Are you eligible for fertility testing through NHS for 2nd child?

secondtimelucky87 · 27/12/2024 22:21

TTCbaby2xox · 27/12/2024 21:17

I know I would not be eligible for IVF but does anyone know if NHS GPs will refer for fertility testing if you've already had a baby but are struggling to conceive again?

Hello :-)

Also TTC second. I'm not sure how helpful this is but through my GP I've had my LH, FSH, Oestradiol and progesterone blood tests done. I've also had a pelvic ultrasound. I've decided to go private for a HyCoSy as I imagine the waiting lists would be very long on the NHS (and I am also planning to have it under sedation). Hopefully someone else will be along to offer their experience but I'm not sure if we're entitled to any more than the above. I could be wrong though!

Original poster

TTCbaby2xox · 27/12/2024 22:35

secondtimelucky87 · 27/12/2024 22:21

Hello :-)

Also TTC second. I'm not sure how helpful this is but through my GP I've had my LH, FSH, Oestradiol and progesterone blood tests done. I've also had a pelvic ultrasound. I've decided to go private for a HyCoSy as I imagine the waiting lists would be very long on the NHS (and I am also planning to have it under sedation). Hopefully someone else will be along to offer their experience but I'm not sure if we're entitled to any more than the above. I could be wrong though!

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Thanks so much for replying. I know each health authority is different but that provides a little hope for the future. Was TTC baby1 for 2 years and actually got pregnant after the HyCoSy test, which they said can happen, so good luck with yours. I was thinking myself of possibly booking a private one but will wait a few more months first. I assume they'll be very expensive.
I just wasn't sure if anything was available through NHS so your reply is helpful.

OP posts:

HM2024 · 28/12/2024 21:13

TTCbaby2xox · 27/12/2024 21:17

I know I would not be eligible for IVF but does anyone know if NHS GPs will refer for fertility testing if you've already had a baby but are struggling to conceive again?

Yes :) As you say, you're not eligible for IVF but it seems yes for the testing. We are TTC #2 and have had blood tests from GP and sperm analysis for my partner. Got referral from GP for the fertility clinic (took about 2-3 months for the appt - know these will vary between areas) and got ultrasound there and referred for HSG (wait of 3 months for that but he said to phone to check for cancellations as they come up all the time.

Original poster

TTCbaby2xox · 28/12/2024 21:17

HM2024 · 28/12/2024 21:13

Yes :) As you say, you're not eligible for IVF but it seems yes for the testing. We are TTC #2 and have had blood tests from GP and sperm analysis for my partner. Got referral from GP for the fertility clinic (took about 2-3 months for the appt - know these will vary between areas) and got ultrasound there and referred for HSG (wait of 3 months for that but he said to phone to check for cancellations as they come up all the time.

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That's good to know. Thank you for your reply.
Do you mind if I ask how long you've been TTC for before your GP referral?

OP posts:

secondtimelucky87 · 29/12/2024 18:45

TTCbaby2xox · 27/12/2024 22:35

Thanks so much for replying. I know each health authority is different but that provides a little hope for the future. Was TTC baby1 for 2 years and actually got pregnant after the HyCoSy test, which they said can happen, so good luck with yours. I was thinking myself of possibly booking a private one but will wait a few more months first. I assume they'll be very expensive.
I just wasn't sure if anything was available through NHS so your reply is helpful.

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You're so welcome! Glad it was helpful. Ah that's amazing re the HyCoSy. Thanks so much for sharing as that gives me hope. I had a c section with my first and can't help wondering if I've got a blockage in my tubes. Tried for 3 years to have her. We probably can't afford IVF and I have very low AMH so I'm really hoping it could be the thing that's needed! We had some male factor but after lots of lifestyle improvements the latest SA was perfect and there are otherwise no issues.

Wishing you all the very best and lots of baby dust!

Rosieposy89 · 29/12/2024 22:35

I think it depends on your area. My GP did very basic blood tests, but absolutely nothing else on NHS. Fertility clinic refused my GP's referral. We are now self funding. It feels very unfair. I understand NHS has a limited pot, but it's not my fault I can't reproduce

HM2024 · 31/12/2024 21:02

TTCbaby2xox · 28/12/2024 21:17

That's good to know. Thank you for your reply.
Do you mind if I ask how long you've been TTC for before your GP referral?

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I went at about 9 months and she said to just keep trying as they won't offer any tests until a year, then went back a few months later. The 2nd time was a very sympathetic GP which probably helped as she ordered the tests did the referral. I have heard other places won't help until 2 years...so perhaps find that out first before asking your GP. They can't really check how long you have been trying...!

HM2024 · 31/12/2024 21:03

Rosieposy89 · 29/12/2024 22:35

I think it depends on your area. My GP did very basic blood tests, but absolutely nothing else on NHS. Fertility clinic refused my GP's referral. We are now self funding. It feels very unfair. I understand NHS has a limited pot, but it's not my fault I can't reproduce

Sorry to hear that - that is so unfair for you :(