WHERE DO I START?

How do I start looking?

Start at the beginning. Is there a particular country you like? If not, then you can choose on how far they are away.  Russia has good clinics, but it's a bit of a schlep to get there. You will be flying back home after the treatment so a long journey needs to be considered.  Look at the directory on this site to see where their nearest clinic is. Then search the internet to find information about them.

How do I know they are credible?

Here’s where a bit of homework is needed. Check them out. Don't take other people's word for it. Find out the consultant’s name and Google them to see if there are other people talking about them on fertility chatrooms.

What Pre treatment tests do clinics require?

HIV, Hepatitis B & C. They will not start treatment without these tests. And that's for both of you if you are a couple.

Some clinics ask for the tests to be done within the last 3 months, others a year. Take all your back up notes to the clinic from all previous fertility treatments (and make copies!)

Do you tell your GP that you are going abroad?

You are not obliged to officially . But if you are buying drugs in the UK (see section) then you’ll need your GP to underwrite the european clinic’s prescription. Remember to make sure you send your GP all your updated test results so you have a complete medical history. You may need it one day and they are unlikely to loose it down the back of the sofa.