ISIS Fertility - Support groups

Our clinicians, nurses, counsellors, administration and scientists are there to support you each step of the way as are the various fertility support groups that operate throughout Australia.

We encourage everyone on our program to continue with their normal life, as this is the best way to deal with the extra stresses. You will only need to be away from work for a short time each treatment cycle; rarely more than a couple of days for women and a couple of hours for men.

Some women may feel tired, bloated, nauseous and moody as result of the hormone treatment which may require them to get more rest then usual.

As well, most couples experience a "roller coaster ride" of emotions, particularly if a treatment cycle is not successful. This, and other factors, can place great strains on your relationship, so it is very important that you and your partner receive understanding and support throughout the program.

To help you while you are going through the process of trying to achieve a pregnancy, we offer a range of support services. Individual and couple counselling is available to help overcome any difficulties you may be experiencing with your treatment, feelings or relationships.

Active support groups hold regular meetings, produce newsletters and organise fundraising activities.

IVF Friends through Monash IVF/ISIS Fertility

Patients may elect to become members of IVF friends through Monash IVF/ISIS Fertility — an annual membership is open via direct subscription

IVF Friends was formed in 1980 by couples participating in the Monash University In Vitro Fertilisation Program, now known as Monash IVF. Its membership consists of more than 1,500 couples from a wide range of social, cultural and religious backgrounds. It devotes its entire resources to issues relating to infertility, particularly IVF, and to the well-being of patients on our program.

IVF Friends is an autonomously constituted support group, with its main concern being the representation of members' interests. However, it maintains a close and privileged relationship with Monash IVF nationally.

IVF Friends — objectives

To provide moral support for members through the creation of a supportive environment and development of new friendships
To assist members to understand the in vitro fertilisation embryo transfer techniques as well as other forms of treatment of infertility
To raise money for the in vitro fertilisation program, primarily to assist in the purchase of medical equipment to be used in the program
To undertake any voluntary work which IVF Friends members may from time to time see fit.

Email: info@ivffriends.com.au

Membership enquiries: 03 9449 0290

Other support groups in Australia

ACCESS — Australia's national infertility network

Infertility is a major life crisis — affecting all areas of your life. You will need help to move through this crisis. Access can provide information, support and advocacy for you.

Access is committed to promoting the well being and welfare of all infertile people. Membership is open to anyone experiencing infertility or who would like to understand or know more about it, supporting allied health care professionals and corporate benefactors.

Website: www.access.org.au

Donor Conception Support Network

This is a self funding organisation run by volunteers which has been in existence since 1993. Starting with a membership of 20, the group has now grown to 250 members. The membership is made up of people considering using donor sperm, egg or embryo, others currently on programmes, those who already have children conceived on donor programmes and also some adult donor offspring. There are also social workers, doctors and clinic staff as members of the support groups. The group believes that Donor Gamete families need an ongoing support system. Unlike many other infertility treatments those using Donor Gametes continue to need support beyond the initial decision making and treatment.

Website: www.dcsg.org.au