My feed
Premium

Please
or
to access all these features

Our Infertility Support forum is a space to connect with others in the same position, discuss causes, treatment and IVF, and share infertility stories of hope and success.

Infertility

Is this standard practice?????

7 replies

waterjungle · 18/08/2015 21:45

I am due to have a laproscopy and Hystroscopy with dye on the NHS in the next few weeks. I went in recently for a pre-assesment where a nurse explained exactly what would happen.

I was surprised when she said that if the dye showed a blocked or even partially blocked Fallopian tube they would clip it. I asked for clarification as I was under the impression that this operation would help clear my tubes. I asked if any effort would be made to clear blockages but she told me that you can't clear Fallopian tubes as it causes more scarring and problems.

I've already had a bit of a nightmare with this. I've had 3 years of unexplained infertility. My initial referral was lost - setting us back 9 months. I was then cleared to get the operation privately but was turned down for funding at the last minute then simultaneously lost my place on the NHS waiting list.

I've tried to keep positive and listen to friends who have had this operation and got pregnant shortly. My worry is that they find blockages in both tubes and I'll go down for an operation with the expectation of it helping my chances of getting pregnant and come out sterilized.

Is it just because it's the NHS that they won't try and clear my tubes or is that standard practice privately too?

I am obviously going to call the surgeons secretary to ask these questions but I would be so grateful if somebody here could tell me their experiences and if it sounds standard to them.

OP posts:
Report
eurochick · 18/08/2015 21:48

I've spent a lot if time on the Conception boards and never heard of this. Remember, they can't do anything without your consent, do you can refuse consent for the clipping.

Report
OrangeSquashTallGlass · 18/08/2015 22:02

I'm really not sure about that. I suppose it depends how they're blocked and what the damage is? I had my tubes unblocked on the nhs during treatment for endometriosis. My notes show hydrosalpinx (I think).

Report
waterjungle · 18/08/2015 22:25

That was my thoughts as well.

I did say - "so even if there is only a slight blockage you won't even try and clear it?"

The answer was - "Nope - that doesn't work, we'll just clip it and move on"

OP posts:
Report
OrangeSquashTallGlass · 18/08/2015 23:21

I'm glad you're going to call the secretary and confirm. I know you've waited a while for appointments and I'm sure you don't want to delay anything but I think it's really important to know exactly what you're giving consent to before the op. And if you're not confident in the discussions you're having with one medical professional then you're definitely within your rights to all for a second opinion.

Report
Frank85 · 19/08/2015 07:36

This sounds really strange to me.....
I have had two HSG procedures one to check the tube was clear and the next fine to flush it out and try and clear if any blockages so at least then I could try getting pregnant naturally
My doc said if this didnt work then i could have the tube unblocked in another op

Report
Waitingimpatient · 19/08/2015 07:40

The problem with blocked or damaged tubes is the fluid that leaks/accumulates (hydrosalpinx)
It can prevent implantation etc so is often better to just clip/remove the tube/s before other treatment. It seems drastic but the fluid can just flush out an embryo before it implants so if the clinic recommend it before IVF it's a good idea.

Report
waterjungle · 20/08/2015 15:07

Thanks for your replies.

Waitingimpatient hydrosalpinx was mentioned as a reason for clipping the tubes. However I've never had any form of pregnancy before. It seems from what you say they must be getting me ready for IVF straight away. When I saw the consultant privately (same one as I'm seeing on NHS) and he talked about the operation he didn't mention anything about clipping tubes. It sounds like they are not even going to give getting pregnant naturally a go.

I have had a fibroid removed about 5 years ago that was close to one fallopian tube so I am concerned that there are adhesion's or scarring there.

I still have pain and had this operation booked to go ahead on insurance. As soon as the insurance heard the consultant also dealt in fertility they pulled the funding.

OP posts:
Report
Please create an account

To comment on this thread you need to create a Mumsnet account.