You can also look up and see if there is a La Leche League in your area. I'm planning on going to a meeting before baby comes to meet new moms and get a sense for things BF wise.
Thanks @mjacks! Unfortunately, the La Leche League in my area meets Wednesday mornings. Will be a great option when I'm on maternity leave though! Always nice to have a support system available if needed. Thanks again!
*TW - Pregnancy mentioned* Me: 28 DH: 33, Married May 2014 3 failed IUIs Dec '15 - Feb '16 IVF April/May 2016 - 1 failed fresh transfer. 11 snow angels.
1st FET 7/29/16 = BFP Lawson arrived on 4/24/2017 at 7lbs 15oz, 21 1/2 inches long! Surprise pregnancy!! Baby #2 due 10/11/18
@babylonghorn16 - I say bring the DH. I'm sure he will enjoy looking at boobs. Hahaha! The class is helpful for first timers, but like I said don't be hard on yourself when trying to nurse. If you're relaxed, your baby will be relaxed. And you DH will be relaxed. Hahaha! But it will be good for him to hear to continue to encourage you to keep BFing when you may not want to or it gets tough. That's his role.
12/2010 - DH diagnosed with stage 3B testicular cancer. #cancersucks
10/2011 - Complications with DH and lymph nodes in groin area removed. No longer able to ejaculate.
1/2014 - TTC#2 - IUI#1. No luck. Findings: DH sperm did not survive freeze. RE recommends IVF with ICSI.
3/2014 - IVF Cycle #1 Started BCP
4/2014 - Lupron, Gonal-F, and Menopur
5/7/2014 - ER day (25 eggs retrieved, 15 mature)
5/10/2014 - 6 fertilized, 3 embryos frozen - one grade A and two Grade B. Plan was to grow out to blastocyst stage but rest of eggs arrested by day 3. Decided to freeze on day 3.
2/9/2016 - FET #1 with Grade A (8 cell - 3 day embryo); 2/20 - Beta was <5. BFN. Waiting for period and start next FET. 7/8/2016 - FET #2 with Grade B (8 cell - 3 day embryo), fingers crossed this one sticks. 7/19 - Beta was 74. BFP!!!!; 7/21 - Beta was 182; 1st U/S on 8/2; 2nd U/S on 8/16
@pdbird Thanks for the tips! My anxiety is not about the actual act of breastfeeding, but more around pumping and getting into a schedule so to speak. Of course I'll worry if we run into issues, but as long as she can figure out what to do I think that part will come easy. I know I'm going to feel lost though when it comes to using my breast pump and then getting the hang of how often I need to pump versus nurse and then of course it's going to be even worse once I go back to work. But if other ladies can figure it out I'm sure I can eventually!
***BFP & Child Warning***
Me: 34, DH: 38 ~ TTC since 2014 IUI #1-3 (Nov 2015, Feb 2016, May 2016) = BFNs IVF ER (July 2016) = 7 PGS normal embryos FET #1 (Sept 2016) = BFP! DD born 5/30/17 FET #2 (April 2019) = BFN FET #3 (July 2019) = BFP! DS born 3/27/20
I haven't even looked at the pump, but I'm fortunate enough to not have to go back to work for awhile yet. I really do feel for you U.S ladies with the terrible maternity leave, it really makes me angry and upset that you have to leave you LOs and head back into the workforce so soon.
@babylonghorn16 hopefully that smart baby will give birth to another smart baby hehe
@pdbird thanks for that advice, I'm not attending a BF class but my midwife had a talking to my SO and said he has to be supportive and encourage BF for at least two weeks. Obviously if there is a clear reason why I'd need to not BF then that changes things
@wifeinraleigh28 I think you'll know when you need to pump, your breasts will "tell" you. Having a baby is just a whole new world isn't it? It's exciting and terrifying at the same time but we're all going to do brilliantly!
**TW** Me & DH - 31 TTC since December 2011 Diagnosis: Unexplained, although mild polycystic ovaries (not syndrome) and irregular cycles 2013/14: 6 rounds clomid, Aug 2015: IVF #1 = Antagonist Cycle: 100 Puregon and Orgalutran 21 eggs collected, only 1 viable embryo, transferred but BFN July/Aug 2016: IVF #2 (with acupuncture) = 87.5 Gonal F and Synarel Spray 2xdaily ER 8/8, transferred 1 day 5 blastocyst 13/8, 2 frosties. Beta #1 = 85 Beta #2 = 242 EDD 1st May 2017 *Baby Boy*
@teriulbricht maternity leave isn't even a thing for me because I work for myself (therapist in private practice). I only get paid when I work, directly from clients and/or insurance companies when I bill for sessions. I'm still planning to take 12 weeks off but then I need to go back to work but I'll probably take it slow for awhile (smaller case load). I have to be very strategic with my pumping schedule because I won't be able to just start pumping in the middle of a therapy session, haha. And right now I schedule all my clients back to back. I'm going to have to figure out when to schedule in breaks for pumping so I'll need to know ahead of time what to do!
***BFP & Child Warning***
Me: 34, DH: 38 ~ TTC since 2014 IUI #1-3 (Nov 2015, Feb 2016, May 2016) = BFNs IVF ER (July 2016) = 7 PGS normal embryos FET #1 (Sept 2016) = BFP! DD born 5/30/17 FET #2 (April 2019) = BFN FET #3 (July 2019) = BFP! DS born 3/27/20
@wifeinraleigh28 watch lots of YouTube videos about your pump. That has helped so much! Plus the lactation consultants can help if you need specific flanges or a special piece. In regards to pumping while working, I think you just have to set a schedule to avoid the uncomfortable engorgement part. I've talked with several other staff members and friends who work in a clinic environment like I do and their advice was to breastfeed baby before work and about every 3 hours pump at work. When you are pumping you want to stay on a similar schedule that you would be feeding the baby if you were at home.
@pdbird Hubby went and suffered through the class lol. I found it very informative. I couldn't tell what he thought bc he was feeling sick and hungry... men are SO much like children. But I am glad he went just for the sake of not having to teach him everything while it's happening. I tend to not be the best teacher when I'm tired and frustrated!
I highly recommend the breastfeeding class! I found it very informative. I'm sure you can read or youtube all of the info, but I was stressed out by the idea of finding the right book/videos and then finding the time to read/watch. Was nice to just have a scheduled, one time event. The nurse teaching the class also went over the hospital's procedures and policies which was nice too. So now we'll have an idea of what to expect while we are there.
@wifeinraleigh28 the pumping info was very limited in our class. She did have a pump and showed us all the gadgets and how it worked... but it was a 15 min segment of a 3 hour class. Like pp said, your pumping schedule will be just like your feeding schedule at home.
One thing I found out that I did not know was that women with PCOS may have issues breastfeeding. They didn't go over in detail, just a passing statement... so of course I immediately went home and had a google freak-out session. Apparently the hormone imbalance that comes along w/ PCOS can affect the way the breasts were formed during puberty. Also the hormones can affect prolactin signals in your breasts after birth, causing you to not produce enough milk. WTF... I can't believe NO ONE has mentioned this to me. Not my RE or OB. No nurses. NO ONE. Feeling pretty devastated. WHAT ELSE can PCOS take away from me? Hasn't it done enough already?! Sorry for the rant... anyone else heard or worried about this??
*TW - Pregnancy mentioned* Me: 28 DH: 33, Married May 2014 3 failed IUIs Dec '15 - Feb '16 IVF April/May 2016 - 1 failed fresh transfer. 11 snow angels.
1st FET 7/29/16 = BFP Lawson arrived on 4/24/2017 at 7lbs 15oz, 21 1/2 inches long! Surprise pregnancy!! Baby #2 due 10/11/18
Hi all! I'm back from being MIA with great news - I finished my PhD!!! Woo hoo!!! Now it's time to nest! I had a follow-up appointment after my last hospitalization, and the baby's heartbeat looked just fine. I also tested negative for preeclampsia, so that was a relief, too.
To jump into this BFIng conversation... I don't want to add extra anxiety to those who are worried about this part, but I did have terrible trouble BFing DS1. As @babylonghorn16 mentioned, some IF conditions are associated with poor milk supply, and that is what happened to me. I don't have PCOS (we are unexplained IF), but my milk just never came in. I was devastated and completely caught off guard b/c I had no idea that was even a THING, let alone something common among women who go through IF! I could not understand why no one had mentioned this before. Leading up to giving birth, I was dead set on being an exclusive BF mom, and it is hard to even describe the stress, disappointment, and desperation I went through during that time. I tried EVERYTHING under the sun to increase my supply, was hooked up to a pump constantly, and was driving 45 min each way to go to BFing meetings and to see LCs several times a week, with a newborn while recovering from a pretty rough vaginal delivery. It was awful.
I kept trying for about 3 months, but my milk never increased. In retrospect, I wish I had quit sooner so that I could have spent more time bonding with DS instead of constantly pumping and fretting over my low supply (ordering crazy herbal concoctions, planning when to do a "power pump" each day, etc.). I only mention this b/c a) sometimes BF problems are not just "in your head," b) I wish that someone had warned me that this might be a problem ahead of time, and c) I wish that someone had told me "It's okay to stop BFing if it's not working - you are still a great mom if you give your baby formula!"
Other random advice: Pumping is really not that complicated once you do it a time or two - I was forced to become a pro pretty quickly! The worst part is washing all of the parts! Also, if you are going to pump at work, I HIGHLY recommend getting a pumping bra so that you can pump hands-free, allowing you to do other work while your pump does its thing.
TL;DR - IF can cause problems with breastfeeding and low supply - good to know ahead of time just in case. Don't be too hard on yourself if this happens to you.
*** Trigger Warnings ***
TTC #1 since March 2011
Dx = Unexplained IF 1 medicated TI cycle & 4 clomid IUIs = all BFNs
June 2013 IVF #1 = 6 frosties + BFP! DS1 born 2/14
TTC #2 since December 2014 May 2015 unassisted BFP ended in m/c at 7wks April 2016 FET #1 = BFN June 2016 FET #2 = c/p August 2016 FET #3 = BFP! DS2 born 4/17
Hi Ladies! I've been MIA working like crazy, so happy to only have 1 more week of work! I'm 36 weeks now and definitely not so comfortable anymore. My feet have ballooned and my BP is now borderline. That couples with the low fluid I had the first time around has my OB ordering 2x per week NSTs to make sure everything's ok. I would definitely rather me monitored too much than not all! I've also been having sporadic really mild contractions for about a week so my body is definitely getting ready.
As far as BF goes, I did nurse my first DS for about 4 months with some supplementing. You would think it would be this natural easy thing, but unfortunately it's just not. It turned out my DS had a lip tie that went undiagnosed by many lactation consultants until long after we stopped BF. Even with all that, I would say that it's absolutely worth it to try and know that the first 4-6 weeks is going to be difficult. If you can make it past that, things get so much easier! I stopped when I went back to work since I didn't want to spend all that time pumping to get half of what he needed. I definitely stressed myself out about supplementing and my son got so skinny (looking back at pictures). At the end of the day, remember it's about your child and making sure they are healthy and growing. There is no shame either way on the mother if you do what's right for the child.
**Warning - Child Mentioned**
Me: 33, DH: 39 Unexplained Infertility
4 IUIs (chlomid) in 2013 which resulted in DS born in April 2014
TTC #2 since August 2015
5 rounds of IUIs (1 chlomid: resistent, 1 femara, 3 gonal f) = all BFN
ER March 9: 26 eggs retrieved, 19 mature and 17 fertilized, 8 made it to genetic testing, 4 normal!
12/2010 - DH diagnosed with stage 3B testicular cancer. #cancersucks
10/2011 - Complications with DH and lymph nodes in groin area removed. No longer able to ejaculate.
1/2014 - TTC#2 - IUI#1. No luck. Findings: DH sperm did not survive freeze. RE recommends IVF with ICSI.
3/2014 - IVF Cycle #1 Started BCP
4/2014 - Lupron, Gonal-F, and Menopur
5/7/2014 - ER day (25 eggs retrieved, 15 mature)
5/10/2014 - 6 fertilized, 3 embryos frozen - one grade A and two Grade B. Plan was to grow out to blastocyst stage but rest of eggs arrested by day 3. Decided to freeze on day 3.
2/9/2016 - FET #1 with Grade A (8 cell - 3 day embryo); 2/20 - Beta was <5. BFN. Waiting for period and start next FET. 7/8/2016 - FET #2 with Grade B (8 cell - 3 day embryo), fingers crossed this one sticks. 7/19 - Beta was 74. BFP!!!!; 7/21 - Beta was 182; 1st U/S on 8/2; 2nd U/S on 8/16
Update . . . had my last OB appt and NST today. Went over pre-op instruction stuff, signed all the paperwork for anesthesia, and had the full body check to ensure no issues for surgery. Maybe is still so high up under my boobs, it's like he just wants to be right under my chin. I keep telling him it's a one way street and he has to go the other direction. Doc is relieved we have a c-section scheduled as he says this boy would come late anyways and have issues "dropping".
5 days until surgery! It's been a pleasure being the leader of this board for a short time, but I've passed the torch to @teriulbricht !
12/2010 - DH diagnosed with stage 3B testicular cancer. #cancersucks
10/2011 - Complications with DH and lymph nodes in groin area removed. No longer able to ejaculate.
1/2014 - TTC#2 - IUI#1. No luck. Findings: DH sperm did not survive freeze. RE recommends IVF with ICSI.
3/2014 - IVF Cycle #1 Started BCP
4/2014 - Lupron, Gonal-F, and Menopur
5/7/2014 - ER day (25 eggs retrieved, 15 mature)
5/10/2014 - 6 fertilized, 3 embryos frozen - one grade A and two Grade B. Plan was to grow out to blastocyst stage but rest of eggs arrested by day 3. Decided to freeze on day 3.
2/9/2016 - FET #1 with Grade A (8 cell - 3 day embryo); 2/20 - Beta was <5. BFN. Waiting for period and start next FET. 7/8/2016 - FET #2 with Grade B (8 cell - 3 day embryo), fingers crossed this one sticks. 7/19 - Beta was 74. BFP!!!!; 7/21 - Beta was 182; 1st U/S on 8/2; 2nd U/S on 8/16
Thank you ladies for chiming in on the whole BF thing @ARB425@BlueEyedDreamer@Rachnan. I'm definitely going to get a pumping bra so that I can get work done while I'm pumping! I can't even imagine having to sit there for 30 minutes staring into space while holding the pump... no thanks!
@BlueEyedDreamer Huge congrats on the PhD! What a major accomplishment and you must feel amazing getting it completed in time for the baby to come!
@babylonghorn16 Sounds like it was a good class! I'm looking forward to mine, and actually all the classes we're taking sound really great. We're taking the BF class, bringing baby home, labor and birth education, and infant CPR. We got kind of excited when we were looking at all the classes that are offered!
@pdbird Wow, 5 days! How exciting. Can't wait to hear updates!
***BFP & Child Warning***
Me: 34, DH: 38 ~ TTC since 2014 IUI #1-3 (Nov 2015, Feb 2016, May 2016) = BFNs IVF ER (July 2016) = 7 PGS normal embryos FET #1 (Sept 2016) = BFP! DD born 5/30/17 FET #2 (April 2019) = BFN FET #3 (July 2019) = BFP! DS born 3/27/20
Congrats @BlueEyedDreamer (or shall we say Doctor now? ☺) what a great accomplishment!
@babylonghorn16 I feel you on the concern with PCOS and breast feeding ....I heard about this from a friend who is kind of a breast feeding crazy person (love her though) who when I mentioned my diagnosis said a lot of women on her online group with PCOS struggle....I think the advice our second time moms @Rachnan and @BlueEyedDreamer is great....I grew up on formula and have two degrees and am a veterinary specialist making a great salary, just saying it didn't stop me from succeeding in life and before infertility I have never been "sick" besides the occasional cold....if I can breast feed awesome if not then I will mourn it quickly and realize it's not the end of the world and feed my baby the best I can ☺
******TW***** Me 39 DH44
Married 8/2/14
TTC 9/14
Dx: PCOS, blocked L fallopian tube, suspect poor egg quality
MFI (low #, poor morphology)
IVF #1 9/15 Failed
IVF #2 12/15 Failed 1st DE FET 5/16-BFN 2nd DE FET 7/18-BFP 8/17 Baby HR 140/min EDD 4/6/17
@wifeinraleigh28 ah, of course you can't pump through a session hehe. I would have to time mine also if I went back to work.
@babylonghorn16 I haven't heard about the difficulties in BF with PCOS, my sister has it and couldn't BF due to a latching problem. At one of my appt my midwife checked my breasts for any abnormalities and also had me try hand expressing to produce some milk (sorry if TMI) is there any way you can get checked out? Obviously you won't know about the hormone side of it until baby is here.
@Rachnan welcome back sorry to hear about your swelling and BP. Good luck with your last week of work!
@pdbird how are you feeling about the birth being so close?
AFM had my first birthing class this weekend. I'm trying the hypnobirthing method. I love that it's all about having a calm and positive birth experience and the teaching and relaxation methods just really sit well with my personality. Obviously I know I can't control everything but it's been really helpful
**TW** Me & DH - 31 TTC since December 2011 Diagnosis: Unexplained, although mild polycystic ovaries (not syndrome) and irregular cycles 2013/14: 6 rounds clomid, Aug 2015: IVF #1 = Antagonist Cycle: 100 Puregon and Orgalutran 21 eggs collected, only 1 viable embryo, transferred but BFN July/Aug 2016: IVF #2 (with acupuncture) = 87.5 Gonal F and Synarel Spray 2xdaily ER 8/8, transferred 1 day 5 blastocyst 13/8, 2 frosties. Beta #1 = 85 Beta #2 = 242 EDD 1st May 2017 *Baby Boy*
Thank you ladies for all the support on breast feeding. It really helps knowimg others point of view
I am so excited today! We are at 30 weeks!!!!! I cannot believe we hit 30. I am in shock and feel truly blessed. We are celebrating today with my baby shower and if all is good I get to go home on Tuesday! (Lets hope these babies don't pull any mischief before 1:30 today). 7 1/2 weeks ago I thought I was going to have 22 week babies and was worried about their survival. That fear is now mostly to excitement and feeling so so blessed. I couldn't have made it to this point without all of you. You ladies have given me strength and courage I didnt know I had through your kind words and prayers. Thank you! Lets hope we make it a few more weeks on home bed rest but everyday is a miracle.
**Trigger warning**
Age: 25 DH: 28 Together since 2011, Married May 2014 and TTC since April 2015
@kelrauh Always love hearing your updates and your positivity! It's hard to believe that the end is in sight and your happy ending is on the horizon! Enjoy your baby shower today and getting to go home in a couple of days!!! You deserve it more than anyone!!
Anyone else noticing their exhaustion levels returning now in 3rd trimester? Exhaustion was my primary 1st trimester symptom and now it's back, stronger than ever. Missing that 2nd tri energy but thankful to be this far along now! Needless to say, I'm glad we got most of our nursery set up already because I don't have the energy to do it anymore, haha!
***BFP & Child Warning***
Me: 34, DH: 38 ~ TTC since 2014 IUI #1-3 (Nov 2015, Feb 2016, May 2016) = BFNs IVF ER (July 2016) = 7 PGS normal embryos FET #1 (Sept 2016) = BFP! DD born 5/30/17 FET #2 (April 2019) = BFN FET #3 (July 2019) = BFP! DS born 3/27/20
@kelrauh so glad you've all made it this far! Enjoy your shower and fingers are crossed for a smooth few days so you get to go home on bed rest!!
@wifeinraleigh28 yes I have definitely noticed a drop in energy levels. I'm back to napping every now and then. Mostly I just try to take it easy and rest up when I can. Shortness of breath and braxton hicks thrown in the mix doesn't help either...
**TW** Me & DH - 31 TTC since December 2011 Diagnosis: Unexplained, although mild polycystic ovaries (not syndrome) and irregular cycles 2013/14: 6 rounds clomid, Aug 2015: IVF #1 = Antagonist Cycle: 100 Puregon and Orgalutran 21 eggs collected, only 1 viable embryo, transferred but BFN July/Aug 2016: IVF #2 (with acupuncture) = 87.5 Gonal F and Synarel Spray 2xdaily ER 8/8, transferred 1 day 5 blastocyst 13/8, 2 frosties. Beta #1 = 85 Beta #2 = 242 EDD 1st May 2017 *Baby Boy*
@wifeinraleigh28 yes, I've totally noticed an abrupt end to the 'sweet spot' of the 2nd trimester. A bit of fatigue, and just a feeling of general discomfort, especially when I walk. I'm still pretty excited about feeling baby move all the time though, so it's totally worth it. I'm just ready for the whole 'no immune system' thing to go away. I have had FOUR colds since New Years! Two bad ones and two really minor ones, but still!! I did 5 months of chemo and had literally no WBCs to protect me and never had so much of a sniffle. This has really thrown me for a loop!
Me: Age 40 Husband: Age 41 Chemo killed my ovaries (along with a BRCA1 mutation, which causes DOR) 4/30/13 ER just prior to chemo: 8 embryos frozen at 2pn. 2 survived to blasts/1 PGS normal
4/16 ER cancelled on CD7: 1 follicle on L/ 0 follicles on R FET #1 7/13/16 BFN
Super shocker +HPT 9/19 Baby Alyce arrived 5/8/17
Went forward with donor eggs from my sister for baby #2 ER 4/24, 5 eggs fertilized/1 survived to blast and was chromosomally normal.
FET 2/15 (my sister/donor's birthday!). Beta 10dp5dt:172; beta 12dp5dt: 425
Hi ladies, Thursday night I went to bed and at 11:30pm woke up thinking I peed myself. I went into the bathroom, and thought I finished going but when I walked away I was still leaking. By the time I put pants on and went downstairs to get dh my pants were soaked. We headed to l&d and my water had definitely broke but no contractions, 1cm dilated and 0% effacement. They admitted me and put me on cervadil and told me to go to sleep. I was gushing so much I couldn't sleep bc my towel needed to be changed so often. By 5/6 am I was having contractions so walked around the l&d floor for 3 hrs until my ob came to check me. I was 1cm and maybe 20% effaced so I went on pitocine. Contractions went right to every 2 min and were in my ribs. I thought my bones were breaking. Luckily after an hour and a half my sister convinced the nurse to tell my ob I needed the epidural. The next two hours were so much more comfortable until it wore off just in time for pushing. An hour of constant pushing and our little Anthony came into the world on 3/17 at 4:33pm. He was using his muscles a little too much to breath so he went right into the nicu. I didn't get to go in until 7ish bc of the epidural. Once I got there we did skin to skin and he was released to our room at 11:30 that night. We got discharged today and besides being nervous to have a 5lb 7oz baby we're all doing great!
Thank you everyone for the well wishes. My shower was amazing but exhausting. We got more stuff than we know what to do with. My mom is amazing and made the decorations and my sister in law made the cake! You cant see it but they made a hot air balloon and hung it up too.
@PNW12RN Like you, I've gotten sick a LOT since getting pregnant (most recently right now) and I am ready to have something of an immune system back! (Or for sick season to go the F away!) I hope we both say cold-free for the remainder of our pregnancies!
@ale9687 OMG congrats on your baby boy!! Would love to see a pic of little Anthony when you get around to it!
@kelrauh Your shower looks so amazing, and I'm glad you got so many great things for the babies!
***BFP & Child Warning***
Me: 34, DH: 38 ~ TTC since 2014 IUI #1-3 (Nov 2015, Feb 2016, May 2016) = BFNs IVF ER (July 2016) = 7 PGS normal embryos FET #1 (Sept 2016) = BFP! DD born 5/30/17 FET #2 (April 2019) = BFN FET #3 (July 2019) = BFP! DS born 3/27/20
@kelrauh I am SO happy for you! I actually just squealed when I read your post lol. You made it to your goal and hit the 30 week mark!!! Sounds so cheesy, but I'm so proud of you and those babies! All of you are fighters So happy to see thatvyou enjoyed your shower and got all that you wanted!!
@ale9687 Congratulations on baby Anthony! Hope you and baby are feeling well!
Me 30 || DH 36 Unexplained Infertility- Postive for MTHFR Gene Mutation
Natural cycles with 1 miscarriage -3 IUI's w/ Clomid= BFN -IVF #1-Follistim and Menopur= BFN ***11 Eggs, 10 mature, 8 fertilized, transferred 1 (day 5) 2 made it to freeze -FET #1- Transferred 2, day 5 embryos =BFN -IVF #2- Follistim and Menopur = BFN ***11 retrieved, 8 mature, 6 fertilized, transferred 2 (day 3), 4 made it to freeze (Follistim and Menopur) = BFN -FET #2- Transferred 2, day 3 embryos = BFN **Changed doctor** -IUI #4- natural cycle = BFN -IUI #5- Follistim (5 eggs) BFP- lead to Miscarriage -Laproscopic Surgery for Endometriosis, Polyp removal and Cyst removal. -IVF #3- Menopur, Follistim, Lupron, Ganirellex- BFP lead to Eptopic Pregnancy ***11 Eggs retrieved, 10 Mature, 8 fertilized, transferred 3 embryos (day 3), 0 made it to freeze -Lapropscopic surgery- Removal of Fallopian Tube -IVF #4- Estrogen Priming with Vivelle dot, Menopur, Follistim, Ganirellex- BFP ***15 Eggs retreived, 11 mature, 11 fertilized, 2 embryos transferred (day 3), 2 made it to freeze Found out I was positive for MTHFR Gene Mutation during TWW of IVF #4
Congrats @kelrauh! So happy to hear your positive updates. Shower looked amazing!! I'm so glad we have this site for continuous support. Idk where I'd be without y'all either!!
@ale9687 omgosh CONGRATS!!! Prayers for baby Anthony! Glad he is doing well. YOU'RE A MOM!!!
@wifeinraleigh28 the fatigue returned for me in the 3rd tri as well. Around week 32, I was wiped. That's when my sleep schedule started to waiver. Been really difficult since then to get a good nights sleep. Getting ready for baby
*TW - Pregnancy mentioned* Me: 28 DH: 33, Married May 2014 3 failed IUIs Dec '15 - Feb '16 IVF April/May 2016 - 1 failed fresh transfer. 11 snow angels.
1st FET 7/29/16 = BFP Lawson arrived on 4/24/2017 at 7lbs 15oz, 21 1/2 inches long! Surprise pregnancy!! Baby #2 due 10/11/18
Happy Spring everyone! This is a big week! I'm having my baby on Wednesday and Sunday is my birthday (the day I get to come home form the hospital).
@ale9687 - WOW! Congrats. So glad you had just finished working. So exciting to welcome Anthony. I'm sure he is so sweet!
@kelrauh - What a cute idea for a shower! It all came together. So happy you got to experience the shower and you are that much closer to going home for a little bit!
12/2010 - DH diagnosed with stage 3B testicular cancer. #cancersucks
10/2011 - Complications with DH and lymph nodes in groin area removed. No longer able to ejaculate.
1/2014 - TTC#2 - IUI#1. No luck. Findings: DH sperm did not survive freeze. RE recommends IVF with ICSI.
3/2014 - IVF Cycle #1 Started BCP
4/2014 - Lupron, Gonal-F, and Menopur
5/7/2014 - ER day (25 eggs retrieved, 15 mature)
5/10/2014 - 6 fertilized, 3 embryos frozen - one grade A and two Grade B. Plan was to grow out to blastocyst stage but rest of eggs arrested by day 3. Decided to freeze on day 3.
2/9/2016 - FET #1 with Grade A (8 cell - 3 day embryo); 2/20 - Beta was <5. BFN. Waiting for period and start next FET. 7/8/2016 - FET #2 with Grade B (8 cell - 3 day embryo), fingers crossed this one sticks. 7/19 - Beta was 74. BFP!!!!; 7/21 - Beta was 182; 1st U/S on 8/2; 2nd U/S on 8/16
Re: 3rd Trimester Check-In: March 13
You can also look up and see if there is a La Leche League in your area. I'm planning on going to a meeting before baby comes to meet new moms and get a sense for things BF wise.
Me: 28 DH: 33, Married May 2014
3 failed IUIs Dec '15 - Feb '16
IVF April/May 2016 - 1 failed fresh transfer. 11 snow angels.
Lawson arrived on 4/24/2017 at 7lbs 15oz, 21 1/2 inches long!
Surprise pregnancy!! Baby #2 due 10/11/18
10/2009 - TTC#1 Stopped BCP! Let's DO this!
7/8/2016 - FET #2 with Grade B (8 cell - 3 day embryo), fingers crossed this one sticks.
7/19 - Beta was 74. BFP!!!!; 7/21 - Beta was 182; 1st U/S on 8/2; 2nd U/S on 8/16
Me: 34, DH: 38 ~ TTC since 2014
IUI #1-3 (Nov 2015, Feb 2016, May 2016) = BFNs
IVF ER (July 2016) = 7 PGS normal embryos
FET #1 (Sept 2016) = BFP! DD born 5/30/17
FET #2 (April 2019) = BFN
FET #3 (July 2019) = BFP! DS born 3/27/20
@babylonghorn16 hopefully that smart baby will give birth to another smart baby hehe
@pdbird thanks for that advice, I'm not attending a BF class but my midwife had a talking to my SO and said he has to be supportive and encourage BF for at least two weeks. Obviously if there is a clear reason why I'd need to not BF then that changes things
@wifeinraleigh28 I think you'll know when you need to pump, your breasts will "tell" you. Having a baby is just a whole new world isn't it? It's exciting and terrifying at the same time but we're all going to do brilliantly!
Me & DH - 31
TTC since December 2011
Diagnosis: Unexplained, although mild polycystic ovaries (not syndrome) and irregular cycles
2013/14: 6 rounds clomid,
Aug 2015: IVF #1 = Antagonist Cycle: 100 Puregon and Orgalutran
21 eggs collected, only 1 viable embryo, transferred but BFN
July/Aug 2016: IVF #2 (with acupuncture) = 87.5 Gonal F and Synarel Spray 2xdaily
ER 8/8, transferred 1 day 5 blastocyst 13/8, 2 frosties.
Beta #1 = 85 Beta #2 = 242
EDD 1st May 2017 *Baby Boy*
Me: 34, DH: 38 ~ TTC since 2014
IUI #1-3 (Nov 2015, Feb 2016, May 2016) = BFNs
IVF ER (July 2016) = 7 PGS normal embryos
FET #1 (Sept 2016) = BFP! DD born 5/30/17
FET #2 (April 2019) = BFN
FET #3 (July 2019) = BFP! DS born 3/27/20
@wifeinraleigh28 watch lots of YouTube videos about your pump. That has helped so much! Plus the lactation consultants can help if you need specific flanges or a special piece.
In regards to pumping while working, I think you just have to set a schedule to avoid the uncomfortable engorgement part. I've talked with several other staff members and friends who work in a clinic environment like I do and their advice was to breastfeed baby before work and about every 3 hours pump at work. When you are pumping you want to stay on a similar schedule that you would be feeding the baby if you were at home.
I highly recommend the breastfeeding class! I found it very informative. I'm sure you can read or youtube all of the info, but I was stressed out by the idea of finding the right book/videos and then finding the time to read/watch. Was nice to just have a scheduled, one time event. The nurse teaching the class also went over the hospital's procedures and policies which was nice too. So now we'll have an idea of what to expect while we are there.
@wifeinraleigh28 the pumping info was very limited in our class. She did have a pump and showed us all the gadgets and how it worked... but it was a 15 min segment of a 3 hour class. Like pp said, your pumping schedule will be just like your feeding schedule at home.
One thing I found out that I did not know was that women with PCOS may have issues breastfeeding. They didn't go over in detail, just a passing statement... so of course I immediately went home and had a google freak-out session. Apparently the hormone imbalance that comes along w/ PCOS can affect the way the breasts were formed during puberty. Also the hormones can affect prolactin signals in your breasts after birth, causing you to not produce enough milk. WTF... I can't believe NO ONE has mentioned this to me. Not my RE or OB. No nurses. NO ONE. Feeling pretty devastated. WHAT ELSE can PCOS take away from me? Hasn't it done enough already?! Sorry for the rant... anyone else heard or worried about this??
Me: 28 DH: 33, Married May 2014
3 failed IUIs Dec '15 - Feb '16
IVF April/May 2016 - 1 failed fresh transfer. 11 snow angels.
Lawson arrived on 4/24/2017 at 7lbs 15oz, 21 1/2 inches long!
Surprise pregnancy!! Baby #2 due 10/11/18
To jump into this BFIng conversation... I don't want to add extra anxiety to those who are worried about this part, but I did have terrible trouble BFing DS1. As @babylonghorn16 mentioned, some IF conditions are associated with poor milk supply, and that is what happened to me. I don't have PCOS (we are unexplained IF), but my milk just never came in. I was devastated and completely caught off guard b/c I had no idea that was even a THING, let alone something common among women who go through IF! I could not understand why no one had mentioned this before. Leading up to giving birth, I was dead set on being an exclusive BF mom, and it is hard to even describe the stress, disappointment, and desperation I went through during that time. I tried EVERYTHING under the sun to increase my supply, was hooked up to a pump constantly, and was driving 45 min each way to go to BFing meetings and to see LCs several times a week, with a newborn while recovering from a pretty rough vaginal delivery. It was awful.
I kept trying for about 3 months, but my milk never increased. In retrospect, I wish I had quit sooner so that I could have spent more time bonding with DS instead of constantly pumping and fretting over my low supply (ordering crazy herbal concoctions, planning when to do a "power pump" each day, etc.). I only mention this b/c a) sometimes BF problems are not just "in your head," b) I wish that someone had warned me that this might be a problem ahead of time, and c) I wish that someone had told me "It's okay to stop BFing if it's not working - you are still a great mom if you give your baby formula!"
Other random advice: Pumping is really not that complicated once you do it a time or two - I was forced to become a pro pretty quickly! The worst part is washing all of the parts! Also, if you are going to pump at work, I HIGHLY recommend getting a pumping bra so that you can pump hands-free, allowing you to do other work while your pump does its thing.
TL;DR - IF can cause problems with breastfeeding and low supply - good to know ahead of time just in case. Don't be too hard on yourself if this happens to you.
TTC #1 since March 2011
1 medicated TI cycle & 4 clomid IUIs = all BFNs
DS1 born 2/14
TTC #2 since December 2014
May 2015 unassisted BFP ended in m/c at 7wks
April 2016 FET #1 = BFN
June 2016 FET #2 = c/p
August 2016 FET #3 = BFP!
DS2 born 4/17
Hi Ladies! I've been MIA working like crazy, so happy to only have 1 more week of work! I'm 36 weeks now and definitely not so comfortable anymore. My feet have ballooned and my BP is now borderline. That couples with the low fluid I had the first time around has my OB ordering 2x per week NSTs to make sure everything's ok. I would definitely rather me monitored too much than not all! I've also been having sporadic really mild contractions for about a week so my body is definitely getting ready.
As far as BF goes, I did nurse my first DS for about 4 months with some supplementing. You would think it would be this natural easy thing, but unfortunately it's just not. It turned out my DS had a lip tie that went undiagnosed by many lactation consultants until long after we stopped BF. Even with all that, I would say that it's absolutely worth it to try and know that the first 4-6 weeks is going to be difficult. If you can make it past that, things get so much easier! I stopped when I went back to work since I didn't want to spend all that time pumping to get half of what he needed. I definitely stressed myself out about supplementing and my son got so skinny (looking back at pictures). At the end of the day, remember it's about your child and making sure they are healthy and growing. There is no shame either way on the mother if you do what's right for the child.
**Warning - Child Mentioned**
Me: 33, DH: 39 Unexplained Infertility
4 IUIs (chlomid) in 2013 which resulted in DS born in April 2014
TTC #2 since August 2015
5 rounds of IUIs (1 chlomid: resistent, 1 femara, 3 gonal f) = all BFN
ER March 9: 26 eggs retrieved, 19 mature and 17 fertilized, 8 made it to genetic testing, 4 normal!
FET #1 5/31 = BFN
FET#2 7/26 = BFP!
10/2009 - TTC#1 Stopped BCP! Let's DO this!
7/8/2016 - FET #2 with Grade B (8 cell - 3 day embryo), fingers crossed this one sticks.
7/19 - Beta was 74. BFP!!!!; 7/21 - Beta was 182; 1st U/S on 8/2; 2nd U/S on 8/16
5 days until surgery! It's been a pleasure being the leader of this board for a short time, but I've passed the torch to @teriulbricht !
10/2009 - TTC#1 Stopped BCP! Let's DO this!
7/8/2016 - FET #2 with Grade B (8 cell - 3 day embryo), fingers crossed this one sticks.
7/19 - Beta was 74. BFP!!!!; 7/21 - Beta was 182; 1st U/S on 8/2; 2nd U/S on 8/16
@BlueEyedDreamer Huge congrats on the PhD! What a major accomplishment and you must feel amazing getting it completed in time for the baby to come!
@babylonghorn16 Sounds like it was a good class! I'm looking forward to mine, and actually all the classes we're taking sound really great. We're taking the BF class, bringing baby home, labor and birth education, and infant CPR. We got kind of excited when we were looking at all the classes that are offered!
@pdbird Wow, 5 days! How exciting. Can't wait to hear updates!
Me: 34, DH: 38 ~ TTC since 2014
IUI #1-3 (Nov 2015, Feb 2016, May 2016) = BFNs
IVF ER (July 2016) = 7 PGS normal embryos
FET #1 (Sept 2016) = BFP! DD born 5/30/17
FET #2 (April 2019) = BFN
FET #3 (July 2019) = BFP! DS born 3/27/20
@babylonghorn16 I feel you on the concern with PCOS and breast feeding ....I heard about this from a friend who is kind of a breast feeding crazy person (love her though) who when I mentioned my diagnosis said a lot of women on her online group with PCOS struggle....I think the advice our second time moms @Rachnan and @BlueEyedDreamer is great....I grew up on formula and have two degrees and am a veterinary specialist making a great salary, just saying it didn't stop me from succeeding in life and before infertility I have never been "sick" besides the occasional cold....if I can breast feed awesome if not then I will mourn it quickly and realize it's not the end of the world and feed my baby the best I can ☺
Me 39 DH44
1st DE FET 5/16-BFN
2nd DE FET 7/18-BFP
8/17 Baby HR 140/min EDD 4/6/17
Me 39 DH44
1st DE FET 5/16-BFN
2nd DE FET 7/18-BFP
8/17 Baby HR 140/min EDD 4/6/17
@babylonghorn16 I haven't heard about the difficulties in BF with PCOS, my sister has it and couldn't BF due to a latching problem. At one of my appt my midwife checked my breasts for any abnormalities and also had me try hand expressing to produce some milk (sorry if TMI) is there any way you can get checked out? Obviously you won't know about the hormone side of it until baby is here.
@BlueEyedDreamer congrats!!!
@Rachnan welcome back sorry to hear about your swelling and BP. Good luck with your last week of work!
@pdbird how are you feeling about the birth being so close?
AFM had my first birthing class this weekend. I'm trying the hypnobirthing method. I love that it's all about having a calm and positive birth experience and the teaching and relaxation methods just really sit well with my personality. Obviously I know I can't control everything but it's been really helpful
Me & DH - 31
TTC since December 2011
Diagnosis: Unexplained, although mild polycystic ovaries (not syndrome) and irregular cycles
2013/14: 6 rounds clomid,
Aug 2015: IVF #1 = Antagonist Cycle: 100 Puregon and Orgalutran
21 eggs collected, only 1 viable embryo, transferred but BFN
July/Aug 2016: IVF #2 (with acupuncture) = 87.5 Gonal F and Synarel Spray 2xdaily
ER 8/8, transferred 1 day 5 blastocyst 13/8, 2 frosties.
Beta #1 = 85 Beta #2 = 242
EDD 1st May 2017 *Baby Boy*
I am so excited today! We are at 30 weeks!!!!! I cannot believe we hit 30. I am in shock and feel truly blessed. We are celebrating today with my baby shower and if all is good I get to go home on Tuesday! (Lets hope these babies don't pull any mischief before 1:30 today). 7 1/2 weeks ago I thought I was going to have 22 week babies and was worried about their survival. That fear is now mostly to excitement and feeling so so blessed. I couldn't have made it to this point without all of you. You ladies have given me strength and courage I didnt know I had through your kind words and prayers. Thank you! Lets hope we make it a few more weeks on home bed rest but everyday is a miracle.
**Trigger warning**
Age: 25 DH: 28 Together since 2011, Married May 2014 and TTC since April 2015
MFI (3% morphology)
3/16 - IUI with femara & ovidrel - BFN
4/16 - IUI with femara & ovidrel - BFN
6/16 IUI with femara & ovidrel - BFN
8/19/16 - IVF -
Anyone else noticing their exhaustion levels returning now in 3rd trimester? Exhaustion was my primary 1st trimester symptom and now it's back, stronger than ever. Missing that 2nd tri energy but thankful to be this far along now! Needless to say, I'm glad we got most of our nursery set up already because I don't have the energy to do it anymore, haha!
Me: 34, DH: 38 ~ TTC since 2014
IUI #1-3 (Nov 2015, Feb 2016, May 2016) = BFNs
IVF ER (July 2016) = 7 PGS normal embryos
FET #1 (Sept 2016) = BFP! DD born 5/30/17
FET #2 (April 2019) = BFN
FET #3 (July 2019) = BFP! DS born 3/27/20
@wifeinraleigh28 yes I have definitely noticed a drop in energy levels. I'm back to napping every now and then. Mostly I just try to take it easy and rest up when I can. Shortness of breath and braxton hicks thrown in the mix doesn't help either...
Me & DH - 31
TTC since December 2011
Diagnosis: Unexplained, although mild polycystic ovaries (not syndrome) and irregular cycles
2013/14: 6 rounds clomid,
Aug 2015: IVF #1 = Antagonist Cycle: 100 Puregon and Orgalutran
21 eggs collected, only 1 viable embryo, transferred but BFN
July/Aug 2016: IVF #2 (with acupuncture) = 87.5 Gonal F and Synarel Spray 2xdaily
ER 8/8, transferred 1 day 5 blastocyst 13/8, 2 frosties.
Beta #1 = 85 Beta #2 = 242
EDD 1st May 2017 *Baby Boy*
Chemo killed my ovaries (along with a BRCA1 mutation, which causes DOR)
4/30/13 ER just prior to chemo: 8 embryos frozen at 2pn. 2 survived to blasts/1 PGS normal
4/16 ER cancelled on CD7: 1 follicle on L/ 0 follicles on R
FET #1 7/13/16 BFN
Super shocker +HPT 9/19
Baby Alyce arrived 5/8/17
Went forward with donor eggs from my sister for baby #2
ER 4/24, 5 eggs fertilized/1 survived to blast and was chromosomally normal.
FET 2/15 (my sister/donor's birthday!). Beta 10dp5dt:172; beta 12dp5dt: 425
My TTC/Cancer/Random thoughts blog: http://www.dinktodiapers.blogspot.com/
Me 39 DH44
1st DE FET 5/16-BFN
2nd DE FET 7/18-BFP
8/17 Baby HR 140/min EDD 4/6/17
sorry for the crazy long post ladies.
**Trigger warning**
Age: 25 DH: 28 Together since 2011, Married May 2014 and TTC since April 2015
MFI (3% morphology)
3/16 - IUI with femara & ovidrel - BFN
4/16 - IUI with femara & ovidrel - BFN
6/16 IUI with femara & ovidrel - BFN
8/19/16 - IVF -
**Trigger warning**
Age: 25 DH: 28 Together since 2011, Married May 2014 and TTC since April 2015
MFI (3% morphology)
3/16 - IUI with femara & ovidrel - BFN
4/16 - IUI with femara & ovidrel - BFN
6/16 IUI with femara & ovidrel - BFN
8/19/16 - IVF -
@ale9687 OMG congrats on your baby boy!! Would love to see a pic of little Anthony when you get around to it!
@kelrauh Your shower looks so amazing, and I'm glad you got so many great things for the babies!
Me: 34, DH: 38 ~ TTC since 2014
IUI #1-3 (Nov 2015, Feb 2016, May 2016) = BFNs
IVF ER (July 2016) = 7 PGS normal embryos
FET #1 (Sept 2016) = BFP! DD born 5/30/17
FET #2 (April 2019) = BFN
FET #3 (July 2019) = BFP! DS born 3/27/20
@kelrauh I'm glad you had a lovely shower! I love that the theme of your nursery has been carried through here! It all looks fantastic!!
Me & DH - 31
TTC since December 2011
Diagnosis: Unexplained, although mild polycystic ovaries (not syndrome) and irregular cycles
2013/14: 6 rounds clomid,
Aug 2015: IVF #1 = Antagonist Cycle: 100 Puregon and Orgalutran
21 eggs collected, only 1 viable embryo, transferred but BFN
July/Aug 2016: IVF #2 (with acupuncture) = 87.5 Gonal F and Synarel Spray 2xdaily
ER 8/8, transferred 1 day 5 blastocyst 13/8, 2 frosties.
Beta #1 = 85 Beta #2 = 242
EDD 1st May 2017 *Baby Boy*
Me 39 DH44
1st DE FET 5/16-BFN
2nd DE FET 7/18-BFP
8/17 Baby HR 140/min EDD 4/6/17
@kelrauh I am SO happy for you! I actually just squealed when I read your post lol.
You made it to your goal and hit the 30 week mark!!! Sounds so cheesy, but I'm so proud of you and those babies! All of you are fighters
@ale9687 Congratulations on baby Anthony! Hope you and baby are feeling well!
Unexplained Infertility- Postive for MTHFR Gene Mutation
Natural cycles with 1 miscarriage
-3 IUI's w/ Clomid= BFN
-IVF #1-Follistim and Menopur= BFN
***11 Eggs, 10 mature, 8 fertilized, transferred 1 (day 5) 2 made it to freeze
-FET #1- Transferred 2, day 5 embryos =BFN
-IVF #2- Follistim and Menopur = BFN
***11 retrieved, 8 mature, 6 fertilized, transferred 2 (day 3), 4 made it to freeze (Follistim and Menopur) = BFN
-FET #2- Transferred 2, day 3 embryos = BFN
**Changed doctor**
-IUI #4- natural cycle = BFN
-IUI #5- Follistim (5 eggs) BFP- lead to Miscarriage
-Laproscopic Surgery for Endometriosis, Polyp removal and Cyst removal.
-IVF #3- Menopur, Follistim, Lupron, Ganirellex- BFP lead to Eptopic Pregnancy
***11 Eggs retrieved, 10 Mature, 8 fertilized, transferred 3 embryos (day 3), 0 made it to freeze
-Lapropscopic surgery- Removal of Fallopian Tube
-IVF #4- Estrogen Priming with Vivelle dot, Menopur, Follistim, Ganirellex- BFP
***15 Eggs retreived, 11 mature, 11 fertilized, 2 embryos transferred (day 3), 2 made it to freeze
Found out I was positive for MTHFR Gene Mutation during TWW of IVF #4
Congrats @kelrauh! So happy to hear your positive updates. Shower looked amazing!! I'm so glad we have this site for continuous support. Idk where I'd be without y'all either!!
@ale9687 omgosh CONGRATS!!! Prayers for baby Anthony! Glad he is doing well. YOU'RE A MOM!!!
@wifeinraleigh28 the fatigue returned for me in the 3rd tri as well. Around week 32, I was wiped. That's when my sleep schedule started to waiver. Been really difficult since then to get a good nights sleep. Getting ready for baby
Me: 28 DH: 33, Married May 2014
3 failed IUIs Dec '15 - Feb '16
IVF April/May 2016 - 1 failed fresh transfer. 11 snow angels.
Lawson arrived on 4/24/2017 at 7lbs 15oz, 21 1/2 inches long!
Surprise pregnancy!! Baby #2 due 10/11/18
@ale9687 - WOW! Congrats. So glad you had just finished working. So exciting to welcome Anthony. I'm sure he is so sweet!
@kelrauh - What a cute idea for a shower! It all came together. So happy you got to experience the shower and you are that much closer to going home for a little bit!
10/2009 - TTC#1 Stopped BCP! Let's DO this!
7/8/2016 - FET #2 with Grade B (8 cell - 3 day embryo), fingers crossed this one sticks.
7/19 - Beta was 74. BFP!!!!; 7/21 - Beta was 182; 1st U/S on 8/2; 2nd U/S on 8/16