Fertility clinics in the north east - private vs NHS

[gldfnch]

Hi all,

I'm interested to hear anyone's experiences of fertility clinics options in the north east, and what private options are available. We're based near Newcastle.

I am waiting on an NHS referral. I saw the GP in late November about infertility and potential endo. Newcastle Fertility Clinic received the referral in Jan and I'm now waiting for an appointment, but on the phone they said first consultation may not be for another 6 months.

We had initial tests done a 2.5 years ago after 2 years of TTC, but a series of life/health events halted progress and we've since moved areas, meaning that we are starting from scratch. I'm keen to make up on lost time as now 37 pushing 38.

Are there any other options locally if we are able to go private? The only option I've found is TFP GCRM Fertility satellite clinics in Newcastle, which from what I understand will involve travel to Glasgow if we go down the IVF route. Does anyone have any experience with them or any other clinics they'd recommend? I'd be interested to hear how the timeframes compare for NHS/private.

Thanks in advance!

Hi, sorry no help to your question just thought I would pitch in as I am close by in similar situation.

I have been referred to Gateshead fertility clinic. I also brought it up with GP in November, blood tests got done in January and I was referred February. Since then it's been quite quick so far - I have had initial consultation in March a couple of weeks after my NHS referral where they recommended IVF; husband has recently had sperm analysis; we have a second consultation in June to discuss the results then I have been told it will be a 6 months waiting list for IVF from then. I have weight to lose in that 6 months though (around 10pounds) to be accepted but have been told we can still go on the waiting list and loose within that time - although I'm trying to get it off by June.

It sounds like because you've had the initial tests before then you are straight on the six month waiting list for IVF rather than having to go through the motions again? Although I'm not sure as also new to all this

Thanks for your reply 🙂
Ah glad to hear you've not had too much of a wait. I've heard good things about Gateshead!

I'm sure I'll get an appointment letter through and be moving forwards soon. Just some days I get a wave of panicked impatience while navigating the unknowns!

Hope it all progresses smoothly for you!