Newbie seeking some advice

[Sunshine31]

Hello everyone

I've just joined B&B after TTC for about 10 months with no success. In one way I'm lucky because my GP has been lovely and has referred me pretty early - so I've had all the bloods plus an ultrasound and HSG. All fine as is my husband's sperm. The gynae at my GP surgery has now said there isn't much more they can do for me (she doesn't think clomid will suit me) so she's referred me on to the fertility clinic waiting list for IVF - which might be up to two years given I'm only 31.

I know everyone finds TTC difficult when it doesn't happen and I'm not coping very well with the stress - I feel that given I don't seem to have any specific medical problems the anxiety may well be affecting my ability to conceive. My husband is super sweet and generally just wants me to be happy so he has suggested we bypass the NHS and go private.

This is where the advice comes in. I have an appointment booked at a private clinic for an initial consultation and I don't really know what to ask for. Am I being silly thinking about IVF when I have only been trying 10 months? Does anyone have tips to beat the stress? While I like the idea of IVF for its potential to fast track a BFP I also worry that should it fail it may well send me over the edge. Can anyone give me any advice? What should I discuss at the clinic next week? Is IUI worth trying first given we don't have any specific problems? And what is IVF actually like?

Thanks in advance for your help

 

[Quaver]

Not having gone through either IUI or IVF, I'd say IUI is a lot easier, but IVF will give you faster BFP

 

[JaniceT]

As you and your hubby are young, ovulation is OK and husband's sperm is OK, you should consider trying naturally for at least 2 years. It's because statistically, 50% of couples who try to conceive within the 1st year don't get a BFP. It takes time for many. IVF/ICSI isn't an easy street. The hormone injections and process is very stressful for many and does affect the relationship/marriage in some instances.

If you really can't wait, then you should be asking your Fertility Specialist:
1. What could be the reason you haven't been able to conceive in 10 months. Your FS may give you a blood test to check for Thyroid, hormone levels, etc.
2. Process of IVF/ICSI/IUI.
3. Cost
4. What to emotionally expect from the fertility cycle. (ie. mood swings, hot flashes)
5. How many embryos to transfer
6. If you need time off work, how long?

Wishing you all the best.