The new normal: a UK fertility clinic experience of universal RT-PCR SARS-CoV-2 testing

Abstract

Following the temporary closure of fertility clinics in 2020 in many countries across the world, the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has meant that the sector has had to rapidly adapt to novel ways of operating. The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy and feasibility of universal real-time polymerase chain reaction testing at an IVF clinic within a UK tertiary referral centre. Between March and December 2020, we performed 2,401 SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR tests on 1,215 individual patients, of which eight were positive (0.3%). Appropriate positive case identification allowed for delay in treatment initiation or cancellation as applicable. This has allowed our unit to continue to operate safely and efficiently.

Keywords:

• In vitro fertilization
• COVID-19
• SARS-CoV-2
• RT-PCR
• fertility clinic

Disclosure statement

The authors have no relevant declarations of interest.