FAQs

Your questions answered

When should I see a fertility specialist?

If you wish to see a fertility specialist, your first port of call should be your GP.

Heterosexual couples: see your GP if you are having trouble conceiving despite regular unprotected sex for over 12 months (or over 6 months if you or your partner are over 35).

Your GP can perform an initial fertility assessment and may make some recommendations. If further investigation or treatment is required, they may choose to refer you to a fertility specialist for expert advice.

Same-sex couples and individuals requiring assisted conception with donor eggs or sperm: as soon as you are ready to get started, see your GP for a referral to a fertility specialist.

What can a fertility specialist help with?

Fertility specialists are trained in gynaecology and obstetrics as well as reproductive endocrinology and infertility. They can carry out a range of fertility tests and treatments for individuals and couples who are having trouble conceiving, or otherwise need assistance to conceive.

Fertility specialists can also manage conditions that may affect fertility, such as polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, adenomyosis, uterine fibroids, and irregular periods.

What fertility treatments do you provide?

We provide the following treatments:

  • Fertility optimisation
  • Ovulation induction (OI)
  • Intrauterine insemination (IUI)
  • In-vitro fertilisation (IVF)
  • Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI)
  • Pre-implantation genetic testing (PGT-M, PGT-SR, PGT-A)
  • Donor conception + surrogacy.

We also provide:

  • Management of recurrent miscarriage and repeated IVF failure, including diagnostic and strategic plans, along with early pregnancy (first trimester) support.

We can also manage the following conditions that may affect fertility:

  • Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
  • Endometriosis
  • Adenomyosis
  • Uterine fibroids
  • Irregular periods
  • Blocked tubes
  • Anatomical issues (e.g. uterine septum, bicornuate uterus, double uterus, blocked or absent fallopian tubes).

What non-IVF treatments do you provide?

We provide the following non-IVF treatments:

  • Fertility optimisation
  • Ovulation induction (OI)
  • Intrauterine insemination (IUI).

We also provide:

  • Management of recurrent miscarriage and repeated IVF failure, including diagnostic and strategic plans, along with early pregnancy (first trimester) support.

We can also manage the following conditions that may affect fertility:

  • Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
  • Endometriosis
  • Adenomyosis
  • Uterine cysts and fibroids
  • Irregular periods
  • Blocked fallopian tubes (e.g. due to previous pelvic infections like chlamydia, or due to surgical scarring or endometriosis)
  • Anatomical issues (e.g. uterine septum, bicornuate uterus, double uterus, blocked or absent fallopian tubes).

Do you treat male factor infertility?

Yes, we provide comprehensive male fertility testing and fertility treatment to address the specific cause of male factor infertility. This includes semen analysis and testing for sperm DNA fragmentation, as well as comprehensive hormone and genetic testing, where appropriate. Testicular biopsies are performed by Dr Sacks, or with the Male Reproductive Urologist, Dr Shannon Kim. Dr Sacks has ongoing research projects designed to pioneer new AI (artificial intelligence) methods to find sperm more effectively, as well as new laboratory methods for selecting the best sperm for ICSI

What is the Bondi Protocol?

The Bondi Protocol is an innovative fertility treatment based on Dr Gavin Sacks’ research into recurrent miscarriage and repeated IVF failure. A combination of two medicines that target the immune system, The Bondi Protocol may help improve pregnancy success rates in women whose immune system is affecting their fertility.

Am I suitable for the Bondi Protocol?

The Bondi Protocol is an immune therapy that may suppress the overactive immune system in women with high NK cell activity. It is not appropriate for every woman. A simple blood test can help identify whether you may be a candidate for this therapy. To undergo assessment for The Bondi Protocol, request a referral from your GP to see Dr Gavin Sacks.

Do you offer any complementary or alternative fertility treatments?

Dr Sacks collaborates with many alternative practitioners who strive to provide a holistic approach to fertility care. This is a highly individualised area of therapy, and Dr Sacks is happy to discuss this in depth with regard to the overall strategy of your treatment plan.

How is Flow Fertility different from other fertility clinics?

At Flow Fertility, we are committed to taking an innovative approach to fertility care. By partaking in ground-breaking fertility research and staying abreast of new research findings by other fertility experts, we can bring you the latest evidence-based treatments.

We also take a collaborative approach to patient care, working with you to tailor a treatment to your specific needs, preferences and goals.

Lastly, providing an empathetic environment is important to us. We will do our best to make sure you feel supported at every stage of your fertility journey.

Do I need a referral to see a fertility specialist?

Yes, you will need a referral from a GP (valid for 12 months), or from a specialist such as a gynaecologist (valid for 3 months).

Where are you located?

You can see Dr Gavin Sacks at IVF Australia’s consulting rooms in Bondi Junction or the Sydney CBD:

Bondi Junction Fertility Clinic (IVF Australia)
Suite 1601, Level 16,
Westfield Tower 2,
101 Grafton St,
Bondi Junction NSW 2022
T: 02 8305 9800

Sydney CBD Fertility Clinic (IVF Australia)
Level 6, 20 Bond Street,
Sydney NSW 2000
T: 02 8305 9800

How can I book an appointment?

What should I bring to my first appointment?

Please bring the following with you on your first visit:

  • Your referral (if not already sent directly to our clinic)
  • Any relevant pathology tests or imaging results such as ultrasound or MRI
  • Details of all medications you are currently taking, including over-the-counter medicines, nutritional supplements and herbal medicines
  • Your Medicare card
  • Your private health insurance card, if you have one.

Where will my procedure take place?

All fertility treatments requiring day surgery (e.g. egg collection, embryo transfer) will be performed at Alexandria Specialist Day Hospital.

I live interstate or overseas – can I still see Dr Sacks?

Yes, Dr Sacks can consult initially by videoconference (Zoom) if patients are prepared to travel for any necessary investigations and fertility treatment.

Can I drive after an operation or procedure?

You will not be able to drive after an egg retrieval (as this procedure requires light sedation) and will need someone to accompany you home.

However, you can resume normal activities after an embryo transfer, as no sedation is required.

We will provide instructions and guidance for other surgical procedures, if recommended as part of your care.

Does my private health insurance cover your consultation fees?

Private health insurance can cover some of the procedure costs associated with IVF, such as day surgery admission and anaesthetist fees. However, consultation fees are not usually covered by private health insurance.

A flat fee is charged for consultations. You will be informed of this fee at the time of booking, based on the type of consultation required.

For detailed information regarding coverage, rebates, waiting periods and eligibility criteria, please contact your private health insurance provider directly.

Which payment methods do you accept?

We accept payment via EFTPOS, credit card or cash. Payment is due on the day of your appointment or procedure.

Will my medical records be kept private and confidential?

Yes, your medical records will be kept private and confidential as required by law. However, occasionally we may be required (by law) to share your details with third parties such as your GP, other healthcare providers involved in your care, Medicare, hospitals, police or courts of law. If you have any questions, please contact the clinic.