The Malka Ella Fertility Fund is a South African Jewish organisation dedicated to helping individuals and couples build their families. We provide financial assistance for fertility treatments, fertility preservation, genetic testing, counselling, halachic supervision, pregnancy loss support, and community initiatives that support people throughout their fertility journey.

Jewish individuals and couples seeking assistance with fertility-related services may apply. Eligibility requirements vary depending on the type of support requested and are outlined within each application process.

Yes. Every enquiry, application and discussion is treated with the strictest confidentiality. Your information is only shared with those directly involved in assessing or supporting your application.

No. While financial assistance is an important part of what we do, Malka Ella also provides emotional support, counselling, genetic services, halachic guidance, and educational resources to support every aspect of the fertility journey. Refer to the Services page on the Malka Ella website for more details on each service offering.

Malka Ella offers far more than financial assistance. We provide:

• Funding for eligible fertility treatments.
• Fertility preservation funding.
• Funding for Genetic testing and counselling.
• Halachic supervision.
• Counselling and emotional support.
• Pregnancy loss support.
• Davening initiative through Ohel Sarala.

Since its establishment more than 25 years ago, Malka Ella has supported over 1,000 fertility, genetic, surrogacy and adoption journeys, helping bring more than 480 babies into the world.

No. There is no charge to apply to the Malka Ella Fertility Fund.

Absolutely. If you are unsure which service is right for you or have questions about the application process, please contact us on [email protected] Our team will happily guide you through the available options.

No. Malka Ella assists individuals and couples at fertility clinics throughout South Africa.

If you cannot find the answer you're looking for, please contact the Malka Ella team. We are here to answer your questions, guide you through the application process, and help you access the support and services that are right for you. Contact us via the Contact page on our website or email [email protected]

The Malka Ella Fertility Fund provides financial assistance for a range of fertility treatments, including timed cycles, Artificial Insemination (AI), In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF), Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI), fertility preservation, genetic testing, and selected donor and surrogacy programmes. Funding is considered in accordance with the Fund's eligibility criteria and policies.

Applications are welcomed from halachically married Jewish couples seeking assistance with fertility treatment. Individual applications are also accepted for services such as fertility preservation and genetic testing where applicable.

• Funding may be available for:
• Timed cycles
• Artificial Insemination (AI)
• In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF)
• Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI)
• Egg freezing
• Sperm freezing
• Genetic testing
• PGT-A & PGT-M
• Egg donation
• Sperm donation
• Surrogacy
• Adoption

Certain treatments are assessed individually and may require additional approvals.

Medication funding is considered as part of an approved treatment plan where applicable. Initial consultations, routine blood tests and ongoing medication outside an approved treatment cycle are generally not funded.

Yes. Approved funding is paid directly to the fertility clinic or treating specialist. Funding is not paid directly to applicants.

Yes. Financial assistance is available for genetic testing and counselling for applicants who meet the Fund's eligibility criteria.

Yes. Funding is available for Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy (PGT-A) when medically indicated and approved as part of the treatment plan, and Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Monogenic Disorders (PGT-M) where there is a known risk of an inherited genetic condition.

Malka Ella offers financial assistance of up to R50,000 towards egg freezing for eligible unmarried Jewish women, helping to preserve their future fertility. In keeping with halachic requirements, eggs frozen with Malka Ella funding may only be used after the woman is married according to halacha. Funding is also available for men and women undergoing medical treatments, such as cancer treatment, that may affect their fertility.

Yes. Applications for donor egg, donor sperm, surrogacy, or adoption are considered on an individual basis. Applicants must first obtain approval from the Johannesburg Beth Din before the Malka Ella Fertility Fund can consider funding.

Malka Ella generally does not cover initial specialist consultations, routine blood tests, or ongoing investigations outside an approved treatment cycle. Applicants are encouraged to discuss any exceptional circumstances with the Malka Ella team.

There is no fixed amount or percentage of funding awarded. Every application is individually assessed, taking into account financial, medical and personal circumstances.

For couples who qualify and still have a financial shortfall after funding has been allocated, the Malka Ella Fertility Fund also offers access to a Gemach that may assist with the remaining treatment costs. Please contact [email protected] for further information and eligibility requirements.

Yes. Applicants may reapply for funding, subject to the Fund's policies, available funding, and an updated assessment of their circumstances.

Being on a medical aid plan that pays towards fertility treatments does not disqualify applicants from receiving assistance, however financial assistance from your medical aid will be taken into account during the assessment.

Yes. All financial information and supporting documentation are treated with the strictest confidentiality and are used solely for the purpose of assessing your application.

If your circumstances change or you believe relevant information was not considered, you are welcome to contact the Malka Ella team to discuss your application.

No. Malka Ella funding can only be used for fertility treatment carried within South Africa.

Yes. In fact, applicants are encouraged to apply as early as possible, as funding approval must be obtained before treatment begins.

Yes. Applicants must notify the Malka Ella Fertility Fund at least two weeks before the commencement of their approved treatment so that the necessary arrangements can be made.

No. Malka Ella funding may not be used for fertility treatments that take place on Shabbat or Yom Tov. Applicants are encouraged to plan their treatment schedule accordingly.

To apply, simply select the type of support you require, complete the online application form, upload the required supporting documentation, and submit your application.

You can apply for:

• General fertility treatment funding
• Fertility preservation (egg or sperm freezing)
• Genetic testing and counselling
• Halachic supervision (SHIFRA)
• Ohel Sarala

Each service has its own application form and requirements.

Yes. Every application is handled with the strictest confidentiality. Your personal, medical and financial information is only reviewed by those directly involved in assessing your application.

No. There is no charge to submit an application to the Malka Ella Fertility Fund.

The required documents vary depending on the type of application. These may include:

• Completed application form
• Financial Assessment Spreadsheet
• Supporting financial documents
• Ketubah (Jewish marriage certificate)
• Civil marriage certificate
• Medical reports (where applicable)
• Rabbi's Consent Form (where applicable)
• Agreement forms for specific services

The application page will outline exactly what is required.

Yes. All applicants requesting financial assistance are required to complete the Financial Assessment Spreadsheet and submit the supporting financial documentation.

Financial information enables the committee to fairly assess each application and determine the level of assistance required.

• 3 months of recent bank statements
• 3 months of payslips
• Bond or Rent statements
• Completed Financial Spreadsheet

Depending on your circumstances, other documents may be requested.

Yes. For fertility treatment funding, both spouses are required to provide their financial information.

For applications relating to genetic testing or fertility preservation, only the relevant applicant may need to complete the assessment.

Applications are reviewed as quickly as possible once all required documentation has been received. While processing time varies depending on the complexity of the application, typically it takes approximately 3 – 4 weeks.

No. While you are welcome to begin your application and save it for later submission, applications cannot be submitted and fully assessed until all required documents are provided.

Once your application has been received:

1. You will need to meet for a screening session with a Malka Ella counsellor
2. Once you have met with the counsellor, your documents will be reviewed.
3. Additional information may be requested if required.
4. Your application will be presented to the Malka Ella Committee.
5. You will be notified of the outcome.

Applications are reviewed confidentially by the Malka Ella Committee, which carefully considers the medical, financial and personal circumstances of each applicant.

Yes. Applicants are required to attend a confidential consultation with a Malka Ella counsellor before their application is presented to the Committee.

Infertility affects much more than physical health. Counselling provides emotional support, ensures applicants understand the journey ahead, and allows the Malka Ella team to offer additional guidance where needed.

No. While your fertility specialist may be required to provide medical reports, they are not required to complete sections of the application confirming your diagnosis and proposed treatment plan.

For all applications, except for genetic testing, Rabbi Gidon Fox needs to complete a Rabbi's Consent Form to provide the necessary halachic approval before your application is reviewed.

Approval from the Johannesburg Beth Din is required for applications involving donor eggs, donor sperm, surrogacy, or adoption before funding can be considered.

You should apply as early as possible and before your treatment begins. This allows sufficient time for your application to be assessed and funding arrangements to be made if approved.

No. Applicants must wait for the outcome of their application before commencing treatment, as funding cannot be guaranteed retrospectively and no reimbursements will be made to applicants.

Yes. Approved applicants must notify the Malka Ella Fertility Fund and the mashgicha at least two weeks before treatment commences.

Yes. If your circumstances change or additional medical information becomes available, please contact the Malka Ella team on [email protected] as soon as possible.

If your application is incomplete or additional information is required, a member of the Malka Ella team will contact you to request the outstanding documentation or clarification. Please note that your application cannot be assessed until all the required information has been received, and this may delay the review process.

Yes. Once your application has been submitted, you will receive confirmation that it has been received and is being processed.

Our team is happy to assist you. If you have questions about any part of the application process or are unsure which documents are required, please contact us on [email protected] and we will guide you through the process.

Yes. A family member, healthcare professional or authorised representative may assist you with completing the application, provided you have given your permission.

Yes. Applicants are welcome to apply even if they have received assistance elsewhere. Any other funding received should be disclosed during the application process.

Once the Committee has reached a decision, the Malka Ella team will email you regarding the outcome of your application and any next steps.

If your application is not approved, the Malka Ella team will discuss the outcome with you and, where appropriate, provide guidance on other support services or future applications should your circumstances change.

Yes. Judaism places tremendous value on building a family and bringing new life into the world. Throughout history, Jewish couples have sought every halachically permissible means available to fulfil the mitzvah of having children. Modern fertility treatments can often be used within the framework of halacha under appropriate rabbinic guidance.

Yes. Infertility is a recurring theme throughout the Torah. Our forefathers and foremothers—including Avraham and Sarah, Yitzchak and Rivkah, Yaakov and Rachel, and Elkanah and Channah—experienced the pain and uncertainty of longing for children. Their stories continue to inspire hope, faith and perseverance.

The Malka Ella Fertility Fund is committed to ensuring that fertility treatments are carried out according to accepted halachic principles while respecting the highest standards of medical care. We work closely with fertility specialists and Rabbi Gidon Fox to support couples throughout their journey.

SHIFRA (Science and Halacha Infertility Authority) provides halachic supervision and guidance throughout the fertility treatment process, ensuring that procedures are conducted according to Jewish law while maintaining the highest levels of confidentiality and dignity.

The mashgicha oversees the identification and handling of eggs, sperm and embryos throughout the treatment process, providing reassurance that everything is performed according to halachic requirements.

All fertility treatments funded by the Malka Ella Fertility Fund require halachic supervision. Couples undergoing treatment independently are also encouraged to arrange supervision.

Yes. Applicants are required to obtain the necessary rabbinic approvals before treatment begins. The Malka Ella team can guide you through this process and arrange for you to speak with Rabbi Gidon Fox if required.

For couples observing the laws of Taharat Hamishpacha, attending the mikveh before treatment forms an important part of the fertility journey. If you have questions or would like guidance, the Malka Ella team is happy to assist.

Please let us know. We will arrange a confidential refresher session and answer any questions you may have before treatment begins.

Treatments funded by the Malka Ella Fertility Fund may not take place on Shabbat or Yom Tov. Applicants are asked to schedule treatment accordingly.

Yes. Genetic testing can play an important role in helping couples understand inherited conditions and make informed reproductive decisions. Ariel provides genetic counselling and testing in accordance with both medical best practice and Jewish values.

Yes. The Malka Ella Fertility Fund works closely with the Johannesburg Beth Din regarding treatments that require additional halachic approval, such as donor egg treatment and surrogacy.

Yes. Alongside financial assistance and practical services, Malka Ella offers counselling, halachic guidance, tefillah initiatives, educational resources and emotional support to help individuals and couples throughout every stage of their journey.

Prayer can provide comfort, strength and hope throughout the fertility journey. Many individuals and couples find that tefillah helps them navigate the emotional and spiritual challenges of infertility.

Yes. Many people choose to recite Tehillim or other traditional prayers for fertility. The Malka Ella Care Pack includes fertility prayers and other spiritual resources to provide comfort and inspiration.

Every fertility journey is unique, and while the path can be challenging, you do not have to walk it alone. Through medical care, emotional support, halachic guidance, community, and faith, Malka Ella is here to support you every step of the way.

Fertility preservation involves freezing eggs, sperm, or embryos for future use. It provides individuals with the opportunity to preserve their fertility before age, medical treatment, or other circumstances may affect their ability to have biological children.

Malka Ella offers financial assistance for eligible Jewish individuals requiring fertility preservation. This includes unmarried Jewish women wishing to preserve their fertility and individuals undergoing medical treatments, such as cancer therapy, that may impact their future fertility.

Yes. Funding may be available for sperm freezing where medically indicated, including fertility preservation before cancer treatment or other treatments that may affect fertility.

Yes. Malka Ella recognises the importance of preserving fertility before treatments such as chemotherapy or radiation and welcomes applications from eligible cancer patients.

Yes. Fertility preservation offers many individuals the opportunity to preserve their reproductive potential before undergoing treatments that may damage fertility.

Yes. Malka Ella provides financial assistance towards egg freezing for eligible unmarried Jewish women, including those requiring fertility preservation for medical reasons such as cancer treatment.

Women choose to freeze their eggs for a variety of reasons, including:

• Medical treatment, such as chemotherapy or radiation.
• A medical condition that may affect fertility.
• Preserving fertility while egg quality is higher.

Funding is available to unmarried Jewish women who meet the Fund's eligibility criteria. Each application is assessed individually.

No. For applicants receiving funding through the Malka Ella Fertility Fund, frozen eggs may only be used after the applicant is married according to halacha.

Yes. Applicants are required to complete and sign the Egg Freezing Agreement, which outlines the conditions of funding and the future use of the frozen eggs.

Yes. All applicants are required to submit a completed Rabbi's Consent Form as part of their application. Rabbi Gidon Fox will complete the required sections relating to halachic approval.

Yes. All fertility preservation procedures funded by Malka Ella must be performed under the supervision of a trained SHIFRA mashgicha to ensure the highest halachic standards are maintained.

SHIFRA (Science and Halacha Infertility Authority) provides halachic supervision for fertility procedures, ensuring that all treatments are carried out in accordance with accepted halachic protocols.

No. Any future use of eggs funded by the Malka Ella Fertility Fund must also take place under SHIFRA supervision.

Your fertility clinic will safely store your frozen eggs until you are ready to use them. You will be responsible for maintaining the agreement and paying for the long-term storage with the clinic.

Yes. Frozen eggs can usually be transferred between accredited fertility clinics, with Malk Ella approval, if required. Your fertility specialist can advise you on the process.

If you decide that your frozen eggs are no longer required, they should be disposed of in accordance with the Egg Freezing Agreement and under the supervision of a qualified SHIFRA mashgicha.

Success depends on several factors, particularly the woman's age at the time of freezing and the number and quality of eggs retrieved. Your fertility specialist will discuss your individual chances of success.

No. Egg freezing preserves the possibility of future pregnancy, but it cannot guarantee that a pregnancy will occur.

Our team is here to help. If you have questions about fertility preservation, the application process or eligibility, please contact the Malka Ella office on [email protected] and we will gladly guide you through the next steps.

Ariel is the genetic division of the Malka Ella Fertility Fund. It provides financial assistance for genetic testing, genetic counselling, education, and assistance to help individuals and couples better understand their genetic health and make informed reproductive decisions.

Genetic testing identifies changes or variants in your genes that may increase the risk of passing an inherited genetic condition to your children. The results help guide reproductive planning and treatment decisions.

Genetic counselling is a consultation with a qualified genetic counsellor who reviews your personal and family medical history, explains genetic testing, interprets your results, and discusses the options available to you.

Genetic testing may be recommended for:

• Individuals or couples planning a family
• Couples with a family history of a genetic condition
• Couples experiencing infertility or recurrent pregnancy loss
• Couples with multiple unsuccessful IVF cycles
• Individuals diagnosed with a genetic condition
• Those who have received abnormal prenatal or postnatal test results

Certain inherited genetic conditions occur more frequently within the Ashkenazi Jewish population. Carrier screening can identify these conditions before pregnancy, allowing couples to understand their reproductive risks and available options.

Yes. Individuals requiring genetic testing or counselling are welcome to apply. Couples are encouraged to undergo testing together where appropriate.

Yes. If you are planning a pregnancy, it is recommended that both partners undergo carrier screening to provide the most accurate assessment of reproductive risk.

Expanded carrier screening tests for more than 100 inherited genetic conditions, including many that are very common within the Jewish community.

Testing usually requires either a saliva or blood sample, depending on the laboratory used.

Results are generally available within three to four weeks, although turnaround times may vary depending on the laboratory.

Being a carrier does not usually affect your own health. If only one partner is a carrier, there is generally no increased risk of having an affected child with that condition.

If both partners carry the same genetic condition, your genetic counsellor will discuss the available reproductive options, which may include:

• IVF with PGT-M
• Prenatal testing
• Egg or sperm donation
• Other reproductive options appropriate to your circumstances

Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy (PGT-A) is performed during IVF to assess embryos for chromosomal abnormalities before transfer.

Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Monogenic Disorders (PGT-M) identifies embryos affected by a specific inherited genetic condition before embryo transfer.

Yes. Financial assistance towards genetic testing and genetic counselling is available for applicants who meet the Fund's eligibility criteria.

Yes. Genetic counselling is required for all those applying for genetic testing, as it ensures you fully understand your results and the options available to you.

Yes. All consultations, test results and personal information are treated with the strictest confidentiality.

Yes. Some inherited conditions may only become apparent after the birth of a child or through family history. Genetic testing may provide valuable information for future pregnancies.

Yes. Whenever possible, carrier screening before pregnancy provides the greatest number of reproductive options and allows couples to make informed decisions before conception.

In some cases, yes. Genetic factors may contribute to recurrent pregnancy loss. Your fertility specialist or genetic counsellor can advise whether genetic testing is appropriate.

No. Genetic testing significantly reduces the risk of certain inherited conditions but cannot eliminate all genetic or medical risks.

Yes. Depending on your results, testing may be recommended for other family members who could also be carriers of the same condition.

Your genetic counsellor will explain your results in detail, answer your questions, and discuss any recommended next steps or referrals.

Yes. Once you apply through the Malka Ella Fertility Fund, you will be given options of recommended practices to carry out the testing.

Malka Ella works with accredited genetic laboratories to ensure testing is performed to the highest international standards. Details of recommended labs and counsellors can be found under Genetic Testing section of the Malka Ella website.

Please provide a copy of your previous results. Depending on the type and date of testing, further testing may or may not be recommended.

Yes. The Ariel team is happy to answer your questions and help you determine whether genetic testing is appropriate for your circumstances before you proceed.

Simply complete the Genetic Testing form on the Malka Ella website and supply any supporting documentation required.

SHIFRA (Science and Halacha Infertility Authority) is the halachic division of the Malka Ella Fertility Fund. Under the supervision of Rabbi Gidon Fox, SHIFRA ensures that fertility treatments are performed according to the highest halachic standards while maintaining complete confidentiality and dignity.

Halachic supervision involves a specially trained mashgicha overseeing key stages of fertility treatment to ensure that eggs, sperm and embryos are correctly identified and handled in accordance with halacha.

Halachic supervision provides reassurance that fertility procedures comply with Jewish law and that the integrity of every sample is maintained throughout the treatment process.

Halachic supervision is required for all fertility treatments funded by the Malka Ella Fertility Fund and is recommended for all Orthodox Jewish couples undergoing assisted reproductive treatment.

The mashgicha carefully verifies the identity of all gametes and embryos, oversees laboratory identification procedures, and ensures that every stage of the treatment complies with accepted halachic protocols.

The mashgicha attends the stages of treatment where halachic supervision is required. The fertility clinic and SHIFRA work together to coordinate these visits.

Yes. All SHIFRA mashgichot are trained to maintain the highest standards of confidentiality, professionalism and modesty.

Applicants are responsible for notifying SHIFRA well in advance of treatment so that supervision can be arranged.

Please notify SHIFRA as soon as your treatment dates are confirmed. This allows sufficient time to coordinate supervision with your fertility clinic.

SHIFRA works with the main fertility clinics in Johannesburg and Cape Town.

No. Halachic supervision is required for all fertility treatments funded by Malka Ella. This must be arranged with Rabbi Gidon Fox or the Malka Ella team before treatment begins.

Yes. In addition to laboratory supervision, SHIFRA provides halachic guidance on a wide range of fertility-related issues, helping individuals and couples navigate complex medical and halachic questions.

Yes. Rabbi Gidon Fox is available to discuss halachic questions relating to fertility treatment, fertility preservation, donor procedures and other reproductive issues.

If you have questions about halachic supervision or would like to discuss your treatment, please contact Rabbi Gidon Fox or Lauren Moskowitz.

Ohel Sarala discreetly connects Jewish singles seeking their soulmate with couples longing to have children. Participants daven (pray) for one another, creating a powerful partnership of hope, faith and kindness.

The process is simple:

1. A childless couple is paired with a single.
2. The couple receives the Hebrew name of the single, and the single receives the Hebrew names of the couple.
3. They daven for one another.
4. The single donates any amount they are able to the Malka Ella Fertility Fund to assist with the couple's fertility treatment.

Any Jewish single seeking to find their soulmate and any Jewish couple struggling with infertility are welcome to participate.

Ohel Sarala is based on the teaching of Chazal that when we sincerely pray for someone else's needs, our own prayers are especially meaningful before Hashem. By davening for one another, both the single and the couple become partners in hope and kindness.

There is no cost to join Ohel Sarala, however singles are encouraged to make a voluntary donation of any amount they are able to the Malka Ella Fertility Fund to help support the couple's fertility treatment.

No. Donations are entirely voluntary and every contribution, regardless of the amount, is greatly appreciated.

The donation allows participants to perform both a mitzvah of tefillah and an act of tzedakah. Funds received are used to assist couples with the cost of fertility treatment through the Malka Ella Fertility Fund.

Yes. Complete confidentiality is maintained at all times. Only Hebrew names are exchanged, and no identifying personal information is shared.

The Ohel Sarala team carefully allocates singles and couples while maintaining complete confidentiality.

No. Pairings are made confidentially by the Ohel Sarala team.

A couple may be paired with multiple singles. Depending on availability and need, a couple can be allocated up to 10 singles who will each daven for them.

The pairing continues until either the single becomes engaged or married, or the couple is blessed with a successful pregnancy or baby. If circumstances change, a new pairing can be arranged.

Once you become engaged or married, please let the Ohel Sarala team know so that your pairing can be updated and another single can be allocated if appropriate.

Once you become pregnant or have your baby, please notify the Ohel Sarala team so that the pairing can be concluded and the single can be matched with another couple if they wish.

Yes. If appropriate, singles and couples may participate again after their current pairing has concluded.

Yes. While many participants choose to daven in Hebrew, you may pray in the language in which you feel most comfortable. The sincerity of your tefillah is what matters most.

No. You may use your own heartfelt prayers or include the names in your regular prayers. Many participants choose to add the names during Shemoneh Esrei or when saying Tehillim.

Simply complete the online Ohel Sarala registration form on the Malka Ella website. Once your registration has been received, we will allocate your pairing and send you the relevant Hebrew names.

Participants will be informed if their partner has become engaged, married or welcomed a baby. Confidentiality and privacy are always respected.

Since its inception, Ohel Sarala has helped bring hope to hundreds of participants. Through the power of heartfelt tefillah and acts of kindness, the initiative has celebrated numerous marriages and the birth of many babies, demonstrating the remarkable impact of a community united in prayer and support.

By joining Ohel Sarala, you become part of a meaningful initiative that combines tefillah, chesed, and tzedakah. Whether you are praying for your soulmate or for the gift of a child, you are helping to bring hope, comfort, and blessing to someone else while strengthening your own journey through faith and compassion.

Every donation helps provide hope to individuals and couples facing the emotional and financial challenges of infertility. Your generosity enables Malka Ella to fund fertility treatments, genetic testing, fertility preservation, counselling, pregnancy loss support, halachic supervision, and other services that help build Jewish families.

Donations can be made securely through the Malka Ella website or by contacting the Malka Ella office for alternative payment methods.

Yes. Every donation, regardless of the amount, makes a meaningful difference and helps us continue supporting families on their journey to parenthood.

Yes. Regular monthly donations provide sustainable support, allowing Malka Ella to assist more individuals and couples throughout the year.

Yes. Donations can be made in honour of a birthday, anniversary, birth, wedding, Bar or Bat Mitzvah, or any other special occasion.

Absolutely. Anonymous donations are welcomed and respected.

Yes. We welcome corporate sponsorships, partnerships, fundraising initiatives, and employee giving programmes. Please contact us to discuss how your organisation can become involved.

Yes. Community fundraising events are a wonderful way to support our work while raising awareness about infertility within the Jewish community.

Yes. Tax certificates are issued for qualifying donations in accordance with South African tax legislation. Email [email protected] to request a Sec18a certificate.

One hundred percent of every donation is used responsibly to support the work of the Malka Ella Fertility Fund. Contributions help fund fertility treatments, genetic services, counselling, pregnancy loss support, educational programmes, and the ongoing services required to assist individuals and couples throughout their fertility journey.

Yes. Branded gifts are available through the Malka Ella Shop. Every purchase helps support the work of the Fund, while also raising awareness of our mission.

The Malka Ella Shop offers a range of carefully selected gifts and products. Every purchase helps raise funds for the Malka Ella Fertility Fund, allowing us to continue supporting individuals and couples on their journey to parenthood.

All proceeds from the Malka Ella Shop support the work of the Fund, helping to fund fertility treatments, genetic services, counselling, pregnancy loss support, educational resources, and other programmes offered by Malka Ella.

Yes. Many of our products make thoughtful gifts for weddings, engagements, birthdays, anniversaries, housewarmings, baby celebrations, and other special simchas.

Yes. We welcome bulk orders for weddings, corporate gifts, schools, shuls, community organisations and fundraising events.

Absolutely. Purchasing a gift certificate from the Malka Ella Shop is a meaningful way to celebrate a special simcha while supporting families experiencing infertility.

The Sponsor a Meal initiative allows you to provide a nourishing, kosher meal to an individual or couple undergoing fertility treatment or recovering from a failed treatment cycle. Your sponsorship offers comfort, practical support, and a reminder that they are not facing their journey alone.

If you would like to send a Malka Ella Care Pack to someone undergoing fertility treatment or a Pregnancy Loss Support Pack to someone who has experienced a miscarriage or pregnancy loss, both are available through the Shop on the Malka Ella website. Each pack has been thoughtfully curated to provide comfort, encouragement, and practical support during a difficult time.

The Malka Ella Care Pack has been thoughtfully curated to support individuals and couples throughout their fertility journey. Beautifully presented in a Malka Ella cooler bag, it includes inspirational resources, fertility prayers, Mikveh guidelines, and other carefully selected items designed to provide hope, encouragement, and a reminder that no one has to face this journey alone.

The Pregnancy Loss Support Pack has been carefully prepared for individuals and families experiencing the heartbreak of miscarriage or pregnancy loss. It contains comforting resources, inspirational reading, prayers, and thoughtful gifts selected to offer comfort, compassion, and support during a time of grief.

Visit the Shop section of our website to browse our latest collection of gifts, homeware and Judaica. New products are added regularly, so be sure to check back often

Yes. Simply browse our online shop, select your items, and complete your purchase securely through our website.

Yes. Delivery options are available throughout South Africa. Delivery costs and estimated timeframes will be provided during checkout.

Yes. If you would like to collect, our team will contact you to arrange a convenient collection time.

Infertility is generally defined as the inability to conceive after 12 months of regular, unprotected intercourse (or after six months if the woman is over the age of 35). Both men and women can experience fertility challenges.

Yes. Infertility affects approximately one in six couples worldwide. Many people experience fertility challenges, and there are numerous treatments and support services available.

Infertility can result from female factors, male factors, a combination of both, or sometimes no identifiable cause. Common causes include ovulation disorders, blocked fallopian tubes, endometriosis, low sperm count, poor sperm quality, age-related fertility decline and unexplained infertility.

No. Approximately one-third of infertility cases are related primarily to female factors, one-third to male factors, and the remaining cases involve both partners or unexplained causes.

You should consider consulting a fertility specialist if:

• You have been trying to conceive for 12 months without success.
• The woman is over 35 and has been trying for six months.
• You have experienced recurrent miscarriages.
• There is a known fertility or genetic condition.
• You have undergone cancer treatment that may affect fertility.

Yes. Female fertility gradually declines with age, particularly after 35 years. Male fertility can also decline with age, although usually more gradually.

Yes. Maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, avoiding smoking, limiting alcohol consumption and managing stress may all contribute to improved fertility.

Your fertility specialist may recommend blood tests, ultrasound scans, semen analysis, ovulation testing, tubal assessment, hormone testing or other investigations depending on your individual circumstances.

Treatment options may include:

• Timed cycles
• Ovulation induction
• Artificial Insemination (AI)
• In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF)
• Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI)
• Fertility preservation
• Donor eggs or sperm
• Surrogacy

Your fertility specialist will recommend the most appropriate treatment based on your diagnosis.

Yes. Even when no specific cause is identified, many couples successfully conceive through fertility treatment. Your specialist will recommend the most appropriate approach based on your medical history.

Fertility treatment can be emotionally challenging. Counselling provides a safe and supportive environment to help individuals and couples navigate the emotional, psychological and spiritual aspects of infertility. Contact [email protected] if you need emotional support during your journey.

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) refers to medical treatments used to help individuals and couples conceive. These treatments include procedures such as IVF, ICSI, AI, embryo freezing, and fertility preservation.

In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) is a fertility treatment in which eggs are collected from the ovaries, fertilised with sperm in a laboratory, and one or more resulting embryos are transferred into the uterus.

Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) is an advanced IVF technique in which a single sperm is injected directly into an egg to assist fertilisation.

Artificial Insemination (AI), also known as Intrauterine Insemination (IUI), involves placing specially prepared sperm directly into the uterus during ovulation to increase the chance of fertilisation.

A timed cycle involves carefully monitoring ovulation and timing intercourse or insemination to maximise the chance of conception.

Ovarian stimulation involves hormone medication used during IVF to encourage the ovaries to produce multiple eggs for collection.

Egg retrieval is a minor surgical procedure performed under sedation to collect mature eggs from the ovaries during an IVF cycle.

Fertilisation occurs when a sperm successfully joins with an egg to create an embryo.

An embryo is the fertilised egg that begins to divide and develop before being transferred to the uterus or frozen for future use.

A blastocyst is an embryo that has developed for approximately five to six days and is often the preferred stage for embryo transfer.

Embryo transfer is the procedure in which one or more embryos are placed into the uterus with the aim of achieving pregnancy.

Fertility preservation involves freezing eggs, sperm or embryos before fertility may be affected by age, illness or medical treatment.

Embryo freezing (cryopreservation) allows embryos created during IVF to be safely stored for future use.

Egg freezing is the process of collecting and freezing a woman's unfertilised eggs so they may be used in the future.

Sperm freezing allows sperm to be collected and safely stored for future fertility treatment or fertility preservation.

Donor egg treatment involves using eggs donated by another woman when pregnancy using a woman's own eggs is not possible or advisable.

Donor sperm treatment uses sperm donated by another man to assist with conception when medically appropriate.

Surrogacy is an arrangement in which another woman carries and gives birth to a baby on behalf of the intended parents.

Adoption is the legal process of becoming the permanent parent of a child who is not biologically your own.

Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy (PGT-A) screens embryos for chromosomal abnormalities before transfer during an IVF cycle.

Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Monogenic Disorders (PGT-M) identifies embryos affected by a known inherited genetic condition before embryo transfer.

A semen analysis evaluates the number, movement and shape of sperm to help assess male fertility.

Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) is a blood test used to estimate a woman's ovarian reserve, or the number of eggs remaining in her ovaries.

Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) is a hormone involved in egg development. Measuring FSH levels can provide information about ovarian function.

Luteinising Hormone (LH) is the hormone responsible for triggering ovulation.

Antral Follicle Count (AFC) is an ultrasound assessment that estimates the number of small follicles within the ovaries and helps evaluate ovarian reserve.

A Hysterosalpingogram (HSG) is an X-ray procedure used to check whether the fallopian tubes are open and whether the uterine cavity appears normal.

Endometriosis is a condition in which tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus. It may affect fertility and cause pelvic pain.

PCOS is a hormonal condition that can affect ovulation, menstrual cycles and fertility.

Diminished ovarian reserve means the number or quality of a woman's remaining eggs is lower than expected for her age.

Unexplained infertility is diagnosed when no obvious cause of infertility is identified despite comprehensive fertility investigations.

Recurrent pregnancy loss usually refers to experiencing two or more consecutive miscarriages. Further investigation may be recommended to identify possible underlying causes.

IVF success rates vary according to several factors, particularly the woman's age, the underlying cause of infertility and embryo quality. Your fertility specialist will discuss your individual chances of success.

Yes. Male factors contribute to approximately half of all infertility cases. Fertility investigations usually include testing for both partners.

Your fertility specialist will recommend the most appropriate treatment after reviewing your medical history, fertility investigations and individual circumstances.