hi…had surgery for loplar bc 2weeks ago…saw the surgeon today who has now passed me on to the oncologist to see in three weeks time…but with this soo many questions…the main one being do i freeze some eggs or not…how hard is the procedure/survival rates…is it all nhs funded?..i already have 2 boys…but wasnt ready to rule out another…plz if any of you know the answers…help x
Hi
As I was 1 month off 40 when I was diagnosed I had to fight to get referred to a fertility consultant. Although the NICE guidelines changed last year to fund women up to the age of 43 I don’t think any trusts have changed their policy and only fund women who are ready for fertility treatment at 39 1/2. You would needs to read your trusts policy on this. There are different rules slightly for people who are facing cancer treatment. NHS in my area only fund people who do NOT already have children, even if you are facing cancer treatment. You could ask to be referred to a fertility consultant and find out, you could fund it your self but it is not cheap, several thousand pounds. I had eggs harvested after my surgery. It took 4 weeks but I had already been screened. i.e. Had blood tests to see if I was suitable for treatment and my mularian count I.e how fertile I still was. Anything bellow 5 is low, I was 1.5. They harvested 6 eggs. Nothing is guaranteed with fertility treatment. Embryos freeze and unfreeze much more successfully than eggs which are more fragile.
Hi telle,
Sorry to read of your diagnosis. I know at the beginning of treatment there are so many questions running through our heads - it’s such a confusing/scary time.
I was referred to Bart’s prior to starting chemo and had a round of IVF, which resulted in successfully freezing 15 embryos. Whether I’ll ever get to use them though is another matter.
My treatment was funded by the NHS, however my husband and I don’t have any children. I’m not sure whether the NHS fund IVF for those who have children prior to diagnosis. I would absolutely hate to cause any offence, but I’m not sure whether or not I would agree with the NHS funding IVF for those that are fortunate enough to already have children. The budgets are so stretched already and there are so many life saving/prolonging drugs out there that are being denied to people on the basis of cost.
Sorry, like I said I would absolutely hate to cause any offence - a breast diagnosis is a cruel thing that very often rips away our life dreams and aspirations - it really is not fair for any of us.
I wish you the very best for the rest of your treatment.
K x
thanks for your replies…its all so mind boggling no matter who i speak to its all different…i have been reffered to the fertility clinic…they are going to ring tommorow…and the decision has to be made…ive also been told my implant has to come out…so more desicions x