where to start with fertility tests?

[Sneaky84]

Hi,

We have been actively trying to conceive for 18 months now. I had a miscarriage at 9 weeks last July, and a chemical in January. I am 37 and my partner is 40. In February I went to see my GP, who basically said in this area I’m too old for any infertility referral, but gynaecology was a possibility. They sent me for a basic blood test.

I then got a call from the surgery receptionist a couple of weeks ago saying my referral to gynaecology had been rejected so there was nothing they could do to help. In her words, ‘you’ll have to do it all privately’. She then said once I’ve found a private clinic to call them back for the doctor to put in a referral.

Basically, I don’t know where to start! I’m guessing the first action is to have further tests done, but what? And where do I start when looking for a clinic? Can anyone suggest any useful websites, books or resources that might help me to navigate it a little better!

I’m feeling more than a little bit overwhelmed and abandoned by my GP!

Thanks

That's ridiculous, you're only 37!!

No idea what steps privately but for us with GP, it was sperm test first, then blood tests to see if I ovulate when expected. I didn't and have a diagnosis for PCOS so they went straight to the medicine to make me ovulate which worked.

Really? I'd get another opinion and have some basic hormone tests done.

Does your partner have a child from a previous relationship?

37 shouldn't be too old for these tests.

Thanks, I was pretty shocked at how dismissive the GP was to be honest. I knew there were cut offs in terms of age, but I really wasn’t expecting to basically be told they won’t do anything.

Neither of us have any previous children. I might give them a call and see if I can see someone else, but just wanted to have an idea of where to start and what kind of tests we should be starting with.

See if can see a female Dr. Twins were born when I was 38 so I conceived at 37 on ovulation meds so I probably saw nurse late 36 so referref early 36

Your GP should run a sperm test and check your bloods for ovulation as a starting point before referring you on to any infertility clinic anyway. It may be that waiting times in your area are so long that they suspect you'll be over the age limit by the time you are treated at an NHS clinic.

However, I would say if you do happen to have the spare cash. I would potentially go private to a clinic for a fertility MOT if at all possible. Because they will be able to do these tests almost immediately and you will hopefully be able to identify the issue straight away. Though sadly, i know it isn't always that easy.

It could just be that you are both fine and it is just taking a while, but as someone who has been through IVF on the NHS, I would move quickly tbh, if you can.

This doesn’t sound right.
I don’t know if it’s different in different areas or for different trusts but I’m in London and was referred for fertility tests last year at the age of 40.
I would imagine the “cut off point” it would generally be at least early 40’s.

I would definitely try to speak to a different doctor. Private fertility tests start at about £500 so you could look into this.

There’s a really good infertility board on Mumsnet which I’d really recommend posting on (or asking if your post could be moved?). Everyone on there is so helpful and kind.

I’d see if you could look up what should be available on the NHS in your area. If you’re not getting that then push the surgery. Even in areas with no IVF entitlement there’s often eligibility for initial tests but as others have said they often take a while. If you decide to go private I’d do the sperm analysis first as it’s cheap and can rule male factor infertility in/out quickly.

Do your research on local clinics. They’ll often have information sessions. Do ask about the costs as when you add in the drugs they really do add up. There are options where you pay upfront for a certain number of cycles which are popular but look at the small print.

Good luck.

When I first approached the GP about fertility, she sent me the CCG policy on funding for IVF - the cut-off was 38. I can't remember regarding investigations but I would have thought they'd still be funded at 37. If I were you though, I'd pay private at a fertility clinic for a fertility MOT (around £400 I think) and save the NHS funding battle for meds or IVF if needed.