IF Testing and Treatment Week of 04/16/18

emmasemm · April 2018

This is a place for those of us who have already started TTC, but have started infertility testing and/or treatments. You can express your thoughts, feelings, and frustrations on infertility. TTC can be a long journey naturally, then add in the difficulties associated with infertility, and it becomes a whole new ball game. The road to infertility can be lonely, frustrating, and complicated, so let's make this a place where we can vent, ask questions, and support one another. Feel free to resurrect this thread at any point in the week if you have something to say. Treat this as an ongoing conversation.

Diagnosis (if you've been):

Status (WTO/TWW/TTA):

What are you doing this cycle? (Testing? Treatment?):

How are things going?:

Any questions?:

GTKY: If you get a last minute invite to a party and need to take a dish with you, what would you make? Or what signature dish are you known for?

Augusta108 · April 2018

Diagnosis (if you've been): Low AMH, severe oligospermia

Status (WTO/TWW/TTA): Stims for IVF

What are you doing this cycle? (Testing? Treatment?): IVF Cycle #1, microdose Lupron flare protocol

How are things going?: I had 10 small follicles at my monitoring appointment on Friday. Going in today to see if they’ve grown! They said they should also be able to tell me today if we’re on track to do the retrieval on Thursday or Friday. I’ve been playing the follicles encouraging music all weekend, so hopefully they’ll be doing well...

Any questions?: Not yet!

GTKY: If you get a last minute invite to a party and need to take a dish with you, what would you make? Or what signature dish are you known for?: I’m not much of a cook, but people do rave about my ginger snaps. The recipe is actually from a Berenstain Bears cookbook we had when I was a kid!

50Wife · April 2018

@Augusta108 Fingers crossed for a great appt today!! Can't wait to hear how it goes. How are you feeling?

Diagnosis (if you've been): MFI - Low count

Status (WTO/TWW/TTA): ERA Cycle 2 - biopsy is tomorrow morning. Should have the results in 5 business days.

What are you doing this cycle? (Testing? Treatment?): Everything but the transfer!

How are things going?: As good as they're gonna be. Last PIO shot is tonight. I'm more bruised than last time. My husband has been home after most of the shots this time around (last time he'd stop home from work, stab my ass, and run back out the door) and he's been rubbing the spot after each injection. I guess I did a better job at rubbing last time lol

Any questions?: Nope!!

GTKY: If you get a last minute invite to a party and need to take a dish with you, what would you make? Or what signature dish are you known for?
Hmmmmm I love to cook so I have a few go-to's. In my head if I'm invited to a party, I'm probably bringing an app or dessert...
Buffalo chicken dip
Sausage dip
Goat cheese balls (cream cheese and goat cheese mixed and formed into balls and rolled into either chives, pomegranate, pistachios, or dill)
I make a killer guac too
Food is my thing, I could go on and on lol Can't wait to read some responses and get ideas!

darkstar42 · April 2018

@Augusta108 Fx for those follies! I love the encouraging music.

@50Wife Hope all goes well with the biopsy! Those goat cheese balls sound awesome. I may need to give that a try!

Diagnosis (if you've been): unexplained, AMA

Status (WTO/TWW/TTA): WTO

What are you doing this cycle? (Testing? Treatment?): We decided to try on our own again this cycle and wait until the semester is over to try another IUI.

How are things going?: Ok. As usual I had my hopes up this last cycle, so the arrival of AF (right on time) was pretty disappointing. We're going to an information session on IVF this Thursday at our clinic. I'm still feeling unsure if that's the right route for us or not, so hopefully the info session will help. It's not a one-on-one thing, but a public thing they offer. MH is moving more towards thinking IVF is a good idea, but we shall see. The cost is still a prohibitive factor. In non-TTC news, we just had a crazy blizzard this weekend and got about 18 inches of snow. The roads are still crazy so a co-worker is driving me in. We'll see how many of my students make it!

Any questions?: Not right now. I'm just feeling grateful you all are here. This thread keeps me going.

GTKY: If you get a last minute invite to a party and need to take a dish with you, what would you make? Or what signature dish are you known for? Good question! I love to cook, but wouldn't say I have a signature dish. I do make really good pizza though. Especially in summer when I can make homemade pesto. Yum!

beachbunnyxo123 · April 2018

@Augusta108 GL today! Let us know how it goes! When they said 10 small follicles were they measurable or under 10mm?

@50Wife yay finally!! So glad it’s tomorrow and I hope everything looks great so you can move onto your transfer!! You’ve been so patient I don’t know if I’d be able to do two back to back mock cycles!! Hoping so hard for you!

Diagnosis (if you've been): unexplained

Status (WTO/TWW/TTA): ?

What are you doing this cycle? (Testing? Treatment?):
so im pretty sure I got my period this morning. It was like 345am and I was shocked to see it since I wasn’t expecting AF until later this week. Seeing if I get full flow and if so today would be day 1 and tomorrow I’d start monitoring and stims. Ah. I was not expecting this!

How are things going?
good thing I got all my meds early! Never got AF this early before in a cycle maybe the ganirellix shots I took last week pushed things along. Any how I will keep you guys posted once I know for sure

Any questions?:

GTKY: If you get a last minute invite to a party and need to take a dish with you, what would you make? Or what signature dish are you known for?
i make this summer salad that everyone loves. It’s homemade candied walnuts and homemade strawberry vinegarette with mixed greens, fruits, blue cheese, and prosciutto. I love it

KristoKekerooni · April 2018

Diagnosis (if you've been): MFI/RPL

Status (WTO/TWW/TTA): Benched

What are you doing this cycle? (Testing? Treatment?): TW- So now I'm not really sure if the last time I bled was the loss and period all running together or what. Because I expected to bleed again, but then I got lots of EWCM last week, so now I think I ovulated... So maybe I'll get AF next week. Anyway, once I get AF, I will scheduled another HSG, and then the cycle after that I guess we will transfer what we have left.

How are things going?: I'm actually really not excited about starting all the meds back up again for transfer. Because of the RPL factor, I am on a whole lot of immune-suppressing drugs. When I got off them after the loss, I immediately got sick-really sick- because of it. So I really don't even want to get back on because I don't want to get off... if that makes sense?

Any questions?: has anyone here done intralipids? I'm looking for where to get it cheap!

GTKY: If you get a last minute invite to a party and need to take a dish with you, what would you make? Or what signature dish are you known for? I LOVE party foods! They're my favorite thing to cook! I make super yummy crockpot spinach artichoke dip, but most of the time I get requests for my white queso. I also get requests for my chocolate dipped strawberries, because I always fill them with an oreo filling, and then dip them in the chocolate. The last time I went to a party it was "healthy" themed, so I made skewers with brussel sprouts, whole cooked mushrooms, and... I can't remember. Normally I top it with a piece of bacon but I can't remember what I subbed...

KristoKekerooni · April 2018

OMG, @beachbunnyxo123 , YOU ARE SO CLOSE!

50Wife · April 2018

@darkstar42 I hope the IVF session helps clear things up a bit for you. I mean, if it's not for you and not something that you want to do, then that's totally fine! Price is definitely a huge factor for something like that and it sucks!!
@beachbunnyxo123 Ahhh holy shit! I'm so excited for you to get started!!
PS that salad sounds delish!!! We just went out for dinner yesterday and on the menu was a salad with candied pecans, strawberries, goat cheese, and a strawberry balsamic and I took a pic of the ingredients so I could make it at home (we didn't order it, but it sounded so good it's something I want to make!). Definitely will have to add prosciutto!
@KristoKekerooni Ugh I'm sorry about the meds!!! I know that's something I definitely wouldn't be looking forward to if I were you! I can only imagine how anxious you must be for this next transfer. I've got everything crossed for you guys!

nitnat007 · April 2018

Hi ladies, back off the bench a little earlier than expected so hopefully you don't mind that I jump in. I did post in the Newbies thread as well, just to update.

Diagnosis (if you've been): AMA, unexplained, low-morph

Status (WTO/TWW/TTA): TWW

What are you doing this cycle? (Testing? Treatment?): Testing. I had an ultra sound done that showed some "abnormalities" so currently waiting for an MRI for further investigation. Also waiting for an appointment to meet with an RE (6-8 months waiting list at the only RE in the province).

How are things going?: Excited to be off the bench although frustrated with the Canadian medical system taking so long to actually get any sorts of answers.

Any questions?: I know its not likely, but if anyone has ever been faced with abnormalities on an ultra sound, or has any input, it would be greatly appreciated.

GTKY: If you get a last minute invite to a party and need to take a dish with you, what would you make? Or what signature dish are you known for? Normally would always go for dessert. I make an ice Key Lime pie, or I would go for a traditional South African dish that people haven't tried yet. Always a win.

@Augusta108 FX for those follies!
@darkstar42 Sorry to see you are still here friend and that this wasn't your cycle. Hope that the IVF talk will shed some light on your choices ahead. I know that financially it is a tough prospect for us too. *hugs*
@beachbunnyxo123 That salad sounds awesome! Exciting times ahead.
@50Wife Hope all goes well for you!
@KristoKekerooni Oh no, the meds sound awful. I cant blame you for feeling resistant to starting them again.

hlb8179 · April 2018

@Augusta108 Haha! I love Berenstain Bears!
@50Wife What's the secret to your killer guac?
@darkstar42 That IVF session sounds like a great option to inform yourself before making the decision. I know it's a tough one!
@beachbunnyxo123 Keep us posted on AF. FX it's not problematic.
@KristoKekerooni I think the meds are part of what's so tough about this, and yours sound especially difficult.

Diagnosis (if you've been): AMA, unexplained secondary infertility

Status (WTO/TWW/TTA): WTO

What are you doing this cycle? (Testing? Treatment?): I just finished my round of Clomid. I go in for monitoring and Ovidrel on Friday, and then most likely IUI #2 on Saturday. IVF consult coming up on May 2.

How are things going?: Honestly, rough. I try to be calm and positive, but IF is finally starting to take its toll on me. For my first two rounds of Clomid, I had no side effects. But this time has been a beast. I suffer from migraines, but these have been to the point that I've had to leave work and go home to sleep it off with no meds helping. And the moodiness! I cried spontaneously all weekend. I'm trying to institute more intentional stress-relieving practices, so I have acupuncture and massage scheduled for later this week and next. Hopefully that helps. Also, I've been reading "What to do When you Can't Get Pregnant," which was recommended by my RE, and I'm loving it. It's really helpful at walking through all treatment options as well as complementary therapies and other things to help your chances. And I always feel calmer when I am more well-informed, so it's helping with that. I wish I would've read it before my first RE appointment.

Any questions?:

GTKY: If you get a last minute invite to a party and need to take a dish with you, what would you make? Or what signature dish are you known for? I like this question! Although I love to cook, I think my favorite party dish is a charcuterie board. I love combining meats, cheeses, breads, fruits, nuts, and olives in various ways depending on the vibe of the party or the rest of the menu.

50Wife · April 2018

@hlb8179 Good luck this time around!! Sorry you're having such a shit time with the clomid. I just got suuuuuper short fused on it. My husband would sneeze and I'd walk away mumbling that I was going to punch him in his fucking face. We laugh about it now, but the rage was real at the time. I hope you're feeling back to yourself soon!
For my guac, it's STUPID easy but everyone raves about it any time I make it - avocado, a few spoonfuls of store bought fresh salsa -not like the jarred tostitos stuff (hi, saves me time chopping onions, tomato, peppers...) fresh lime juice, salt, a little bit of sugar and some sour cream. Done and done.

Augusta108 · April 2018

Appointment update (more replies coming later!): Kind of a mixed bag today, all 10 follicles are still growing but they’re still pretty small. We have 2 right at the 10 mm mark and 8 more that are still under it. So my excitement about having 10 is turning into worry that 10 won’t do me any good if they don’t grow! The nurse practitioner said it’s still early and not to worry, but that the retrieval will likely be Saturday or even later at this point. My next monitoring appointment is on Wednesday.

Clearly the follicles did not like my encouraging music selections and I’ll have to find something more to their liking. Mozart, maybe?

@50Wife, I’m not feeling too bad physically except for the near constant headache. I was able to take some time yesterday to just sit and relax on our couch, which was really nice. I felt a little guilty about taking the time for myself, but I really needed it!

KristoKekerooni · April 2018

@Augusta108 , don't stress too much about size yet. At this point in my IVF cycle, all mine were under ten and I had one that was a good 4 mm larger than the rest. Very dominant. I was SO worried that I would only end up with the one. Mine were SO SLOW to grow, and then BOOM everything was fine. Also keep in mind that just because they can only see 10, doesn't mean 10 is all you will end up with. I was consistently getting 12 follicles measured, and only 12. And then I had 25 eggs retrieved. Not all were mature, but I did have 11, I think? Mature. Which is pretty good.
At the end of the day, there is absolutely NOTHING you can do at this point. The docs control your meds, as long as you trust them and take them as they say, that's all you can do. no amount of worrying will make them grow any faster or larger. I wish I had breathed more during my stim cycle. I was so obsessed with the numbers, and none of that mattered anyway.

beachbunnyxo123 · April 2018

So of course my nurse is out on vacation this week which I knew about but now I’m just frigging irritated. I work in healthcare. I can’t step out of a therapy session with a client to answer my phone. I called the covering nurse with 4 windows of time today that would work for me as I had questions (my other nurse always calls during one of them). She called me during a non available time and was basically like well come in tomorrow and hopefully you have no further questions. Like I do. I’m agitated. My periods are super light to begin with and idk why it came so early. My shortest LP has been 12 days, this one was 9. That has never happened. I don’t know if it’s cause the ganirellix or because I was 2 hours late on my estrace yesterday or if it’s my period I don’t know. I wanted to talk to her and ask to make sure. I don’t need any more stress on top of this. I was hoping my period would come late in the week so I had my own damn nurse. She left at 4, it’s 420. I guess I should just go shit in my hat tonight and that’s it. If it’s gonna be like this all week I’m gonna be pissed. I’m sorry but I’m just really agitated I get that they are busy too but this is important. I guess they’ll be able to tell by my bloodwork and US tomorrow if it was my period or not but like WTAF.

ETA- the nurse has time to re record a new message on her VM that was different then when I left her a message at 330 but didn’t have a minute to call me back. I’m fuming.

emmasemm · April 2018

@augusta108 mmmmm ginger snaps... and I second the note from @kristokekerooni not to worry at this point. My response varied significantly from cycle to cycle how fast the follies started growing. Remember everything is a bit suppressed, so it’s like your follies are kind of trying to come out of a bit of a hangover before they’re ready to party. But once they show up, I’m sure they’ll be the life and soul.

@50wife good luck for tomorrow. And wow, if I invite you will you fly over to Germany to our next party??? You’d have a lot to talk to my DH about. He loves people who enjoying cooking.

@darkstar42 it’s absolutely fine to be cautious about IVF and it’s not for everyone. But no harm in going to the info evening. Though be prepared to potentially know more than the rest of the attendees added together ;-)

@beachbunnyxo123 omg I would be sooooo pissed. Do they not realize they are providing a service??? And wtf AF??? Though I have a horrible suspicion mine is going to come early too as I’ve got cramps and lower backache...

@kristokekerooni it’s not crazy at all. I’ve got to switch all my autoimmune meds for this next cycle too and do the Intralipids, though I can’t buy them myself - wherever I have it done has to provide them themselves. I really hope AF doesn’t give you the run around like before you ER cycle!!!

@nitnat007 welcome back! It could be many things most of which are no big deal. Get the MRI an see what it shows. I’ll be super pissed for you if there is something you could have taken care of whilst your DH was deployed!

@hlb8179 hugs. Sometimes this whole process just hits us harder and the meds don’t help.

Diagnosis (if you've been): DOR and autoimmune stuff and rapidly approaching 40

Status (WTO/TWW/TTA): TWW

What are you doing this cycle? (Testing? Treatment?): Tried on our own, hopefully starting IVF#4 with the next cycle

How are things going?: I’m only 8dpo and already have my normal AF symptoms. I’ll be really annoyed if my cycle is this short. And worried as that doesn’t bode well for successful IVF as my last few cycles have not been the best and I fear my fertility is rapidly declining. So basically I’m a mixture of excited and terrified to be starting stims again. Nurse appointment tomorrow to go through the planned protocol. Then the special challenge of trying to get meds filled in one country but the prescription is issued in a different one that speaks a different language... I have a feeling keeping stress levels low the next week will not be easy at all...

Any questions?: Nope

GTKY: So I’m no cook, but I can bake. I bake a mean after eight cake. When I say bake, it is eggless and requires no time in the oven. It just needs time in the freezer. Everyone says, oh no, I don’t have a sweet tooth, I convince them and they are hooked... though it is more than 1000 calories for an inch square piece... so it’s kind of like a secret deadly weapon I have in my arsenal!

KristoKekerooni · April 2018

@emmasemm , You've used intralipids before? How often is it? I really don't want to go in anywhere and have it done. H is a nurse, so there is no reason I can't do it at home.

Augusta108 · April 2018

@KristoKekerooni and @emmasemm, thank you for the encouragement, that makes me feel better! When I asked the NP if I should be worried she just said that most of the other ladies who started when I did weren't going to be ready for their retrievals by Thursday either, which...is only somewhat comforting since we could all just be doing horribly together! I'll try to just be patient and hope for the best, though, since it sounds like it really is too early to tell what's likely to happen. (As well as being totally out of my control regardless.)

@beachbunnyxo123, ugh, I would be so frustrated in your shoes too! If they know you have questions and there are only certain windows when you'll be available, they should do everything they can to call during those times or figure out another way you can get your questions answered ASAP. I'm sorry you're dealing with such inconsiderate behavior.

@50Wife, ooh, so close to being done with the second ERA! FX all goes smoothly and you can move confidently into your "for real" cycle next time!

@darkstar42, I'm glad you're going to the IVF info session--whether you ultimately choose that path or not, it's smart to gather as much info as you can so you can have an accurate idea of what it would entail. It's true that you may be surprised by how much you've already picked up from being on these boards!

@KristoKekerooni, those chocolate dipped strawberries sound so good right now! And yeah, that totally makes sense about being reluctant to get back on the immune-suppressing drugs. You've been through so much. I so, so hope the next transfer is it for you.

@nitnat007, hello again, friend! Those wait times are so awful--about how much longer do you have to wait to get to the RE? And for the MRI?

@hlb8179, as a fellow migraine sufferer, you have so much sympathy from me about those. I was really worried that I would have a non-stop migraine throughout all of IVF, which has thus far not been the case (*knocks on wood*). I hope the acupuncture and massage help with yours so you can get some relief soon!

@emmasemm, FX that AF holds off for a few more days for you. And good luck navigating the prescriptions in two different languages, I hope that goes more smoothly than you're expecting! (I can't imagine, I get frustrated enough dealing with pharmacies in one language...)

beachbunnyxo123 · April 2018

@darkstar42 hope that you and YH are able to make the best decision for your family! If you have any questions you know how to find us!

@KristoKekerooni hi friend

glad you are back and feeling a little better. I did a search for you on my IF Facebook group and it suggests option care through Walgreens and Coram through CVS pharmacy for intralipids. Check those out if you haven’t yet.

@nitnat007 what were the abnormalities? Typically those are seen on a saline sonogram or hsg. Did they see cysts or something?

@Augusta108 I second what @KristoKekerooni said. You have time and it’s good that they are all coming together around the same size without a super dominant follie.

@emmasemm do you know your protocol yet? Are you starting round 4 with this AF?

madspunk · April 2018

@Augusta108 Slow growers aren't a bad thing! As others have said, it's still early. I'm sorry you might have to push out your ER date though. It sucks for something to be pushed out when you're so close to the finish line.

@50Wife I'm excited that you're almost done with your mock transfer. GL with the biopsy tomorrow. I hope the results come back good!

@darkstar42 I can't believe you're still getting snow! I hope you get some good information at the IVF info session. Let us know how it goes.

@beachbunnyxo123 Ugh! I'm so sorry for the extra stress you're feeling and that the nurse didn't get back to you with answers today. My periods are always really light too, and I have a hard time figuring out if it's really AF or not. Despite all that crap, I can't wait for you to start stims again - I so want this to be it for you! Are you planning on a fresh or frozen transfer?

@KristoKekerooni Sorry you have to start back up on all the meds. Hopefully you don't get sick coming off of them this time. Did they recommend that you do another HSG? My HSG was almost a year ago, and I'm wondering if I should do another one.

@nitnat007 Welcome back.

@hlb8179 I've never been on Clomid myself, but I've heard how bad it can be. Sorry you're suffering its effects.

@emmasemm I can't even imagine trying to coordinate medications across 2 different countries speaking different languages.

Diagnosis (if you've been): NIR PCOS

Status (WTO/TWW/TTA): WTO

What are you doing this cycle? (Testing? Treatment?): IUI #4 with injectables

How are things going?: Follies are growing. Right now my guess is that the IUI will be Friday or Saturday. My hopes were really high last week, and now they're low - completely unrelated to anything my body is doing. I'm just riding that emotional rollercoaster. I also have a headache which I'm pretty sure is stim-related.

Any questions?: For anyone who has done a frozen transfer before, how many days did you have between AF and FET? And what was your protocol? I'm trying to decide when I could do IVF, and since I might need to travel for a few days during FET preparation, I'm not sure if I can do it for at least a few more months.

GTKY: If you get a last minute invite to a party and need to take a dish with you, what would you make? Or what signature dish are you known for? @emmasemm - Love this question! I'm not much of a cook though, and I usually end up bringing some kind of salad.

purplg8r · April 2018

@Augusta108 Grow follies, grow!! What music have you been playing your follies?

@50Wife I’m so hoping tomorrow goes well for you! Those goat cheese balls sound delicious!!

@darkstar42 I hope the IVF session helps some in your decision. It’s such a huge one and I hate that cost has to be of the factors.

@beachbunnyxo123 I’m so excited and frustrated for you! I had an issue with my nurse today too—what is it with them? I hope they can help you figure it out tomorrow. And I’m so excited for you to get started!!

@KristoKekerooni ugh. That stinks that meds make you sick when you get off of them. And do you have a recipe for your white queso??

@nitnat007 welcome back!! glad you’re off the bench!!

@hlb8179 FX that this IUI is it for you! And yum..I love charcuterie boards!!

@emmasemm FX that AF stays away! And we’re dpo buddies. (Oh and what is this delicious cake you speak of??)

@madspunk GL at your IUI this weekend!

Diagnosis (if you've been): AMA, ovulation dysfunction, and apparently mild PCOS

Status (WTO/TWW/TTA): TWW

What are you doing this cycle? (Testing? Treatment?): did IUI #2

How are things going?: going. TWW takes forever.

Any questions?: not TTC related. But anyone else in the app now have the ads at the bottom of the screen? It’s annoying the fuck out of me

GTKY: If you get a last minute invite to a party and need to take a dish with you, what would you make? Or what signature dish are you known for? I suck at cooking. So my go to is Double Chocolate Ghiradelli Brownies or Rotel tomatoes and Velveeta cheese dip

madspunk · April 2018

@purplg8r Do you test at home or go in for a beta? GL!

Augusta108 · April 2018

@purplg8r, my top selection on the follies growth encouraging playlist is “All Together Now” by the Beatles, followed by “Dream Big” by Ryan Shupe...then I have a few songs that I make relevant by changing the lyrics. Cole Porter’s “Blow Gabriel Blow”, for example, is now “Grow, Follicles, Grow!” It may not actually affect anything but at least I’m having fun coming up with things!

Also, UGH, these new pop up ads in the app are terrible!

beachbunnyxo123 · April 2018

@madspunk usually they will put you on BCPs for a FET for scheduling purposes. When I had my last FET I had to get surgery first that I was on BCPs for but this time they are putting me on BCPs after my period comes from my ER while we are waiting for PGS results which take about 10 days. Were you thinking about doing a natural cycle transfer or medicated cycle transfer? Your period will typically come a few days after your final embryo report. Would you be doing PGS testing? Transfer can usually be about a month and a half past ER.

@purplg8r did your doctor seem concerned about the postive OPK? Did you decide if you will test this cycle or not?

AFM went in for baseline monitoring this morning for cd 2. She said I’m good to start pending bloodwork. Should get a call this afternoon with instructions to start my MDL tonight and stims tomorrow. I had 5 follicles less than 10 on the right and 4 less than 10 on the left. Already off to a much better start than last time. I will update later when I get my instructions.

beachbunnyxo123 · April 2018

@50Wife GL today!!! Keep us posted with how it goes!!

nitnat007 · April 2018

@hlb8179 So sorry to hear that this cycle has been so rough for you! Fingers crossed that the IUI on Saturday goes well.
@emmasemm Thank you! I am going to be really annoyed too. Everything moves so friggin slow here. That sounds like quite the challenge getting your meds. I hope you got that sorted out easily enough. FX that this is you cycle!
@Augusta108 We just hit the 6 months mark now and prediction was between 6-8. I am waiting for a response to see if they have an idea of when they will be able to get us in. MRI they were hoping to get me within the month. If they take any longer we may have it done privately.
@beachbunnyxo123 The doctor could not say for sure. Potentially irregular blood flow. I tried to get a copy of the report and they wouldn't give me one. So naturally concerned now. Potentially unrelated too, but until further testing they wont know for sure.
@madspunk Thanks!
@purplg8r Thank you! FX on your TWW!!

lulu1180 · April 2018

@Augusta108 I’m sorry you didn’t see the results you wanted to yesterday but from what I’ve seen on here, it seems slow and steady is definitely better for your follies. I hope they keep growing and you get a nice surprise at the ER!

@50Wife Good luck today friend! I hope this mock cycle is exactly what you needed and you’re moving on to FET soon!

@darkstar42 I hope that the IVF seminar is helpful and gives you the information you need to help figure out if it is right to help you build your family. As for getting your hopes up, after almost 2 years, I still haven’t completely figured out how not to get them up.

@beachbunnyxo123 Ugh I hate how medical professionals can’t ever seem to call you when you tell them you’re actually available! So happy for the great report right out of the gate!! I hope this bodes well for amazing ER results!

@KristoKekerooni I’m sorry you have to deal with that kind of reaction from the immune-suppressing drugs on top of everything else. Also, those strawberries sound AMAZING!!!

@nitnat007 Did they say exactly what kind of abnormalities they found?

@hlb8179 I’m so sorry you’re dealing with the migraines. I know I saw a conversation recently (not sure if it was on this thread or another) about how some fertility meds kind of build up and reactions are worse after a couple rounds. I hope you get some relief soon.

@emmasemm I hope AF holds off for you at least a few more days. And I’m also wondering exactly what this cake is? I’m not sure I would want to try it if I heard the calorie count!

@madspunk Ugh, the IF emotional rollercoaster is the worst! I hope this IUI is the one and you don’t need to think further about IVF. And if you do move on, I hope everything falls perfectly into place with your travel schedule

@purplg8r OMG the ads are pissing me off! It also seems to me like since they added them, the thread doesn’t go directly to the unread comments but instead stays at the top. And it’s not just the app, they did the same thing on the desktop site too. WTF BGs!

Diagnosis (if you've been): DOR, hyperprolactinemia

Status (WTO/TWW/TTA): TWW

What are you doing this cycle? (Testing? Treatment?): trying naturally

How are things going?: Meh, not bad I guess. I’m mostly holding up although still get the urge to just burst out crying because I feel like this is just never going to happen.

And I’m also trying to decide what I want to do for NIAW (National Infertility Awareness Week) next week. As in, if I want to completely “come out” on social media. I’ve been pretty open about our struggles with people I know but I haven’t completely put it out there for the entire world yet.

Any questions?: Nope

GTKY: If you get a last minute invite to a party and need to take a dish with you, what would you make? Or what signature dish are you known for? It depends on how much time I have to make the dish. For a side, my go-to is usually pasta salad; last year I found a recipe for a caprese pasta salad that was super tasty. For dessert, I like to make either pretzel jello or a jello whip with marshmallows and pineapple.

beachbunnyxo123 · April 2018

@lulu1180 I’ve been thinking a lot about NIAW too. Let me know what you decide to do! I love pasta salad by the way it’s one of my favs!

50Wife · April 2018

Biopsy is done! It went well, I'm crampy now but nothing horrible
I'll continue my estrace through 4/25.
I hope this is it!!!

50Wife · April 2018

@lulu1180 I put something on FB right before starting stims and everyone was SO supportive. Women came out of the woodwork with their stories. It was "nice" to see how many families I know that were started via some sort of fertility treatments.
I just figured it's literally the biggest thing I'm doing in my life, I didn't want to keep it a secret. Let us know if you do anything!

darkstar42 · April 2018

@beachbunnyxo123 Sorry for all the nurse drama! What a pain. But wow, how exciting to have everything already starting this cycle! Also, that salad sounds delicious.

@KristoKekerooni The immune suppressant drugs do not sound pleasant at all. I’m sorry your body is going through so much.

@50Wife Yeah, it sucks how much price matters with all of this. But yesterday MH said that he’s much more willing to consider IVF than he was previously because he wouldn’t regret going into debt to have a kid, so there’s that. Fx for good biopsy results! When will you hear?

@nitnat007 Hey, friend! It’s good to see you again, but I’m sorry you’re still here. What kind of South African dishes do you make? I always love new recipes to try!

@hlb8179 I’ve never heard of that book! Maybe I need to check it out. Sorry the clomid has been so awful this time around.

@Augusta108 Sounds like the nurse has confidence that those follies will keep growing! You know we’ve all got our fingers crossed as well. *hugs* I’m sure I have already learned a ton from the boards! MH needs it though, and I need the financial info, so we shall see how it goes!

@emmasemm Yep, I expect to already know a lot of what will be covered! Where I need the most info is about the financial stuff (loans, payment plans, packages, etc.). MH needs all the info though. I’m hoping so hard that this next cycle works for you. You are dealing with so much trying to manage a new cycle at a new clinic in a new country. *hugs*

@madspunk I know! This was a historic storm – biggest ever recorded in April. Yay? I’ll definitely report back after the info session. Sorry you’re on the dip in the rollercoaster right now. It’s so hard to manage the emotional side of all of this.

@purplg8r Yeah, it’s a bummer that we have to think so much about money when we’re just trying to have a kid. Fx that this cycle is it for you!

@lulu1180 It’s good to hear I’m not the only one who still gets hopeful. *hugs* I’ve also been feeling lately like this is never going to happen, so it’s probably a good thing that I have a therapy appointment in an hour. Do you see anyone to help talk you through everything?

lulu1180 · April 2018

@beachbunnyxo123 @50Wife Thanks friends, I'm just really on the fence about it right now. But I feel like this would be a great year to post about it because the theme is "Flip the Script." So basically, just open up, talk about it, and help end the stigma around IF. And if I do post, it may help someone else feel a little less alone in their struggles. I just need to get the courage to actually write the post.
*TW* for loss

Last year I posted one of the images in support of IF on Facebook and a friend of mine PM'd me and told me about a loss she had recently had. Loss and IF both need to be talked about more openly so those that experience them don't feel so isolated, alone, or ashamed.

@darkstar42 Thanks friend. I have not talked to anyone about this (at least not a professional). I feel like the break I took from TTC last fall helped me tremendously to where I didn't feel like I was constantly drowning in my own sadness of dealing with IF. I've honestly looked into it and gone as far as looked up people with expertise in IF but never pulled the trigger. Unfortunately my insurance changed at the beginning of the year to a high deductible plan and I would have to pay out of pocket for everything until I reach that amount. I really don't want to spend extra if I don't have to right now as I would rather save up that money for the IUI. And I hate how important decisions like this revolve around money. Fuck IF!

50Wife · April 2018

@darkstar42 I should find out a week from today! Last time my biopsy was a thurs and I found out the follow thurs.

@lulu1180 that's another reason why I wanted to post as well. I'm lucky that I have you ladies to talk to and who support and encourage me. A lot of women don't have that so I also wanted to post so if any of my friends were doing this stuff in secret, that maybe they'd feel comfortable reaching out to me (one girl did and now I text with her daily)
I wrote it in my notepad on my phone weeks before I posted. Once I pasted it onto my Facebook I think I had it up for 30 min before I actually hit post. I was shaking and nervous-would people think I was justlooking for attention? Would my post be ignored and get like 2 likes bc no one would think it was a big deal? My mind was everywhere. As soon as I posted the support came pouring in and I was honestly crying from the kind words. Do it if you want (obviously) but I was relieved and so glad I put it out there for people outside of our close family/friends to know.

KristoKekerooni · April 2018

@purplg8r , This is one of those totally cheat recipes. Like, I literally do nothing, it's basically premade. I buy Mexican dipping cheese (see spoiler). So you cut it up (I actually just crumble it with my hands), mix in a few ounces of milk, and add it to a crockpot. To give it a tiny bit of flavor, I buy Rotel, but instead of dumping it in, I actually put it in a food processor first. For two reasons. One, I hate chunky stuff. two, it adds a little hint of flavor and actually mixes with the cheese, instead of sinking to the bottom. Sometimes I will add some ground beef, or sausage is good. Sometimes I mix in green chilies, whatever, but the true, Mexican restaurant-tasting cheese is just the cheese and milk. It is SUPER important to buy this exact brand and this exact type. The same brand makes the "same" kind where you just heat it instead of adding milk and stuff,but nope. And I have never found another brand that is good. It's kind of hard to find, I can only find it at one, specific walmart in my town, and no other store in town.

Image: https://us.v-cdn.net/5020794/uploads/editor/ce/axnsw0valhaz.jpg

@madspunk , yes, mine was about a year and a half ago, so they want another. They said typically they wouldn't worry *that* much, but they always recommend one after a loss, so I guess that's what I'm doing.

beachbunnyxo123 · April 2018

@KristoKekerooni hm my hsg was a year and a half ago too. Gees it’s crazy to think it was that long ago.

@lulu1180 you are totally right. I hate that it’s such a taboo to talk about. I have definitely been more open with people lately about IVF, way more open then I’d ever thought I’d be because of the guilt and shame that comes up for me. I’m working on breaking the stigma for myself as well

nitnat007 · April 2018

@lulu1180 Unfortunately he did not. Potentially abnormal blood flow was all he was willing to say and they are not releasing my report either. Hoping that they can get me in for the MRI quickly. Interesting desserts, I can't say that I have tried either of those before. Put cool whip or whipped cream on anything and I am sold though!
@50Wife Glad that it all went well, hoping that cramping moves along quickly. And for good results.
@darkstar42 I normally would make Milk Tart, which is like a vanilla custard with cinnamon. Very yummy and light.

Spoke to RE clinic. They should be in touch within the next couple weeks to give me a firm date, but likely sometime in July. That would be almost 9 months. Sigh.

lulu1180 · April 2018

@beachbunnyxo123 I hope you find a way to help break the stigma for yourself. IF is just so fucking hard and it's not something that you can truly understand unless you go through it. Every time I meet someone who has dealt with/is dealing with IF, I am both a little happy and sad. Happy to have that IRL connection with someone who gets it. Sad to know that someone else is going through the same thing, to some degree.

@nitnat007 I'm sorry they were so vague about the abnormality. I hope they are able to schedule the MRI sooner than your RE consult. Are they able to order tests and have you do them prior to that or will you have to wait additional time for that information?

purplg8r · April 2018

@madspunk thankfully I just test at home.

@Augusta108 I love the playlist!!

@beachbunnyxo123 I haven’t heard back. Grrr. And if you mean hpts, then I’ve already started (after the opk, I just continued testing to see when the trigger was finally out) and I’m glad things are starting off better than last time for you!

@lulu1180 I forgot that was coming up..I feel like I might try to put something out there too

@50Wife it’s done!!! Fx that they next time is for real!!

@KristoKekerooni yes!!! That recipe sounds right up my ally! I’m going to look around for that cheese.

Eta: words

madspunk · April 2018

@beachbunnyxo123 I'm not doing PGS testing, and my clinic doesn't usually use BC before IVF or FET, so I think I'd be going right into a FET after getting AF from the ER. But now that you mention it, I may not need to do a frozen transfer. When we went to the consult, my RE said he'd recommend a frozen transfer since I have PCOS and I might overstim, but maybe ER day will come and it will look okay to do a fresh transfer. I feel like a newb now because I didn't think about options to do a medicated cycle transfer versus natural cycle. I don't get cycles naturally though, so it will have to be medicated.
I hope all your B/W came back well. Grow, follies, grow!

@lulu1180 I know those who have been on this board have had good experiences with putting it all out there on social media. I very rarely use social media, but if I used it more often, I would probably share something. I feel like it would be weird for me to post something out of the blue on IF since I haven't posted anything in months. Let us know what you decide!

@50Wife I hope this is it for you too! Time for a FET!

jrm_14 · April 2018

I have had difficulty finding much time to bump lately. And I have been having all feelings so I had not a lot of kind things to say, so I didn’t say anything at all

@darkstar42 Knowing the right route is so difficult (if it is even possible!). You are of sound mind to be researching & gathering information, such as going to the information session. Do you think YH will be completely overwhelmed from ththe session with information?

@nitnat007 Hi, old friend ❤️ Another generic, yet sincere “waiting sucks.” Is YH on the mend? How’s the swelling?

@50wife Take care of yourself this evening! Our of curiosity, do you stop all meds after the biopsy?

@KristoKekerooni I have had that cheese!! You’re right it is the best for cheese dip.

@beachbunnyxo123 Inhear you about not being able to take calls when you are with patients. Sometimes I check my phone, see the missed call, & then struggle to stay present with the next patient.

jrm_14 · April 2018

Diagnosis (if you've been): Somewhere between ovarian/adrenal insufficiency/autoimmune/LPD/MFI & LPD/unknown

Status (WTO/TWW/TTA): TWW

What are you doing this cycle? (Testing? Treatment?): We ended up trying on our own this cycle.

How are things going?: I am proud of my reproductives! Unmedicated, my FP & LP are both short. I made it to a respectable CD15 before I ovulated this month!!
I am having difficulty managing expectations & hope again. Since we are switching to a new RE and are on our own this cycle, my head thinks that is reliable grounds for guaranteed success.

Any questions?:

GTKY: If it was last minute, I would go to the store, buy bakery cookies or guacamole & put them in a container from home

. If I had time to plan, I would make gooey cookie butter cake, mayo cake, or chocolate chip cookies.

lulu1180 · April 2018

Thank you all, I appreciate the support! If anyone else is interested in posting about NIAW on their social media, Resolve has images that you can post. There is even one that doesn't necessarily "out" you as dealing with IF but more as supporting those that are. Here's the link for anyone considering doing something.

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IF Testing and Treatment Week of 04/16/18

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