What next?

[Snowberry86]

I'm not sure if this is the right place to post but I'm fairly new round here so please move it if it isn't.

My DH and I have been trying to conceive for 13 months with no luck. We have seen our GP and had a range of tests and are now being referred to the fertility clinic. I wondered if anyone could advise me on what comes next?

So far I've had several blood tests, an internal ultrasound and some swap tests. DH has had sperm analysis. Everything has come back as normal so far.

What should I expect from the fertility clinic?

Swab not swap!

I can't answer your question as I only got that far myself but while I was going through that I started seeing a reflexologist and she worked wonders! If nothing else it will keep you calm through this worrying time. Look for one who specialises in fertility issues and give it a try. Good luck!

Thank you angelicjen- I will look into reflexology and see if I can find anywhere in my area.

Hi snowberry, it probably changes from area to area but I can share with you my experience.

We had most of the tests through the go, and we're referred to the local gynaecology department where they decided to do a laparoscopy. All came back all clear so we were referred to the fertility specialist who was nhs. When we met with him he spent 20mins explaining potential fertility treatments - clomid, IUI, ivf before telling us we'd have to wait another 12 months for any nhs treatment (check out what the rules are in your area, ours was 'trying' for 3 years). We decided to go for IUI with an nhs referral paid for privately so that we could ensure we protected our one free nhs go. Once we'd made the decision we shifted across to a private clinic.

The explanations along the way seem pretty good with most people you interact with in the process, I didn't particularly appreciate the insensitivity of some of the doctors but you deal with it. Anything attached to the nhs takes a while to get through, those 6 week waits to the next appointment really tot up quickly. I also tried reflexology and loved it, it hasn't literally 'worked' for me, but I'm much calmer and able to take things in my stride more.

I hope it goes well!

Hello OP when I was referred to the fertility clinic, in addition to all the tests you've mentioned I had to do the HSG which is an x ray where they check the state of your tubes. Fairly painless if a bit uncomfortable. Also you'll probably have to get more bloods done, from what I remember GPs tend to not ask for the AMH test (think that's what it's called; checks your ovarian reserve).

Depending on what they find then you and the consultant can work out what's the best treatment - IUI, IVF etc. If you're thinking of potentially doing fertility treatment I strongly suggest you read up on each so you're prepared - although the consultant will help ultimately it's your decision!

Due to my issues I went straight for IVF rather than anything else btw.

Good luck!

Thank you both.

I should also had mentioned I am currently fairly under weight (bmi of 16.9) and I am expecting to be told I can't have any treatment until I am in a healthy weight range.

Was thyroid one of the blood tests?
Just in case of that being the cause of low weight (hyperthyroidism)
There may well be weight/bmi criteria as there is a maximum of 30bmi in some areas.

Yep my thyroid has been checked. I had a bmi of 19 when I was on the pill. After stopping it last year I've lost 2 stone as I just can't keep weight on. I have an eating disorder which makes it difficult for me to gain weight.

You may want to check your ccg rules as looking at my area min bmi is 19.
The pill depletes b vitamins i think. I took pregnacare conception during treatment.

Thanks Naty. I assume they will give me that info when I get referred?

In the meantime I will keep trying to get my bmi up but it's unlikely to move too much. I come from a family of very petite people and so it isn't in my build to be much bigger than I am now.