Many of our patients have contacted us with questions about the medical aspects of this novel coronavirus and its impact on fertility and pregnancy. We will update this page with new research and facts as they become available. For further information, we suggest the following authoritative sources for information about the virus:
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM)
Q: Is Midwest Fertility Specialists going to close?
Absolutely not. Our office team, nurses and physicians will be at our office, working to support you through telemedicine, as we scale back on in-person visits to reduce the risk to our patients and our team. We are 100 percent committed to being here for you, answering your questions, and helping you move forward with your fertility treatment plan.
Q: Does this mean I won’t be able to continue my fertility treatment?
Midwest Fertility Specialists is committed to supporting our existing patients and welcoming new patients. Our office is open to assist you, and telemedicine appointments are available for both new patients and existing patients, as appropriate. Our goal is to ensure that everyone we serve is able to continue moving forward with their fertility care, so that they can rapidly move on to any next steps in their treatment plan once it is safe to do so. New patients are encouraged to contact us to schedule a telemedicine appointment and get started now.
Q: If I get COVID-19, will it damage my fertility?
A: At this time, there is no published research suggesting that fertility is affected by this coronavirus or the resulting disease. As more research becomes available, we will keep you informed on this page.
Q: What about pregnancy and COVID-19?
This novel coronavirus is believed to have started in December 2019, and because it is so new, little information is available about pregnancy, breastfeeding and COVID-19. To keep up with the latest developments, please check the CDC’s resources on this topic.
At this time, we do recommend that high-risk individuals delay becoming pregnant until more is known. High-risk individuals are those who have traveled to a high-risk area, have been exposed to the virus through a known contact, or are exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19.
Q: What should I do if I think I was exposed to COVID-19?
If you believe you may have been exposed to the novel coronavirus, contact your primary care provider for guidance. Per the CDC, you must self-quarantine for 14 days. If you begin to experience symptoms, follow strict quarantine protocols and contact your primary care provider right away to get tested for COVID-19. If you are a current Midwest Fertility Specialists patient, we ask that you also inform us right away if you believe you have been exposed or are experiencing symptoms.
Q: Are my embryos or other reproductive materials safe at your IVF lab?
Yes. In compliance with all regulations for IVF laboratories, our IVF labs continuously operate at the highest levels of safety. These facilities are purpose-built to contain recombinant DNA, and are equipped with HEPA filtration and positive air pressure systems designed to suppress viral threats. Our CAP accredited labs’ highly trained scientists maintain strict protocols for cleaning and disinfection, and quality assurance measures are in place at all times. Additional measures are also being taken to tightly restrict access to isolated laboratory facilities and to ensure regular disinfection of office spaces.
If you have additional concerns or questions about COVID-19, please do not hesitate to contact us. We are here for you, today and always.