Am I too old for anything?

[SayIt24]

We’ve been trying for a baby for a long time. Went to doctor over a year ago but then decided to give nature a year’s deadline. Not happened so asked GP to refer me. GP took my BMI and said that’s all the information that was needed. I’ve since read on NHS Scotland website that I need to be under 40 at time of treatment (IVF). I’m 40 now.

Are there other treatments that happen before/ instead of IVF? I’m confused as to why GP would refer me if I’m already too old to get any help.

Not in Scotland but GP sounds shite. As if that's all you need to have tested. Unless they are thinking that further tests will happen post-referral. Referral to who though, if you're past the cut-off age?

I would them again and produce a list of the blood tests that would actually give you more insight into your current fertility status, or go private. Here's a link to the kind of tests you'd be looking at for you: https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/cg156/ifp/chapter/tests-for-women

Your husband also needs to get checked out (it's the same page as above, but one step down on the left-hand side headers).

You're not 'too old' but a lot will depend on what insight the above gives you both. I had our first through IVF at 41 and am pregnant with our second at 44. And Mumset is a gold mine for any IVF-related questions you might have! Once you've got more of an idea of where you stand, you might want to consider an IUI before going into IVF, and there's a great book called It Starts With The Egg which has lots of tips for improving egg quality and your chances (if indeed that is any kind of issue and it's not male factor).

Thanks for your reply. Sorry I wasn’t clear. GP will refer me to fertility clinic who will do further testing. I’ve had swabs taken and bloods to check hormone levels. All normal.

Referral to where? I’ve no idea. That’s why I’m confused. Surely I’ll not be sent for tests to be told, “Yeah, you’ve got x, y and z issues but you are past the age for help so… bye”

Husband has also contacted GP and has to hand in a sample.

I will look up the link you sent. Thanks again.

Hello, you are not too old, you will be given options by the fertility clinic suitable for you and your partner based on your specific circumstances. Even if there are issues with you and/or partner there is the option for donors for you to consider. Make sure you take care of yourself 🤗

We paid for a NHS private consultation to get ahead in the queue when I was 39. Can you ask if you can do this (if you are prepared to do this)?

If going private anyway, I would recommend looking at options abroad. It is less expensive, the technology is more advance and service better. I went with a Prague clinic for my last 2 rounds and wished I did that sooner (I started with NHS (1round - funded), then went private with Create (3rounds)).

I am 42 now.

Just wish I’d started sooner. Time goes so quickly. Cannot believe I’m 40.

Thanks for your reply. I don’t think private care is an option for us financially. I hope your story has a happy ending.

Hey I am 45 and have gone through the feeling of why didn't I start earlier, however in the past it wasn't the right time for whatever reason. Forgive and honour your past self and be gentle with your current self. You got time and options.xxx you can DM me if you want

So all our results came back with no obvious issues. We have been referred for IVF. Days to spare because I turned 41! We will get one round on NHS. Will hear 8-12 months apparently. Not getting our hopes up because success rate is so low.