14 April 2021

Innovation in conception: London Women’s Clinic, number one IVF centre in London

It has been more than 40 years since the birth of the world’s first ‘test-tube’ baby. While there have been few moments in the fertility landscape more ground-breaking than the arrival of Louise Brown, the advancements of the last four decades have seen a huge change in the way we approach fertility.

Today, around 20,000 babies are born via IVF in the UK alone each year, with rising success rates due mainly to continuous innovation and improvement in areas such as the egg freezing process.
A brief glance at the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority’s (HFEA) clinic rankings will show that the number one centre in London is London Women’s Clinic, with a clinical pregnancy rate of 45% for every embryo transferred in women under 35 years of age and 38% in those older.

These impressive results – in routine IVF patients – were similarly found in treatments using eggs supplied by a donor. Egg donation is an increasingly common treatment for infertile women whose ovaries are unable to produce suitable eggs, perhaps because of an early menopause or ovarian problem. For these women, a donor egg is their only reasonable chance of having a baby.
The increase in the uptake and success of egg donation is due largely to developments over the last decade in the technology used to freeze eggs. The fast-freezing technique of vitrification, developed in Japan in the 2000s, is now used worldwide at clinics including the London Women’s Clinic and its Harley Street partner the London Egg Bank, with remarkable results. Vitrification is the preferred method for freezing embryos prior to transfer and for freezing eggs prior to fertilisation.
For the London Egg Bank, the ability to freeze eggs without damage to their micro-architecture – which was for many years one of the greatest challenges of reproductive medicine – has been the defining principle for its recent range of treatments. Those treatments now include elective egg freezing for the preservation of fertility and the supply of frozen donor eggs, resulting in London Egg Bank being the largest bank in the country with around 5,000 eggs currently available for donation. Indeed, never before in the UK have donor eggs been more plentiful or from a more varied selection of donors.

A revolution in egg donation

‘Only a few years ago most egg donation patients from Britain had to travel overseas to Spain, Ukraine or Cyprus for their donor eggs,’ explains the London Egg Bank’s medical director Professor Nick Macklon. ‘There, donors were more numerous and the supply of eggs more abundant. But all that changed with vitrification and the technology to freeze and thaw eggs without damage.’ So the London Egg Bank, with a new generation of UK-based donors, is now the largest egg bank in the country, and able to meet the treatment demands of all its patients unable to produce their own eggs. It has been more than 40 years since the birth of the world’s first ‘test-tube’ baby. While there have been few moments in the fertility landscape more ground-breaking than the arrival of Louise Brown, the advancements of the last four decades have seen a huge change in the way we approach fertility. London Women’s Clinic offers patients the latest in modern technology within warm and contemporary surroundings.

No longer is overseas treatment necessary, no longer is there a need for long waiting lists or transfers in a ‘fresh’ treatment cycle. The bank of frozen donor eggs can be consulted in an online catalogue and personal preferences for ethnicity or background matched.
Such a wide range of donors is reassuring to many infertile patients who need donor eggs, says the London Egg Bank’s director of nursing Mimi Arian Schad. ‘Egg donation is a big step,’ explains Mimi, ‘and can’t be undertaken lightly. Most egg donation patients have tried IVF before and are now at a stage in life when their ovaries are simply unable to produce the good quality eggs necessary for natural conception.
We can remove many of the problems which egg donation patients used to worry about – long waiting lists, traveling abroad, selecting a suitable donor. And these patients are also gratified to know that all our donors are UK citizens and meet the donor requirements of the HFEA. That means a thorough screening procedure, and security for patients, who may not receive that same assurance from a foreign clinic.’
The regulatory requirements of the HFEA in Britain ensure that all treatments are carried out according to a nationally governed and evidence based code of practice.
Figures show that egg donation is now the most popular fertility treatment in Europe, with the latest figures showing higher live birth rates than those recorded for routine IVF and ICSI, where a woman has used her own eggs. The explanation is simply that donor eggs usually come from healthy young donors without fertility problems and before any age-related decline in their own
natural fertility. This is reflected at London Egg Bank, where donors have an average age of 24.
The latest European figures show that almost two-thirds of egg donation patient recipients are 40 years or older. In these women, ovarian function is often no longer what it was several years ago. But there is some good news for them, for what studies have shown beyond doubt – as in all forms of IVF treatment – is that success for the recipient patient depends more on the age of her donor’s eggs than on her own chronological age. For example, the rate of successful pregnancy for a 43-yearold woman is around 50-70% with donor eggs, but only around 5% with her own eggs. Coupled with various studies which acknowledge that frozen eggs perform just as well as fresh eggs in terms of producing a clinical pregnancy, a woman’s chances at starting a family using assisted reproduction are more hopeful than ever before.

a woman’s chances at starting a family using assisted reproduction are more hopeful than ever before

The rise in social egg freezing

Another aspect of egg freezing which has gained traction in recent years is that of ‘social’ egg freezing, where women freeze their eggs in order to have a fertility backup plan if they find themselves struggling to get pregnant in future. ‘There is a huge increase in women choosing to freeze their eggs in order to try for a child at a
later date – whether it be due to career commitments, financial reasons or finding a suitable partner. By freezing their eggs, our patients feel that they have a wider range of options when it comes to family planning.’ says Professor Macklon.

Marta Wolska, LEB Operations Manager adds, ‘Social egg freezing is becoming increasingly common, with some companies such as Google, Apple and Facebook even offering it to employees so they can have greater control of their fertility options. This is due in part to the encouraging success rates seen regarding clinical pregnancy from frozen eggs, and underlines how far we have come from those initial pioneering fertility treatments of years gone by when routine egg freezing was still just an idea.’

What the future holds
Reproductive medicine in the UK has come a long way since its early years. We are at a point in time where patients no longer need to travel abroad to find a suitable egg donor and where egg freezing and vitrification processes are more successful than ever before in helping to produce a clinical pregnancy. London Women’s Clinic predicts that more women will embrace social egg freezing as a back-up fertility option, while advances in the vitrification process can ensure continuous rising success rates for IVF patients.

As the largest egg bank in the country and the most successful IVF clinic in relation to pregnancy rates per embryo transfer, the London Women’s Clinic and London Egg Bank are at the vanguard of assisted reproduction. The sheer volume of egg donations and vitrification seen by the team ensures an ever-increasing expertise that cannot be matched by smaller clinics, which may only occasionally perform more technical procedures.
Its ‘freeze and share’ programme – where donors can donate half of their eggs from a cycle in exchange for discounted IVF, allows women across the financial spectrum to access fertility treatment at a time in their life which suits them, and which can offer the best possible chances of starting a family.
Much has been achieved, even in the past decade just with the introduction of vitrification alone. The next decade looks set to be just as innovative, if not more.

Professor Nick Macklon
Medical Director of London Women’s Clinic

All of our blog posts are written, edited, or produced by the London Women's Clinic Content Team. This is a collaboration between our expert writers, health editors, and the leading researchers and senior doctors at our Harley Street clinic.

‘We have two beautiful children - our family wouldn't exist without LWC Brentwood. Can't recommend them highly enough; IVF is an emotional rollercoaster regardless of your journey and we were supported at every step. Pricing is transparent and easy to understand, with payment plans available that made accessing any treatment and medication very flexible and affordable. The clinic became such a part of our lives for that short time, the care and support is so important and LWC Brentwood were brilliant. Maybe we will see them again for number 3!’

Victoria Hayman

10 November 2026, LWC Brentwood

‘I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to the entire team for supporting me throughout my IVF journey. I am delighted to share that I had a positive pregnancy test following my very first IVF cycle fresh embryo transfer, and I am now 9 weeks pregnant! The staff at the LWC Colchester satellite clinic are very supportive, approachable and always do their best to help you at every stage of the journey. I would definitely recommend LWC Colchester to anyone considering fertility treatment. A special thank you to Dr Timea Kovats, a highly experienced, knowledgeable and to the wonderful staff Jackie, Annette, Tracey. Their excellent guidance, expertise, care and supportive approach played a significant role in making my first IVF cycle successful. I am truly grateful for their dedication, encouragement and support throughout this journey. I am equally grateful to all the staff at Colchester satellite clinic and the London main clinic for their care and support throughout the entire process. Thank you once again for helping us achieve such a special milestone in our lives. We will always be grateful for your support! ❤️’

jigu

10 November 2026, LWC Colchester

‘Friendly, experienced and professional team. Supported throughout the entire process and would highly recommend.’

Mizzee West

10 November 2026, LWC Brighton

‘The nursing team are so friendly and so supportive. Made everything so much better and easier to go through egg freezing.’

Megan Godber

10 November 2026, LWC Brighton

‘We had a great experience as the team here are very knowledgeable and caring and they made us feel taken care of throughout! Big shout out to Rute & Trianni for their care and support 😊’

Chiamaka Nelson

9 November 2026, LWC Cambridge

‘The team here are very kind and helpful and made the journey completely painless! They kept us informed throughout the process and were always responsive when we had questioned’

Aruna Nelson

9 November 2026, LWC Cambridge

‘They've given us wonderful service very easy to be around. Very good communication, and very good at helping us out with everything they've done so far.’

Jessica Norman

9 November 2026, LWC Oxford

‘We had a fantastic experience with LWC, Dr Rimington’s passion and expertise were second to none and we strongly believe that he is the reason for our success. All the staff were lovely, helpful and kind - we will definitely use LWC again’

Hannah Hale

9 November 2026, LWC Brighton

‘I honestly cannot recommend this fertility clinic highly enough. From the very beginning, the care, compassion and support we received were absolutely exceptional. Going through fertility treatment is an incredibly emotional journey, with so many ups and downs, but the team made us feel supported, listened to and genuinely cared for every step of the way. Nothing ever felt like too much trouble, and every member of staff we encountered was kind, understanding, professional and reassuring. What really stood out was how personal the experience felt. We never felt like just another number. The team took the time to answer our questions, put our minds at ease and guide us through what can sometimes feel like an overwhelming process. We are incredibly grateful for everything they have done for us and will never forget the part they have played in helping us grow our family. We now have our little miracles, and we couldn't be more thankful. If you're considering fertility treatment, I would wholeheartedly recommend LWC. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for helping make our dream come true! ❤️’

Emma Hayman

8 November 2026, LWC Brentwood

‘Had a really positive experience visiting the Oxford Clinic. Nurse Manager Liv, took time to make me us feel at ease and explained how the appointment will go. Thank you!’

Kinga Arcana-Jones

7 November 2026, LWC Oxford

‘Everyone my partner and I have interacted with at the Oxford clinic has been warm, friendly and knowledgeable. They’ve really helped make a very daunting process easier to go through and I’m very glad we chose this clinic!’

Jess Palmer

5 November 2026, LWC Oxford

‘Very friendly staff and a lovely inclusive environment, had a wonderful experience here. Highly recommend for anyone looking at fertility preservation.’

T Ilagan

5 November 2026, LWC Oxford

‘As an LGBTQ couple we found LWC Colchester incredibly supportive, no question was too much. They were friendly and welcoming, with modern facilities, and made your journey feel very personalised. We would highly recommend them for your fertility journey.’

Jasmine Colman

5 November 2026, LWC Colchester

‘A massive thank you to Dom and Dr Vasquez for all of their help throughout the process!’

James Purcell

5 November 2026, LWC Tunbridge Wells

‘Me and my husband can’t thank everyone at London Women’s Clinic enough for all the care and support throughout our recent treatment. Everything went really well, and we are so grateful to all the doctors and the entire team for looking after me. A special thank you to Mimi, Dr Barbara, Caroline, Trina and Elena from Embryology team and the Theatre Team - Rose, Martin and Amy F. Everyone was so kind, helpful and reassuring, and it really made a difference. Thank you all for everything. ♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️’

IsadelandCyril

4 November 2026, LWC Harley Street

‘I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude and appreciation to the entire team who supported us throughout our IVF treatment. ❤️ A special thank you to Ana-Maria,our nurse, for her kindness, patience, compassion and professionalism. She was always so caring, understanding and supportive, making us feel reassured and comfortable during such an emotional and challenging journey. We would also like to thank Dr Gill from the bottom of our hearts for his professionalism, dedication, expertise and the confidence he gave us throughout the entire process. IVF is not just a medical treatment; it is an emotional journey filled with hope, challenges and many feelings. Having such wonderful people by our side made everything so much easier. Thank you for your care, support and dedication. We truly appreciate everything you have done for us and would wholeheartedly recommend you to anyone beginning their IVF journey. Thank you for being part of our journey! ❤️’

Alexandru Predescu

3 November 2026, LWC Harrow

‘I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude and appreciation to the entire team who supported us throughout our IVF treatment. ❤️ A special thank you to Ana-Maria,our nurse, for her kindness, patience, compassion and professionalism. She was always so caring, understanding and supportive, making us feel reassured and comfortable during such an emotional and challenging journey. We would also like to thank Dr Gill from the bottom of our hearts for his professionalism, dedication, expertise and the confidence he gave us throughout the entire process. IVF is not just a medical treatment; it is an emotional journey filled with hope, challenges and many feelings. Having such wonderful people by our side made everything so much easier. Thank you for your care, support and dedication. We truly appreciate everything you have done for us and would wholeheartedly recommend you to anyone beginning their IVF journey. Thank you for being part of our journey! ❤️’

Mihaela-Clemansa Predescu

3 November 2026, LWC Harrow

‘Simply Brilliant .’

Ramachandran Jeyamohan

3 November 2026, LWC Colchester

‘I feel so blessed and grateful to have been under the lovely nurse Katie and Dr Kovats’s care. Everyone I encountered in the clinic on or off line was friendly, reassuring, thoughtful, and patient with me. I could feel the genuine care from Katie and Dr Kovats. I feel very reassured knowing they'd be there with me every step of the way; it is a great relief to have medical professionals like them on my side. They listened attentively, were reassuring, explained what I need to know thoroughly and were very approachable. Thank you to Carina, the friendly clinic coordinator, for always answering my emails promptly and being so helpful with all the questions I threw at her. Also, to the lovely staff member with blonde hair (I’m so sorry I forgot your name!) who did the ultrasound scan, thank you for being so attentive and making me feel relaxed. The clinic has a calm, relaxing vibe and is very clean. I have had a wonderful experience with the clinic and would highly recommend the team to anyone on their fertility journey!’

T Yang

3 November 2026, LWC Brentwood

‘We have used London Women's Clinic twice in the last two years for successful egg retrieval and two subsequent frozen embryo transfers. We have always been met with care, compassion and a personal approach. Every step from the initial consultation right through to the 7 week scan has been professional and polite, always accommodating our needs and timings. We can't thank the team enough for giving us such support towards creating our family.’

Lucy Richards

2 November 2026, LWC Tunbridge Wells

‘Myself and my husband owe it all to london womens clinic, they were amazing from start to finish. We previously were under another clinic and decided to make the change due to many reasons and we are so glad we did. They treat everyone as individuals, not everyones fertility journeys are the same. The small team at Colchester make it so personable not to mention how amazing all 4 women are that work here, their knowledge empathy and listening skills simply cannot be found at any other clinic. The list goes on as to why I would recommend LWC but everyone likes a to the point review. They genuinely care they dont treat you like a number and they help you through every hurdle that occurs. Our little boy wouldn't be possible without these 4, each of them play a bigger part than they realise. 💙’

Ellen Turrell

2 November 2026, LWC Colchester

‘Wonderful punch of people, caring, competent, and efficient in all they do. It feels we are all in a mission together and they are invested in the success of our pregnancy. Thank k you 🙏’

Yasmine Mora

30 October 2026, LWC London Bridge

‘I couldn’t speak more highly of the London Women’s Clinic Oxford! From the moment you walk in you are greeted with such a warm welcome. The reception area is bright and welcoming and the receptionist is lovely. All of the staff are so friendly, helpful and polite. Going through this journey can be emotional, so having such a wonderful supportive, caring clinic to visit makes all the difference. Everyone goes above and beyond to make you feel comfortable and looked after. I feel so lucky to have such a lovely team supporting me along the way. Thank you all! 🍀💗’

Louise

30 October 2026, LWC Oxford

‘Incredible service and professionals. They made me feel comfortable and safe the entire journey. Thank you!’

Luciana Lombardi

30 October 2026, LWC Cambridge

‘I had an absolutely amazing experience at LWC from start to finish! There are literally no wait times so we were able to get started pretty much straight away after consultation. The process was seamless, with a lot of flexibility if you need to change appt time. Nurses are amazing and so supportive. Special shout out to Kate and Chris who were so kind and made the whole experience so much better. Also the nurses on the ward were absolutely amazing but I can’t remember their names. I’m now discharged as I’m pregnant from my first try! However I will look forward to returning in the future for my second embryo which is currently frozen 😊’

Kathryn Jessica

27 October 2026, LWC Bromley