Background

Philosophy

Our philosophy

"The University of Bristol's Centre for Reproductive Medicine was founded in 1983 on the clear principle that the best possible clinical services to diagnose and treat infertile couples should run hand-in-hand with basic research to better understand the causes. Research fosters a questioning and critical attitude in every aspect of our clinical services to ensure that standards reach new heights. This complete approach, supported by sympathetic care and counselling, has gained the Centre an international reputation.

Reproductive Medicine is a traditional branch of gynaecology which has advanced so greatly that it has now become a specialty in its own right. Much of Reproductive Medicine is concerned with infertility; both male and female. It also covers reproductive endocrinology - hormonal disorders which can cause delay puberty, cessation of menstrual cycles and excess hair growth, for example - as well as postmenopausal hormone deficiency problems, recurrent miscarriage, and sexual problems. We provide the full range of services in our Centre for Reproductive Medicine and, linked to the NHS service that we run at St Michael's Hospital, it is one of the few in the country recognised for complete training in the specialty.

We are deeply concerned for the welfare of offspring and the emotional needs of both patients and donors. Our ethical policies go much further than provisions laid down by Parliament in the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Act. We offer expert counselling at every stage and organise self-help support groups for couples to gain from shared experiences.

Working closely with General Practitioners and referring specialists, our 40-strong staff offer a full range of diagnostic and therapeutic facilities for every aspect of our specialty.

I hope this website illustrates the commitment and dedication that have given the University of Bristol's Centre for Reproductive Medicine a reputation in which we all take great pride." Professor Michael Hull

"These words by the late Mike Hull, founder of the Centre for Reproductive Medicine, describe the continuing philosophy behind the services we provide."

... History of IVF & our centre

 

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