IBS

[jesswickywoo]

I suffer with IBS from time to time and have always wondered if this plays a part in my fertility issues. Does anyone else have this problem or know whether this is a factor when it comes to infertility?

[Mrsjj]

Hi I've had ibs for probably about a decade and always thought the same as you. I saw a private specialist and he assured me, alongside a fertility doctor that it didn't effect anything. I sought to try and reduce my ibs symptoms for my general health and well being which I think always is a plus for increasing chances of conceiving anyway. Cut down/out sugar and caffeine and increased my vegetable intake quite a lot (have a read about alkaline foods) I had a colonic to remove toxins which helped me so much and 6 months reflexology to cleanse and de stress. I'm pleased to say I'm 18 weeks pregnant after over 4 years TTC. Coincidence? Maybe but also proves that the body is an amazing machine. Best of luck I haven't forgotten the years of trying anything and everything xx

[Hollibob]

Might be worth seeing if you suffer from any other symptoms that endometriosis suffers have?....

[emmab178]

Ibs sometimes get misdiagnosed when it's really endo. As Hollibob says might be worth looking into endo where there is a link with fertility

[Tugsgirl]

I have mild IBS too. Some days it's not too bad and then there are the "bad day" days. I was assured that it doesn't affect fertility x

[jesswickywoo]

Hi. I've suffered from endo for 20 years. I had an op last year and was clear of endo for the first time. I know its IBS as i get it when i have too many sugary things.

Mrsjj i think you're right. I am going to do the same as you have. Congratulations too. I've been trying for over 3 years with no luck. Been written off by the NHS as my egg count is too low. Yet i ovulate and i was told there are folicales. I am very healthy apart from that. I don't eat meat or have any frozen/microwave food. Or take aways ever. I don't smoke or drink and am very fit. Its just that blasted chocolate that gets me. Thankyou for your replies.

[sum1sweeta]

Hi, I can't see a link between ibs and fertility issues. I suffer with ibd (crohns disease) and this doesn't effect my fertility.

[KT84]

I've been recently told I've got IBS. I know I've got one polycystic ovary and a retroverted uterus but have been told these shouldnt really affect anything. I found there is a link between IBS and endometriosis and I do also have some symptoms of that anyway (heavy, painful periods, spotting, bleeding with bowel movements etc). I've had to push but now (after 3 failed IVFs) they are doing a laparoscopy, hysteroscopy and a dye tube check. I'd try and get at least a laparoscopy done. Xx

[72cloud9]

I have ibs but never been told there's a link. However, inflammation is supposed to not be great for implantation and surely if we have ibs we have inflammation? Sometimes I think we know more than the doctors in all honesty!! x

[jesswickywoo]

KT84 When i have ibs and i'm on my period the pain is excruiciating. I know i have no endo as i have just had a lap and they say i'm endo clear. I was told that when there is pain and imflammation in the bowels this creates pressure. Surely this is a bad thing for ovulation? If the uterus is relaxed then there's obviously a better chance of pregnancy.

KT84 I think we all know our bodies better than anyone. We know when there's something wrong and i think thats why we get so upset and frustrated with people not listening to us.