I have just been to see the specialist and I have been advised that I should have my tubes removed before we start IVF????

I have been told without having my tubes removed I have a 10% chance of the IVF working and a 30% chance if I have them removed, im 37 years old and have no idea what to do, has anbody else been in the same position and if you have had them removed is it keyhole surgery?

[DianeArnold Partner Nurse Fertility Network UK]

The condition called “hydrosalpinx”, which when translated, simply means water in the tube! Fallopian tubes have a natural lubrication in them to allow sperm to swim and the egg to travel down. Occasionally, the end of the tube(s) called “fimbriae” stick together. This then blocks the “exit” for excess fluid (lubrication) to escape. There is then only one way out for this fluid and that is through the womb end of the tube. Many consultants now believe that this excess of fluid can prevent implantation of a developing embryo, as it can be “washed” out. Because of this the tube(s) are often removed, usually through micro surgery. More consultants now opt for this decision in order to increase your chances of a successful pregnancy. I do hope all works out well for you. If you have a look at our website infertilitynetworkuk.com you will be able to read about this and also see how we can support you at this time.

Diane Arnold

[Heltaker]

Hi there . Im 34 and have just been through similar so I hope this helps u. Last month I went for an investigatory laparoscopy, where they removed one tube due to scarring and a hydrosalpinx. I didnt understand why they removed it rather than just leaving it just a a not working tube.They explained to me that they have found that removing a tube gives better results as the liquid could possibly also affect the usefulness of me other tube. Therfore helping me with the best chances going forward. The keyhole was 4 tiny incisions and to be honest I only took the after painkillers for 3 days not seven. I did take 2 weeks off - do sit still don't be tempted by cleaning the house, you will be tired!!!. The other bonus if u go ahead is that when we get to checking for follicles etc for collection the lack of other bits in the area give them a much clearer picture. I guess I was lucky as I didn't know they were going to do this ahead , I only found out after my op as things were worse, but I would say it was the best thing to do. Small extra chances but there are all worth it if it helps.

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Hiya, thank you for the information and after hearing from you and other people I have decided that I am going to have them removed ,like you say any extra chance is better in the long run. I am just annoyed that its another operation I think if I had been informed of the options when I had my Laparoscopy I would of allowed them to remove them then and there. from having your op how long have you had to wait for IVF treatment?

I am now undergoing all treatment at Leeds and I know things will move quicker than when I was at Dewsbury hospital its just so annoying at times and I feel like my life is on hold and we have not been able to plan anything for nearly 2 years now, im sure it will be worth it in the end though :o))

[Heltaker]

We have not had to wait too long. Our journey has meant the op has taken us down the ivf route, until then we were not aware that it would be our route to the future! Hard realisation though an answer was better than the monthly frustration and tears? Op was early July, first meeting at clinic in e.yorks was early August , further bloods etc under hand already , just waiting to book in for our group chat postponed at choice till the next but one. All in all I can't complain, seems for ever but not in the scheme of most other medical bits and bobs, but then I understand timings are longer locally if your Nhs.( no luck for us on that front). Hard to do as I've been the same but make plans they may just have to jiggle, those close will undertstand, best advice we had from the consultant was book a hol now to chill, before the hard bit starts, so if we must away we will go! Even if all was natural you'd still book your diary up

[tink85]

I am a waiting a lapo too and was asked if needed could my tubes be removed. I couldn't give an answer there an then as it was a shock to think of such a thing, but reading up on it, it does give a teer chance of ivf working.

Good luck x

[Music1]

I can only wish you all the best in the world. I had both tubes removed due to hydrosalpinx and they couldn't find the other tube apparently on the scan. I lost both and was told it would dramatically improve my chance at IVF. Sadly ICSI failed for us, and we've been told to give up as I'm too old and it's not looking good. I'm now 39. Don't leave any decision too long - but do look at things from all angles and get every bit of medical and other advise before you make any decisions. Wishing you every success on your journey. I know how hard it is. x