Anyone done a laparoscopy & hysteroscopy before?

My left fallopian tube is blocked and Dr. suggested these 2 procedures to examine severity and functionality of the right tube. These procedures cost about US$4,000.


I'm just wondering if this step is necessary or should I go straight to IVF which cost 30% more. Costs aside,am asking which is a longer and more heartbreaking route to take.


Thoughts anyone?

hi princess

i am not sure where you are based, but unless you have a very good medical plan, i believe most ivf's will cost you at least $10,000 these days. if cost is a factor, take that into your decision making process.


i have had both these procedures and they are necessary when you are ruling out why you are unable to concieve. in your case, since you have a blocked right tube, the dr wants everything else to be in cracking good order.


http://www.ivf.com/laprscpy.html describes the lap.

http://www.gynalternatives.com/hsc.htm


are a couple of the many websites out there describing the surgeries.


there are many women who conceive and have successful pregnancies with just one tube.




one question: you know your left tube is blocked. is this because you did a hsg test (the dye test). if not, why not ask that this be your starting point? the hsg is a LOT less invasive than the other two tests and will at least indicate if the dye passes successfully through the tube.


http://www.advancedfertility.com/hsg.htm



in my non medical opinion i think the logical and cost saving step would be to have the tests. your dh might want to have a sperm analysis done as well.


is IVF necessary? have you been trying to conceive for long? if no, i wouldn't jump to ivf unless there are male factor issues. ivf takes a lot out of you emotionally, physically and financially! IVF is seen as "the last resort" and you feel that - every day of your cycle.


good luck, hope this helps.

Hi Princess,


Further to abitnaive's good info, it isn't recommended to have ivf if you have a hydrosalpinx (fluid on a tube rendering it blocked) as the fluid can be toxic to embryos and reduce ivf chances of success by up to 50%. That said, if you have once clear tube, there is a chance you can still conceive naturally.


I had a laparoscopy to remove a tube which had a hydro on it. It is an invasive procedure requiring a GA, and yes it is painful, but nothing that pain killers wont't sort. I was fully recovered (back at the gym) within 10 days. I've not had a hysteroscopy so can't comment on that procedure.


I'm currently mid way through my first ivf cycle (had egg collection today). It's not called an ivf rollercoaster for nothing. Many tears have been shed already and I'm only halfway through. That said, if it results in a positive outcome then it will all have been worth it.


I'm currently in the UK at the moment, but am moving to HK in July. If this cycle is unsuccessful then I'll be looking to do an ivf cycle in HK.


Lots of luck and babydust in whatever you decide.


Tinks x