UPDATE AS AT 03.03.2022 | 03.00 pm

IMPORTANT UPDATE – LISMORE PATIENTS

Due to the recent heavy rainfall and flooding that continues to unfold across Northern New South Wales, our Lismore consulting location will not be operational until further notice. 

Please rest assured that we will continue to support you on your fertility journey throughout our network of clinics located in Queensland (Southport, Robina, Logan, Springfield, Sunnybank, Toowoomba and North Lakes) and New South Wales (Liverpool). All of our fertility specialists and highly qualified staff are working together to make this transition as smooth and seamless as possible for our Lismore patients.

We encourage you to contact your clinic directly to make the necessary changes to your treatment or to discuss your options and address your individual circumstances.

We recognise this major weather event is still unfolding and that some of our patients may have been severely affected by this. We also understand this can be distressing in what is already an emotional time and our hearts go out to each and every person who has been affected by this flood.

Please know we continue to be here for you to provide the necessary support and welcome you to reach out to our friendly team of nurses, specialists and patient services.

If you need to come to our clinics, please keep informed about the weather patterns and forecasts, check the Bureau of Meteorology for flood warnings – occurring or expected and/or warnings for severe storms that may cause flash flooding, check for road closures (NSW, QLD) and follow the Government’s advice.

If you are unable to safely travel until the floods have subsided, please phone our Lismore clinic on 1800 577 539 during our normal business hours. Never try to drive, ride or walk through floodwater.

We appreciate your patience and understanding during this unfolding emergency. If you find it difficult to reach our Lismore clinic due to the high volume of calls, please do not hesitate to contact our Fertility Advice Centre team on 1800 111 373 during our normal business hours.

We will continue to monitor the situation and keep you informed.

Get informed and stay safe.

For more information and advice, please visit the New South Wales’ Government websites :

• Get Ready NSW
• New South Wales Emergency Service
• Road closure Map – Department of Traffic and Main Roads

Please don’t hesitate to contact us on 1800 111 373, should you have any questions.

UPDATE AS AT 27.02.22 | 02.00 pm

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR QLD PATIENTS

Due to the recent heavy rainfall and flooding that continues to unfold across Queensland’s South-East, we would like to reassure you that our clinics and laboratories are not affected by flooding and whilst we remain open, the safety and well-being of our patients and staff continue to be our main priority.

If you need to come to our clinics, please keep informed about the weather patterns and forecasts, check the Bureau of Meteorology for flood warnings – occurring or expected and/or warnings for severe storms that may cause flash flooding, check for road closures and follow the Government’s advice.

If you are unable to leave home until the floods have subsided, please phone your clinic, during our normal business hours, to make the necessary changes to your treatment if needed. Never try to drive, ride or walk through floodwater.

We recognise this rain event is still unfolding and that some of our patients may have been affected with many roads already submerged. We understand this can be distressing in what is already an emotional time. Please know we continue to be here for you to provide the necessary support and welcome you to reach out to our friendly team.

We appreciate your patience and understanding during this unfolding emergency. If you find it difficult to reach your clinic due to the high volume of calls, please do not hesitate to contact our Fertility Advice Centre team on 1800 111 373 during our normal business hours.

We will continue to monitor the situation and keep you informed.

Get informed and stay safe.

For more information and advice, please visit the Queensland Government websites :

• Get ready Queensland
• Emergency services and safety – Floods
• Disasters and alerts – Find flood and weather warnings and how to get help 
• Road closure Map – Department of Traffic and Main Roads

Please don’t hesitate to contact us on 1800 111 373, should you have any questions.

UPDATE AS AT 20.01.22 | 10.00 am

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR VIC PATIENTS

We are pleased to announce that the following advice from the Chief Health Officer of Victoria has been released: IVF procedures suspended as part of the Pandemic Order 2022 will recommence to help support Victorians who are wanting to start or grow their family.

As a result, IVF services will restart from today, with all procedures to resume from 11.59 pm Tuesday, 25 January. First Step Fertility will recommence fertility and IVF treatments in accordance with these dates with the necessary COVID-19 safety measures.

We recognise the interruption you may have experienced to your fertility treatment would have been very distressing in what is already an emotional time. We would like to reassure you that we continue to be here for you to provide the necessary support and welcome you to reach out to our caring team.

Please know that our team are working tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure all our patients can continue their treatment as soon as possible. We appreciate your patience and understanding as we work through your individual circumstance to recommence treatment. If you are finding it difficult to reach your clinic due to the high volume of calls, please do not hesitate to contact our Fertility Advice Centre team on 1800 111 373.

Below we have included some further facts about the recommencement of IVF service at First Step Fertility.

When can all fertility treatments recommence?

All fertility treatments can recommence as of 11.59 pm 25th January 2022.

For further guidance, please contact your clinic directly. Our friendly team is here to answer all of your questions and assist you based on your individual circumstances.

What safety measures do we have in place to meet current COVID-19 requirements?

At First Step Fertility the safety and well-being of our patients and staff continue to be our main priority and we have and continue to take appropriate safety measures to address this and meet current COVID-19 requirements.

If you think at any time that you may have been exposed to COVID-19, have any symptoms or are self-isolating or being tested for COVID-19, please phone your clinic who will help you make the necessary changes to your treatment.

Get tested

If you have any symptoms at all, get tested immediately and quarantine at home until you receive a negative result.

For more information, please visit the Victorian Government’s Department of Health website.

We thank you for your patience and understanding. We hope this news is encouraging for you and look forward to working with you once again on your journey towards parenthood. Please don’t hesitate to contact us on 1800 111 373 should you have any questions.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR VIC PATIENTS

To help hospitals respond to the increasing number of patients with COVID-19, the Victorian Department of Health has issued a  Pandemic Order 2022 in which restrictions have been put into place for all elective surgery, including IVF services. As a result, the commencement of some treatment cycles will need to be postponed as of 6th January 2022.

How does the Pandemic Order 2022 affect me?

• If you have commenced your treatment cycle prior to the 6th January, please be reassured that your cycle can continue and be completed.
• If you have started your treatment cycle after 6th January, your individual circumstances will need to be assessed based on the recently issued Department of Health directive to determine if your treatment cycle can continue or be postponed.
• Frozen Embryo Transfers can continue and are not affected by these restrictions.

Where to from here?

We want to reassure you that our friendly team is here to answer all of your questions. Please contact your clinic directly or call our caring team on on 1800 111 373  so we can evaluate and address your individual circumstances.

For patients travelling interstate for treatment, please contact your clinic directly for further information on how the current COVID-19 restrictions might affect you.

For more information, please visit the Victorian Government’s Department of Health website.

First Step Fertility is advising anyone who falls into the following categories, to delay their treatment at First Step Fertility for 14 days, if:

• you have any active flu-like symptoms;
• you have had direct contact with proven COVID-19 case or have been diagnosed with COVID-19 in the past 14 days;
• if you are self-isolating or being tested for COVID-19.

If you think at any time that you may have been exposed to COVID-19, please phone your clinic who will help you make the necessary changes to your treatment.

What safety measures do we have in place to meet current COVID-19 requirements?

The safety and well-being of our patients and staff continue to be our main priority and we have and continue to take appropriate measures to address this. First Step Fertility’s protocols in place to mitigate unnecessary risk include (and are not limited to):

• All patients and essential support persons are required to wear masks on entering the clinic or hospital and register using our COVID-Pass QR code on entering the clinic or hospital.
• All staff, patients and visitors are screened and have temperature monitoring prior to entering clinics;
• All staff, patients and visitors to the clinics are required to use hand sanitiser on entering the clinic, and staff – before and after contact with patients;
• All staff in public and patient-facing areas are required to wear masks;
• The implementation of social distancing measures wherever possible, except when carrying out essential medical procedures;
• Ensuring staff maintain high-infection control protocols including the thorough daily cleaning of all high-touch areas with high-grade disinfectant, including reception surfaces, door handles, and treatment areas.

Please be aware that there may be restrictions imposed on partners or support persons attending procedures in our clinics. This is to comply with the COVID-19 safe workplace requirements. We encourage you to contact your clinic for further guidance.

Get tested

If you have any symptoms at all, get tested immediately and quarantine at home until you receive a negative result.

For more information, please visit the New South Wales Government’s Department of Health website and Victorian Government’s Department of Health website

We thank you for your patience and understanding and encourage you to get in touch with us should you have any questions or would like any further information. Please contact our friendly staff on 1800 111 373.

We will continue to monitor all new updates and keep you informed.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR VIC PATIENTS

Guidelines for patients/partners entering VIC clinics, consult rooms & day hospitals:

All patients and vaccinated partners must:

• Check-in using VIC Health App and have a RAT test
• Complete the Health Check Screening Form & Temperature check.

Unvaccinated partners – (If semen preparation-scheduled appointment)

• RAT test all patients and partners attending clinic.

Examples of required COVID-19 PCR testing:

• In some instances, patient/partners will need up to 3-4 separate COVID Tests per cycle
• Symptomatic patients and partners (even if vaccinated) to have COVID-19 PCR test.
• All patients and partners entering the clinic require a RAT. Patients attending hospital for EPU or FET require a PCR test and negative result.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR QLD & NSW PATIENTS

Guidelines for patients/partners entering QLD and NSW clinics, consult rooms & procedure centres/day hospitals:

Masks are mandated for QLD from 1am 18.12.21. All patients must wear a mask when entering the clinic

Vaccinated patients and vaccinated partners must:

• Check-in using QLD/NSW Health App & show evidence of vaccination certificate
• Complete the Health Check Screening Form & Temperature check.

Unvaccinated partners – (If semen preparation-scheduled appointment)

• Unvaccinated partners providing a semen sample for analysis /or on the day of egg collection, are required to obtain a negative result PCR test up 48hrs to 72 hrs prior to appointment.
• Unvaccinated partners must provide evidence of a negative result by emailing details to the clinic before arriving at the clinic for appointment.
• Complete Health Check Screening Questionnaire & Temperature check.
• Unvaccinated partners must wear a mask when entering the clinic (regardless of negative PCR test result).

Unvaccinated partner attending appointments: (Nurse interview, drug teach, onsite doctor consults)

• QLD patients – Unvaccinated partners/or visitors under the QLD health guidelines are Not Permitted to enter a hospital setting, this will be applicable to our Procedure Centres and Fertility clinics.
• NSW patients – Unvaccinated partners/or visitors under the City Fertility guidelines are Not Permitted to enter a hospital setting, this will be applicable to our Day Hospital and Fertility clinics.

Unvaccinated patients – QLD/NSW residents must:

• Obtain a PCR COVID test 48hrs to 72 hrs prior to scheduled appointment.
• Provide evidence of a negative result by emailing details to the clinic before arriving at the clinic for appointment.
• Wear a mask when entering the clinic (regardless of negative PCR test result).
• Patients must check-in using QLD/NSW Health App
• Complete Health Check Screening Questionnaire & Temperature Check

Patients coming from overseas/interstate patients MUST comply with all Government border entry conditions plus:

Overseas patients

• Patients coming from overseas MUST comply with all state health entry/quarantine conditions

Interstate patients

• Vaccinated – same as vaccinated
• Unvaccinated – Same as unvaccinated – must have a negative PCR test prior to entering clinic for appointment.

Examples of required COVID-19 PCR testing:

• In some instances, patient/partners will need up to 3-4 separate COVID Tests per cycle
• Symptomatic patients and partners (even if vaccinated) to have COVID-19 PCR test.
• Unvaccinated patient for onsite Doctors Consults (enquire if telehealth is an option for unvaccinated partner)
• Unvaccinated patient only to attend Drug Collection
• Unvaccinated patient attending EPU
• Unvaccinated partner providing semen sample.
• Unvaccinated patient only to attend Embryo Transfer (unvaccinated partner will not be allowed entry).

We thank you for your patience and understanding and encourage you to get in touch with us should you have any questions or would like any further information. Please contact our friendly staff on 1800 111 373.

We will continue to monitor all new updates and keep you informed.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR NSW AND VIC PATIENTS

We would like to reassure you that all of our VIC and NSW patients can commence or continue treatment at First Step Fertility. Please wear a face mask and register using our COVID-Pass QR code on entering the clinic or hospital.

First Step Fertility is advising all patients who are undergoing a procedure (such as egg collection and frozen embryo transfers) in our clinics and/or hospitals that they will be required to undertake pre-operative COVID-19 testing at least 48 hours in NSW and 72 hours in VIC  prior to their admission date.

Patients must self-isolate within their household immediately after they have had their COVID-19 test until their admission to the hospital or our clinics.  Your procedure may be cancelled if you do not comply with this requirement. Procedures cannot be undertaken without a confirmed COVID-19 negative test.

For patients travelling interstate for treatment, please contact your clinic directly for further information on how the current COVID-19 restrictions might affect you.

To our Victorian patients, please be aware this will be applicable from Mon 30th August 2021.

What does self-isolation mean?

After testing, it is advisable to stay isolated in your home away from others including having no visitors to your home, other than household members, until you go for your surgery or procedure.  This will reduce your risk of getting COVID-19 after testing.

Isolation before surgery involves the following for patients/carers:

• It is important you remain at your place of residence/home.
• DO NOT leave except to seek medical help or in an emergency.
• DO NOT go to work, school or public areas and DO NOT use public transport/taxi/Uber.
• DO NOT allow other people into your place of residence if they do not live there.
• Avoid sharing household items. Please DO NOT share dishes, drinking glasses, cups, utensils, towels, bedding or other items with any people in your home. After using these items, you should wash them thoroughly with hot water and detergent.
• Wash your hands often and thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. You can use alcohol-based hand sanitiser if soap and water is not available and your hands are not visibly dirty. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
• STAY 1.5m from others in your home.
• Members of the household MUST follow Stage 3 guidelines.
• You WILL need to isolate until you come in for your surgery.
• If you become unwell, with a fever OR respiratory symptoms (cough, sore throat, shortness of breath), please visit your GP or Emergency Department, and notify your First Step Fertility Clinician.

For further guidance or if you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact your clinic directly or call our friendly staff on 1800 111 373.

What safety measures do we have in place to meet current COVID-19 requirements?

The safety and well-being of our patients and staff continue to be our main priority and we have and continue to take appropriate measures to address this. First Step Fertility’s protocols in place to mitigate unnecessary risk include (and are not limited to):

• All patients and essential support persons are required to wear masks and register using our COVID-Pass QR code on entering the clinic or hospital;
• All staff, patients and visitors are screened and have temperature monitoring prior to entering clinics;
• All staff, patients and visitors to the clinics are required to use hand sanitiser on entering the clinic, and staff – before and after contact with patients;
• All staff in public and patient-facing areas are required to wear masks;
• The implementation of social distancing measures wherever possible, except when carrying out essential medical procedures;
• Ensuring staff maintain high-infection control protocols including the thorough daily cleaning of all high-touch areas with high-grade disinfectant, including reception surfaces, door handles, and treatment areas.

Please be aware that there may be restrictions imposed on partners or support persons attending procedures in our clinics. This is to comply with the COVID-19 safe workplace requirements. We encourage you to contact your clinic for further guidance.

First Step Fertility is advising anyone who falls into the following categories, to delay their treatment at First Step Fertility for 14 days, if:

• you have any active flu-like symptoms;
• you have had direct contact with proven COVID-19 case or have been diagnosed with COVID-19 in the past 14 days;
• if you are self-isolating or being tested for COVID-19.

If you think at any time that you may have been exposed to COVID-19, please phone your clinic who will help you make the necessary changes to your treatment

What can we help with over the phone?

Whether you are a new or continuing patient there are a number of matters we can assist you with over the phone or online including (but not limited to):

• New patient consultations: discussing current medical situations, taking medical history and fertility history, discussing potential treatment options etc.
• Counselling sessions: our counsellors are able to offer remote consultations. A variety of appointment days and times are available including after hours (subject to individual counsellor availability).
• Medication education: advice, education, demonstrations and coaching.
• Nurse guidance: Pre-treatment advice, individualised advice and education of treatment prescribed by the fertility specialist, advice and support during the treatment and post-treatment phase including phone call, text message and email.
• Reviews: existing patient cycle review with an embryologist.

Get tested

If you have any symptoms at all, get tested immediately and quarantine at home until you receive a negative result.

For more information, please visit the New South Wales Government’s Department of Health website and Victorian Government’s Department of Health website

We thank you for your patience and understanding and encourage you to get in touch with us should you have any questions or would like any further information. Please contact our friendly staff on 1800 111 373.

We will continue to monitor all new updates and keep you informed.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR NSW PATIENTS

Due to the recent announcements made by the NSW Government regarding the ongoing COVID-19 restrictions, we would like to reassure you that all of our NSW patients can commence or continue treatment at First Step Fertility. Please wear a face mask and check-in on entering the clinic or hospital.

For patients travelling interstate for treatment, please contact your clinic directly for further information on how the current COVID-19 restrictions might affect you.

For further guidance or if you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact your clinic directly or call our friendly staff on 1800 111 373.

What safety measures do we have in place to meet current COVID-19 requirements?

The safety and well-being of our patients and staff continue to be our main priority and we have and continue to take appropriate measures to address this. First Step Fertility’s protocols in place to mitigate unnecessary risk include (and are not limited to):

• All patients and essential support persons are required to wear masks and register using our COVID-Pass QR code on entering the clinic or hospital;
• All staff, patients and visitors are screened and have temperature monitoring prior to entering clinics;
• All staff, patients and visitors to the clinics are required to use hand sanitiser on entering the clinic, and staff – before and after contact with patients;
• All staff in public and patient-facing areas are required to wear masks;
• The implementation of social distancing measures wherever possible, except when carrying out essential medical procedures;
• Ensuring staff maintain high-infection control protocols including the thorough daily cleaning of all high-touch areas with high-grade disinfectant, including reception surfaces, door handles, and treatment areas.

Please be aware that there may be restrictions imposed on partners or support persons attending procedures in our clinics. This is to comply with the COVID-19 safe workplace requirements. We encourage you to contact your clinic for further guidance.

First Step Fertility is advising anyone who falls into the following categories, to delay their treatment at First Step Fertility for 14 days, if:

• you have any active flu-like symptoms;
• you have had direct contact with proven COVID-19 case or have been diagnosed with COVID-19 in the past 14 days;
• if you are self-isolating or being tested for COVID-19.

If you think at any time that you may have been exposed to COVID-19, please phone your clinic who will help you make the necessary changes to your treatment

What can we help with over the phone?

Whether you are a new or continuing patient there are a number of matters we can assist you with over the phone or online including (but not limited to):

• New patient consultations: discussing current medical situations, taking medical history and fertility history, discussing potential treatment options etc.
• Counselling sessions: our counsellors are able to offer remote consultations. A variety of appointment days and times are available including after hours (subject to individual counsellor availability).
• Medication education: advice, education, demonstrations and coaching.
• Nurse guidance: Pre-treatment advice, individualised advice and education of treatment prescribed by the fertility specialist, advice and support during the treatment and post treatment phase including phone call, text message and email.
• Reviews: existing patient cycle review with an embryologist.

Get tested

If you have any symptoms at all, get tested immediately and quarantine at home until you receive a negative result.

For more information, please visit the New South Wales Health website. 

We thank you for your patience and understanding and encourage you to get in touch with us should you have any questions or would like any further information. Please contact our friendly staff on 1800 111 373.

We will continue to monitor all new updates and keep you informed.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR VIC PATIENTS

Due to the recent announcements made by the VIC Government regarding the lockdown, we would like to reassure you that all of our VIC patients can commence or continue treatment at First Step Fertility. Please wear a face mask and check-in on entering the clinic or hospital.

For patients travelling interstate for treatment, please contact your clinic directly for further information on how the current COVID-19 restrictions might affect you.

For further guidance or if you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact your clinic directly or call our friendly staff on 1800 111 373.

What safety measures do we have in place to meet current COVID-19 requirements?

The safety and well-being of our patients and staff continue to be our main priority and we have and continue to take appropriate measures to address this. First Step Fertility’s protocols in place to mitigate unnecessary risk include (and are not limited to):

• All patients and essential support persons are required to wear masks and register using our COVID-Pass QR code on entering the clinic or hospital;
• All staff, patients and visitors are screened and have temperature monitoring prior to entering clinics;
• All staff, patients and visitors to the clinics are required to use hand sanitiser on entering the clinic, and staff – before and after contact with patients;
• All staff in public and patient-facing areas are required to wear masks;
• The implementation of social distancing measures wherever possible, except when carrying out essential medical procedures;
• Ensuring staff maintain high-infection control protocols including the thorough daily cleaning of all high-touch areas with high-grade disinfectant, including reception surfaces, door handles, and treatment areas.

Please be aware that there may be restrictions imposed on partners or support persons attending procedures in our clinics. This is to comply with the COVID-19 safe workplace requirements. We encourage you to contact your clinic for further guidance.

First Step Fertility is advising anyone who falls into the following categories, to delay their treatment at First Step Fertility for 14 days, if:

• you have any active flu-like symptoms;
• you have had direct contact with proven COVID-19 case or have been diagnosed with COVID-19 in the past 14 days;
• if you are self-isolating or being tested for COVID-19.

If you think at any time that you may have been exposed to COVID-19, please phone your clinic who will help you make the necessary changes to your treatment

What can we help with over the phone?

Whether you are a new or continuing patient there are a number of matters we can assist you with over the phone or online including (but not limited to):

• New patient consultations: discussing current medical situations, taking medical history and fertility history, discussing potential treatment options etc.
• Counselling sessions: our counsellors are able to offer remote consultations. A variety of appointment days and times are available including after hours (subject to individual counsellor availability).
• Medication education: advice, education, demonstrations and coaching.
• Nurse guidance: Pre-treatment advice, individualised advice and education of treatment prescribed by the fertility specialist, advice and support during the treatment and post treatment phase including phone call, text message and email.
• Reviews: existing patient cycle review with an embryologist.

Get tested

If you have any symptoms at all, get tested immediately and quarantine at home until you receive a negative result.

For more information, please visit the Victorian Government’s Department of Health website

We thank you for your patience and understanding and encourage you to get in touch with us should you have any questions or would like any further information. Please contact our friendly staff on 1800 111 373.

We will continue to monitor all new updates and keep you informed.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR QLD PATIENTS

Due to the recent announcements made by the QLD Government regarding the lockdown, we would like to reassure you that all of our QLD patients can commence or continue treatment at First Step Fertility. Please wear a face mask and check-in on entering the clinic or hospital.

For patients travelling interstate for treatment, please contact your clinic directly for further information on how the current COVID-19 restrictions might affect you.

For further guidance or if you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact your clinic directly or call our friendly staff on 1800 111 373.

What safety measures do we have in place to meet current COVID-19 requirements?

The safety and well-being of our patients and staff continue to be our main priority and we have and continue to take appropriate measures to address this. First Step Fertility’s protocols in place to mitigate unnecessary risk include (and are not limited to):

• All patients and essential support persons are required to wear masks and register using our COVID-Pass QR code on entering the clinic or hospital;
• All staff, patients and visitors are screened and have temperature monitoring prior to entering clinics;
• All staff, patients and visitors to the clinics are required to use hand sanitiser on entering the clinic, and staff – before and after contact with patients;
• All staff in public and patient-facing areas are required to wear masks;
• The implementation of social distancing measures wherever possible, except when carrying out essential medical procedures;
• Ensuring staff maintain high-infection control protocols including the thorough daily cleaning of all high-touch areas with high-grade disinfectant, including reception surfaces, door handles, and treatment areas.

Please be aware that there may be restrictions imposed on partners or support persons attending procedures in our clinics. This is to comply with the COVID-19 safe workplace requirements. We encourage you to contact your clinic for further guidance.

First Step Fertility is advising anyone who falls into the following categories, to delay their treatment at First Step Fertility for 14 days, if:

• you have any active flu-like symptoms;
• you have had direct contact with proven COVID-19 case or have been diagnosed with COVID-19 in the past 14 days;
• if you are self-isolating or being tested for COVID-19.

If you think at any time that you may have been exposed to COVID-19, please phone your clinic who will help you make the necessary changes to your treatment.

What can we help with over the phone?

Whether you are a new or continuing patient there are a number of matters we can assist you with over the phone or online including (but not limited to):

• New patient consultations: discussing current medical situations, taking medical history and fertility history, discussing potential treatment options etc.
• Counselling sessions: First Step Fertility affiliated counsellors are able to offer remote consultations. A variety of appointment days and times are available including after hours (subject to individual counsellor availability).
• Medication education: advice, education, demonstrations and coaching.
• Nurse guidance: Pre-treatment advice, individualised advice and education of treatment prescribed by the fertility specialist, advice and support during the treatment and post treatment phase including phone call, text message and email.
• Reviews: existing patient cycle review with an embryologist..

Get tested

If you have any symptoms at all, get tested immediately and quarantine at home until you receive a negative result.

For more information, please visit the Queensland Government’s Department of Health website.

We thank you for your patience and understanding and encourage you to get in touch with us should you have any questions or would like any further information. Please contact our friendly staff on 1800 111 373..

We will continue to monitor all new updates and keep you informed.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR VIC PATIENTS

Due to the recent announcement made by the VIC Government Health Department, we would like to reassure you that all of our VIC patients can commence or continue treatment at First Step Fertility. Please wear a face mask and register using our COVID-Pass QR code on entering the clinic or hospital.

For patients travelling interstate for treatment, please contact your clinic directly for further information on how the current COVID-19 restrictions might affect you.

For further guidance or if you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact your clinic directly or call our friendly staff on 1800 111 373.

What safety measures do we have in place to meet current COVID-19 requirements?

The safety and well-being of our patients and staff continue to be our main priority and we have and continue to take appropriate measures to address this. First Step Fertility’s protocols in place to mitigate unnecessary risk include (and are not limited to):

• All patients and essential support persons are required to wear masks and register using our COVID-Pass QR code on entering the clinic or hospital;
• All staff, patients and visitors are screened and have temperature monitoring prior to entering clinics;
• All staff, patients and visitors to the clinics are required to use hand sanitiser on entering the clinic, and staff – before and after contact with patients;
• All staff in public and patient-facing areas are required to wear masks;
• The implementation of social distancing measures wherever possible, except when carrying out essential medical procedures;
• Ensuring staff maintain high-infection control protocols including the thorough daily cleaning of all high-touch areas with high-grade disinfectant, including reception surfaces, door handles, and treatment areas.

Please be aware that there may be restrictions imposed on partners or support persons attending procedures in our clinics. This is to comply with the COVID-19 safe workplace requirements. We encourage you to contact your clinic for further guidance.

First Step Fertility is advising anyone who falls into the following categories, to delay their treatment at First Step Fertility for 14 days, if:

• you have any active flu-like symptoms;
• you have had direct contact with proven COVID-19 case or have been diagnosed with COVID-19 in the past 14 days;
• if you are self-isolating or being tested for COVID-19.

If you think at any time that you may have been exposed to COVID-19, please phone your clinic who will help you make the necessary changes to your treatment

Get tested

If you have any symptoms at all, get tested immediately and quarantine at home until you receive a negative result.

For more information, please visit the Victorian Government Health website.

We thank you for your patience and understanding and encourage you to get in touch with us should you have any questions or would like any further information. Please contact our friendly staff on 1800 111 373.

We will continue to monitor all new updates and keep you informed.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR NSW PATIENTS

What does self-isolation mean?

After testing, it is advisable to stay isolated in your home away from others including having no visitors to your home, other than household members, until you go for your surgery or procedure.  This will reduce your risk of getting COVID-19 after testing.

Isolation before surgery involves the following for patients/carers:

• It is important you remain at your place of residence/home.
• DO NOT leave except to seek medical help or in an emergency.
• DO NOT go to work, school or public areas and DO NOT use public transport/taxi/Uber.
• DO NOT allow other people into your place of residence if they do not live there.
• Avoid sharing household items. Please DO NOT share dishes, drinking glasses, cups, utensils, towels, bedding or other items with any people in your home. After using these items, you should wash them thoroughly with hot water and detergent.
• Wash your hands often and thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. You can use alcohol-based hand sanitiser if soap and water is not available and your hands are not visibly dirty. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
• STAY 1.5m from others in your home.
• Members of the household MUST follow Stage 3 guidelines.
• You WILL need to isolate until you come in for your surgery.
• If you become unwell, with a fever OR respiratory symptoms (cough, sore throat, shortness of breath), please visit your GP or Emergency Department, and notify your First Step Fertility Clinician.

For further guidance or if you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact your clinic directly or call our friendly staff on 1800 111 373.

What safety measures do we have in place to meet current COVID-19 requirements?

The safety and well-being of our patients and staff continue to be our main priority and we have and continue to take appropriate measures to address this. First Step Fertility’s protocols in place to mitigate unnecessary risk include (and are not limited to):

• All patients and essential support persons are required to wear masks and register using our COVID-Pass QR code on entering the clinic or hospital;
• All staff, patients and visitors are screened and have temperature monitoring prior to entering clinics;
• All staff, patients and visitors to the clinics are required to use hand sanitiser on entering the clinic, and staff – before and after contact with patients;
• All staff in public and patient-facing areas are required to wear masks;
• The implementation of social distancing measures wherever possible, except when carrying out essential medical procedures;
• Ensuring staff maintain high-infection control protocols including the thorough daily cleaning of all high-touch areas with high-grade disinfectant, including reception surfaces, door handles, and treatment areas.

Please be aware that there may be restrictions imposed on partners or support persons attending procedures in our clinics. This is to comply with the COVID-19 safe workplace requirements. We encourage you to contact your clinic for further guidance.

First Step Fertility is advising anyone who falls into the following categories, to delay their treatment at First Step Fertility for 14 days, if:

• you have any active flu-like symptoms;
• you have had direct contact with proven COVID-19 case or have been diagnosed with COVID-19 in the past 14 days;
• if you are self-isolating or being tested for COVID-19.

If you think at any time that you may have been exposed to COVID-19, please phone your clinic who will help you make the necessary changes to your treatment

Get tested

If you have any symptoms at all, get tested immediately and quarantine at home until you receive a negative result.

For more information, please visit the New South Wales Government’s Department of Health website.

We thank you for your patience and understanding and encourage you to get in touch with us should you have any questions or would like any further information. Please contact our friendly staff on 1800 111 373.

We will continue to monitor all new updates and keep you informed.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR NSW PATIENTS

For patients travelling interstate for treatment, please contact your clinic directly for further information on how the current COVID-19 restrictions might affect you.

For further guidance or if you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact your clinic directly or call our friendly staff on 1800 111 373.

What safety measures do we have in place to meet current COVID-19 requirements?

The safety and well-being of our patients and staff continue to be our main priority and we have and continue to take appropriate measures to address this. First Step Fertility’s protocols in place to mitigate unnecessary risk include (and are not limited to):

• All patients and essential support persons are required to wear masks and register using our COVID-Pass QR code on entering the clinic or hospital;
• All staff, patients and visitors are screened and have temperature monitoring prior to entering clinics;
• All staff, patients and visitors to the clinics are required to use hand sanitiser on entering the clinic, and staff – before and after contact with patients;
• All staff in public and patient-facing areas are required to wear masks;
• The implementation of social distancing measures wherever possible, except when carrying out essential medical procedures;
• Ensuring staff maintain high-infection control protocols including the thorough daily cleaning of all high-touch areas with high-grade disinfectant, including reception surfaces, door handles, and treatment areas.

Please be aware that there may be restrictions imposed on partners or support persons attending procedures in our clinics. This is to comply with the COVID-19 safe workplace requirements. We encourage you to contact your clinic for further guidance.

First Step Fertility is advising anyone who falls into the following categories, to delay their treatment at First Step Fertility for 14 days, if:

• you have any active flu-like symptoms;
• you have had direct contact with proven COVID-19 case or have been diagnosed with COVID-19 in the past 14 days;
• if you are self-isolating or being tested for COVID-19.

If you think at any time that you may have been exposed to COVID-19, please phone your clinic who will help you make the necessary changes to your treatment

Get tested

If you have any symptoms at all, get tested immediately and quarantine at home until you receive a negative result.

For more information, please visit the New South Wales Government’s Department of Health website.

We thank you for your patience and understanding and encourage you to get in touch with us should you have any questions or would like any further information. Please contact our friendly staff on 1800 111 373.

We will continue to monitor all new updates and keep you informed.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR QLD PATIENTS

Due to the recent announcement made by the QLD Government Health Department, we would like to reassure you that all of our QLD patients can commence or continue treatment at First Step Fertility. Please wear a face mask when visiting your clinic.

For patients travelling interstate for treatment, please contact your clinic directly for further information on how the current COVID-19 restrictions might affect you.

For further guidance or if you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact your clinic directly or call our friendly staff on 1800 111 373.

What safety measures do we have in place to meet current COVID-19 requirements?

The safety and well-being of our patients and staff continue to be our main priority and we have and continue to take appropriate measures to address this. First Step Fertility’s protocols in place to mitigate unnecessary risk include (and are not limited to):

• All patients and essential support persons are required to wear masks and register using our COVID-Pass QR code on entering the clinic or hospital;
• All staff, patients and visitors are screened and have temperature monitoring prior to entering clinics;
• All staff, patients and visitors to the clinics are required to use hand sanitiser on entering the clinic, and staff – before and after contact with patients;
• All staff in public and patient-facing areas are required to wear masks;
• The implementation of social distancing measures wherever possible, except when carrying out essential medical procedures;
• Ensuring staff maintain high-infection control protocols including the thorough daily cleaning of all high-touch areas with high-grade disinfectant, including reception surfaces, door handles, and treatment areas.

Please be aware that there may be restrictions imposed on partners or support persons attending procedures in our clinics. This is to comply with the COVID-19 safe workplace requirements. We encourage you to contact your clinic for further guidance.

First Step Fertility is advising anyone who falls into the following categories, to delay their treatment at First Step Fertility for 14 days, if:

• you have any active flu-like symptoms;
• you have had direct contact with proven COVID-19 case or have been diagnosed with COVID-19 in the past 14 days;
• if you are self-isolating or being tested for COVID-19.

If you think at any time that you may have been exposed to COVID-19, please phone your clinic who will help you make the necessary changes to your treatment

Get tested

If you have any symptoms at all, get tested immediately and quarantine at home until you receive a negative result.

For more information, please visit the Queensland Government’s Department of Health website.

We thank you for your patience and understanding and encourage you to get in touch with us should you have any questions or would like any further information. Please contact our friendly staff on 1800 111 373.

We will continue to monitor all new updates and keep you informed.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR NSW PATIENTS

Due to the recent announcement made by the NSW Government Health Department, we would like to reassure you that all of our NSW patients can commence or continue treatment at First Step Fertility. Please wear a face mask when visiting your clinic.

For patients travelling interstate for treatment, please contact your clinic directly for further information on how the current COVID-19 restrictions might affect you.

For further guidance or if you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact your clinic directly or call our friendly staff on 1800 111 373.

What safety measures do we have in place to meet current COVID-19 requirements?

The safety and well-being of our patients and staff continue to be our main priority and we have and continue to take appropriate measures to address this. First Step Fertility’s protocols in place to mitigate unnecessary risk include (and are not limited to):

• All patients and essential support persons are required to wear masks on entering the clinic or hospital;
• All staff, patients and visitors are screened and have temperature monitoring prior to entering clinics;
• All staff, patients and visitors to the clinics are required to use hand sanitiser on entering the clinic, and staff – before and after contact with patients;
• All staff in public and patient-facing areas are required to wear masks;
• The implementation of social distancing measures wherever possible, except when carrying out essential medical procedures;
• Ensuring staff maintain high-infection control protocols including the thorough daily cleaning of all high-touch areas with high-grade disinfectant, including reception surfaces, door handles, and treatment areas.

Please be aware that there may be restrictions imposed on partners or support persons attending procedures in our clinics. This is to comply with the COVID-19 safe workplace requirements. We encourage you to contact your clinic for further guidance.

First Step Fertility is advising anyone who falls into the following categories, to delay their treatment at First Step Fertility for 14 days, if:

• you have any active flu-like symptoms;
• you have had direct contact with proven COVID-19 case or have been diagnosed with COVID-19 in the past 14 days;
• if you are self-isolating or being tested for COVID-19.

If you think at any time that you may have been exposed to COVID-19, please phone your clinic who will help you make the necessary changes to your treatment

Get tested

If you have any symptoms at all, get tested immediately and quarantine at home until you receive a negative result.

For more information, please visit the New South Wales Government’s Department of Health website.

We thank you for your patience and understanding and encourage you to get in touch with us should you have any questions or would like any further information. Please contact our friendly staff on 1800 111 373.

We will continue to monitor all new updates and keep you informed.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR BRISBANE PATIENTS

First Step Fertility is advising anyone who falls into the following categories, to delay their treatment at First Step Fertility for 14 days, if:

• you have any active flu-like symptoms;
• you have had direct contact with proven COVID-19 case or have been diagnosed with COVID-19 in the past 14 days;
• if you are self-isolating or being tested for COVID-19.

If you think at any time that you may have been exposed to COVID-19, please phone your clinic who will help you make the necessary changes to your treatment

For further guidance or if you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact your clinic directly or call our friendly staff on 1800 111 373

What safety measures do we have in place to meet current COVID-19 requirements?

The safety and well-being of our patients and staff continue to be our main priority and we have and continue to take appropriate measures to address this. First Step Fertility’s protocols in place to mitigate unnecessary risk include (and are not limited to):

• All patients and essential support persons are required to wear masks on entering the clinic or hospital;
• All staff, patients and visitors are screened and have temperature monitoring prior to entering clinics;
• All staff, patients and visitors to the clinics are required to use hand sanitiser on entering the clinic, and staff – before and after contact with patients;
• All staff in public and patient-facing areas are required to wear masks;
• The implementation of social distancing measures wherever possible, except when carrying out essential medical procedures;
• Ensuring staff maintain high-infection control protocols including the thorough daily cleaning of all high-touch areas with high-grade disinfectant, including reception surfaces, door handles, and treatment areas.

Please be aware that there may be restrictions imposed on partners or support persons attending procedures in our clinics. This is to comply with the COVID-19 safe workplace requirements. We encourage you to contact your clinic for further guidance.

Get tested

If you have any symptoms at all, get tested immediately and quarantine at home until you receive a negative result.

For more information, please visit the Queensland Government website.

We thank you for your patience and understanding and encourage you to get in touch with us should you have any questions or would like any further information. Please contact our friendly staff on 1800 111 373

We will continue to monitor all new updates and keep you informed.

UPDATE AS AT 16.03.2021 – ALL PATIENTS | 8:00 am

COVID-19 VACCINATION

The Australian government has created a COVID-19 vaccination decision guide to assist those who are pregnant, breastfeeding or planning a pregnancy. To learn more, please click on the link provided below.

• COVID-19 Vaccination Decision Guide

We encourage you to get in touch with us should you have any questions or would like any further information. Please contact our friendly staff on 1800 111 373.

We will continue to monitor all new updates and keep you informed.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR GREATER BRISBANE PATIENTS

We want to reassure you that all of our patients can commence or continue treatment at First Step Fertility. If you need to come to our clinics, please wear a face mask or we will have them available when you enter the clinic.

For further guidance or if you have any questions or concerns,  please do not hesitate to contact your clinic directly or call our friendly staff on 1800 111 373.

What safety measures do we have in place to meet current COVID-19 requirements?

The safety and well-being of our patients and staff continues to be our main priority and we have and continue to take appropriate measures to address this. First Step Fertility’s protocols in place to mitigate unnecessary risk include (and are not limited to):

• All patients and essential support persons are required to wear masks on entering the clinic or hospital;
• All staff, patients and visitors are screened and have temperature monitoring prior to entering clinics;
• All staff, patients and visitors to the clinics are required to use hand sanitiser on entering the clinic, and staff – before and after contact with patients;
• All staff in public and patient-facing areas are required to wear masks;
• The implementation of social distancing measures wherever possible, except when carrying out essential medical procedures;
• Ensuring staff maintain high-infection control protocols including the thorough daily cleaning of all high-touch areas with high-grade disinfectant, including reception surfaces, door handles, and treatment areas.

Please be aware that there may be restrictions imposed on partners or support persons attending procedures in our clinics. This is to comply with the COVID-19 safe workplace requirements. We encourage you to contact your clinic for further guidance.

First Step Fertility is advising anyone who falls into the following categories, to delay their treatment at First Step Fertility for 14 days, if:

• you have any active flu-like symptoms;
• you have had direct contact with proven COVID-19 case or have been diagnosed with COVID-19 in the past 14 days;
• if you are self-isolating or being tested for COVID-19.

If you think at any time that you may have been exposed to COVID-19, please phone your clinic who will help you make the necessary changes to your treatment.

Queensland Government Announcement – Easing of Greater Brisbane restrictions

The Queensland Government has provided the below Public Health Direction for Greater Brisbane.

Restrictions for Greater Brisbane

Get tested

If you have any symptoms at all, get tested immediately and quarantine at home until you receive a negative result.

For more information, please visit the Queensland Government website.

We thank you for your patience and understanding and encourage you to get in touch with us should you have any questions or would like any further information. Please contact our friendly staff on 1800 111 373.

We will continue to monitor all new updates and keep you informed.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR GREATER BRISBANE PATIENTS

The Queensland Government has provided the below Public Health Direction for Greater Brisbane.

Greater Brisbane 3-day lockdown

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR ALL PATIENTS

The Queensland Government has provided the below Public Health Direction for all of Queensland.

Effective 24 September 2020 – Travelers from previous hotspots

Anyone may enter Queensland from a place that is no longer a declared COVID-19 hotspot. You can enter Queensland even if you have been in a previously declared COVID-19 hotspot in the last 14 days. The Australian Capital Territory is planned to no longer be a hotspot from 1 am 25 September.

Effective from 1:00 am, 1 October 2020 – Border zone

Because of the reduced risk of COVID-19 transmission in northern New South Wales, the following changes have been made regarding the border zone:

• The New South Wales border zone (PDF) will be extended
• The Queensland border zone will no longer exist
• Queensland residents will be able to travel anywhere in the New South Wales border zone for any purpose
• New South Wales border zone residents will be able to travel anywhere in Queensland for any purpose.

For further information please visit the Queensland Government website

We thank you for your patience and understanding during these unprecedented times and encourage you to get in touch with us should you have any questions or would like any further information. Please contact our friendly staff on 1800 111 373

We will continue to monitor all new updates and keep you informed.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR ALL PATIENTS

We want to reassure you that all of our patients can commence or continue treatment at First Step Fertility.

What safety measures do we have in place to meet current COVID-19 requirements?

The safety and well-being of our patients and staff continues to be our main priority and we have and continue to take appropriate measures to address this. First Step Fertility’s protocols in place to mitigate unnecessary risk include (and are not limited to):

• All patients and essential support persons are required to wear masks on entering the clinic or hospital;
• All staff, patients and visitors are screened and have temperature monitoring prior to entering clinics;
• All staff, patients and visitors to the clinics are required to use hand sanitiser on entering the clinic, and staff – before and after contact with patients;
• All staff in public and patient-facing areas are required to wear masks;
• The implementation of social distancing measures wherever possible, except when carrying out essential medical procedures;
• Ensuring staff maintain high-infection control protocols including the thorough daily cleaning of all high-touch areas with high-grade disinfectant, including reception surfaces, door handles, and treatment areas.

Please be aware that there may be restrictions imposed on partners or support persons attending procedures in our clinics. This is to comply with the COVID-19 safe workplace requirements. We encourage to contact your clinic for further guidance.

First Step Fertility is advising anyone who falls into the following categories, to delay their treatment at First Step Fertility for 14 days, if:

• you have any active flu-like symptoms;
• you have had direct contact with proven COVID-19 case or have been diagnosed with COVID-19 in the past 14 days;
• if you are self-isolating or being tested for COVID-19.

If you think at any time that you may have been exposed to COVID-19, please phone your clinic who will help you make the necessary changes to your treatment.

Queensland border restrictions guidelines

In response to the current border restrictions announced by the Queensland Government on the 20th of August, First Step Fertility is providing the following advice:

Patients living in the “border zone” can commence or continue treatment at our Gold Coast clinic.

All persons who are given an exemption to come in from VIC ACT and NSW are subject to quarantine restrictions on entry to Queensland for 14 days. Please note this does not apply to people living in the “border zone” and does not prevent urgent care being delivered during these 14 days.

The exemption that allows our patients and visitors entry into QLD only allows entry. It does NOT exempt them from quarantine. 

The exemptions that allow the residents of “the border zone” in northern NSW does not extend to travel to Brisbane. These residents are subject to quarantine if they travel outside the border zone in Southern QLD. Brisbane is outside this border zone.

Alternatively, First Step Fertility can offer you treatment in the state that you reside in one of our local clinics in QLD and NSW.

We thank you for your patience and understanding during these unprecedented times and encourage you to get in touch with us should you have any questions or would like any further information. Please contact our friendly staff on 1800 111 373.

We will continue to monitor all new updates and keep you informed.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR NSW PATIENTS 

We want to reassure you that all of our NSW patients can commence or continue treatment at First Step Fertility.

NSW Health has announced all health workers caring/working within 1.5m of any patient are required to wear masks.

First Step Fertility is advising anyone who falls into the following categories, to delay their treatment at First Step Fertility for 14 days, if:

• you have any active flu-like symptoms;
• you have had direct contact with proven COVID-19 case or have been diagnosed with COVID-19 in the past 14 days;
• if you are self-isolating or being tested for COVID-19.

If you think at any time that you may have been exposed to COVID-19, please phone your clinic who will help you make the necessary changes to your treatment.

What safety measures do we have in place?

The safety and well-being of our patients and staff continues to be our main priority and we have and continue to take appropriate measures to address this. First Step Fertility’s protocols in place to mitigate unnecessary risk include (and are not limited to):

• All patients and essential support persons are required to wear masks on entering the clinic;
• All staff, patients and visitors are screened and have temperature monitoring prior to entering clinics;
• All staff, patients and visitors to the clinics are required to use hand sanitiser on entering the clinic, and staff – before and after contact with patients;
• All staff in public and patient-facing areas are required to wear masks;
• The implementation of social distancing measures wherever possible, except when carrying out essential medical procedures;
• Ensuring staff maintain high-infection control protocols including the thorough daily cleaning of all high-touch areas with high-grade disinfectant, including reception surfaces, door handles, and treatment areas.

We thank you for your patience and understanding during these unprecedented times and encourage you to get in touch with us should you have any questions or would like any further information. Please contact our friendly staff on 1800 111 373.

We will continue to monitor all new updates and keep you informed.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR ALL PATIENTS (Federal Government announcement)

Scott Morrison has announced that the Federal Government will be easing restrictions on some elective surgery effective Tuesday 28 April, including IVF services. First Step Fertility will be recommencing all IVF services in line with this directive.

We understand that this has been a challenging time for all you and we want to thank you for your ongoing support. Please be reassured that social distancing and safety measures continue to be in place to ensure the safety of our patients and staff at all times.

Please call 1800 111 373 to discuss your options and to get started on your journey towards parenthood today!

During these difficult and unprecedented times, we are here to support each and every First Step Fertility patient in any way we can. Your wellbeing is very important to us. We encourage you to give us a call to discuss your options or any other questions you may have at this time.

Please rest assured that for those who may have embryos, eggs or sperm in storage, our experienced and expert scientists will continue to ensure they remain safe. We will be ready and waiting for you to continue your fertility journey, as soon as we can in the coming months.

First Step Fertility will continue to consult with patients via phone and video conference. You can contact us on 1800 111 373 for further information on the limited services available.

What can we help with over the phone?

Whether you are a new or one of our existing patients there are a number of matters we can assist you with over the phone including (and not limited to):

• New patient consultations: discussing your current medical situation; taking medical and fertility history; discussing potential treatment options etc.
• Counselling sessions: First Step Fertility affiliated counsellors are able to offer remote supportive, couples or donor-recipient counselling services.  A variety of appointment days and times are available including after-hours (subject to individual counsellor availability).
• Medication education: advice; education; online demonstrations; and coaching.
• Nurse guidance: Pre-treatment advice; individualised advice and education of treatment prescribed by the fertility specialist; advice and support via phone call, text message and email.
• Reviews: Existing patient cycle review with a fertility specialist or embryologist

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR ALL PATIENTS (Federal Government update for all patients)

In these unprecedented times, we want to ensure you are provided with the most up to date information.

For any patients currently undergoing treatment, The Health Minister, Greg Hunt and the Chief Medical Officer, Brendan Murphy have indicated that patients who, as of 25 March 2020, 1:00 pm, have started an IVF cycle will be allowed to complete their treatment, this includes fresh and frozen cycles. Please contact your treating fertility specialist or clinic for further advice.

We are continuing to liaison with Federal and State Governments and we will continue to provide any important updates as they are made available.

We will continue to provide phone and online (skype etc) consultations. Contact us on 1800 111 373 for information on the limited services available.

According to the Royal Australian College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG, 29 March 2020).  At this time, pregnant women do not appear to be more severely unwell if they develop COVID-19 infection than the general population, however pregnant women should be considered a vulnerable or at-risk group. It is expected that the large majority of pregnant women will experience only mild or moderate cold/flu like symptoms. However, detailed information regarding the impact of COVID-19 infection on pregnant women and their babies is limited by the recency of the disease emergence.

To view the RANZCOG guidelines for pregnant women, please visit RANZCOG reiterates advice on COVID-19 vaccination – RANZCOG for more detailed information and or speak with your treating clinician about your personal circumstances.

Guidance from the Fertility Society of Australia can also be found here: RANZCOG reiterates advice on COVID-19 vaccination – RANZCOG

All fertility treatment can recommence as of 28 April 2020.

It is okay if you wish to cancel your cycle and prefer to wait. We can work with you and your specialist to manage your future treatments.

Yes, you are able to continue your cycle and proceed with the transfer.

Please discuss with a First Step Fertility specialist or a fertility nurse coordinator your treatment options.

If you get sick mid-cycle and it is suspected that it is due to COVID-19, firstly, you will need to notify your treating clinician and GP. To ensure your health and the health of staff, we may need to cancel your cycle until after you have been in self-isolation and/or after you have been tested.

We would ask that you seek medical advice regarding your personal circumstances and consult with your treating specialist so we can manage your care accordingly.

Your embryos are cultured and incubated in our laboratory under strict conditions. Additionally, your embryos are cultured in your own individual dish. Our laboratories have specialised air filters and are restricted to only laboratory staff. All staff at First Step Fertility are screened daily.

As mentioned above, your embryos are incubated in their own individual dish in a special media.  If embryos are frozen during this time, as per usual procedure, all surfaces and equipment are wiped down between patients before the next freezing event.

Your embryos are safely stored in individual straws in liquid nitrogen at -196 degrees

Given all people returning from overseas to Australia are required to self-quarantine for 14 days, your treatment cycle will need to be delayed until a later date as we cannot manage your cycle without having any direct contact with you.

If you reside in NSW and are concerned how this could impact your fertility treatment, First Step Fertility is pleased to advise, the Queensland Government have confirmed that cross-border travel for medical treatment purposes at our Robina Clinic is allowed.

In an effort to help minimise the travel required for you, First Step Fertility can now:

• Provide phone and or video consultations where practical;
• Courier medications to you if required;
• Provide medication training via video conferencing; and
• Arrange for your scans to occur locally, where possible.

As a result of the above changes, you will now only be required to attend the Robina clinic for your procedure. For this, we will provide you with a letter from your fertility specialist to state you are travelling for medical purposes. We request that you please contact our Patient Services Team on 1300 859 116 to obtain a copy of this letter before attending your appointment

First Step Fertility is continuing to monitor the Department of Health alerts and provide any important updates to patients as soon as they are available. For additional information on COVID-19 please visit www.health.gov.au

For more information on essential travel for medical appointments into Queensland, click here.

As is the case for all health services, First Step Fertility is implementing a range of safety precautions to minimise this risk, these include:

• Stay away from work policy: We are advising anyone who falls into the following categories, to not attend work and seek medical advice:
  • Active flu-like symptoms
  • Recent direct contact with proven COVID-19 case in the past 14 days
  • Recently returned from overseas travel within the past 14 days (since 15 March these people must self-isolate for 14 days.)
• Daily staff health screening: To help us protect everyone in our clinics, day procedure centres and call centres, we are implementing a daily health check screen for all staff, patients and visitors. We are asking staff to record their temperature and status of their travel or whether they have been in close contact with a person who has been diagnosed with COVID-19.
• Patient health check on arrival: We will also be asking patients some health check questions and taking patient temperatures with an infrared temperature device.
• High Infection control protocols: We are undertaking thorough daily cleaning of all high-touch areas with high-grade disinfectant, including reception surfaces, door handles, and treatment areas.
• Hand sanitisation: All staff, patients and visitors to our clinics are required to use hand sanitiser upon entering the clinic. All staff are required to use it before and following contact with patients.
• Social distancing in our clinics: We have implemented social distancing measures in our waiting rooms and staff working areas.

Scott Morrison announced on 21st April 2020, that the Federal Government will be easing restrictions on some elective surgery effective Tuesday 28 April, including IVF services. First Step Fertility will be recommencing all fertility services in line with this directive.

In the event of the hospital associated with your clinic closes, our sister clinic has its own off-site procedure centres/day hospital in the following locations:

• In Queensland, two procedure centres (Sunnybank and Gold Coast) where we can provide ongoing care and services for egg pickups.
• In New South Wales, our Gateway Day Hospital in the CBD can provide ongoing services for egg pickups.

If you must withdraw from fertility treatment because of an actual or suspected COVID-19 exposure before the egg collection or transfer, First Step Fertility will not charge you any out-of-pocket fees. If you have collected medication, please store this as per directed and this can be used for a future cycle when it is safe for you to proceed with treatment.

Whether you are a new or continuing patient there are a number of matters we can assist you with over the phone or online including (and not limited to):

• New patient consultations: discussing current medical situations, taking medical history and fertility history, discussing potential treatment options etc.
• Counselling sessions: First Step Fertility affiliated counsellors are able to offer remote supportive counselling services.  A variety of appointment days and times are available including after hours (subject to individual counsellor availability)
• Counselling sessions: facilitate counselling to address any concerns relating to treatment
• Medication education: advice, education, demonstrations and coaching
• Nurse guidance: Pre-treatment advice, individualised advice and education of treatment prescribed by the fertility specialist, advice and support during the treatment and post-treatment phase including phone call, text message and email
• Existing patient cycle review with an embryologist

Our sister clinic, City Fertility, has a comprehensive education e-book full of important information fertility treatment including a number of remote learning support videos which we can share with you to watch from your home.  These videos include information on understanding the menstrual cycle, the fertility window, the IVF process including starting treatment, giving injections and egg retrieval, embryology and embryo transfer. You can ask our friendly staff to send you the link to these resources for your perusal.

Alternatively, you can also check under the Resources section on our website, or visit our Frequently Asked Questions web page.