Following the broadcast of RTÉ’s Fertility Uncovered, ReproMed recognises that the programme may have raised questions and concerns for people currently undergoing fertility treatment, including our patients.
Fertility treatment is an intensely personal and often emotional journey. People may come to treatment after months or years of trying to have a baby, sometimes following previous unsuccessful treatment. They understandably want to understand all the options available to them and to make decisions that give them the best possible chance of becoming parents.
At ReproMed, we believe patients have the right to clear, honest and evidence-based information about their treatment. Our responsibility is to ensure patients understand the potential benefits, limitations and uncertainties associated with any treatment or test, so they can make informed decisions about their care.
The programme raised questions about fertility “add-ons” and additional tests or treatments offered alongside standard IVF treatment.
The evidence supporting individual add-ons varies, and they are not appropriate or necessary for every patient. Where ReproMed offers an additional treatment or test, we consider whether it is appropriate for the individual patient and explain clearly what the available evidence does and does not demonstrate, including where evidence is limited or uncertain. Patients are then able to make an informed decision, with appropriate written consent obtained before treatment.
It is also important to recognise that not every additional test or treatment is intended to increase the chance of a live birth. For example, preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) can provide additional information about embryos which may help inform decisions about embryo selection and transfer. As with any test, patients should understand what it can and cannot tell them and how the results may influence their treatment.
We do not believe patients should feel that they need to pursue every available treatment or test. Our approach is to recommend care based on the individual patient, their circumstances and the available clinical evidence.
The discussion in the programme regarding access to donor egg and sperm treatment abroad also highlights the importance of patients having accurate information before making decisions about treatment overseas.
Donor treatment involves important medical, legal and emotional considerations. The country in which treatment takes place, and the way in which it is carried out, can affect issues including parental recognition and the legal status of parents.
We would encourage anyone considering donor treatment abroad to speak with a fertility clinic or regional fertility hub in Ireland and, where appropriate, seek independent legal advice before making a decision. Understanding the implications before treatment takes place is an important part of ensuring that patients and their future families are properly protected.
ReproMed also supports the inclusion of donor eggs and sperm within publicly funded fertility treatment in Ireland. We believe this would help create fairer access to fertility care for same-sex couples, single people and those who require donor treatment for medical reasons.
ReproMed operates within the regulatory framework applicable to fertility and tissue establishment services in Ireland. Our clinics are licensed by the Health Products Regulatory Authority (HPRA) as tissue establishments and are subject to regular inspection.
We operate a comprehensive quality management system, with services and procedures appropriately validated before they are introduced into patient care. Our clinics are independently accredited by CHKS and are regularly audited against recognised standards.
We welcome the Health (Assisted Human Reproduction) Act 2024 and the establishment of the Assisted Human Reproduction Regulatory Authority. As the regulatory framework continues to develop, we remain committed to maintaining robust standards of clinical care, governance and patient safety across our services.
People seeking fertility treatment place an enormous amount of trust in their clinical team. We take that responsibility seriously.
Our commitment is to provide patients with personalised care, transparent information and treatment that is grounded in the best available evidence. Where there are uncertainties in the evidence, we believe patients should be told clearly and openly.
We recognise that programmes such as Fertility Uncovered can prompt important questions. Any ReproMed patient who has concerns about their treatment or would like to discuss anything raised in the programme is encouraged to contact their clinic team. We are always happy to talk through their individual circumstances and answer their questions.