New Member- Starting IVF

glassmarbles35

Hello! 

I am sorry if this post is in the wrong place ( I realized I did before that now trying delete where I did post it) or not what I am supposed to be writing about. I am very new to all of this, a little introduction I am 30 I have Endometriosis, PCOS, & PFD. I was told for years that I wouldn't be able to have children so a few months ago I went to a fertility specialist to see what was really going on and all of a sudden I have been launched into this IVF world- and I am anxious, scared and confused about everything.

I feel like I went in for a consultation met with the doctor started a series of tests to be told, today, I have to start medication and begin the entire process. Is this normal to feel this way? I am very anxious and nervous regarding the entire thing, we haven't gone over any side effects to medication- I wasn't walked through anything I was given some papers and a prescription and sent on my way. I have an appointment coming up, well they called it a class to go over everything but it feels so sudden. 

I don't know who to talk to about this as a majority of my friends/family have never had to go through this process. I do not know where to turn or what to do or even how to properly articulate what is going on. 

Tulips29

Welcome. It's totally normal to feel overwhelmed, but you're in the right place and there are lots of wonderful ladies (and men) here who can offer advice and support. IVF seems like a lot at first, but it is manageable. It's interesting you say it seems like things are happening so quickly, because I felt like things were moving so slowly when we started the process and there were just a ton of tests, appointments and consent forms before we actually started the medication. But congrats on getting through all of that. My advice is get a big calendar and write everything out so you can see it all on paper. It will feel a lot less overwhelming with the medication especially, as you'll be doing multiple shots and going to lots of blood and ultrasound appointments. Keeping a schedule and calendar helps me a lot. Also, don't be afraid to ask your nurses and doctors all the questions you have. That's what they are there for. These boards are amazing with answering questions also. Join your monthly IVF group so you can see what others are going through. Happy to answer any questions you may have too

suzycupcake

Pretty much WSS^^^ but @glassmarbles35, I will also add that there was a tip some ladies gave to only take out the medication that you need for the day. Don't have the entire pile in front of you every night because that will just add to the overwhelm. You can go online to look up side effects, but honestly, I wouldn't advise that given the anxiety you already have. And plus, you're just going to have side effects with this process. We all do and there isn't much we can do about it. But, there are instructional videos online to teach you how to do the injections/mix meds if you're required to. You do know who to turn to which is why you came to a support forum where there are others who understand what you're going through. You're one step ahead of the people who never reach out for support. You articulated what is going on perfectly. You are not helpless. You are so strong and so brave! Please give yourself some more credit! 

Another thing, you aren't EVER required to start any process that you aren't comfortable with until you have your concerns addressed and questions answered. Please know that. 

glassmarbles35

Thank you both for saying all of that! I guess I was expecting to do the tests find out what is going on and then suddenly yesterday I was signing consents and making calls on tests when I really just thought I was there for an ultrasound. It felt like a whirlwind. 

suzycupcake

You're not alone in that @glassmarbles35. I think it's a whirlwind for a lot of people. How are you doing now?