Fertility Counselling in London

10 MIN READ - January 7, 2025
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Fertility counselling can help couples struggling with infertility. As one of the leading private health clinics, Medstar Fertility Counselling in London offers a range of fertility services in our Family Planning Clinic

Understanding the emotional and psychological impact of fertility problems is an important part of our holistic treatment approach. Located in London, Medstar Clinic specializes in helping patients deal with stress, anxiety, and relationship issues that often accompany the struggle of infertility.

Join us in this blog as we explore fertility problems in women and men, the causes of infertility, genetic testing, reflexology, how to cope with infertility through fertility counselling, and how Medstar can help you overcome this problem if you search for “Fertility Counselling Near Me”. Let’s start! 

What is Fertility Counselling?

Infertility is a stressful experience that can take both a physical and mental toll. Fertility counselling provides a supportive environment for patients to discuss their feelings and concerns. Our counsellors are specially trained to help couples cope with infertility and make important decisions about their family planning goals.

During counselling sessions, patients can talk through their experiences with a non-judgemental listener. Common issues addressed include feelings of loss, isolation, relationship challenges, and guilt or blame. The counsellor serves as an outlet for validation and helps normalise the ups and downs that come with the fertility journey.

Beyond emotional support, fertility counselling at Medstar Clinic also provides factual information. Counsellors explain the medical aspects of infertility in clear, accessible language. They clarify infertility treatment options and help couples understand realistic success rates. This empowers patients to make informed choices that align with their values and circumstances.

The goal of fertility counselling is to enhance well-being. By alleviating distress, couples can maintain hope throughout their treatment. The counselling relationship also strengthens coping skills for any future challenges that may arise. At Medstar Clinic, we see counselling as an important complement to medical care in achieving the best possible outcomes.

Fertility Problems in Women and Men

Both female and male fertility are complex, and a variety of factors can potentially impact conception. Fertility counselling helps patients understand what may be contributing to their personal situation. Here are a few common causes of infertility that are evaluated:

In women, conditions like endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and uterine abnormalities may interfere with ovulation, menstruation, or embryo implantation. Advanced maternal age is another risk factor due to the natural decline in egg quality over time. Lifestyle factors such as smoking, excessive alcohol use, and extreme weight fluctuations can also negatively influence fertility.

For men, low sperm count, poor sperm motility, and abnormal sperm shape (morphology) are among the physical issues often investigated. Testicular injuries, genetic defects, hormonal imbalances, and varicocele (enlarged veins within the scrotum) have all been linked to subfertility as well. Environmental exposures, certain medications, and lifestyle habits could potentially impair sperm production or function, too.

By discussing medical history and test results with a counsellor, patients gain a fuller picture of how their anatomy and overall health may be impacting their chances of conception. This provides context for exploring treatment options best suited to their unique fertility needs.

Can Bladder Problems Affect Fertility?

Surprisingly, bladder and urinary tract issues may indirectly influence fertility potential. Recurrent urinary tract infections (UTI), especially in women, are a risk factor for infertility. 

If left untreated, UTIs can travel upwards into the kidneys (pyelonephritis) and potentially damage fallopian tubes over time through inflammation and scarring. Bladder infections should always be addressed promptly through antibiotics to prevent fertility complications.

Pelvic floor dysfunction, which describes muscle and nerve issues in the pelvic region, has also been linked to both fertility and pregnancy-related problems. Weakened pelvic floor muscles may contribute to conditions like uterine prolapse, bladder infections, and painful sex. 

Our doctors at Medstar Family Planning in London Clinic are knowledgeable about pelvic floor therapies like biofeedback and reflexology that can help repair muscle dysfunction and support fertility health naturally. Addressing any underlying pelvic floor issues through counselling and alternative therapies may boost chances of conceiving and carrying a pregnancy to term.

Are Fertility Problems Hereditary?

In some cases, fertility challenges do appear to run in families. Genetic defects are one cause of this hereditary link. Abnormalities in genes responsible for the normal development of reproductive structures and function can be passed down from generation to generation.

Certain rare genetic syndromes like Turner syndrome are also associated with infertility. Counselling provides an opportunity to review any family history patterns that suggest a genetic predisposition to fertility problems. Advanced genetic testing may then identify specific inherited conditions raising someone's infertility risk profile.

Understanding if fertility issues cluster in the family tree guides medical management and family planning. It gives clients more realistic expectations of treatment effectiveness based on their likely genetic factors. 

Counsellors help interpret genetic screening results and weigh options like using donor eggs or sperm to build a family if a strong hereditary link is discovered. Counselling empowers those with a potential genetic predisposition to make informed choices about their path to parenthood.

Genetic Testing for Fertility Problems

When the cause of infertility is unclear after standard evaluation, genetic testing may offer insight into contributing genetic factors. As part of a comprehensive fertility counselling program, Medstar Clinic is equipped to perform a variety of screening tests.

For women, a transvaginal ovarian reserve screening via antral follicle count (AFC) and anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) level assessment provides an early warning sign of potential diminished ovarian reserve (DOR) issues like premature ovarian aging. Karyotype testing identifies common chromosomal anomalies in both males and females associated with infertility.

Advanced testing is also available to detect rare genetic syndromes and single-gene defects through microarray analysis and gene panels. One such condition is Fragile X syndrome, the most common form of inherited intellectual disability, potentially contributing to both male and female subfertility. 

Identifying genetic causes through counselling and testing uncovers new avenues for management and treatment planning. In some cases, genetic testing results may demonstrate that fertility issues have a hereditary basis. This important information allows patients to make well-informed family planning choices moving forward. 

At Medstar Clinic, our fertility team provides compassionate counselling and state-of-the-art testing to help patients understand their diagnosis and options on both medical and emotional levels.

How to Cope with Fertility Problems?

Dealing with fertility issues can be challenging both physically and mentally. Feelings of sadness, anxiety, isolation, and lack of control are common among those experiencing infertility. However, there are techniques you can use to better cope with the stress:

  • Talk to others—Discussing your feelings with close friends and family who are supportive can help you feel less alone. Support groups can also help you connect with others facing similar struggles.

  • Practice self-care: Prioritise rest, nutrition, exercise, and activities you enjoy. Taking care of your physical and mental health will help you feel more equipped to handle the emotional aspects of fertility problems.

  • Reframe negative thoughts—Challenging thoughts like "I will never get pregnant" with more balanced perspectives can reduce distress. Focus on the aspects of your life you can control.

  • Seek professional help—A licensed therapist or counsellor can provide coping strategies tailored to your needs. Fertility counselling services like those offered at Medstar Clinic are designed specifically for individuals dealing with infertility.

  • Find perspective—Remember that you are more than just your ability to conceive. Fertility challenges do not define your whole identity. Appreciate the aspects of your life that do not involve fertility.

  • Make a plan—Whether it is alternative treatment options or preparing yourself emotionally for the next steps, having a plan can help manage anxiety by regaining a sense of control. Medstar Clinic counselors can help create tailored plans.

Adopting healthy coping habits takes time and conscious effort, but seeking support is the first step to feeling more in control during a difficult experience like infertility. Book a fertility counselling appointment online at Medstar Clinic for guidance.

Reflexology for Fertility Problems

Alternative therapies like reflexology can help reduce stress related to fertility issues. Reflexology involves massaging specific pressure points on the feet that correspond to different glands and organs in the body. Studies show it may help boost fertility by relaxing the body and improving blood flow.

A certified reflexologist will perform a gentle foot massage to target reflex points associated with the reproductive system. This can help address hormonal imbalances, ease menstrual cramps, and lessen anxiety—all of which may positively impact fertility. 

Reflexology sessions also promote deep relaxation and stress relief. Medstar Clinic offers reflexology treatments as part of a comprehensive approach to fertility counselling. 

Working with a counsellor allows patients to explore how stress could be impacting their fertility and determine if reflexology might benefit them as a complementary therapy. Make an appointment online to discuss reflexology and other options for managing fertility-related stress with Medstar Best Fertility Clinic London.

Fertility Counselling Near Me

For those struggling with infertility and searching for “Fertility Counselling Near Me”, Medstar Clinic provides a convenient fertility counselling service in London. Our clinics are easy to access via public transport or a short drive from surrounding areas. You can check out “Travel and Parking” for more information.

Experienced counsellors see patients individually or as couples to address issues like difficulty conceiving, miscarriage, infertility diagnosis, fertility treatment stresses, or third-party reproduction concerns. Counselling focuses on reducing distress through emotional support, education, coping strategies, and goal setting.

Services are available in person or via videoconferencing for those who prefer virtual sessions. Appointments can be scheduled according to your availability on weekdays, evenings, or weekends. Initial consultations last 60 minutes to assess needs, with follow-up sessions as required.

Medstar Clinic aims to make fertility counselling accessible and affordable. Most appointments cost a reasonable self-pay rate. The friendly staff helps navigate payment options. Contact the clinic today to learn more or book your first counselling session online—the first step to regaining emotional well-being during your fertility journey.

How to Book a Fertility Counselling Appointment Online?

Booking counselling is simple and convenient whether you need support managing general fertility issues or are undergoing treatment. Here are the steps to book a fertility counselling appointment online:

  • Visit Medstar website and click "Book an Appointment."

  • Select "Fertility Counselling" or “Family Planning Clinic” from the menu.

  • Choose your preferred counsellor if you have one in mind, or select "First Available."

  • Provide your contact details.

  • Select your appointment date/time—we offer same-day booking if slots are available.

  • Review your booking details and submit payment online via credit/debit card.

  • You will receive a confirmation email with appointment details.

  • Come to your session prepared to discuss your goals for fertility counselling.

For new patients, we recommend booking in advance, as popular counsellors fill up quickly. Existing patients can usually book within a few days. To make an appointment online for a fertility consultation or counselling session, you can also download the Medstar app, which is available both on the Google Play Store and App Store

Contact us directly if you need to reschedule or cancel your appointment. We look forward to supporting your fertility health through our counselling services. Our caring specialists at Medstar Family Planning Clinic in London are ready to answer your questions and help you start your family on the right path.

Medstar Fertility Counselling Clinic in London

As a leading fertility counselling clinic in London, Medstar Clinic is dedicated to helping individuals and couples struggling with infertility. Our team of experienced counsellors provides fertility counselling services and complementary therapies to reduce stress and boost emotional well-being throughout the fertility journey.

Whether you are just starting to try to conceive, undergoing fertility treatments, coping with diagnosis, or considering third-party options like surrogacy or donation, Medstar London counsellors can help. Counselling focuses on educating patients, addressing relationship issues that may impact fertility, developing coping strategies, and setting realistic expectations and goals.

In addition to weekly counselling sessions, we offer seminars on topics like infertility diagnosis, fertility preservation, accepting childlessness, and more. Support groups meet regularly to connect those experiencing similar challenges. Reflexology and acupuncture services are also available to complement counselling.

If you are in search of “Family Planning Clinic Near Me in London”, contact Medstar Clinic today to book your initial fertility counselling appointment. Our friendly team will work with you to understand your concerns and develop a personalised care plan. Together, we will help you regain a sense of control over your fertility, health, and emotional well-being!

#reproductivehealthandfertility

* Please note that the content of this blog has been reviewed by healthcare professionals, the views expressed herein are solely those of the author and should not be construed as expert advice. We value the input of our readers and encourage thoughtful engagement with the content provided. If you are willing to use this information stated here please advise with healthcare professionals.

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