International Patients

Is the clinic regulated?

Our implant manufacturer is licensed by the MHRA (Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency) to produce Faecal Microbiota Suspensions. They undergo regular government inspections to ensure their processes, procedures, and storage systems meet required safety standards. Our clinic is in full compliance with local regulatory standards.

What medical history do donors provide?

Donors complete an extensive health questionnaire covering medical history, surgeries, procedures, medications, and antibiotic use. Donors must be medication free for at least three years and submit monthly health declarations. They must report any health or lifestyle changes immediately.

Are the donors vaccinated for Covid-19?

Donor acceptance is not based on vaccination status. There are currently no unvaccinated donors. All stool samples are tested for COVID-19 RNA; any positive detection results in the material being discarded.

The implant manufacturer is regulated by CQC and follow the rules and regulations in terms of the vaccination frequency and period before accepting a healthy donor. Current studies showed that there are no available data for the presence of SARS-CoV-2 in the faeces of individuals who have been vaccinated if exposed, and of the risk of faecal–oral transmission of the virus. Additionally, the COVID vaccine does not carry spike proteins as in the virus itself. The mRNA vaccines are produced by using a new technology and they have a laboratory-made material to get a proper reaction to produce defensive cells in the body for the protection from COVID infection.

Have donors undergone RNA-based SarsCov-2 experimental vaccines?

No. Donors who participated in experimental vaccine trials would not be approved.

1. Why do you use material from multiple donors?

Using samples from multiple donors help increase microbial diversity.

1. Can I choose my own donor?

No. Donor selection is managed exclusively by our implant supplier through a strict and standardized process to ensure quality and safety.

1. What are the donors screened for and how often?

Donors are screened thoroughly and regularly for pathogenic organisms. They complete a detailed questionnaire before enrolment and follow-up questionnaires every three months throughout their donation period.

1. Do you take additional safety measures?

Yes. The implant manufacturer quarantines the product for 3 to 6 months, during which the samples and the donors are retested to help detect latent conditions. Monthly testing checks for 22 gastrointestinal pathogens and COVID-19. Any material that does not meet criteria is destroyed. Only material which have passed will be released from quarantine for use. Products are stored at -80^oC which arrests the multiplication cycles of the gut bacteria, thereby maintaining their effectiveness in adhering to gut mucosa on reintroduction to the colon.

1. Is there any risk of infections or complications?

Donor material is carefully screened, and any concerning results excludes that donor from participating. Although responses vary by individual, some patients may experience a temporary immune response in which your existing symptoms briefly worsen for a few days before improving. To our knowledge, there have been no new infections thus far attributed to FMT administration in a patient. No guarantees can be made however, as FMT still involves administering material that has been acquired from another human donor.

Nutrition and Lifestyle

Can I exercise during the programme?

Avoid vigorous exercise during treatment. Gentle activities such as leisurely walking, yoga, Pilates, sauna, or swimming are appropriate during the program. The goal is to avoid stressing the body or stimulating bowel activity. Rest and relaxation are emphasized.  

Can I experiment with different foods during treatment?

Yes, but introduce new food gradually, one at a time. Keep a diary of everything you eat, along with some comments and observations. A daily journal can be helpful to notice subtle and gradual changes.

Will I receive dietary advice?

Yes. During your program, there is time for discussion about diet, how to feed your new microbiome and other ways to maximize your health.

Will I be able to go to work or sightsee during the treatment?

Light activity is fine but avoid strenuous activities. It is advisable not to plan any vigorous activities whilst having the treatment as your immune system is adapting to the newly inputted microbiome. Furthermore, high impact activities can stimulate the bowels and cause a bowel movement sooner.