FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How long does the process take from start to finish?
It’s up to you! Most couples take approximately 4 months from the first time they reach out to us, through to visiting Dr Potter for IVF in LA. However this is flexible. You can start as early as 6 months.
Simply put, gender selection involves couples undergoing IVF which is the fertilisation of a woman’s eggs outside of the body. Once the embryos are created, the chromosomes are screened for abnormalities and to check whether the embryo has XX (girl) or XY (boy). Then, the strongest, most viable embryo of the gender of your choice is transferred. You can read more about the specific process by reviewing our How it Works page.
What is PGD?
PGD is the process of screening embryos to determine the genetic make-up of each embryo. PGD screens for all 24 chromosomes and ensures that the embryos are chromosomally normal, as well as screening for a multitude of diseases. A list of screened diseases can be found on our How it Works page.
How do I know if I am a good candidate for gender selection?
As part of the testing process conducted while in Australia, Dr Potter will be able to give you a clear indication of your chances of success. He will generally give you a percentage rate and how many viable embryos of the gender of your choice to expect from your treatment.
How much does the treatment for IVF gender selection cost?
Dr Potter’s fee is $18,825 (USD) and you will receive a $1,000 discount as a GSA family. A comprehensive breakdown of our pricing can be found on our Pricing Package page.
Does GSA charge a fee?
Gender Selection Australia offers a completely FREE service, to assist families seeing Dr Potter for gender selection to navigate their journey.
What are Dr Potters success rates?
Dr Potter has some of the highest success rates in the world year on year. His overall success rates are over 85%. More information about this can be found on our Success Rates page.
Planning and Preparation in Australia
When should I undertake my testing?
Testing needs to be done within 6 months of seeing Dr Potter to fall pregnant.
Where do I get my testing done?
You can get your testing done with a GP or fertility specialist. We will help you find doctors that can assist you with the process.
How long is testing valid for?
Testing is valid for 6 months in general, however some tests are valid for 12 months. Dr Potter’s team will be happy to talk you through this.
When is testing done?
Testing is done at certain times in your cycle. Day 1 of your cycle is the first day you bleed, and a blood test is done between days 2-4. Then an ultrasound is done between days 6-12. Male partners will be asked to do a blood test and a sperm analysis, however this can be done at any time as there is no need to accommodate a hormone cycle.
I am currently pregnant and/or breastfeeding, when can I start the process and fall pregnant with my next baby?
You need to wait until 6 months after the birth of your baby before you can commence testing. If you are still breastfeeding at this stage, there will be a further delay as you will need to wait 2 months after you cease breastfeeding in order to complete the tests. This is mandatory this as breastfeeding alters the hormone levels, and thus it effects testing results. You can then see Dr Potter to fall pregnant as early as 9 months after the birth of your baby.
When do I commence my injections?
You will commence your stimulation injections approximately 10 days prior to your egg retrieval date. Dr Potter will provide you with a schedule which outlines all your medication, dosages and the timings.
Do I have to track my cycle?
Dr Potter overrides your natural cycle by the use of medication and the contraceptive pill. This means he can time your treatment precisely and you can select your egg retrieval date months in advance. This takes the pressure of tracking off you and makes the process seamless.
Can you recommend accommodation during my stay in Los Angeles?
GSA can assist you with recommended hotels and accommodation close to Dr Potters clinic where our patients like to stay.
The Process in Los Angeles
How long do I have to be in Los Angeles for?
You are required in LA for 1 x 5 day trip for the egg retrieval, and 1 x 4 day trip for the Frozen Embryo Transfer.
How long am I expected to be at each visit to the clinic?
You can expect to be at the clinic for 1-3 hours for each visit.
What day are the embryos tested?
The embryos are biopsied on Day 5.
How many embryos are typically transferred?
Dr Potter recommends transferring 1 healthy embryo however you can transfer 2, pending consultation with Dr Potter.
Are genetic tests included as well as gender?
Yes, the genetic testing screens for all 24 chromosomes along with many other diseases. Please see our How it Works page for the full list of diseases screened.
Will Dr Potter undertake the treatment?
Yes, Dr Potter will look after you personally throughout the whole process and be there with you once you arrive in L.A along with his support team. You can find out more about Dr Potter on our About page.
Where is treatment undertaken?
Treatment is undertaken at the HRC Fertility which is located at 20360 SW Birch St, Newport Beach, CA 92660.
After the Process
Is bed rest required after the treatment or can I continue with normal everyday activities?
Bed rest is recommended for 48 hours after the embryo transfer.
When will I have my pregnancy test?
You will have a pregnancy test 12 days after the embryo transfer. Dr Potter will provide orders so you can have this test done locally in Australia.
Do I need to take medication after the embryo transfer?
In most cases you will take some medication in the initial weeks to ensure the lining of your uterus is optimal for the embryo to take.
What if pregnancy is not achieved following the embryo transfer?
Whilst most of our families are successfully pregnant, sometimes a transfer does not result in a pregnancy. In this case, you can return to have a frozen embryo transferred. If you don’t have any remaining embryos, Dr Potter will consult with you regarding the best options for the future.
What happens once I am in Australia after the transfer – do I still consult with Dr Potter?
Before you depart L.A Dr Potter will provide you with a number of blood tests and ultrasounds he requires in the first 6 weeks of your pregnancy. You will be monitored by Dr Potter during this period and at 6 weeks once your pregnancy is officially confirmed your relationship with Dr Potter will cease and you will be managed by a doctor locally.