Hi all,
I'm new here! I'm not really sure where to start and feel like I'm about to off-load my life story, so my apologies in advance!
Myself and my partner (both nearly 30yo) have been TTC now for 9 months now (which I appreciate isn't the end of the world given people try for much longer). However, we have the following hurdles and are currently in the process of a referral to see a fertility specialist:
PCOS:
Diagnosed 10 years ago through blood tests and pelvic scans, I've been on Metformin ever since
I use the Clearblue digital OPKs which do show a spike each month/suggesting that I am ovulating (I also get egg white CM)
Most recent blood tests were all normal - I think the Metformin has been working! (tested LH/FSH/E2)
Suspected Endometriosis:
Ongoing pains in my pelvis, specifically on the left side
Pelvic scan suggested that the left ovary is 'stuck' to the lining of my womb (pelvic adhesions)
I was referred to a gynaecologist who advised against having surgery to cut the adhesions as they'd most likely grow back by forming scar tissue and will interrupt TTC
Semen Analysis:
My partner's sample showed that the amount of sperm is normal but the motility is low at 36%
The results also showed that some of the sperm is misshapen
Frenulum tear:
2 months ago, my partner experienced a frenulum tear during my fertile period (worst possible timing)
He's now experiencing pain during intercourse, adding more pressure and making this feel like an impossible mission (we took a break for a while, but he's determined to carry on)
Has anyone else experienced a combination of the above issues and been able to conceive naturally? I'm beginning to feel like IVF may be the solution we will be given.
Also, slight tangent, but we're discussing holding off starting IVF until we get married (nothing set, but if we're told IVF is our only hope, we'd have something a bit 'shot gun' within the next 6 months). Does this just seem like a waste of time/would it be best to just concentrate on have a baby first given our age etc.?
I feel a bit conflicted but also don't want to 'rush' into the IVF as it almost seems like the last resort....
Any thoughts/advise welcome. Thank you! 🙂