Timescales and What's Next?

[MrsR32]

We've been TTC for 10 months (although we've told our GP it's been over a year), my blood tests have come back normal but DH's sperm test came back "slightly low". He's got to repeat the test in a few weeks but I was wondering what happens next? If he gets another low result will we be able to start treatments? And what if it's a normal result - are there more tests? Anyone else in a similar position or been through this bit already? I just want to know how long we'll have to wait before we can start doing something constructive!

 

[Kirstin]

We got a very low result in January so have decided to go straight to private IVF/ICSI to cut out the wait.

The process will really depend on where you are from?

 

[rachelle1975]

Hey there

Last year we were going through the GP stuff - same as you. Did they say what your DH's count/motility/morphology was? First thing is not to panic as something as simple as a cold can affect the count etc. It takes 70-90 days for sperm to mature so if you need a third test it will most probably take place when he is on a 'fresh batch'.

My tests also came back okay but DH's didn't - we got 2 SA's done through the GP and then suggestion to take pills and wear looser pants etc. I can recommend Maca, 1000mg Vit c and Wellman tablets every day.

If your DH has another low count then they may refer you to your local assisted conception unit for further tests - there they will send your DH for another sperm test and also (probably) give you an HSG test to check your tubes along with an internal scan to check for PCOS and Endo - just rules out you having any probs if you need to go down the route of IVF.

We got referred in Sept and had our 1st appt with the fertility nurse in november where they sent us for tests - then we had our next appt 3 months later where they reviewed the results and sent DH for blood tests and a chromosome test to rule out any abnormalities - this takes 5 months to come back. So now it's a waiting game but we are on the list for IVF which is up to 12 months.

It is definitely worth getting your DH to take the pills and follow the guidelines regarding improving sperm health as DH followed this and his count improved by 800% - it's still very low but they are getting better!xx

 

[cazhd]

Hi MrsR32 my dh's first SA came back low count and poor motiltiy and morphology, the second was slightly better but gp still thought was problem. We've now been ttc for 20 months, been seen at fertility clinic and consultant not concerned bout SA and doesn't see it as a problem. If your second SA comes back okay you will probably be referred to fertility clinic, they will want to do bloods on yourself and possibly an u/s to checked your tubes. The waiting times and referrals times depend on where you live and your age!! Hope that helps x x