Our next Fertility Open evening will take place on the 7th February. Places are limited so please email [email protected] to confirm your place. Fertiltiy Consultant, Miss Petya Doncheva, will give you a free 15 minute consultation to discuss your fertility challenges and give you an overview of the options available to you. You can meet some of the members of the team and get a feel if we are the right clinic for you.
Improving Chances of At Home Conception – Is it Possible?
We read with interest about the new Fertility device (Twoplus Fertility Sperm guide) that promises to increase the chances of conception by retaining sperm in the vagina for over an hour. The aim is to prevent sperm leakage after intercourse and create a rich pool of sperm in the vagina, thereby increasing the chances of fertilization by enabling more sperm cells to swim up into the uterine cavity.
The device is inserted into the vagina, and the male ejaculates sperm into the pouch of the device. Manufacturers of this device recommend that couples use a lubricant to minimize the male partner’s discomfort during intercourse.
“Great interest among our patients; including same-sex couples who wish to explore self-insemination.”
Obviously, the development of any device that facilitates conception is always exciting to the Fertility community.
Although we are yet to see any scientific data to back the efficacy of this device, we anticipate that it would draw great interest among our patients; including same-sex couples who wish to explore self-insemination.
Obviously, the outcome of fertility treatment is influenced by various factors, which is why treatment must always be individualized. Each case is different, and it is essential to ensure that the treatment of choice is suitable for the individual patients.
“The outcome of fertility treatment is influenced by various factors.”
Devices like this would be much more effective for women who have a good understanding of their ‘body’.
It is extremely helpful for women to understand the ‘fertile window’ and to aim for insemination/intercourse at the time of optimum fertility.
The fertile window is best defined as the 6day interval ending on the day of ovulation. The viability of both eggs and sperm should be maximum during this time. Research has shown that peak fecundity was observed when intercourse occurred within 2 days before ovulation.
Among women who have regular cycles, the likelihood of conception increases during the putative fertile window.
TwoPlus Fertility Device
Unfortunately, the timing of the fertile window within a given cycle can vary considerably, even in women who have regular cycles. Although fertility tracking methods (including calendars and apps; cervical monitoring, ovulation detection kits and basal body temperature tracking) can help assist patients to understand their own personal cycle characteristics. A major weakness of these predictor devices is that they are based on the assumption that the timing and duration of a woman’s fertile window are consistent and dependent on cycle length characteristics and trends. But we know that cycles are pretty much variable, and the timing of ovulation can vary from month to month and from woman to woman.
The calendar method is based on the length of the menstrual cycle. The length of the luteal phase (the part of the menstrual cycle after ovulation) is presumed to be about 14days. Thus, the day of ovulation would be cycle day 14 for women who have a 28-day cycle and day 16 for women with a 30days cycle.
“Unfortunately, the timing of the fertile window within a given cycle can vary considerably, even in women who have regular cycles.”
The fertile window, therefore, is set as the presumed day of ovulation and the 5 days prior (cycle day 9-14 in a 28 day cycle and cycle days 11-16 in women with a 30 day cycle etc).
Finally, it is important to note that sperm is motile and swims into the cervical canal extremely quickly and shortly after deposition in the vagina. Studies have shown that sperm deposited into the vagina at mid-cycle are found in the fallopian tube within 15 minutes. Sperm has been found in the cervical canal seconds after ejaculation, regardless of the coital position.
Although many women think that lying face upwards for some time after intercourse facilitates sperm transport and prevents leakage of sperm from the vagina, this belief is not backed by any scientific evidence. Lying still in bed or elevating the legs does not necessarily increase the chance to conceive. Motile sperm swims up the genital tract, and some seminal fluid leakage is normal.
Whilst we welcome new devices that help our patients conceive, it is important that the right patient group are identified for each treatment type, and treatment must be individualized.
For more information on the different fertility options available to you at The Surrey Park Clinic, please click here.
The 17 – 23rd of January was cervical cancer prevention week. Cervical cancer is highly preventable with recent data showing the HPV vaccine is cutting cases of cervical cancer by nearly 90%.
Nearly all cervical cancers are caused by a high risk HPV virus. This sometimes causes changes in the cells in the cervix which may develop into cancer.
Cervical screening helps detect if you carry the high risk HPV virus and if there are any changes to cells in the cervix. HPV is common, 8 out of 10 people will have it during their lifetime so having the high risk HPV virus doesn’t necessarily mean you will develop cervical cancer. But if screening picks up you do have it, you can be monitored and treated before the virus becomes cervical cancer.
Cervical screening is important even if you have had the HPV vaccine as the vaccine doesn’t protect against all types of HPV. If you are nervous about going for screening, please talk to your medical practitioner as they will try to make you as comfortable as possible. The procedure only lasts a few minutes but could save your life. There are sadly around 850 people who die from cervical cancer a year so please make sure you attend your screening when invited. We also offer cervical screening here at The Surrey Park Clinic, so please get in touch if you’d like to book. You can book on-line (link in bio) or call 01483 454 016.
NEW: We are delighted to now offer a therapy and counselling service. Our team of psychotherapists can help with specific problems triggered by life-stage, e.g perinatal, postnatal, midlife or can help with general anxiety, depression, dealing with trauma or relationship problems. We are offering 10% off your first appointment. Visit https://thesurreyparkclinic.co.uk/mental-health-services/ or call 01483 454016 to book
Awareness of the 5 gynaecological cancers is very low despite 21,000 women receiving a diagnosis each year. As with many cancers, early diagnosis is key so it is important women are aware of the signs and symptoms to look out for and to know what’s normal for them.
At The Surrey Park Clinic we offer Well Woman checks, Cervical Screening and Ovarian Cancer screening. You can find out more about these tests by following the links and you can book these on-line or by calling 01483 454 016. As September is Gynae Cancer Awareness Month, we are offering 10% off our Well Woman and Ovarian Cancer Screening checks for bookings made in September.
Ovarian Cancer
Otherwise known as the silent killer, ovarian cancer is sadly often diagnosed at a late stage which is why awareness of symptoms is critical to ensure this cancer is caught early.
Ovarian cancer affects around 7,500 women a year. It is the abnormal growth and division of cells in the ovary and the tumour can spread to other areas of the abdomen. Recent research has highlighted that ovarian cancer is likely to start in the fallopian tubes.
Symptoms of ovarian cancer:
The main symptoms of ovarian cancer are fairly vague and non-specific but do watch out for:
Struggling to eat and feeling full more quickly
Abdominal bloating
Abdominal or pelvic pain felt over a period of time
A change in bladder habits
Post menopausal bleeding
If you have any of these symptoms, please do see your GP or book into to see our consultant gynaecologist. At The Surrey Park Clinic, we offer ovarian cancer screening. Our Consultant Gynaecologist will discuss your medical history, conduct a trans-vaginal scan to assess the ovaries and also do CA125, CEA, Ca19-9 blood tests.
Who is at risk?
Women with a family history of Ovarian cancer and or related cancers such as breast, bowel and endometrial cancer
Women with an inherited BRCA gene mutation
As there is increasing awareness of Ovarian cancer, many women simply wish to have the reassurance of having their ovaries checked, especially if they have a friend who has developed the disease
More information on Ovarian Cancer:
Vulval Cancer
Vulval Cancer fortunately is quite a rare cancer and tends to affect women over 65 years. In order to be vigilant, it is important to know what your vulva “normally” looks like. We advise using a mirror to get to know the appearance of your vulva and check this on a regular basis to see if there are any changes.
Symptoms of Cancer of the Vulva:
a persistent itch in the vulva
pain, soreness or tenderness in the vulva
raised and thickened patches of skin that can be red, white or dark
a lump or wart-like growth on the vulva
bleeding from the vulva or blood-stained vaginal discharge between periods
an open sore in the vulva
a burning pain when peeing
a mole on the vulva that changes shape or colour
What Causes Vulval Cancer?
The exact cause of vulval cancer is unclear, but the following factors may increase your risk of developing the condition:
increasing age
vulval intraepithelial neoplasia (VIN) – where the cells in the vulva are abnormal and at risk of turning cancerous
persistent infection with certain versions of the human papillomavirus (HPV)
skin conditions affecting the vulva, such as lichen sclerosus
smoking
Our Consultant Gynaecologist, Mr Jay Chatterjee, gives an overview of Vulval Cancer:
Womb/Uterine Cancer
This is the most common gynaecological cancer which affects a woman’s reproductive system. It tends to be more common amongst post-menopausal women.
Symptoms of womb cancer:
any abnormal bleeding during your usual cycle
any bleeding post menopause
What causes womb cancer?
It is not always clear why womb cancer occurs but there are factors which may increase your risk of developing it. If you have high levels of oestrogen in your body you may have a higher risk. Obesity can create higher levels of oestrogen and there may also be a slight higher risk from long term use of tamoxifen.
Our Consultant Gynaecologist, Mr Jay Chatterjee, shares an overview of womb cancer:
Cervical Cancer
What is Cervical Cancer?
Cervical cancer is one of the few cancers that is highly preventable. This is because dangerous pre-cancerous cell changes can be picked up in a Cervical screening, and any abnormal cells can be removed before they develop into cervical cancer.
Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer in women under 35 years and causes approximately 1,000 deaths per year in the UK. Most cervical cancers are caused by the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV).
What Are The Symptoms of Cervical Cancer?
Symptoms include:
Vaginal bleeding between periods
Bleeding during or after sexual intercourse
Bleeding at any time if you are past Menopause
Vaginal discharge that smells unpleasant
Discomfort or pain during sexual intercourse
How do I Reduce my risk of Cervical Cancer?
Ensuring you are up to date with your Cervical screening appointments are the best way to reduce your risk of Cervical cancer. Research suggests that Cervical screenings (smear test and HPV testing) save around 1,000 lives every year. At The Surrey Park Clinic we offer a cervical screening service – find out more here.
HPV vaccines are also now available. Human papillomavirus vaccines are vaccines that prevent infection by certain types of human papillomavirus. Available HPV vaccines protect against either two, four, or nine types of HPV. All HPV vaccines protect against at least HPV types 16 and 18, which cause the greatest risk of cervical cancer.
Mr Jay Chatterjee gives an overview of Cervical Cancer:
Vaginal Cancer
Vaginal cancer is a rare cancer affecting the vagina, the tube leading from the cervix (neck of the womb) to the vulva.
What are the symptoms of vaginal cancer?
vaginal bleeding after the menopause
bleeding after sex or pain during sex
smelly or bloodstained vaginal discharge
bleeding between periods
a lump or mass in or at the entrance to the vagina
an itch in your vagina that will not go away
pain when peeing, or needing to pee a lot
Vaginal cancer is very rare for women under 40 but if you are experiencing symptoms, please do seek medical advice as early diagnosis is key.
We are excited to be launching our new referral scheme so you can save money on treatment.
Many patients come to our clinic having been recommended by a friend, so we thought it was about time we thanked our wonderful patients for doing this. As a token of our appreciation, we will credit your Surrey Park Clinic account with £10 each time you refer a friend who books a service with us. You can use any credit towards the cost of future treatment with us, including private GP appointments, blood tests, scans, swabs, Covid Test for Travel and consultations. You will receive an email notifying you when a credit has been applied to your account.
We currently help patients facing fertility challenges, gynaecological conditions and the menopause. We also offer a range of pregnancy scans, a private GP service and a comprehensive range of blood tests and swabs. Credits will be available to use for up to 2 years and the scheme starts from the 1st August 2021.
If you have any questions regarding this scheme, please do contact us.
T&Cs:
1. You must be 18 years plus and already have an account with The Surrey Park Clinic to refer someone else
2. The £10 credit will be available on your account for 2 years and can be redeemed against any future appointments, consultations, blood tests, scans, swabs or procedures carried out at The Surrey Park Clinic
3. The credit is not redeemable for cash
4. If the person referred cancels their appointment and is refunded, The Surrey Park Clinic reserve the right to withdraw the credit
5. The Surrey Park Clinic reserves the right to terminate the referral programme at any time.
Recently there have been some shocking reports in the news about women experiencing severe pain during the fitting of intra-uterine devices. We wanted to reassure our patients you should never experience pain during these procedures. Our specialist Gynaecologists, Mr Jay Chatterjee and Miss Lilian Ugwumadu, are highly experienced in fitting these devices and have never had a patient complain of pain during this procedure. Mr Jay Chatterjee outlined our approach to fitting Coils/IUDs at The Surrey Park Clinic:
“Experiencing pain during coil insertion is not acceptable. At The Surrey Park Clinic, we insert a copper coil or progesterone intra-uterine device after the cervical canal has been thoroughly treated with anaesthesia, either by using an injectable local anaesthetic or a local anaesthetic spray or gel.
We insert IUDs/Coils under ultra-sound guidance and myself and the nurse, or health care assistant, check our patients feel comfortable throughout and are supported after the procedure.
Our minimal cervical stimulation and dilation techniques cause the least discomfort during any coil insertion.
If for some reason, due to severe cervical stenosis (Cervical stenosis is narrowing of the passageway through the cervix) and despite total local anaesthetic application of the cervix, the cervical canal cannot be dilated, the procedure is halted to avoid causing any pain or distress to the patient. We would then advise the patient has the coil fitted under general anaesthetic.” Mr Jay Chatterjee, Consultant Gynaecologist and Gynae Oncology surgeon.
If you would like to book an IUD/Coil fitting or removal with either Mr Jay Chatterjee or Miss Lilian Ugwumadu, then please call 01483 454 016.
Join us for a Fertility Q & A with our Fertility Specialist, Dr Julia Kopeika. This will take place on Instagram (follow @thesurreyparkclinic) on the 6th July 2021 at 6pm. Please do send in any questions you have regarding fertility treatment, testing and challenges via direct message and Dr Kopeika will try to get through as many as possible. You can always send through questions during the Instagram Live as well.
Please do let other interested parties know as well.
Join Clinic Director Katie Biddiss and Fertility Consultant Lilian Ugwumadu for an overview of fertility testing and treatment at The Surrey Park Clinic on the 7th June at 6.30 pm. You will have the opportunity for a 5 minute mini private consultation with Lilian to go over any specific questions you may have. Places are limited so click here to find out more and register.
