who have their treatment deferred, will have the deferral time added back on to their fertility journey to ensure that they do not lose out on eligibility for treatment due to their age.

Women who are within 12 weeks of having their second Covid vaccine dose or who have had their booster will continue their treatment as normal. For those who have recently had or are about to receive their booster vaccination, treatment can begin 10 days after the booster vaccination has been received. Positions on waiting lists will not be penalised if extra time is needed for vaccination.

Further information regarding the Omicron variant will continue to become available and any changes to current guidance will be communicated as soon as it becomes available.

For further information regarding covid vaccination in pregnancy and breastfeeding, please see the following link:

FAQ following update on 23rd December 2021
1. How long the treatment will be deferred / postponed?

Treatment will be deferred until February 2022 at which point the advice will be reviewed to determine if treatment can recommence of whether further deferral will be required.

2. If the risks are in pregnancy, why does my partner status matter?

If your partner gets infected you will be exposed to risk of infection. If you are a confirmed contact you will then need to isolate and will be unable to attend for monitoring/ treatment.

3. It is our personal choice to get vaccinate. Why are you forcing us to get vaccinated?
  • It is still your personal choice as to whether to have the vaccine, all we are saying is that we cannot proceed with treatment without evidence of vaccination due to the risks involved.
  • JCVI (Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation) has put pregnant women in high risk category.
  • RCOG (Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists), RCM (Royal College of Midwives), Scottish Government all are advising vaccination, including boosters for pregnant women.
4. Is it for all fertility treatment or only IVF?

The guidance relates to all fertility treatment and not IVF alone.

5. I am self-funding, why does policy apply to me?

As this is based on clear clinical advice around the risks for this group of women and the decision is based on protecting this group, this policy applies to all patients having treatment in Centres, not just NHS patients.

6. Will I have to provide evidence?

Yes. Please download the app. This will be checked when you come in to the centre.

7. If I wait, I will be more than 40. This will compromise my funding status

No this will not compromise your funding status. All patients having treatment deferred will have the deferral time added back on to their treatment journey to ensure that no patient loses out on treatment due to their age.

8. Can I go through stimulation and freeze embryos?

The same concerns around infection during treatment and subsequent cancellation of the cycle prior to egg collection apply.

9. Will there be further deferral?

We don’t know at this stage. The available data will be reviewed in February.

The Assisted Conception Service at Glasgow Royal Infirmary is a state of the art facility providing assisted conception services to patients throughout Scotland. The service has operated since 1983 and benefitted from a multi-million pound investment in 2014, enabling delivery of innovative assisted conception technologies in a modern purpose built accommodation.

All treatments we provide are NHS services and are individually tailored to meet your needs. In addition, in partnership with the Glasgow Royal Fertility Clinic, we provide services for those who wish to consider self funding their treatment.

Please browse our pages for more information about the services we offer and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ).

You can also take a virtual tour of the ACS department. Watch our video below.

Further Information

Hundreds of people in Scotland need the help of egg or sperm donors to give them the chance to become parents and the gift of starting a family. Visit the egg and sperm website to find out more.

Donating your eggs or sperm is something that requires careful consideration, but if it’s right for you then you have the potential to give the joy of starting a family to those people in Scotland, who need the help of donors to become parents.