Question 1

What is IVF and how does it work?

Accepted Answer

IVF (In Vitro Fertilization) is a fertility treatment where eggs are retrieved from the ovaries and fertilized with sperm in our laboratory. The resulting embryos are then transferred to the uterus. The process typically takes 4-6 weeks and includes ovarian stimulation, egg retrieval, fertilization, embryo culture, and transfer.

Question 2

What are the success rates for IVF at Sali Hospital?

Accepted Answer

Our IVF success rates are among the highest in the region, with clinical pregnancy rates of 55-65% for women under 35. Success rates vary based on age, diagnosis, and treatment protocol. We provide personalized prognosis during your consultation based on your specific situation.

Question 3

How much does IVF cost in Zambia?

Accepted Answer

IVF treatment at Sali Hospital starts from $6,500 USD for a standard cycle, which includes consultations, medications, egg retrieval, laboratory procedures, and embryo transfer. Additional costs may apply for ICSI, PGT, or frozen embryo transfers. We offer transparent pricing and payment plans.

Question 4

Can women over 40 have IVF?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we specialize in helping women over 40 achieve pregnancy. We have successfully delivered babies to women over 50 and 60 using donor eggs. For women 40-44, we offer enhanced IVF protocols with their own eggs where viable. Women over 45 typically benefit from our donor egg program for the highest success rates.

Question 5

What is ICSI and when is it used?

Accepted Answer

ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection) involves injecting a single sperm directly into an egg. It's recommended for male factor infertility, low sperm count, previous fertilization failures, or when using frozen sperm. ICSI can improve fertilization rates significantly in these cases.

Question 6

Do you offer fertility preservation (egg freezing)?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we offer egg freezing, embryo freezing, and sperm cryopreservation. Egg freezing is ideal for women who want to preserve their fertility for medical reasons (such as before cancer treatment) or personal reasons (such as career planning). Frozen eggs can be stored for many years.

Question 7

What antenatal care services do you offer?

Accepted Answer

Our comprehensive antenatal care includes regular check-ups, ultrasound scans (including 3D/4D), blood tests, genetic screening, nutritional counselling, and birth planning. We monitor both mother and baby throughout pregnancy to ensure a healthy outcome.

Question 8

Do you handle high-risk pregnancies?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we specialize in high-risk pregnancy management including multiple pregnancies (twins, triplets), gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, advanced maternal age, and previous pregnancy complications. Our team includes experienced specialists and 24/7 emergency care.

Question 9

What delivery options are available?

Accepted Answer

We offer natural vaginal delivery, water birth options, and caesarean section when medically necessary. Our birthing suites are equipped with modern monitoring equipment, and we have a fully staffed NICU for newborn emergencies. Your birth plan is discussed during antenatal visits.

Question 10

When should I start antenatal care?

Accepted Answer

We recommend starting antenatal care as soon as you know you're pregnant, ideally within the first 8-10 weeks. Early care allows us to establish a baseline, screen for any early concerns, and provide guidance on nutrition, supplements, and lifestyle.

Question 11

When should I book my first antenatal appointment?

Accepted Answer

We recommend booking your first antenatal appointment as soon as you have a positive pregnancy test, ideally between 6-10 weeks. Early booking allows us to confirm your pregnancy with an ultrasound, establish baseline health checks, and begin your personalized care plan.

Question 12

What is included in your maternity packages?

Accepted Answer

Our maternity packages include comprehensive antenatal care visits, ultrasound scans, blood tests, delivery (vaginal or cesarean), postnatal care, and newborn care. Specific inclusions vary by package tier. Contact our patient coordinator for detailed package information and pricing.

Question 13

Do you have a NICU for premature babies?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we have a fully equipped Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) with modern incubators, monitoring equipment, and experienced neonatal nurses. Our NICU provides specialized care for premature babies and newborns requiring extra medical attention.

Question 14

What gynaecological conditions do you treat?

Accepted Answer

We treat a wide range of conditions including fibroids, endometriosis, PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome), ovarian cysts, abnormal bleeding, pelvic pain, infections, and menopause-related issues. Our approach combines medical and surgical treatments as appropriate.

Question 15

Do you perform laparoscopic (keyhole) surgery?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we specialize in minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery for conditions like fibroids, endometriosis, ovarian cysts, and tubal issues. Laparoscopic surgery offers faster recovery, less pain, and smaller scars compared to open surgery.

Question 16

Can fibroids affect fertility?

Accepted Answer

Yes, depending on their size and location, fibroids can affect fertility by blocking fallopian tubes, distorting the uterine cavity, or affecting implantation. We offer fibroid removal (myomectomy) that preserves the uterus and fertility, as well as IVF for women with fibroids.

Question 17

How long does fibroid surgery recovery take?

Accepted Answer

Recovery depends on the surgical approach. Laparoscopic myomectomy typically allows return to normal activities in 1-2 weeks. Open abdominal myomectomy may require 4-6 weeks. Your surgeon will provide specific guidance based on your procedure.

Question 18

Can I get pregnant after a myomectomy?

Accepted Answer

Yes, myomectomy is specifically designed to preserve your uterus and fertility. Many women successfully conceive after myomectomy. We typically recommend waiting 3-6 months before trying to conceive, depending on the extent of surgery.

Question 19

What size fibroids require surgery?

Accepted Answer

Surgery is not based on size alone. We consider symptoms (heavy bleeding, pain, pressure), location, fertility impact, and your quality of life. Small fibroids causing significant symptoms may need treatment, while large asymptomatic fibroids may be monitored.

Question 20

Is laparoscopic surgery safer than open surgery?

Accepted Answer

Laparoscopic surgery generally offers benefits including less blood loss, fewer complications, shorter hospital stay, and faster recovery. However, the safest approach depends on your specific situation. Our surgeons choose the technique that offers you the best outcome.

Question 21

What payment methods do you accept?

Accepted Answer

We accept cash, bank transfers, major credit/debit cards, and mobile money (Airtel Money, MTN). We also offer payment plans for IVF treatment to make care more accessible. Please speak with our finance team for details.

Question 22

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

We work with several insurance providers. Coverage varies by policy, so we recommend checking with your insurance company before treatment. Our team can provide the documentation needed for insurance claims.

Question 23

Are there any hidden costs in IVF treatment?

Accepted Answer

We believe in transparent pricing. Our IVF package quotes include all standard procedures. Additional costs that may apply include: ICSI (if needed), embryo freezing, PGT genetic testing, additional medications, or frozen embryo transfers. All potential costs are discussed upfront.

Question 24

Do you offer package deals or discounts?

Accepted Answer

We offer multi-cycle packages at reduced rates for patients who may need more than one IVF attempt. We also have special programs for international patients. Please contact our patient coordinator for current offers.

Question 25

How do I arrange treatment as an international patient?

Accepted Answer

Contact us via WhatsApp, email, or phone to start your journey. We'll arrange a virtual consultation with one of our specialists, prepare a treatment plan and cost estimate, and help coordinate your visit including visa letters, accommodation recommendations, and airport transfers.

Question 26

What languages are spoken at the hospital?

Accepted Answer

Our medical team speaks English, and we have staff who speak French and Portuguese to support patients from DRC, Angola, Mozambique, and other countries. Translation services can be arranged for other languages.

Question 27

How long will I need to stay in Zambia for IVF?

Accepted Answer

A typical IVF cycle requires 2-3 weeks in Lusaka. This includes initial consultations, monitoring scans during stimulation (about 10-14 days), egg retrieval, and embryo transfer. Some patients choose to return home after transfer; others prefer to stay until the pregnancy test.

Question 28

Is Lusaka safe for medical tourists?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Lusaka is one of the safer cities in the region. Our hospital is located in a secure area with good access to hotels, restaurants, and amenities. We provide guidance on accommodation and can arrange secure transportation for our patients.

Question 29

How do I book an appointment?

Accepted Answer

You can book an appointment by calling +260 966 498 532, messaging us on WhatsApp at +260 977 481 176, or using the booking form on our website. Our team responds within 24 hours to confirm your appointment.

Question 30

What should I bring to my first appointment?

Accepted Answer

Please bring any previous medical records, test results, ultrasound reports, and a list of current medications. For fertility consultations, both partners should attend if possible. Bring identification and your insurance card if applicable.

Question 31

What are your opening hours?

Accepted Answer

We are open Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and Saturday from 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Emergency services are available 24/7 for existing patients and maternity emergencies.

Question 32

Where is the hospital located?

Accepted Answer

Sali International Women's Hospital is located at 23 Ngulube Road, Lusaka, Zambia. We are easily accessible from the main road with ample parking available. Our coordinates can be found on Google Maps by searching 'Sali International Women's Hospital'.

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

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