Hi all,
I’m based in England and want to know what rights I have with fertility checks (if I do have any).
I came off the pill in December 2020 and got my first period end of January. I’ve been using an app to track and using ovulation tests. We’ve been trying for 6 cycles and on the NHS website it says to contact your GP if you have a fertility issue such as endometriosis or PCOS or you’re over 36.
I’ve been told by my doctor that I don’t fit the fertility criteria and she thinks from reading my notes my endometriosis won’t affect fertility. I had a laparoscopy 3 years ago in April 2018 and they found endometriosis on my bowel and bladder but didn’t touch it as they never had specialists and it was stage 1. She said my age is a factor too?! Not sure how she can definitely say my endometriosis won’t be a factor.
I checked the NICE guidelines which said your doctor can perform tests but it’s down to your CCG and their criteria.
The fertility criteria for my CCG is:
- irregular or no periods
- if either partner is undergoing cancer treatment
- testicular problems
She said I would have to be trying for 2 years before I get any referrals.
She has done my 1-5 and 21 day bloods which are normal but hasn’t discussed doing anymore.
She has also referred me to a gynaecologist again.
As I’m off birth control my symptoms are worsening and I’m aware that periods can cause more damage and the endometriosis can spread.
I have a telephone appointment on 10th August. I tried to book on the phone but they said I need to do it online now.. what is happening with appointments like we used to have?
What other tests could I ask for? Am I entitled to them considering my diagnosis? Can my partners sperm be checked too? He’s at the same doctors.
Would I be able to get the dye pushed through my tubes or is that classed as fertility treatment?
When I first said to my doctors about coming off the pill they said the nurse said she would send a leaflet out but then told me to just google everything.
It took 9 years for a diagnosis of endometriosis and I told my doctor I am not getting fobbed off anymore.
Any help/ advice would be appreciated.