IVF Class

c&n06 · January 2011

I just got back from a required IVF class from my RE before proceeding into IVF. It was very informative but overwhelming/scary. If AF ever shows, I am doing one IUI cycle with follistm and if that doesn't work I will be proceeding direct into IVF.

All the shots sound so scary and overwhelming. Tongue Tied I have a quick question for ladies that have been through or going through IVF have you ever had to use two different stim meds? I was told for IVF I would be on Follistim and Menopur. The nurse said that may change based on how I respond during the IUI cycle. I was just surprised I would need Menopur too. She said it is pretty standard. TIA!

Mrs. Mo · January 2011

I took both Gonal-F & Repronex ( both stimms). I was able to mix them together so that I only had to do 1 shot.

Honestly, I think we all got overwhelmed when we first saw that box/list of meds. The best way to tackle it is to just take out of the box what you currently need and not "lay out" everything for the whole cycle. Not seeing everything helps to just focus on the current meds.

Good luck !!

Mayan2011 · January 2011

I am currently stimming (1st IVF cycle) and am using Bravelle and Repronex. I was pretty overwhelmed in the beginning as well, but honestly after take your first shot you will realize how simple it is!

GL with the IUI. Maybe you won't need IVF!!

STL34 · January 2011

Yes. It is pretty standard. Follistim and Gonal-F are just FSH and Bravelle is mostly FSH (there is something like 2% LH). LH helps to mature the eggs. Consequently, most people end upon on one of the above referenced FSH meds and an LH med such as Menopur (which has 75 iu FSH and 75 iu of LH) and Luveris (75iu LH, no FSH).

For my first IVF, I did Gonal-F/Follistim (I had some follistim donated so I used it and the gonal-f I purchased) and Menopur.

For my second IVF, I did Gonal-F/Follistim and Luveris.

Good luck!

ETA - One reason this is different than IUIs is that most of the time with IUI you are not on an agonist (lupron) or antagonist (ganirelix) that limits or eliminates your body's production of FSH and LH. I know some people use antagonists during IUI cycles, but they are usually started later in the stimming process.

cutebride73 · January 2011

I will be using follistim and menopur - seems like it is pretty standard to take too. It's different than a regular injects cycle. I had my injects class today and it was a bit overwhelming. I figure that after I do each med once, it will seem easier and not be as scary. Good luck - hopefully you won't need to move to IVF!!