Declan Keane, senior Embryologist with 20 years experience both in Ireland and Americaand Clinical ambassador for the National Infertility Support and Information Group and Siobhan Boucher, Secretary for the National Infertility Support and Information Group came on to the show today to talk to Sean about dealing with fertility.

The statistics:

• 1 in 6 people are affected by fertility issues in Ireland.  
• Every year approximately 2,000 Irish couples receive IVF treatment. 
• 85% will get pregnant within the first year. 95% will successfully conceive within the second year. 
• It is now believed that fertility issues lie 50% with women and 50% with men.

The aim of the National Infertility Support and Information Group (NISIG)

It is not only the patients that suffer as a result of infertility; it is their partners, families, friends and others surrounding them too. The subject of infertility is still considered taboo in Ireland. This stigma has led to patients becoming afraid to speak about their issues.

During the conference, independent experts who are available to speak on the following subjects:

• Irish legislation – There is currently no governing body in Ireland for Human Assisted Reproduction, therefore Irish clinics have had to self-regulate.
• Infertility - A hidden epidemic – 1 in 6 Irish people are affected by infertility issues.
• Psychological issues facing patients and those surrounding them who have problems conceiving
• The medical problems that may cause fertility issues in both men and women Personal stories detailing two different struggles with infertility
• Infertility tourism - many Irish patients are seeking treatment abroad for various reasons
• Donor conception - no sperm banks in Ireland so other options are sought by Irish patients
• Patient worries and fears
• Funding for treatment (or lack thereof) 

Topics to be presented at the conference include:

• A General Landscape on Infertility
• Recurrent Miscarriages and Immune Issues
• Psychological Implications of Infertility
• Donor Conception ‘Talking and Telling’
• A Personal Donor Journey
• Implantation Failure
• Mindfulness
• Optimising IVF Outcomes
• Genetic Screening in IVF
• Secondary Screening in IVF
• Going Abroad for Anonymous Egg Donation

National Infertility Conference, hosted by the National Infertility Support and Information Group (NISIG) in ThomondPark, Limerick Saturday 14^th Sept.

For more details check out the NISIG website.