Where to start and next steps...

[lostinsouth]

Hi a longtime MN lurker here.

After 3 years of trying (and have never been pregnant) DH has just received the results of his tests indicating that he has both a low count and motility. The clinic's assessment is that we are unlikely to be able to conceive naturally.

My tests indicated that I am ovulating with very regular periods so it seems like the male factor is the real issue.

His GP seems pretty clueless regarding the whole process generally and are pretty slow to get going.

I am currently kicking myself wondering why we didn't go for the tests earlier (we started trying when I was 31 and I turn 35 next year but time just seems to have passed us by) and I'm finding it incredibly difficult to absorb the news at the moment. I just wondered what advice people have to get through this time and all the "what ifs?"? And with little guidance from our GPs, what should we be asking for next? We're in West London.

Thanks for listening.

[lozster]

You should be offered a referral to a fertility clinic. You should ring your PCT (actually I think their name has changed of late but if you google I"m sure you'll find it) and check their rules for funding and providing IVF/ICSI.

[HoopHopes]

Yes find oh what your area funds on the NHS. If make fertility issues then you will probably be offered ICSI. Depends on what criteria is in your area for NHS treatment. For eg where I live if meet criteria can have 1 cycle funded. You will need referral to your fertility clinic first. Worth seeing if can get NHS funding and where you can go to as you may have a limited choice.

[JT2013]

Hi
I'm in a similar position but I have low AMH too, so double trouble. Your partner will have to repeat the tests in 3 months if he hasn't already. Then you'll be offered IVF on the basis of a low sperm count. That's what our doctor told us, but now I've muddied the waters with high FSH, low AMH! You're a good candidate with no other issues apparent. Push, push and push for a referral. I wasted months when I was sent away from my GP who told me to "carry on having lots of sex and try not to worry" I was 38!

[lostinsouth]

Ladies, sorry for the delay in reply and thanks for your responses. We're seeing my GP tomorrow so will be pushing for the referral.

[notgivingup37]

Hey after losing my v at 17 iv never been caught I was on depo privera for a while until my 1st serious partner n I thought we should start trying for 3 to 4 years we had no joy so we decided to get checked turns out my hormone levels are imbalanced my oestrogen is overpowering the other? He then left me not long after finding out... but me and my current partner are trying. Ut knowing my problem what can I do to help balance things out or conceive naturally? Please help x