Just when I think I understand this process...

LooneyLife

They changed my protocol.

So this was a bit unexpected for me.  All along I assumed we'd be doing the same protocol this time around because I responded well the first time.

First IVF:  Antagonist protocol, BCPs, Bravelle, Menopur, and Ganirelix (stimmed 9 days) followed by Lupron trigger (high E2)
24 retrieved, 18 mature, 15 fertilized w/ICSI
5dt of 1 early blast and 1 just shy of early blast, no frosties

This time around we're doing a Lupron Stop Protocol
BCPs, Lupron for 9 days, then start Bravelle & Menopur (no mention of Ganirelix), with HCG trigger


My nurse sent the protocol too late to discuss this with her or the RE today, but does anyone have insight about the change in protocol?  I didn't have issues with responding obviously, but I'm hoping the change is to focus on egg quality as I was a bit concerned that out of 15 fertilized none made it to blast or freeze.

Also, without the Ganirelix, what is there to help prevent and early ovulation?

krdesi

I am not an expert on ANY of this, especially since it's new to me, but my RE had told me that the Lupron is what keeps me from ovulating before my trigger.

Otherwise, good luck and I am sure they have good reason for switching your protocol up a bit!

niffie

This is my first go around with IVF, so I too am not an expert.  But, I am doing the long lupron protocol.  My RE prefers it and he says that they have better quality success when you cook low and slow.  I do believe the PP is correct, that the Lupron is the suppressor and keeps you from ovulating.  His analogy for this protocol is this... if you jump right into stims it's like riding your car down a big hill as fast as gravity will take you and then you have to slam on the brakes... when you suppress first with lupron, he says it's like coasting down the hill with one foot lightly on the brake.  Easier to control I guess. 

I hope this is just what you needed and that you will be successful.  Good luck.