Extra tests advice

[ccsea]

Hi everyone,

I’m starting to think about going for my 3rd IVF cycle and considering doing some extra testing first. However, my clinic (who I really like) are not recommending it. So just wondering if anyone has had a similar experience and done something that’s gone on to make a difference?

Bit of context…

I’m 39, have an AMH of 11.5 and an antral follicle count of 15. On both previous cycles they collected 5 eggs and I had low grade ETs, one on day 3 and one day 5. Neither took. My consultant is saying we should be trying to collect more eggs in the hope we get a better quality one in the mix. So she’s recommending doubling my stimulation dose to get more eggs. She doesn’t believe it’s an implementation issue as both embryos have been low quality.

This does make sense to me, but I’m curious to know whether anyone else has had a similar situation and pushed to do more tests, which has then gone on to make a difference? I’m considering the EMMA/ALICE and the ERA tests. Apparently taking a probiotic is often the recommended course of treatment post having one of these, so I’ve started that just in case. I’m also now taking CoQ10 which I’ve heard can improve egg quality.

I think the next cycle will have to be my last as I can’t afford more, so I’m torn between throwing everything at it at vast expense just in case or just going with what my consultant is recommending!

Any advice would be massively appreciated 💛

[StarsAllAround]

Hi ccsea your first 2 rounds sound similar to mine although my AMH was much lower. My husband and I both started taking coq10 300mg 3 x a day with each meal for a few months before starting as there is some evidence it can help egg quality and sperm quality. It takes 3 months for it to have any effect. I also used testosterone gel during cycle. I got a lot more eggs and had some to freeze. Maybe something to consider. Full story on my page. Good luck x

[ccsea in reply to StarsAllAround]

Hey, thank you for your message. I’m taking 400mg of coq10 a day now and also doing the 12 week course of symprove probiotics which I’ve heard can be good. My consultant has mentioned the testosterone gel too and also potentially putting two embryos back in if I have them next time. Really hoping this will all do the trick! 💛

[konyaga]

I've started taking CoQ10 along with other supplements suggested as part of the "Advanced plan" in the book It All Starts With The Egg.

I agree, with your age and AMH, it may be worth getting more tests while you up your supplements to support healthy growth of follicles, which takes time.

I'm 43 and under time stress but we've decided to get Chicago bloods from a Greek clinic, with microbiota tests performed by taking a biopsy of my uterine lining, potentially followed by hysteroscopy to detect any inflammation.

[ccsea in reply to konyaga]

Hey, thanks for your message. Really hope your tests go well. I actually spoke to a clinic in Greece the other week to see what they do. Definitely sounds like they’re big on investigative tests prior to treatment. But then speaking to my consultant here, she’s confident half of them aren’t my issue and keeps coming back to egg quantity and quality. It does make sense for my case that’s it’s not an implantation issue as my lining always seems to be pretty good and the grade of the embryos is low.

Think I’m going to speak to another clinic and get a second opinion. So many decisions to make!

Wishing you loads of luck xx