1. Introduction

You are being invited to take part in a research study to be carried out at the National Maternity Hospital and the Merrion Fertility Clinic by Dr Andrew Downey as part of his MD degree programme from University College Dublin (UCD).

Before you decide whether or not you wish to take part, you should read the information provided below carefully.

You should clearly understand the risks and benefits of taking part in this study so that you can make a decision that is right for you. This process is known as ‘Informed Consent’.

Why is this study being done?

This study is taking place to find out the views of men in the general population on female ovarian reserve testing and on egg freezing.

Advances in technology such as ovarian reserve testing and egg freezing offer an alternative option to monitor and preserve fertility. An increasing awareness of the negative impact of ageing on fertility, particularly in women, has prompted an increasing usage of ovarian reserve testing.

Studies have shown that the majority of women were aware of ovarian reserve testing and egg freezing. Most women would also consider undertaking oocyte vitrification to preserve fertility.

Less is known about the views of men in the general population or about male partner’s views on fertility preservation and on fertility preservation techniques.

Who is organising and funding this study?

Dr Andrew Downey is conducting this research as part of his MD degree programme from University College Dublin (UCD). He receives a salary for his work as Clinical and Research Fellow. There is no additional funding for this survey and researchers do not receive payment for recruitment of participants. This study has received research ethics approval from the National Maternity Hospital.

Why am I being asked to take part?

You are being asked to take part because we are looking to survey men in the general population.

What will happen to me if I agree to take part?

You will complete a brief online survey on Survey Monkey. This will take approximately 5 minutes to complete. Responses to the survey are anonymous.

What are the benefits?

This study may not benefit you directly. It will allow us to be more informed about male perspectives on ovarian reserve testing and egg freezing.
What are the risks?

The risks of harm associated with completion of this survey is low. It should take approximately 5 minutes to complete.


Is the study confidential?

Responses to the questionnaire are anonymous. The researchers Dr Andrew Downey, Dr Louise Glover, and Dr David Crosby will have access to the data. Results of the study will be published in a peer reviewed journal once complete.



Data Protection

Your responses are anonymous. Your data will be processed in line with General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR). Responses to the online questionnaire will be recorded on an excel spreadsheet which will be stored on the MFC server which is password protected and backed up daily. The MFC computer network is secured with a firewall. MFC complies with national data protection regulation requirements. The researchers, Dr Andrew Downey, Dr Louise Glover, Dr David Crosby will have access to the data. All researchers have completed training in GDPR. Data will be retained for 5 years to allow for analysis and publication in peer-review journal. You have the right to withdraw consent at any time. You can do this by contacting Dr Andrew Downey and requesting that your response be deleted.



Where can I get further information?


If you have any further questions about the study or if you want to opt out of the study, you can rest assured it won't affect the quality of treatment you get in the future.

If you need any further information now or at any time in the future, please contact:



Name: Dr Andrew Downey

Address: Merrion Fertility Clinic, Dublin 2, Dublin

Phone No: 01-5567900

Email: research@merrionfertility.ie

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