Laparoscopy or IVF

[Maximoo06]

I had all the bloods and hycosy tests which showed PCOS but am ovulating at the follow up appointment the dr said I can either have a laparoscopy to double check tubes or go for IVF, I choose to have the laparoscopy which is in a few months but now I am thinking should I have chosen to go straight for the IVF in case the waiting list is so long????

[BeaCat]

My hycosy showed blocked tubes and was then referred to have a laparoscopy, I had to wait 6 months on the NHS for this which was quite torturous! I had the lap and it showed the tubes were definitely blocked, they couldn't do anything about it and then got referred for IVF. So in my case I felt like it was 6 months wasted. But I didn't get the choice and I don't have PCOS so it could be more useful for you. Also the lap does take it out of you for a couple of weeks. Good news is that once I got referred for IVF the wait hasn't been too long.

[Maximoo06]

After you had the laparoscopy how long did you take off work?
Also what was the wait time for IVF after? I know every borough is different

[Blankspace4]

I had a laparoscopy 10 days ago and they had to remove both tubes due to blockage and inflammation. This was hard to come to terms with (the initial plan was just to remove one as that is what showed up via MRI).

I’m still recovering and sore so I would agree with the statement that the laparoscopy takes you off your feet for a few weeks. However without it they can’t really get a true and full picture of what’s going on.

Are you able to be put on the list for IVF treatment and then have your laparoscopy during the wait time? That is what I have done (waiting list was 10 months in my area!!! And we only get one try so wanted to give best chance of success).

I believe they can clip tubes as an alternative to removing them but removal was best option for me due to the extent of the inflammation (causing pain and adhesions).

All the best x

[Maximoo06]

Thank you for sharing your experience.

The hycosy didn't show up any blockages in my tubes but they said this will be how they can know for sure, so hoping I won't have to have any removed. I have only booked of 1 day for work should I book off more?

It had to be the laparoscopy or ivf so thought I would go for this first and continue trying naturally for a bit but nothing had happened.

[Blankspace4]

For a laparoscopy you will need a week off work, as a minimum (my doc has just signed me off for a further fortnight, making a total of 3 weeks although I may go back sooner)