The Centre for Reproductive & Genetic Health (CRGH) is a premier fertility clinic based in London, United Kingdom, recognized globally for its high success rates and pioneering work in reproductive medicine. Established in 1990 by Mr. Paul Serhal, a renowned consultant in reproductive medicine, the clinic has maintained a close academic and clinical relationship with University College London Hospital (UCLH). This synergy allows CRGH to remain at the forefront of clinical research, integrating the latest scientific advancements directly into patient care protocols.
CRGH operates primarily from its flagship facility on Great Portland Street, London, but has expanded its reach through various satellite clinics. The entity is distinguished by its heavy emphasis on the "Genetic" aspect of its name, positioning itself as a leader in Pre-implantation Genetic Testing (PGT) alongside traditional Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART). It is regulated by the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA), where it consistently ranks among the top-performing clinics in the UK regarding live birth rates per embryo transfer.
Core Reproductive Services
CRGH provides a comprehensive suite of fertility treatments tailored to meet diverse patient needs, ranging from standard intervention to highly complex medical cases.
In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF)
The cornerstone of CRGHâ??s clinical practice is IVF. The clinic employs a bespoke approach to ovarian stimulation, monitoring patients closely through ultrasound and hormonal assessments to optimize egg yield and quality. Their laboratory processes utilize advanced culture media and time-lapse incubation technology (such as EmbryoScope) to monitor embryo development without disturbing the controlled environment.
Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI)
For cases involving male factor infertility, CRGH utilizes ICSI. This procedure involves the selection of a single, high-quality sperm and its direct injection into a mature oocyte. This service is often paired with advanced sperm selection techniques, such as Physiological Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (PICSI), which helps identify sperm with higher DNA integrity.
Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)
As a less invasive first-line treatment, CRGH offers IUI. This process involves the preparation of a concentrated sample of motile sperm, which is then placed directly into the uterus during the patient's peak fertile window, either in a natural cycle or following mild stimulation.
Specialized Genetic Services
CRGH is internationally recognized for its expertise in genetics, offering one of the most robust PGT programs in the United Kingdom.
Pre-implantation Genetic Testing for Monogenic Disorders (PGT-M)
Formerly known as PGD, this service is designed for couples who are carriers of specific genetic conditions, such as Cystic Fibrosis, Huntingtonâ??s Disease, or Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. CRGH specializes in creating custom "probes" to identify embryos affected by these specific single-gene mutations, ensuring only unaffected embryos are selected for transfer.
Pre-implantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy (PGT-A)
This screening process checks embryos for the correct number of chromosomes. It is frequently utilized for older patients or those with a history of recurrent miscarriage or failed IVF cycles. By identifying embryos with chromosomal abnormalities (aneuploidy), CRGH significantly improves the chances of a successful pregnancy and reduces the time to conception.
Pre-implantation Genetic Testing for Structural Rearrangements (PGT-SR)
For individuals carrying a balanced translocation or inversion, CRGH provides PGT-SR to identify embryos with an unbalanced chromosomal arrangement, which would otherwise lead to pregnancy loss or severe developmental issues.
Fertility Preservation
CRGH offers extensive preservation options for both medical and elective ("social") reasons, utilizing advanced vitrification (ultra-rapid freezing) technology.
Oocyte Cryopreservation (Egg Freezing)
The clinic is a major provider of egg freezing services. The process involves hormonal stimulation and egg retrieval, followed by vitrification. This service is sought by women wishing to preserve their fertility for the future or by those undergoing medical treatments (such as chemotherapy) that may impair ovarian function.
Embryo and Sperm Freezing
CRGH maintains a sophisticated cryopreservation bank for embryos, allowing patients to store surplus high-quality embryos from a fresh IVF cycle for future use. Additionally, sperm freezing is offered for men undergoing medical treatments or for those requiring surgical sperm retrieval.
Third-Party Reproduction and Donation Programs
To support patients who cannot conceive using their own gametes, CRGH manages a robust third-party reproduction department.
Egg and Sperm Donation
The clinic operates an internal egg donation program and collaborates with reputable sperm banks. They offer both "egg sharing" (where a patient undergoing IVF donates half their eggs to reduce treatment costs) and altruistic donation programs. All donors undergo rigorous physical, psychological, and genetic screening.
Surrogacy
CRGH is one of the few UK clinics with a dedicated pathway for surrogacy. They provide the clinical and coordination support required for intended parents using a gestational carrier, ensuring all legal and HFEA regulatory requirements are met during the IVF and embryo transfer process.
Diagnostic and Investigative Procedures
Before commencing treatment, CRGH performs in-depth diagnostic evaluations to identify the root causes of infertility.
Female Fertility Assessment
- Ovarian Reserve Testing: Utilizing Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) blood tests and Antral Follicle Counts (AFC) via ultrasound.
- HyCoSy (Hysterosalpingo-contrast-sonography): A specialized ultrasound procedure used to check the patency of the fallopian tubes and the health of the uterine cavity.
- 3D Saline Infusion Sonography: To detect uterine abnormalities like polyps or fibroids.
Male Fertility Assessment
- Advanced Semen Analysis: Beyond count and motility, assessing morphology and vitality.
- Sperm DNA Fragmentation Testing: Measuring the integrity of the genetic material within the sperm, which can impact fertilization and miscarriage rates.
- Surgical Sperm Retrieval (SSR): Including PESA and TESE procedures for men with obstructive or non-obstructive azoospermia.
Clinical Philosophy and Patient Care
The Centre for Reproductive & Genetic Health distinguishes itself through a "patient-first" philosophy. This is evidenced by their commitment to individualized treatment plans rather than "one-size-fits-all" protocols. Their multidisciplinary team includes consultants, embryologists, specialized nurses, and counselors, ensuring that the psychological impact of fertility treatment is addressed alongside the medical aspects.
The clinicâ??s lab-heavy focus ensures that every technological advantage is leveraged. By maintaining one of the highest volumes of PGT cycles in the UK, CRGH has accumulated a level of data and expertise that allows them to handle the most difficult cases, including patients who have failed multiple cycles at other institutions. Their consistently high live birth rates, reported annually to the HFEA, solidify their status as a global leader in the field of MedTech and reproductive healthcare.
