Hi there
I have lost my IVF twins in June at 22+3. I live in Kent but as I was on my way to work (London) I ended up in St Thomas' hospital near Waterloo Station. I could not be at a better place. They were fantastic and the consultant who saw me at the time was genuinely concerened and interested in helping us. So much so that he invited us over after six weeks to discuss what has happened and what to do next. He went into quite a length to find out what has actually happened and the most likely cause was an incompetent cervix, which will posibly require a stich at my next pregnancy. St Thomas' hospital has a premature baby clinic and they do a lot of research into this subject. I have miraculously managed to get pregnant naturally last month and the consultant will start scanning my cervix from 11 weeks (fingers crossed I will get there). He suggested to wait and see whether I need the stich or not. If my cervix is not shortening, he might just monitor me weekly.
I have asked around about the risks of the stitch. The only one I was told about is the risk of infection but apparently they can give you pessaries for that.
I come from the Czech Republic and discussed my problem there as well as I have a friend in one of the best hospitals there. The Czech consultant told me that they used to do the stitch a lot in the past but they are trying to do without whenever they can and that he personnally wouldn't recommend it. So I am confused. However, I trust my consultant in St. Thomas' and whatever he will recommend I will go with.
To answer your question about NHS, I too lost faith after my misscarriage in June but being treated in St. Thomas' and receiveing the interest from the consultant even though I am not part of their PCT has restored it again. He spent an hour!! discussing with us what has happened. On NHS. No private consultant has ever spent so much time with me and I still can't quite get over how great he is.
See if you could ask your GP to reffer you to St. Thomas' prof. Shennan's early pregnancy unit. I really think you would be in good hands there.
Hope this helps. Let us know how you get on and good luck.