Hello...intro and question (step-kids mentioned / repost from Infertility)

twinkl5379

Hello - I'm sort of new here. I introduced myself 2 years ago when I went to the RE. We had a treatment plan but didn't pursue it at the time (have only tried acupuncture and chinese herbs with no success), so I haven't been on in a long time. A little background: I'm 35, H is 38, TTC for 5 yrs w/ no success. Unexplained diagnosis. He has 2 kids from previous marriage.

We had our 2nd RE appt with a new dr. He gave us 3 options: Clomid/IUI for 3 cycles, straight to IVF or have a laproscopy to see if we find something though there's nothing specific he's looking for. His recommendation is going straight to IVF, but left the decision to us.

I never guessed we'd have this decision to make so early on. Based on our discussion with the dr, H and I are both leaning toward IVF. I'm just curious  if anyone has any warnings or reasons they'd suggest the IUI/clomid cycle first.

Thank you!

Remylove1011

Hi and welcome!  I think for most the decision is based on insurance and doctor recommendations. Did you ask the doctor why they want to go with IVF right away? Maybe there is a reason they suggested this. I'd probably double check with insurance to see what's covered and then discuss again with your doctor. If you're already leaning towards IVF, it might be the right choice for you and a higher likelihood for success. Good luck in your decision! 

Edit... typing is hard. 

emmuffy

IUIs are considerably less invasive, so many people start there first. However, the success rates with IVF are much better, so if you have the insurance coverage and you feel mentally prepared for it, there's no particular reason you need to do IUIs first.

twinkl5379

Thanks for all the feedback! It's been so long that I think I'm weighing the probability for success higher than the financial aspect at this point. Good question to know why the dr. is recommending IVF at this point. I do trust him though b/c he is the founder of this well regarded clinic, so we feel like we're in good hands, thank goodness.

Thanks again....I'm sure I'll be back in time!

BunnyBerry

Good question. Since your unexplained, and the financial piece is okay with you, then IVF definitely sounds like the right way to go. Yes, it's more invasive, but "on average" you'd need the invasion of many IUIs to reach the chance of pregnancy of one IVF cycle. 

dancerspose

Welcome back and good luck!  PPs have covered all the aspects pretty well so I'll just hope your stay here is short!

SND1231

Welcome and good luck with your decision. PP covered everything. Hope your stay is short and sweet!