More tests/ moving clinic / Dr.Shehata

[Rol81]

So an update:

After another failed implantation in Dec I’ve just had my follow up consultation with my clinic.

I really like the consultant, she works both nhs & private. I think she works at the Lister , so I may follow her there. She has also recommended the fertility clinic at UCLH London .

I also had my follow up with the recurrent miscarriage clinic (nhs) . I have very high NK cells. On this occasion , it was Dr Shehata . He has recommended I go private and get 3 other blood tests (£1200) and for my husband to have sperm dna fragmentation test . This is another expense I’m skeptical about but he says it’s better to have all the tests done to rule out other issues.

These are the blood tests :

HS5 : Test for Tumour Necrosis Factor (TNF alpha) also known as TH1/TH2 cytokines(£470)

HS11 : This test is a very complex test where the NK cells are put in a pregnancy like state to reflect their reaction during pregnancy and different medications are added to ascertain the treatment needed to reduce the activity level of NK cells (£ 700)

TB Quantiferon Gold Test : Your TB status is required prior to the medications being administered (£150)

What’s everyone’s thoughts . I’m thinking I’ll just do them. Then I’ll see him in a couple of weeks to decide after results what to do.

I think his ivf clinic is CRP and works along with kings in Dulwich. Any one got experience with it?

I know you can’t name anything on here but if you can message me privately I’d be really grateful. Moving clinic after 4 years is stressful but I think time to move on.

So I’m thinking CRP Epsom, The lister , UCLH .

Any advice welcome. I need hand holding with this decision 🙈

Thanks xx

[Batsford]

Hi Rol81, I’m really sorry about your latest result. I’m under Shehata’s care and I really rate him. The second test you mentioned is really valuable, as it gives % reduction in killing activity when they apply different doses of steroids and intralipids in a pregnancy environment and so he can tailor your treatment plan. If you see him privately and your levels are really high, he can also offer you some additional drugs which aren’t licensed on the NHS. Best of luck.

[Rol81 in reply to Batsford]

Thank you for replying . I might message you privately if that’s ok. I think we’ve actually messaged before briefly x

[Batsford in reply to Rol81]

Yes of course. If there is anything I can help with please give me a shout. Happy to chat. x

[Chel91]

Hi lovely, this is just my opinion. But I would say sperm DNA fragmentation is usually a waste of money unless the results will change something? Bizarre he requires a TB test never heard of that, but sometimes we have to jump through hoops it seems.

The HS5 Th1/th2 test is standard with my doctor, I've had it done several times. The HS11 is done at my clinic, but I don't think it is very efficacious, as the lab vs our body is quite different. I would do it if he requires it for your medication access or such, it might be interesting, but expensive of course. Sorry there are so many decisions and it can be overwhelming. I always say best to do what your gut tells you is right xx

[Rol81 in reply to Chel91]

Hello xx

Thank you for replying as always ❤️

My gut feeling says it’s probably not going to help and it’s going to add more meds and more expense that I can’t really afford. My consultant really doesn’t rate the tests. And I worry about the treatment. I think humira was mentioned, my consultant informed me they had 2 or 3 patients a from his clinic that ended up getting sepsis after egg collection as result of their immune system been so low.

She also was a bit miffed about the TB test, said it’s something new been added that he didn’t require before .

There’s so much doubt in my mind But if I don’t do the tests I will always think what if !

[Chel91 in reply to Rol81]

I can totally understand that. It is very expensive and the treatments are not without risks. I suppose will you even want to take any of the stronger additional medications? I know you have already tried a lot of things. Wishing you lots of luck with whatever you decide and the new clinic xx