"Infertility Assessment Clinic"

In 2022, I was referred to the Infertility Clinic by my GP, after having difficulty conceiving for over 18 months.   I contacted my GP approximately 6 months later to ask if there was any update as to where I was on the list - naturally, I was keen to ascertain how long I may have to wait, as a further 6 months had passed without any success conceiving.  My GP encouraged me to ring the Infertility Clinic at Altnagelvin directly for an update.

I tried to contact the Infertility Clinic via the Altnagelvin switchboard 6 times on 6 separate days.  Each time, I was transferred to an answering machine.  I never received any return calls to messages left.  Eventually, when I did manage to speak to a member of staff by persistently asking switchboard staff to try alternative numbers; I was informed that the routine Infertility Clinic waiting list was 'not active' i.e. no new patients on the list have been seen since lockdown, due to lack of specialist doctors.  I was further advised that many of patients on the list pre-lockdown have not been assessed and it could be many years before I would be offered an appointment.   When I asked about the criteria to be referred to the 'Urgent' list; I was advised a referral to this list was unlikely to make a difference - I could probably expect to wait several years.   As I am approaching my mid-thirties; this was devastating news as I am very aware my biological clock is ticking. 

I felt deflated and broken hearted as I had invested a lot of hope in being examined at the infertility clinic to help me understand why I have been unable to conceive.  If I had not persisted with ringing the clinic; I would have had no idea of the estimated wait times.  When I informed my GP of this news, my GP seemed unaware the list was inactive and kindly apologized for the 'broken system.'

I understand and sympathise with the high workload medical staff are managing with reduced budgets and staff shortages.  However, in the interests of promoting patient wellbeing; I would like to suggest that when referrals are received by the Infertility Clinic, it would be really helpful if a letter could be sent to the patients and their GP, advising that the list is not currently active and/ or providing an estimated wait time.  This would help patients like myself decide whether they need to seek alternative private assessment and to save for the significant costs involved.

I have found that coping with the uncertainty and disappointment of infertility becomes increasingly stressful and more emotionally draining as time progresses.  Research advises that worry and stress can adversely impact the chances of conception.  I feel the lack of communication about extensive waiting lists has compounded the stress and sense of despondency my husband I are feeling as we navigate this process.