Fertility MOT

[ChaoticKate]

Has anybody paid for a private fertility MOT and, if so, what was it like and was it useful?

We've been TTC for about 7 months, although I keep having to go away with work at just the wrong time. I was assaulted about 11 years ago and gradually spiralled into PTSD so for a few years I was effectively self-medicating with alcohol and also started smoking again because I found it helped with my breathing when I started to feel panicky. I no longer drink or smoke but I'm increasingly worried that I might have pickled my eggs. It's got to the point that I suspect the stress and anxiety of thinking there might be something wrong is probably damaging my chances. I think a fertility MOT may help but it's something I would find very difficult because of the nature of the assault - I have to take diazepam for smear tests (not for anything else) and even with that I end up in a bit of a state.

I think I may be coming across as a bit neurotic. I'm not, but this is an issue that I struggle with because none of my family know about the assault or the PTSD and none of my friends know I'm TTC, so I don't really have anyone to talk to about it.

I'm 34.

Many thanks to anyone who takes the time to read and/or reply.

Hi, I'm so sorry to hear about what you have gone through. I've never heard of a fertility mot, but you could start with just the bloodtests for hormone levels (amh) etc. Also the fact that you may not be around at the right time of the month each time, means you may not actually have fertility problems. I think they would probably suggest TTC at exactly the right time if possible for at least one or two cycles before worrying about that.
A lot of people I know drink and smoke, so please don't think you have ruined your chances by doing that.
I'm 36 and TTC#1

I don't think you sound neurotic at all. I am so sorry that happened to you and that it has (understandably) had such a profound effect on you. It may be worth speaking to the clinic and asking what their options are for the ultrasound (I assume this is the worry, although don't want to pry). I think an ultrasound would need to be transvaginal, but there may be something they can do to help you, given your concerns.

I have had friends who had private fertility MOTs and found them useful. Either because they flagged something was wrong (and therefore something could be 'fixed') or because they didn't show anything (so they could take reassurance that there wasn't something obvious that would make it impossible to conceive). I had a private ultrasound, along with NHS blood tests, and found it all helpful.

I very much doubt that the smoking and self medicating has dramatically affected your fertility, so try not to worry. It is more likely that you simply haven't got pregnant yet because it's very very common for it to take over a year or two!!! If you can face having the MOT it may be helpful to reassure you and stop the nagging worry in the back of your mind. Also, get your DP to have a semen check. It is very common for any issues to be male-factor. I ended up having blood tests, a scan and even surgery before they tested DH and it turned out that the 'problem' was on his side (we went on to conceive naturally though, it just took some time).

Good luck. I really hope it isn't too traumatic for you x

I'm sorry for what you've been through. I'd go for the checks peace of mind.

I won't go into my full personal history but I self medicated with alcohol, nicotine and diazepam for several years. I was later diagnosed as bipolar I with PTSD and OCD.

I had two children, one at 37 and one at 39. I can assure you that you have not pickled your eggs. Eggs are eggs, you are born with them and what you've done will not effect them.

Get yourself checked, if there are any problems it will not be due to what you've ingested. Make sure your partner gets checked too. It will help with the stress and help curb the anxiety

Do you know what the MOT involves? Have you got any reasons to worry about fertility other than your poor lifestyle in the past? Eg it's a good sign if you have regular periods, not to heavy or light, no spotting in between etc.

Otherwise, you could try some other tests eg AMH or FSH to double check that you have age-appropriate egg reserves. Sadly, quality of eggs can't be checked, just the quantity. You could also make sure you eat a very healthy diet with low GI, high-ish protein + take supplements to make sure you're giving yourself the best chance possible.