@safire3 I definitely used pineapple core for my last transfer (*tw which was successful.... mc because the embryo was genetically abnormal). The pineapple has high levels of natural bromelain which is a blood thinner and anti inflammatory agent. You're supposed to have it for 6 or seven days around transfer.
Thank you all for those hugs, I can't get enough of them.
@dragonette505 at the beginning I thought I could wholeheartedly submit myself to this science but when AF was late for the very first time in my life, I was so hopeful that I am pg and my heart is refusing to take those reset meds. Finding something to laugh about makes me forget about these awful feelings...and I suddenly miss those biotex posts... where are they when you need them?...lol
@BusinessWife I'm sorry to hear about your friend's husband. About your FET date, how awesome is it that it's a holiday!!! What are the odds? Yay! The stars are aligning for you.
@safire3 thanks for your message. Dr didn't sched my FET yet, we'd know after 10/18 probably. How was your friend's new puppy?
@Irisheyes81 thank you for thinking of me. IF is really something. im learning a lot everyday.
I will admit I needed distraction and looked on ttgp to see if there were any drive by’s!! Lol and my dh is still valiantly offering to provide me with a butt baby if this ivf thing doesn’t work!
@adirat - I am not avoiding alcohol - I keep thinking if I get KU, I'll have to give it up anyway, so I may as well enjoy a glass of wine with dinner a few times a week. We may even go out for champagne the night before our FET. But I will not drink after, until I know.
@tinjp78 - Sounds like you are experiencing the ol' IVF scheduling runaround - like, everything taking so long and lots of: "WTF - wait? When can I start?" Ugh, it's the worst. Sending you a big hug.
But, a personal story about someone else... My SIL is having marital problems. My BIL stopped working a few months ago (contract expired), and is having a hard time finding a new job, which is causing strain at their house (quite understandably). She's 37 and wants to have a baby, but hasn't started trying yet - they've been together for about 8 years. She was talking to my H about it yesterday, and when they hung up the phone he told me about it, and my reaction was SO different from his. I was like: "If she wants a baby, she needs to start trying RIGHT NOW. He'll find a job while she's pregnant, she needs to get-the-f*ck-on-it!" My H was more of the: "Life is tough sometimes" school, without any of the TTC urgency.
Anyway, not sure if this is a sign of how IF has affected me.... I'm tempted to call her, but I'm also trying to stay out of it - she didn't talk to me about her marriage, and I don't have the whole story, so it'd be super, super weird for me to call her and be like: "START TRYING NOW!" Besides - there's no way she doesn't know about age and fertility rates - I feel like, as a woman, it's not like you can make it to 33-44 without almost constant reminders of it, you know?
But definitely, even in hearing the story second-hand, my TTC anxiety was through-the-roof!
@funkykey I have to say after this process of IF I think it makes you so aware that no one has all the time in the world! I tell everyone that matters to get these tests done, so they have a clue! It should be something that's mandatory like a regular pap. I think it's great you want to be helpful, it's scary how clueless woman are outside the IF world....they just don't know!
TTC since 2014 Unexplained Infertility - but I am 40...Low AMH .30 7 - IUI (50mg-150mg Clomid) Feb - August 2016 all BFN IVF#1 August 2016 (Antagonist protocol 4/5 eggs) Cancelled cycle RE thought I would get at least 10. IVF#2 Sept 2016 (microdose luporn pro - disappearing follies, ONLY ONE, convert to IUI) BFN IVF#3 November 2016 (4 ER, 3 F, 3DT)-BFP with TWINS // MC both at almost 10wks IVF#4 March 2017 //EPP (10 ER (1 wonky so 9 ER) 7F, 3B (5AB, (2)5BB) PGS tested- ALL abnormal IVF#5 April 2017 // EPP (7 ER, 7F yes! 6B) 2/5 day 4/6 day - 2 PGS normal! yes!! IVF#6 May 2017 // Antagonist didn't have time for Estrogen Priming...(4 ER, 3 F, 3B) (5AB, (2) 5BB) 2 PGS normal, yes!! IVF#7 June 2017 // EPP praying this is it and then on to an FET!
@adirat hugs lady! Sometimes I feel like we get a blessing on those days that are anniversaries of something awful. Regardless, that's a tough anniversary, and I'm sorry.
@tinjp78 I know the feeling of just having an awful visit and wanting to cry, but not allowing yourself to. But don't worry, it sounds like you are ok, you probably just need to get on provera or bcp to bring on AF. I don't get why you are on the nasal spray but not bcp. I am doing Lupron, started it in september while taking bcp (apparently it takes a while to take effect which is why you start it the cycle before your FET cycle) But like you said, if you are taking something not to ovulate, shouldn't you be on something to bring your period? I feel like when it comes to IF, IVF & FET, every little thing has another reaction to which you need to take another type of medicine. Lots of hugs, it's a lot, but you are strong and you will get through it.
I am on baby aspirin too, apparently, it's supposed to help with the uterine lining. Also (and this is just my opinion) I figure since we are taking so much sh*t that can cause blood clots....why not be safe. COq10 should be for heart health and to lower cholesterol. I have no idea what it does for fertility.
You guys are reading my mind discussing pineapple, raspberry leaf tea, and pomegranate. I just bought both and I was thinking of starting a thread that's "Just for fun" of all the harmless yet weird thing we hear that can help get us pregnant. For example, always wear socks, so that your feet are warm. The old wives tale suggests that cold enters your body through your feet and the first organs to lose blood supply are reproductive organs. the blood supply goes elsewhere to warm up your body. Also, pineapple core sounds awful, my tongue always burns if I eat the pineapple meat that's near the core, I can only imagine the core must BURRRRRNNNNNNNNNN like a mother.
Who else is on Lupron/Estrogen patches? I just upcycled to 4 patches and it has been a day...y'all are talking about enjoying alcohol and I swear these patches make me feel drunk.
also, I just read like 24 new messages and I can't remember what everyone talked about, but please know that as I was reading them, I was cheering you on for the happy stuff and hugging you for the tougher stuff.
@coco305 that pineapple core DOES burn... I blended mine down and drank a potion each day, and by day six I was like aaarrrgghh lol i think blending it down helped.... no way I could chew it!
@funkykey yes I know. I will immediately be high risk. I've been doing really well so far during this process though so hoping it continues.
As as for your SIL you would be surprised how many women just assume it will be easy to get KU because it has been easy for most people that they know. If I were you I would send her a message or something telling her you are free to talk if she wants to talk about it. I agree with you, if I were her I would get on it. It hurts sometimes to think that 2 years ago we were 'budgeting for baby' and thinking of all the cute stuff we would buy. Now not only have we blown the budget but we are in debt and I don't care if we are dead broke when we have a baby as long as we have one. I don't care if we can only afford the basics by the time the baby gets here. We will make it work somehow.
@coco305 I am on Lupron and supposed to start estrogen patches after my appointment tomorrow. Really not looking forward to it after hearing you guys talk about it though. I hope it gets better for you.
@safire3 sickle cell is no joke. I'm sorry you have had to deal with it. But I am sure you have a doctor that understands and will know how to manage your pregnancy regarding the estrogen patches, everyone seems to do well with them, I even heard that it would alleviate the lupron symptoms, I'm just the exception to rule I think. So you should be fine
and as for budgeting for a baby, I think we will all be fine. If we can manage the financial strain of IF, we can manage a baby. There are teenagers out there getting knocked up, and they manage while earning a minimum wage. And you are so right, so what if we are all broke, we'll have something way more valuable
@coco305 lol... I haven’t had to talk to her! I didn’t even bother to tell her I straightened out and it’s all arriving Tuesday! Lol My guess is I don’t have to talk to her much anymore.... (this cycle) as long as my paperwork is correct! Once I start going to appointments, the doc tells me in person when to come back and I put myself on the calendar on my way out! @safire3 I arrogantly assumed I’d get knocked up and have my baby right on schedule.... here I am heading into cycle #7
@dragonette505 I feel you and it totally sucks. Especially when everyone else seems to get KU at the drop of a hat. Hugs girl.
Eta @coco305 I have an awesome hematologist who basically told me to just go for it. They are all ready and waiting to support me through this plus my RE will graduate me to a high risk OB. So basically I will have doctors appointments every week.
Also, so I just read through my protocol again and realized I have to start doxycycline again tomorrow. I so hate those pills so much and this will be the third time I have to take them since starting this process. I have to have just the right amount of food in my stomach when I take them or I vomit. I haven't heard anyone else mention it so do any of you guys have to do a course of antibiotics for transfer?
*lurking* @safire3 My doc has already given me the doxycycline to keep on hand prior to our FET. Apparently it helps to make sure that nothing is in the system that could hinder implantation.
Me: 35 DH: 28 TTC since June 2016 Azoospermia diagnosis (zero count) Dec 2016 AZFc chromosome microdeletion discovery March 2017 Unsuccessful TESE for DH in August 2017 October 2017 IVF with donor sperm
29R, 24M, 16F, 2d5, 4d6 (6 embryos total) Only 3 could have PGS. 2/3 normal. 5 embies frozen 12/15/17 FET #1 (1 embryo)--CP 2/7/17 FET #2 (2 embryos)--BFN Chronic endometritis diagnosis May 2018
ERA Sept 2018--borderline receptive--12 more hours of progesterone Abnormal SIS Oct 2018 Repeat hysteroscopy Nov 1. Treated recurring endometritis. 12/4/18 FET #3 (2 embryos)--BFN Our journey has come to an end.
Ah ok @AlohaKumu. Thanks for chiming in. Good to know they're not just torturing me with it for no good reason. I also had to take it before retrieval and before my HSG for a full 10 days each time and I really hate them.
@safire3 I also received doxy for my third course of it this year (for before FET). My first was two weeks, the last was one week, and this next will just be 5 days. But it’s annoying because I have to plan out having something in my stomach, and dairy consumption, and night time magnesium supplement, and not laying down right after...I’m glad it will only be 5 days this time.
@funkykey Your husband’s stance is interesting. My DH is sort of the opposite - I mentioned that one of my 30 year old friends was thinking about freezing eggs, and he immediately responded “Tell her ‘Do it!’ After this experience (presumably we’re going through this since I’m 40 and he’s 42), he thinks that all women should find the money and freeze eggs when they’re 22 and starting grad school. The procedure was still experimental when I was 35, and 35 year old eggs aren’t 22 year old ones... I don’t think he’s being negative so much as trying to save others from going through this (if age related).
About me: Married 6/18/16 (Me 42, DH 44), TTC #2 ***TW***
Natural BFP 8/10/16 --> mc our NIPT-normal little girl at 11w5d on 10/1/16 As of 12/2016: AMH 1.42, FSH 6.1, AFC ~10 Self-benched Nov-Dec 2016 for IVF #1 Jan-Feb 2017 (OCP, testosterone primed antagonist w/HGH - ER 2/2/17 - 12R, 7M ICSI'd, 3F, 0B) IVF #2 Mar-Apr 2017 (testosterone primed agonist/luteal lupron w/HGH - ER 4/8/17 - 10R, 8M, 8F, 5B, 1 PGS normal) IVF #3 May-Jun 2017 (testosterone primed agonist/luteal lupron w/HGH - ER 6/4/17 - 14R, 5F, 3B, 0 normal) **New RE** IVF #4 Sept 2017 (natural start microdose lupron flare w/HGH - ER 9/28/17 - 33R, 18F, 10B, 4 PGS normals!) FET #1 (medicated) of one PGS normal 4AA XX 11/2/17 - Beta #1 11/11/17 (153), Beta #2 11/13/17 (324), mc at 5w1d on 11/19/17 IVF #5 Dec 2017 - Insemination of 9 frozen eggs from 2012 (8F, 1B, 0 normal) Jan 2018 - Natural cycle ERA (normal/receptive) & stimming for IVF #6 Jan-Feb 2018 (natural start microdose lupron flare w/HGH - ER 2/3/18 - 17R, 6M, 4F, 0 blasts) IVF #7 Feb 2018 (natural start microdose lupron flare w/HGH - ER 2/26/18 - 19R, 9M, 9F, 4B, 2 PGS normals) FET #2 Apr 2018 (natural cycle w/o trigger, w/P4 support) of one PGS normal 4AA- XX 4/5/18 - Beta #1 4/14/18 (67), Beta #2 4/16/18 (231) Rainbow baby girl born 12/16/2018 (via c-section, induced at 39 weeks)
----- TFAS! FET #3 Dec 2019 (natural cycle w/o trigger, w/P4 support) of one PGS normal 3BB XY 12/16/19 - Beta #1 12/24/19 (139), Beta #2 12/27/19 (482)
@funkykey thanks for the hugs and I'm sending some back to you. I know what you feel abt your SIL. When IF finally hit me, I began to think abt my closest friends who are still enjoying their status and still thinking we were still in college. I wanted to inform them that IF bites.
@Hopeful_mom Thanks for the hugs. How are you feeling today? I hope that everything is good.
@coco305 my DH and I were just talking about why I'm still on that nasal spray this morning. But dr said I should continue it till she tells me to stop. I suspect dr will prescribe bcp or another meds that would cause my AF to come when I meet her next time. I think that thread you started was nice, sounds fun.
@safire3 I'm inspired by your DH's and your courage and determination. I really hope that everything would go in your favor very soon. Glad to hear that you have a great hematologist and a team that's got your back.
@dragonette505 good to hear that your nurse isn't giving you more issues now.
@artemis618 My DH probably thinks the same as your DH.
Hey ladies, sorry I've been so quiet. I dunno, just trying to quiet some of the noise in my head, but I am reading everyone's posts always. ❤
We still take a lot of the supplements we had been on. But I stopped the maca and clomid since we ran out right around his TESE anyway. CoQ10 we still take for neurological, heart, cellular and blood vessel health, as well as to prevent macular degeneration, just one cap per day instead of 2 or 3. He doesn't take all the extra C and E, but does still take a multi + Selenium and Zinc.
I take vitamin D, B6, calcium, zinc, selenium, one cap of ubiquniol/coq10, prenatal, and will add back the DHA once we get closer to transfer. I also plan on burning through a box of RRL tea, drinking all the pom juice prior, and indulging in the pineapple core post-FET. I find myself wishing I didn't feel so fat and out of shape going in, but it is what it is. Who was talking about a friend who gained all the IF/IVF weight and then didn't gain that much at all during pregnancy, and is 30 lbs below pre-baby weight after delivery??? That is my plan ;)
The new thing around our house as of this weekend is saying we are 5 weeks away from being 2 1/2 weeks pregnant!!! :D We had a talk about counting weeks of pregnancy, like how normally if a woman is 5 weeks pregnant, say, she really only found out like max one week ago, or that the first two weeks there actually is no baby in your tummy etc lol. So cute to have those basic "how pregnancy works" type of conversations and know that he's actually paying attention... ;)
Hi all. I hope everyone had a nice weekend. I often take little bump breaks on the weekend and then come back Monday morning to pages and pages of catch up. I don't feel like I have a ton to contribute right now besides whining about all the waiting.
I do have some advice for those who are eating pineapple core. Make sure your pineapple is nice and ripe. It should be a little bit soft and you should be able to smell it. I love pineapple. We always have a fresh one in the house and they look pretty before we cut it up.
I'm still waiting for an update on the legal stuff. I did get an email from the agency on Saturday requesting our check for the donor fee which will go into a trust until after the ER. They told me our donor is scheduled to go over the contract early this week and they should have a signed contract by mid-week but nothing can start until the check is in trust. So, we sent the check this morning to make sure that doesn't slow anything down.
So until then I'll just sit here like
History and blog link in spoiler
2016 - dx with super low ovarian reserve; failed cycle with clomid, failed IUI, 2017 - egg retrieval #1 - 3 eggs, 0 embryos appropriate for transfer; ER #2 2 eggs, 0 embryos on day 3; ER #3 1 egg 0 embryos moved to donor egg in summer 2017; 35 eggs retrieved; 19 fertilized; 9 total embryos Fresh transfer Dec 2017= BFP! baby boy born 8/22/18
May 2019 - surprise natural pregnancy ended in MC Nov 2019 FET; MC at 9 weeks May 2020 FET; BFN July 2020 FET; CP treated with methotrexate Oct 2020 BFP!
@BusinessWife 30 lbs is the target during pregnancy if you are a normal weight. I did not really put on weight before IVF or these past few months prepping for FETs, but in the past few months I found myself stress eating... basically eating a candy bar at almost every store I go to.
Last week I started doing weight watchers again and it's not only helped me lose those extra 4 lbs I gained, but it's giving me something to keep my mind off of this FET nonsense. Only 4 more lbs to go for my wedding weight and 14 for my goal weight! I don't go to meetings or pay for access to their site either, there is free info out there to do it with.
Hi everyone! like @laurad75- i take some bump breaks during the weekend and I am trying to catch up! @laurad75- I really hope the legal can get done this week so you can get your calendar and have dates to look forward to! Even if they are still a few weeks out, it always helped me to have specific dates/calendar since it made it feel closer at least.
@businesswife- I like your week counting! It is weird to think that if this works.. I am now like 4-5 days pregnant or something based on how they count pregnancy. I do love that once you get the BFP, its already 4 weeks, so only 9 weeks left to make it through the first trimester! We are already half way through October, so I'm hoping the time keeps moving quickly!
I can't wait for November and for everyone to get transferring! Sounds like we have alot around the start of the month and then alot around the middle.
AFM, my donor started stimming last night. We both have an appt on Wed. Lining check for me, and follie check for her. They warned me not to expect too much growth at Wed's appt after only 3 days of stims for her, so i am going to have to remind myself to no worry too much! We are going on a mini vacation to the smoky mountains Thurs- Sunday to do some driving in our converitble and check out the fall colors. I am sure that will be a good distraction. I also am going to TRY to eat really good and not drink (much). I know its probably fine with 1.5-2 weeks until transfer, but also just trying to be as healthy as possible right now and lower inflammation (which alcohol can cause). Maybe if I have a vodka/pom juice that would be ok? lol
History in Spoiler
Age: 32 (same with DH). Together since 2006, Married June 2013 and TTC since August 2015 Diagnosis: Mild Endo, DOR (AMH of 1.5), Poor Quality Eggs/embryos, Displaced Window of Implantation (ERA Post Receptive) March-May 2016: 1 TI and 2 IUIs- BFN June 2016- Laproscopy- found/removed mild endo and confirmed only 1 normal healthy ovary. August 2016- IVF #1 with Antagonist Protocol- Cancelled (2 lead follies), converted to IUI- BFN Oct-Nov 2016- IVF #2 with Estrogen Priming Micro Lupron Protocol, 2 eggs retrieved, day 3 transfer of 1- BFN January 2017- New RE, IVF#3 with Estrogen Priming Antagonist Protocol, 12 eggs, 8 mature, 6 fertilized, 2 day 5 early blasts transferred (none to freeze ), BFN May 2017- Sept 2017- Starting Donor Egg process! Waiting for donor to be available... and then she is pregnant at baseline Oct 2017- Donor #2: 25R, 22M,18F, 12 blasts frozen! Fresh transfer cancelled due to thin lining with fluid Nov 2017- Hysterscopy to remove polyp Dec 2017- DE FET #1 on 12/8 on 2 perfect blasts- BFN and devastated Jan-Mar 2018- ERA #1- Post receptive by 24 hours, ERA #2 RECEPTIVE with 4 days of Progesterone Apr 2018- DE FET cancelled for lining issues Jun 2018- DE FET #2 of two 1AA blasts- first BFP ever! Beta 10dp5dt- 378, Beta 14dp5dt- 2840, Beta 16dp5dt- 4035, beta 18dp5dt- 10916. Due on 2/20 with one baby after a vanishing twin Baby Born born early @ 33.5 weeks due to Pre-e Back for # 2!
I realized, reading over my post again - I wasn't clear on one thing. The problems are because she is mad at him for not working, for what that's done to their budget. She wants to have a baby, but she's refusing to start trying until he is working.
That's the part where I'm like: "Girl! What are you thinking?! He'll get a job. You want a baby, you act now!"
@safire - I don't care if we are dead broke when we have a baby as long as we have one. I don't care if we can only afford the basics by the time the baby gets here. We will make it work somehow.
We are in the same boat. We'll figure it out, and if our baby wears only hand-me-downs for the first 10 years of its life, so be it!
@artemis618 - My H is so, like, "live and let live". Now, it's cool - but for the first part of our relationship, it drove me crazy! I'm way more: "decide what you want, make a plan, and pursue it with everything you have."
Even in the early phases of TTC, H was like that a bit, and it blew my mind. It's like we came to a mountain, and he was like: "That looks too steep, let's just not climb it. Let's just be sad that it's there." And I was like: "Put your boots on, we're going for a hike!"
I think his sister is a little bit like that too, maybe. And on the one hand, it's none of my business, but on the other hand, I panic for her. Ah well.
You know though, she'll probably get KU-ed no problem!
@BusinessWife thanks for the info on what you are taking! Also, I love the, in 2 weeks you will be five weeks pregnant. Your positive attitude is rubbing off on me. I'm going to have to do my calculations. I want them to put one of my 6 days in there just to give me a little head start hahaha.
@funkykey I have a totally different outlook on people 'waiting' now. Of course the situation should be right but I agree with you. You wouldn't wish this on anyone!
@jamieH5000 Yay for stims and lining check this week! I'll be thinking of nice strong follicles for you It's a big week!
@laurad75 Isn't waiting the worst? I feel like this process is all waiting and then all of a sudden a lot happens all at once. Good advice on the pineapple. I used pineapple with all my IUIs. The core can be really difficult to eat. I like @dragonette505 idea about blending it. If it's more ripe, is it less tough ?
AlohaKumu I used to lurk your story so much. I was so glad to see you and your signature!! Hope you are doing well.
AFM, just waiting for my thyroid results to come back hopefully tomorrow and I got all my medication. I start lupron Sunday. My birthday is on the 26th but I'm not as sad about it as I was last year because my eggs didn't age a day! haha.
Me: 36 DH: 33
TTC since June 2016
Me: PCOS DH: Morphology 1%
3 TI with Famera and trigger shots-BFN
3 IUI's with Famera and trigger shots- BFN
IVF August 2017 25 eggs retrieved, 19 mature, 13 fertilized (ICSI), 5 frozen, 3 PGS normal
FET November 2017 Transferred one 6 day blast (a little GIRL) BFP EDD 8/4/18
@adirat I was thinking the same thing as @wabash15 about the connection. It's a really nice way to look at it, but I know still really hard to accept emotionally. Take your time getting there, and We'll be here for you. Hugs.
@JamieH2000 Yep! It's getting close! I found out yesterday they estimate transfer on November 2, so seems like I'm definitely with you all in November and not just hanging out on the cusp. Good luck at your Wednesday appointment. Hoping for good news!
@wabash15 Hi, lady! You are so sweet to lurk your old friends from the TTGP and IF boards. Thank you for checking in on us! This really is an amazing FET board. We're lucky to all be in this together again. PS Love the Obama gif especially; it definitely sums up IF and I intend to trot it out again sometime, haha.
@Crystal321 Hello fellow October FETer. Welcome over here! Looks like a bunch of us are early Nov. transfer buddies.
@artemis618 Ahhh that makes sense now. My RE also said they might do a couple of days of Ganirelix if needed, so your answer explains that. I probably should have followed that up with a question about why instead of nodding like I understood at all, haha. Thank you for clarifying for me! It does look like there are a bunch of us set for early November transfers, which will hopefully get the month off to a good start for us all! As for the supplements, I'm back to just taking PNVs, mostly because I'm lazy.
@adirat Great question about the alcohol. I was planning to stop as soon as I started the meds for the cycle (so last night), but I have two bottles of hard cider left and DH won't drink them if I should be so lucky as to get KU. I'd love to not waste them. When I was doing the injection training class, the nurse said they mostly tell people not to drink in the cycle so that you don't have anything to blame yourself for if the cycle fails.
@tinjp78 First, I'm really glad you and YH are both on board with switching to a new clinic, because it definitely sounds like you're not getting the support you need with your current RE. Second, I just want to send you lots of creepy internet hugs because of how big of a mind f**k your body and IF are being to you right now. It sounds like you're having an annovulatory cycle? The worst thing about IF is that it always seems to be a series of delays--delays because the body isn't cooperating, delays because the doctor's office didn't communicate important information, delays because more tests/procedures are needed, etc. And of course it's not just a one day set-back; delays mean entire months missed. Sometimes I think doctors and nurses aren't terribly understanding or compassionate about how very frustrating that is, either because they see it on a daily basis and are immune to it or because they simply can't understand the feeling. None of that is terribly helpful to you right now, but I just wanted to let you know that I (I'm sure we all) completely understand your sadness, frustration, and anger. Also ditto to @dragonette505 on your gif game. It is strong, even in the face of adversity.
@BusinessWife Hooray for your bit of good news! It's all really aligning for this Nov. 17th FET!! You're in NJ, right? Since it was almost 80 in the area on Sunday, it may even feel like summer in NOvember for your Rita's stop, lol.
Also, I'm so sorry about your friend. It sounds like you're being a very good and supportive friend to her as she goes through this. I can't even imagine how sad you all must be right now.
@Irisheyes81 I've never been good about remembering to do the pineapple thing, but this time I intend do pull out all the stops as regards the random foods that apparently help with implantation. Mostly because I'm frustrated and why not?
@funkykey About your friend--I've found myself thinking or saying the same things to my friends. Like, "Umm...if you're thinking of having kids you should get on it now because otherwise you'll find yourself two years in, jaded and full of needle holes and wondering why you didn't start sooner." But at the same time I have this major, selfish conflict where I don't want them to start trying because I know the odds are against them having a problem and it would be emotionally draining for them to be successful before me.
@safire3 "...I don't care if we are dead broke when we have a baby as long as we have one." Truth. As soon as we paid for the first IVF cycle, it was like the floodgates opened and now I'm like, "I will pay it all, whatever you want. Bring on the bills."
@laurad75 Oh the waiting! I hope the legal stuff gets done quickly so you can have some semblance of forward momentum. Waiting is the worst.
AFM u/s and bloodwork were good yesterday, so we're a go for this cycle. I picked up my prescriptions and started the Estrace tablets last night. I was also pleased to see that my RE listened to my concerns and upped the progesterone quite a bit for when it's time to take that. Lining/bloodwork check next Monday and FET tentatively scheduled for 11/2. Now to remember to stand up periodically, because this blood clot risk terrifies me.
QUESTION: My RE also sent in a prescription for prednisolone, but I don't remember us talking about it. I did some googling and it seems like it's something they prescribe for RPL (not our issue) or history of failed transfers (we've had one). I'm going to ask about it at our next appointment/whenever they tell me to start taking it, but I'm wondering how many others also have this on the docket?
@Bababatty - But at the same time I have this major, selfish conflict where I don't want them to start trying because I know the odds are against them having a problem and it would be emotionally draining for them to be successful before me.
I have a selfish streak sometimes because I actively want someone else to experience this, like one of my everyday friends, just so I have someone else to talk to. It's so lonely!
I mean, obviously, I wouldn't wish this on anyone. But there's a reason I'm on this board - IRL, all of my friends have small children or are pregnant. And they can't relate at all. For real, the biggest conflict our best couple friends are having is that she wants to buy some new furniture, and he doesn't. And that's like the biggest conflict they've had in the past 4 years. Hardly the same as: "You've been putting off the SA for 2 months. What is going on?"
I feel so isolated sometimes, and I feel so different from all of my friends. I know that everyone will face challenges, but some days I really wish just ONE of my friends had to TTC for more than 8 months to conceive. Just one!
Also (and more importantly) super excited for you this cycle!
@funkykey The struggle is real. Most of my friends with children freely admit they were totally unplanned. It just hurts my brain. While I am thankful we have the opportunity to do treatments, it sure would be nice if I didn't have to go this route.
@irisheyes81- thanks for the thoughts! I really hope your thyroid is good to go! And happy early birthday! Birthdays have been bittersweet for me, but hoping this is the last one you have without a baby in your arms.
@bababatty- wow, I just want to say ditto to all your detailed responses to everyone! I wish I was able to keep up so well! YAY for getting started on meds yesterday! We are going to nearly be cycle buddies is the higher blood clot risk from being on the extra estrogen? I am going to be in a car alot Thurs- Sun so I better get out and do some walking when we take breaks! I haven't been on predisone for a transfer before, but I feel like it probably can't hurt, and may help, so as long as the side effects aren't too bad, hopefully its a good thing?
@funkykey- I totally get what you are saying.. i wouldn't wish this on anyone.. but there are times when I think it sure would be nice if certain people really could understand how hard it is. Of course they can't really understand unless they go through it. I also wish that my friends (most of them actually) who are trying for a second can at least wait for that until I get pregnant with my first.
History in Spoiler
Age: 32 (same with DH). Together since 2006, Married June 2013 and TTC since August 2015 Diagnosis: Mild Endo, DOR (AMH of 1.5), Poor Quality Eggs/embryos, Displaced Window of Implantation (ERA Post Receptive) March-May 2016: 1 TI and 2 IUIs- BFN June 2016- Laproscopy- found/removed mild endo and confirmed only 1 normal healthy ovary. August 2016- IVF #1 with Antagonist Protocol- Cancelled (2 lead follies), converted to IUI- BFN Oct-Nov 2016- IVF #2 with Estrogen Priming Micro Lupron Protocol, 2 eggs retrieved, day 3 transfer of 1- BFN January 2017- New RE, IVF#3 with Estrogen Priming Antagonist Protocol, 12 eggs, 8 mature, 6 fertilized, 2 day 5 early blasts transferred (none to freeze ), BFN May 2017- Sept 2017- Starting Donor Egg process! Waiting for donor to be available... and then she is pregnant at baseline Oct 2017- Donor #2: 25R, 22M,18F, 12 blasts frozen! Fresh transfer cancelled due to thin lining with fluid Nov 2017- Hysterscopy to remove polyp Dec 2017- DE FET #1 on 12/8 on 2 perfect blasts- BFN and devastated Jan-Mar 2018- ERA #1- Post receptive by 24 hours, ERA #2 RECEPTIVE with 4 days of Progesterone Apr 2018- DE FET cancelled for lining issues Jun 2018- DE FET #2 of two 1AA blasts- first BFP ever! Beta 10dp5dt- 378, Beta 14dp5dt- 2840, Beta 16dp5dt- 4035, beta 18dp5dt- 10916. Due on 2/20 with one baby after a vanishing twin Baby Born born early @ 33.5 weeks due to Pre-e Back for # 2!
@bababatty I also got a medrol/prednisolone prescription. I possibly have mild endometriosis (never surgically verified and not my biggest IF problem) so my RE said I should take it to reduce inflammation just in case. He also gives it to anyone with any failed transfer so I think it's pretty standard.
I need advice from you all today. I had a consult with RE today about our first IVF ending in CP and our plans for a FET. We decided that I will be going into FET pretty soon. However he gave me a choice of having Lupron as part of my protocol to suppress my ovaries or just use estrase and hope that my ovaries are still suppressed enough since our stim cycle in September. I do not know what to decide because I don't want to overwhelm my system with drugs again if I don't have to. But on the other hand I do not want to risk a cancelled cycle ( my RE gave me like 2% chance of that happening, TW** but hey EP is only 1% chance and I had one ***end TW). I just want things to work this time. Also we are 100% OOP so I am curious how much adding Lupron will cost us. And I am struggling to make a decision. Please help! Any success stories with or without Lupron are welcome.
Me 30, DH 39 TTC since Aug 2015, BFP Apr 2017 - late diagnosed EP, right tube removed, left tube scarred. Dx: tubal IF IVF Sept 2017, 7 R, 6M, 6F- 4 blasts, 1 transferred fresh - CP FET #1 Dec 2017- BFN FET #2 Jan 2018- CP FET #3 BFP!!! EDD 12/15/2018!
@DecemberDoll27 Hugs friend, this stuff is so confusing! When I was looking at success rates, I didn't find any evidence that either protocol is more successful and canceling the FET is rare so I try not to worry. If your body does try to ovulate on estrace, they can give you ganerelix to make sure it doesn't screw up the timing. I'm on estrace only right now and they told me that the weekly ultrasounds/bloodwork will check for ovulation to get out ahead of any ovulation plans your body may have.
I also didn't want to wait the extra 3-4 weeks for lupron! Gimme an FET already!
I have seen on here that you can get lupron relatively inexpensively...I think goodrx.com is one place? I also want to say somebody got lupron from CVS or Rite Aid or somewhere like that for under $200.
I don't have any experience with lupron, but your comment @adirat makes me wonder... I was going to send someone a couple leftover Ganirelix I have - but what are the chances I might actually end up needing it for FET??? I have never done a transfer before and so far everyone just keeps saying estrace and PIO... *typos
@BusinessWife My IVF nurse made it seem like it's pretty unusual to ovulate while on estrace, so I don't know. Do you have monitoring u/s scheduled? Mine are weekly. After the first one you would probably know if you're at risk.
@Irisheyes81 Aw! I'm so happy that you are finally getting to do your FET. I know it's been quite the journey for you, too, and I hope everything goes well. This November FET group is amazing and I'm hardcore lurking/rooting for all of you!
Me: 35 DH: 28 TTC since June 2016 Azoospermia diagnosis (zero count) Dec 2016 AZFc chromosome microdeletion discovery March 2017 Unsuccessful TESE for DH in August 2017 October 2017 IVF with donor sperm
29R, 24M, 16F, 2d5, 4d6 (6 embryos total) Only 3 could have PGS. 2/3 normal. 5 embies frozen 12/15/17 FET #1 (1 embryo)--CP 2/7/17 FET #2 (2 embryos)--BFN Chronic endometritis diagnosis May 2018
ERA Sept 2018--borderline receptive--12 more hours of progesterone Abnormal SIS Oct 2018 Repeat hysteroscopy Nov 1. Treated recurring endometritis. 12/4/18 FET #3 (2 embryos)--BFN Our journey has come to an end.
@DecemberDoll27 glad to see you're ready to go just wanted to add that I only used estrace no lupron (TW Suvcessful BFP so far I also think no lupron makes it a shorter protocol) wishing you the best of luck!!
History of TTC in spoiler box
TTC since 2014 Unexplained Infertility - but I am 40...Low AMH .30 7 - IUI (50mg-150mg Clomid) Feb - August 2016 all BFN IVF#1 August 2016 (Antagonist protocol 4/5 eggs) Cancelled cycle RE thought I would get at least 10. IVF#2 Sept 2016 (microdose luporn pro - disappearing follies, ONLY ONE, convert to IUI) BFN IVF#3 November 2016 (4 ER, 3 F, 3DT)-BFP with TWINS // MC both at almost 10wks IVF#4 March 2017 //EPP (10 ER (1 wonky so 9 ER) 7F, 3B (5AB, (2)5BB) PGS tested- ALL abnormal IVF#5 April 2017 // EPP (7 ER, 7F yes! 6B) 2/5 day 4/6 day - 2 PGS normal! yes!! IVF#6 May 2017 // Antagonist didn't have time for Estrogen Priming...(4 ER, 3 F, 3B) (5AB, (2) 5BB) 2 PGS normal, yes!! IVF#7 June 2017 // EPP praying this is it and then on to an FET!
@DecemberDoll27 I haven't been put on lupron. Currently I am on estrogen pills, estrogen patch, pio, baby tylenol, folic acid, prenatal vitamin, lovenox (blood thinner) and plaqueinil is the newest addition for me, just introduced this cycle in hopes of stickier lining i guess. So that's my daily medicine and vitamins (staggered of course)
TW, I had a successful ivf fresh transfer, and 2 FETs.. one was successful but ended in a CP, the other outright failed.
@DecemberDoll27 I'm surprised they are giving you so many options! That would confuse me a little bit I think. I know my protocol called for Lupron due to my specific diagnosis/situation. I am always an advocate of taking less medication if possible, especially since Lupron is pretty pricey, nightmarish and, as said above, doesn't necessarily improve success rates. I think I remember someone getting their meds at CVS or maybe it was Walmart and it was much cheaper. I ordered mine from Integrity Rx specialty pharmacy and it was $160. Hope that helps a little
Me: 36 DH: 33
TTC since June 2016
Me: PCOS DH: Morphology 1%
3 TI with Famera and trigger shots-BFN
3 IUI's with Famera and trigger shots- BFN
IVF August 2017 25 eggs retrieved, 19 mature, 13 fertilized (ICSI), 5 frozen, 3 PGS normal
FET November 2017 Transferred one 6 day blast (a little GIRL) BFP EDD 8/4/18
@DecemberDoll27- I am doing lupron before my FET, and I started it about 1 week before AF. I was happy to be on it, since I have ovulated through progesterone/estrogen when I had a cyst last winter and they were trying to induce my period. I also had a friend ovulate through estrace/patches, but luckily they caught it and she was able to do a natural (but still on medication) cycle. I think it is rare to have that happen, but something to consider. If its the difference between getting in a cycle before the holidays or not though, I would probably just skip it so you don't need to delay...
History in Spoiler
Age: 32 (same with DH). Together since 2006, Married June 2013 and TTC since August 2015 Diagnosis: Mild Endo, DOR (AMH of 1.5), Poor Quality Eggs/embryos, Displaced Window of Implantation (ERA Post Receptive) March-May 2016: 1 TI and 2 IUIs- BFN June 2016- Laproscopy- found/removed mild endo and confirmed only 1 normal healthy ovary. August 2016- IVF #1 with Antagonist Protocol- Cancelled (2 lead follies), converted to IUI- BFN Oct-Nov 2016- IVF #2 with Estrogen Priming Micro Lupron Protocol, 2 eggs retrieved, day 3 transfer of 1- BFN January 2017- New RE, IVF#3 with Estrogen Priming Antagonist Protocol, 12 eggs, 8 mature, 6 fertilized, 2 day 5 early blasts transferred (none to freeze ), BFN May 2017- Sept 2017- Starting Donor Egg process! Waiting for donor to be available... and then she is pregnant at baseline Oct 2017- Donor #2: 25R, 22M,18F, 12 blasts frozen! Fresh transfer cancelled due to thin lining with fluid Nov 2017- Hysterscopy to remove polyp Dec 2017- DE FET #1 on 12/8 on 2 perfect blasts- BFN and devastated Jan-Mar 2018- ERA #1- Post receptive by 24 hours, ERA #2 RECEPTIVE with 4 days of Progesterone Apr 2018- DE FET cancelled for lining issues Jun 2018- DE FET #2 of two 1AA blasts- first BFP ever! Beta 10dp5dt- 378, Beta 14dp5dt- 2840, Beta 16dp5dt- 4035, beta 18dp5dt- 10916. Due on 2/20 with one baby after a vanishing twin Baby Born born early @ 33.5 weeks due to Pre-e Back for # 2!
Re: November FET
@dragonette505 at the beginning I thought I could wholeheartedly submit myself to this science but when AF was late for the very first time in my life, I was so hopeful that I am pg and my heart is refusing to take those reset meds. Finding something to laugh about makes me forget about these awful feelings...and I suddenly miss those biotex posts... where are they when you need them?...lol
@BusinessWife I'm sorry to hear about your friend's husband. About your FET date, how awesome is it that it's a holiday!!! What are the odds? Yay! The stars are aligning for you.
@safire3 thanks for your message. Dr didn't sched my FET yet, we'd know after 10/18 probably. How was your friend's new puppy?
@Irisheyes81 thank you for thinking of me. IF is really something. im learning a lot everyday.
@irisheyes81 My RE recommended CoQ10 for both of us for egg/sperm quality. We stopped taking it after ER, too -- it's pretty pricey...
I am thinking about adding pomegranate juice and pineapple core and all that good stuff, too...not that it helped before...
and my dh is still valiantly offering to provide me with a butt baby if this ivf thing doesn’t work!
This made me laugh really hard. How noble of him!
@laurad75 - keeping FX your lawyer has news for you soon!
@Bababatty - hooray for AF!
@adirat - I am not avoiding alcohol - I keep thinking if I get KU, I'll have to give it up anyway, so I may as well enjoy a glass of wine with dinner a few times a week. We may even go out for champagne the night before our FET. But I will not drink after, until I know.
@tinjp78 - Sounds like you are experiencing the ol' IVF scheduling runaround - like, everything taking so long and lots of: "WTF - wait? When can I start?" Ugh, it's the worst. Sending you a big hug.
@BusinessWife - your poor friend!
@safire3 - holy F! Sickle cell anemia is no joke!
AFM: still waiting on AF.
But, a personal story about someone else... My SIL is having marital problems. My BIL stopped working a few months ago (contract expired), and is having a hard time finding a new job, which is causing strain at their house (quite understandably). She's 37 and wants to have a baby, but hasn't started trying yet - they've been together for about 8 years. She was talking to my H about it yesterday, and when they hung up the phone he told me about it, and my reaction was SO different from his. I was like: "If she wants a baby, she needs to start trying RIGHT NOW. He'll find a job while she's pregnant, she needs to get-the-f*ck-on-it!" My H was more of the: "Life is tough sometimes" school, without any of the TTC urgency.
Anyway, not sure if this is a sign of how IF has affected me.... I'm tempted to call her, but I'm also trying to stay out of it - she didn't talk to me about her marriage, and I don't have the whole story, so it'd be super, super weird for me to call her and be like: "START TRYING NOW!" Besides - there's no way she doesn't know about age and fertility rates - I feel like, as a woman, it's not like you can make it to 33-44 without almost constant reminders of it, you know?
But definitely, even in hearing the story second-hand, my TTC anxiety was through-the-roof!
@tinjp78 sending u big hugs!!
@BusinessWife I'm so very sorry for ur loss!!
Unexplained Infertility - but I am 40...Low AMH .30
7 - IUI (50mg-150mg Clomid) Feb - August 2016 all BFN
IVF#1 August 2016 (Antagonist protocol 4/5 eggs) Cancelled cycle
IVF#2 Sept 2016 (microdose luporn pro - disappearing follies, ONLY ONE, convert to IUI) BFN
IVF#3 November 2016 (4 ER, 3 F, 3DT)-BFP
IVF#4 March 2017 //EPP (10 ER (1 wonky so 9 ER) 7F, 3B (5AB, (2)5BB) PGS tested- ALL abnormal
IVF#5 April 2017 // EPP (7 ER, 7F yes! 6B) 2/5 day 4/6 day - 2 PGS normal! yes!!
IVF#6 May 2017 // Antagonist didn't have time for Estrogen Priming...(4 ER, 3 F, 3B) (5AB, (2) 5BB) 2 PGS normal, yes!!
IVF#7 June 2017 // EPP praying this is it and then on to an FET!
@tinjp78 I know the feeling of just having an awful visit and wanting to cry, but not allowing yourself to. But don't worry, it sounds like you are ok, you probably just need to get on provera or bcp to bring on AF. I don't get why you are on the nasal spray but not bcp. I am doing Lupron, started it in september while taking bcp (apparently it takes a while to take effect which is why you start it the cycle before your FET cycle) But like you said, if you are taking something not to ovulate, shouldn't you be on something to bring your period? I feel like when it comes to IF, IVF & FET, every little thing has another reaction to which you need to take another type of medicine. Lots of hugs, it's a lot, but you are strong and you will get through it.
I am on baby aspirin too, apparently, it's supposed to help with the uterine lining. Also (and this is just my opinion) I figure since we are taking so much sh*t that can cause blood clots....why not be safe. COq10 should be for heart health and to lower cholesterol. I have no idea what it does for fertility.
You guys are reading my mind discussing pineapple, raspberry leaf tea, and pomegranate. I just bought both and I was thinking of starting a thread that's "Just for fun" of all the harmless yet weird thing we hear that can help get us pregnant. For example, always wear socks, so that your feet are warm. The old wives tale suggests that cold enters your body through your feet and the first organs to lose blood supply are reproductive organs. the blood supply goes elsewhere to warm up your body. Also, pineapple core sounds awful, my tongue always burns if I eat the pineapple meat that's near the core, I can only imagine the core must BURRRRRNNNNNNNNNN like a mother.
Who else is on Lupron/Estrogen patches? I just upcycled to 4 patches and it has been a day...y'all are talking about enjoying alcohol and I swear these patches make me feel drunk.
also, I just read like 24 new messages and I can't remember what everyone talked about, but please know that as I was reading them, I was cheering you on for the happy stuff and hugging you for the tougher stuff.
i think blending it down helped.... no way I could chew it!
As as for your SIL you would be surprised how many women just assume it will be easy to get KU because it has been easy for most people that they know. If I were you I would send her a message or something telling her you are free to talk if she wants to talk about it. I agree with you, if I were her I would get on it. It hurts sometimes to think that 2 years ago we were 'budgeting for baby' and thinking of all the cute stuff we would buy. Now not only have we blown the budget but we are in debt and I don't care if we are dead broke when we have a baby as long as we have one. I don't care if we can only afford the basics by the time the baby gets here. We will make it work somehow.
@coco305 I am on Lupron and supposed to start estrogen patches after my appointment tomorrow. Really not looking forward to it after hearing you guys talk about it though. I hope it gets better for you.
and as for budgeting for a baby, I think we will all be fine. If we can manage the financial strain of IF, we can manage a baby. There are teenagers out there getting knocked up, and they manage while earning a minimum wage. And you are so right, so what if we are all broke, we'll have something way more valuable
My guess is I don’t have to talk to her much anymore.... (this cycle) as long as my paperwork is correct! Once I start going to appointments, the doc tells me in person when to come back and I put myself on the calendar on my way out!
@safire3 I arrogantly assumed I’d get knocked up and have my baby right on schedule.... here I am heading into cycle #7
Eta @coco305 I have an awesome hematologist who basically told me to just go for it. They are all ready and waiting to support me through this plus my RE will graduate me to a high risk OB. So basically I will have doctors appointments every week.
Also, so I just read through my protocol again and realized I have to start doxycycline again tomorrow. I so hate those pills so much and this will be the third time I have to take them since starting this process. I have to have just the right amount of food in my stomach when I take them or I vomit. I haven't heard anyone else mention it so do any of you guys have to do a course of antibiotics for transfer?
TTC since June 2016
Azoospermia diagnosis (zero count) Dec 2016
AZFc chromosome microdeletion discovery March 2017
Unsuccessful TESE for DH in August 2017
October 2017 IVF with donor sperm
29R, 24M, 16F, 2d5, 4d6 (6 embryos total)
Only 3 could have PGS. 2/3 normal. 5 embies frozen
12/15/17 FET #1 (1 embryo)--CP
2/7/17 FET #2 (2 embryos)--BFN
Chronic endometritis diagnosis May 2018
ERA Sept 2018--borderline receptive--12 more hours of progesterone
Abnormal SIS Oct 2018
Repeat hysteroscopy Nov 1. Treated recurring endometritis.
12/4/18 FET #3 (2 embryos)--BFN
Our journey has come to an end.
@funkykey Your husband’s stance is interesting. My DH is sort of the opposite - I mentioned that one of my 30 year old friends was thinking about freezing eggs, and he immediately responded “Tell her ‘Do it!’ After this experience (presumably we’re going through this since I’m 40 and he’s 42), he thinks that all women should find the money and freeze eggs when they’re 22 and starting grad school. The procedure was still experimental when I was 35, and 35 year old eggs aren’t 22 year old ones... I don’t think he’s being negative so much as trying to save others from going through this (if age related).
Married 6/18/16 (Me 42, DH 44), TTC #2
***TW***
As of 12/2016: AMH 1.42, FSH 6.1, AFC ~10
Self-benched Nov-Dec 2016 for
IVF #1 Jan-Feb 2017 (OCP, testosterone primed antagonist w/HGH - ER 2/2/17 - 12R, 7M ICSI'd, 3F, 0B)
IVF #2 Mar-Apr 2017 (testosterone primed agonist/luteal lupron w/HGH - ER 4/8/17 - 10R, 8M, 8F, 5B, 1 PGS normal)
IVF #3 May-Jun 2017 (testosterone primed agonist/luteal lupron w/HGH - ER 6/4/17 - 14R, 5F, 3B, 0 normal)
**New RE**
IVF #4 Sept 2017 (natural start microdose lupron flare w/HGH - ER 9/28/17 - 33R, 18F, 10B, 4 PGS normals!)
FET #1 (medicated) of one PGS normal 4AA XX 11/2/17 - Beta #1 11/11/17 (153), Beta #2 11/13/17 (324), mc at 5w1d on 11/19/17
IVF #5 Dec 2017 - Insemination of 9 frozen eggs from 2012 (8F, 1B, 0 normal)
Jan 2018 - Natural cycle ERA (normal/receptive) & stimming for
IVF #6 Jan-Feb 2018 (natural start microdose lupron flare w/HGH - ER 2/3/18 - 17R, 6M, 4F, 0 blasts)
IVF #7 Feb 2018 (natural start microdose lupron flare w/HGH - ER 2/26/18 - 19R, 9M, 9F, 4B, 2 PGS normals)
FET #2 Apr 2018 (natural cycle w/o trigger, w/P4 support) of one PGS normal 4AA- XX 4/5/18 - Beta #1 4/14/18 (67), Beta #2 4/16/18 (231)
Rainbow baby girl born 12/16/2018 (via c-section, induced at 39 weeks)
-----
TFAS!
FET #3 Dec 2019 (natural cycle w/o trigger, w/P4 support) of one PGS normal 3BB XY 12/16/19 - Beta #1 12/24/19 (139), Beta #2 12/27/19 (482)
@Hopeful_mom Thanks for the hugs. How are you feeling today? I hope that everything is good.
@coco305 my DH and I were just talking about why I'm still on that nasal spray this morning. But dr said I should continue it till she tells me to stop. I suspect dr will prescribe bcp or another meds that would cause my AF to come when I meet her next time. I think that thread you started was nice, sounds fun.
@safire3 I'm inspired by your DH's and your courage and determination. I really hope that everything would go in your favor very soon. Glad to hear that you have a great hematologist and a team that's got your back.
@dragonette505 good to hear that your nurse isn't giving you more issues now.
@artemis618 My DH probably thinks the same as your DH.
We still take a lot of the supplements we had been on. But I stopped the maca and clomid since we ran out right around his TESE anyway. CoQ10 we still take for neurological, heart, cellular and blood vessel health, as well as to prevent macular degeneration, just one cap per day instead of 2 or 3. He doesn't take all the extra C and E, but does still take a multi + Selenium and Zinc.
https://www.lifeextension.com/magazine/2006/2/cover_coq10/page-01
https://draxe.com/zinc-benefits/
<img alt="" src="https://us.v-cdn.net/5020794/uploads/editor/aq/h3c0j7pxtgsq.jpg">
I take vitamin D, B6, calcium, zinc, selenium, one cap of ubiquniol/coq10, prenatal, and will add back the DHA once we get closer to transfer. I also plan on burning through a box of RRL tea, drinking all the pom juice prior, and indulging in the pineapple core post-FET. I find myself wishing I didn't feel so fat and out of shape going in, but it is what it is. Who was talking about a friend who gained all the IF/IVF weight and then didn't gain that much at all during pregnancy, and is 30 lbs below pre-baby weight after delivery??? That is my plan ;)
The new thing around our house as of this weekend is saying we are 5 weeks away from being 2 1/2 weeks pregnant!!! :D We had a talk about counting weeks of pregnancy, like how normally if a woman is 5 weeks pregnant, say, she really only found out like max one week ago, or that the first two weeks there actually is no baby in your tummy etc lol. So cute to have those basic "how pregnancy works" type of conversations and know that he's actually paying attention... ;)
I do have some advice for those who are eating pineapple core. Make sure your pineapple is nice and ripe. It should be a little bit soft and you should be able to smell it. I love pineapple. We always have a fresh one in the house and they look pretty before we cut it up.
I'm still waiting for an update on the legal stuff. I did get an email from the agency on Saturday requesting our check for the donor fee which will go into a trust until after the ER. They told me our donor is scheduled to go over the contract early this week and they should have a signed contract by mid-week but nothing can start until the check is in trust. So, we sent the check this morning to make sure that doesn't slow anything down.
So until then I'll just sit here like
2017 - egg retrieval #1 - 3 eggs, 0 embryos appropriate for transfer; ER #2 2 eggs, 0 embryos on day 3; ER #3 1 egg 0 embryos
moved to donor egg in summer 2017; 35 eggs retrieved; 19 fertilized; 9 total embryos
Fresh transfer Dec 2017= BFP! baby boy born 8/22/18
May 2019 - surprise natural pregnancy ended in MC
Nov 2019 FET; MC at 9 weeks
May 2020 FET; BFN
July 2020 FET; CP treated with methotrexate
Oct 2020 BFP!
Take a look at my blog
Last week I started doing weight watchers again and it's not only helped me lose those extra 4 lbs I gained, but it's giving me something to keep my mind off of this FET nonsense. Only 4 more lbs to go for my wedding weight and 14 for my goal weight! I don't go to meetings or pay for access to their site either, there is free info out there to do it with.
@businesswife- I like your week counting! It is weird to think that if this works.. I am now like 4-5 days pregnant or something based on how they count pregnancy. I do love that once you get the BFP, its already 4 weeks, so only 9 weeks left to make it through the first trimester! We are already half way through October, so I'm hoping the time keeps moving quickly!
I can't wait for November and for everyone to get transferring! Sounds like we have alot around the start of the month and then alot around the middle.
AFM, my donor started stimming last night. We both have an appt on Wed. Lining check for me, and follie check for her. They warned me not to expect too much growth at Wed's appt after only 3 days of stims for her, so i am going to have to remind myself to no worry too much! We are going on a mini vacation to the smoky mountains Thurs- Sunday to do some driving in our converitble and check out the fall colors. I am sure that will be a good distraction. I also am going to TRY to eat really good and not drink (much). I know its probably fine with 1.5-2 weeks until transfer, but also just trying to be as healthy as possible right now and lower inflammation (which alcohol can cause). Maybe if I have a vodka/pom juice that would be ok? lol
Diagnosis: Mild Endo, DOR (AMH of 1.5), Poor Quality Eggs/embryos, Displaced Window of Implantation (ERA Post Receptive)
March-May 2016: 1 TI and 2 IUIs- BFN
June 2016- Laproscopy- found/removed mild endo and confirmed only 1 normal healthy ovary.
August 2016- IVF #1 with Antagonist Protocol- Cancelled (2 lead follies), converted to IUI- BFN
Oct-Nov 2016- IVF #2 with Estrogen Priming Micro Lupron Protocol, 2 eggs retrieved, day 3 transfer of 1- BFN
January 2017- New RE, IVF#3 with Estrogen Priming Antagonist Protocol, 12 eggs, 8 mature, 6 fertilized, 2 day 5 early blasts transferred (none to freeze
May 2017- Sept 2017- Starting Donor Egg process! Waiting for donor to be available... and then she is pregnant at baseline
Oct 2017- Donor #2: 25R, 22M,18F, 12 blasts frozen! Fresh transfer cancelled due to thin lining with fluid
Nov 2017- Hysterscopy to remove polyp
Dec 2017- DE FET #1 on 12/8 on 2 perfect blasts- BFN and devastated
Jan-Mar 2018- ERA #1- Post receptive by 24 hours, ERA #2 RECEPTIVE with 4 days of Progesterone
Apr 2018- DE FET cancelled for lining issues
Jun 2018- DE FET #2 of two 1AA blasts- first BFP ever! Beta 10dp5dt- 378, Beta 14dp5dt- 2840, Beta 16dp5dt- 4035, beta 18dp5dt- 10916. Due on 2/20 with one baby after a vanishing twin
Baby Born born early @ 33.5 weeks due to Pre-e
Back for # 2!
That's the part where I'm like: "Girl! What are you thinking?! He'll get a job. You want a baby, you act now!"
@safire - I don't care if we are dead broke when we have a baby as long as we have one. I don't care if we can only afford the basics by the time the baby gets here. We will make it work somehow.
We are in the same boat. We'll figure it out, and if our baby wears only hand-me-downs for the first 10 years of its life, so be it!
@artemis618 - My H is so, like, "live and let live". Now, it's cool - but for the first part of our relationship, it drove me crazy! I'm way more: "decide what you want, make a plan, and pursue it with everything you have."
Even in the early phases of TTC, H was like that a bit, and it blew my mind. It's like we came to a mountain, and he was like: "That looks too steep, let's just not climb it. Let's just be sad that it's there." And I was like: "Put your boots on, we're going for a hike!"
I think his sister is a little bit like that too, maybe. And on the one hand, it's none of my business, but on the other hand, I panic for her. Ah well.
You know though, she'll probably get KU-ed no problem!
@funkykey I have a totally different outlook on people 'waiting' now. Of course the situation should be right but I agree with you. You wouldn't wish this on anyone!
@jamieH5000 Yay for stims and lining check this week! I'll be thinking of nice strong follicles for you
@laurad75 Isn't waiting the worst? I feel like this process is all waiting and then all of a sudden a lot happens all at once. Good advice on the pineapple. I used pineapple with all my IUIs. The core can be really difficult to eat. I like @dragonette505 idea about blending it. If it's more ripe, is it less tough ?
AlohaKumu I used to lurk your story so much. I was so glad to see you and your signature!! Hope you are doing well.
AFM, just waiting for my thyroid results to come back hopefully tomorrow and I got all my medication. I start lupron Sunday. My birthday is on the 26th but I'm not as sad about it as I was last year because my eggs didn't age a day! haha.
I have a selfish streak sometimes because I actively want someone else to experience this, like one of my everyday friends, just so I have someone else to talk to. It's so lonely!
I mean, obviously, I wouldn't wish this on anyone. But there's a reason I'm on this board - IRL, all of my friends have small children or are pregnant. And they can't relate at all. For real, the biggest conflict our best couple friends are having is that she wants to buy some new furniture, and he doesn't. And that's like the biggest conflict they've had in the past 4 years. Hardly the same as: "You've been putting off the SA for 2 months. What is going on?"
I feel so isolated sometimes, and I feel so different from all of my friends. I know that everyone will face challenges, but some days I really wish just ONE of my friends had to TTC for more than 8 months to conceive. Just one!
Also (and more importantly) super excited for you this cycle!
@funkykey The struggle is real. Most of my friends with children freely admit they were totally unplanned. It just hurts my brain. While I am thankful we have the opportunity to do treatments, it sure would be nice if I didn't have to go this route.
@bababatty- wow, I just want to say ditto to all your detailed responses to everyone! I wish I was able to keep up so well! YAY for getting started on meds yesterday! We are going to nearly be cycle buddies
@funkykey- I totally get what you are saying.. i wouldn't wish this on anyone.. but there are times when I think it sure would be nice if certain people really could understand how hard it is. Of course they can't really understand unless they go through it. I also wish that my friends (most of them actually) who are trying for a second can at least wait for that until I get pregnant with my first.
Diagnosis: Mild Endo, DOR (AMH of 1.5), Poor Quality Eggs/embryos, Displaced Window of Implantation (ERA Post Receptive)
March-May 2016: 1 TI and 2 IUIs- BFN
June 2016- Laproscopy- found/removed mild endo and confirmed only 1 normal healthy ovary.
August 2016- IVF #1 with Antagonist Protocol- Cancelled (2 lead follies), converted to IUI- BFN
Oct-Nov 2016- IVF #2 with Estrogen Priming Micro Lupron Protocol, 2 eggs retrieved, day 3 transfer of 1- BFN
January 2017- New RE, IVF#3 with Estrogen Priming Antagonist Protocol, 12 eggs, 8 mature, 6 fertilized, 2 day 5 early blasts transferred (none to freeze
May 2017- Sept 2017- Starting Donor Egg process! Waiting for donor to be available... and then she is pregnant at baseline
Oct 2017- Donor #2: 25R, 22M,18F, 12 blasts frozen! Fresh transfer cancelled due to thin lining with fluid
Nov 2017- Hysterscopy to remove polyp
Dec 2017- DE FET #1 on 12/8 on 2 perfect blasts- BFN and devastated
Jan-Mar 2018- ERA #1- Post receptive by 24 hours, ERA #2 RECEPTIVE with 4 days of Progesterone
Apr 2018- DE FET cancelled for lining issues
Jun 2018- DE FET #2 of two 1AA blasts- first BFP ever! Beta 10dp5dt- 378, Beta 14dp5dt- 2840, Beta 16dp5dt- 4035, beta 18dp5dt- 10916. Due on 2/20 with one baby after a vanishing twin
Baby Born born early @ 33.5 weeks due to Pre-e
Back for # 2!
I need advice from you all today. I had a consult with RE today about our first IVF ending in CP and our plans for a FET. We decided that I will be going into FET pretty soon. However he gave me a choice of having Lupron as part of my protocol to suppress my ovaries or just use estrase and hope that my ovaries are still suppressed enough since our stim cycle in September. I do not know what to decide because I don't want to overwhelm my system with drugs again if I don't have to. But on the other hand I do not want to risk a cancelled cycle ( my RE gave me like 2% chance of that happening, TW** but hey EP is only 1% chance and I had one ***end TW). I just want things to work this time. Also we are 100% OOP so I am curious how much adding Lupron will cost us. And I am struggling to make a decision. Please help! Any success stories with or without Lupron are welcome.
TTC since Aug 2015,
BFP Apr 2017 - late diagnosed EP, right tube removed, left tube scarred.
Dx: tubal IF
IVF Sept 2017, 7 R, 6M, 6F- 4 blasts, 1 transferred fresh - CP
FET #1 Dec 2017- BFN
FET #2 Jan 2018- CP
FET #3 BFP!!! EDD 12/15/2018!
I also didn't want to wait the extra 3-4 weeks for lupron! Gimme an FET already!
I have seen on here that you can get lupron relatively inexpensively...I think goodrx.com is one place? I also want to say somebody got lupron from CVS or Rite Aid or somewhere like that for under $200.
*typos
TTC since June 2016
Azoospermia diagnosis (zero count) Dec 2016
AZFc chromosome microdeletion discovery March 2017
Unsuccessful TESE for DH in August 2017
October 2017 IVF with donor sperm
29R, 24M, 16F, 2d5, 4d6 (6 embryos total)
Only 3 could have PGS. 2/3 normal. 5 embies frozen
12/15/17 FET #1 (1 embryo)--CP
2/7/17 FET #2 (2 embryos)--BFN
Chronic endometritis diagnosis May 2018
ERA Sept 2018--borderline receptive--12 more hours of progesterone
Abnormal SIS Oct 2018
Repeat hysteroscopy Nov 1. Treated recurring endometritis.
12/4/18 FET #3 (2 embryos)--BFN
Our journey has come to an end.
Unexplained Infertility - but I am 40...Low AMH .30
7 - IUI (50mg-150mg Clomid) Feb - August 2016 all BFN
IVF#1 August 2016 (Antagonist protocol 4/5 eggs) Cancelled cycle
IVF#2 Sept 2016 (microdose luporn pro - disappearing follies, ONLY ONE, convert to IUI) BFN
IVF#3 November 2016 (4 ER, 3 F, 3DT)-BFP
IVF#4 March 2017 //EPP (10 ER (1 wonky so 9 ER) 7F, 3B (5AB, (2)5BB) PGS tested- ALL abnormal
IVF#5 April 2017 // EPP (7 ER, 7F yes! 6B) 2/5 day 4/6 day - 2 PGS normal! yes!!
IVF#6 May 2017 // Antagonist didn't have time for Estrogen Priming...(4 ER, 3 F, 3B) (5AB, (2) 5BB) 2 PGS normal, yes!!
IVF#7 June 2017 // EPP praying this is it and then on to an FET!
TW, I had a successful ivf fresh transfer, and 2 FETs.. one was successful but ended in a CP, the other outright failed.
Diagnosis: Mild Endo, DOR (AMH of 1.5), Poor Quality Eggs/embryos, Displaced Window of Implantation (ERA Post Receptive)
March-May 2016: 1 TI and 2 IUIs- BFN
June 2016- Laproscopy- found/removed mild endo and confirmed only 1 normal healthy ovary.
August 2016- IVF #1 with Antagonist Protocol- Cancelled (2 lead follies), converted to IUI- BFN
Oct-Nov 2016- IVF #2 with Estrogen Priming Micro Lupron Protocol, 2 eggs retrieved, day 3 transfer of 1- BFN
January 2017- New RE, IVF#3 with Estrogen Priming Antagonist Protocol, 12 eggs, 8 mature, 6 fertilized, 2 day 5 early blasts transferred (none to freeze
May 2017- Sept 2017- Starting Donor Egg process! Waiting for donor to be available... and then she is pregnant at baseline
Oct 2017- Donor #2: 25R, 22M,18F, 12 blasts frozen! Fresh transfer cancelled due to thin lining with fluid
Nov 2017- Hysterscopy to remove polyp
Dec 2017- DE FET #1 on 12/8 on 2 perfect blasts- BFN and devastated
Jan-Mar 2018- ERA #1- Post receptive by 24 hours, ERA #2 RECEPTIVE with 4 days of Progesterone
Apr 2018- DE FET cancelled for lining issues
Jun 2018- DE FET #2 of two 1AA blasts- first BFP ever! Beta 10dp5dt- 378, Beta 14dp5dt- 2840, Beta 16dp5dt- 4035, beta 18dp5dt- 10916. Due on 2/20 with one baby after a vanishing twin
Baby Born born early @ 33.5 weeks due to Pre-e
Back for # 2!