My RE had told me that I'd be on it for my whole pregnancy, so that's what I was expecting. I saw the high risk doctor for my anatomy scan (not actually entirely sure why my OB had me go to them at 12 weeks as I wasn't considered high risk yet, maybe because of my IF history or PCOS). I asked him about the metformin, and he told me to go off it at 12 weeks. I mentioned what my RE had told me, and his response was "Your RE is an expert at getting you pregnant. I'm an expert at keeping you pregnant" so who knows, but I trusted him. I got my Mirena in about 8 weeks after giving birth, and that kept my PCOS symptoms well maintained so I have had no need of it until now. I did have GD though, we are at increased risk of that because of our PCOS. But my blood sugar tests after birth came back normal. I would prefer to avoid the metformin if I can, the side effects aren't my favorite. But it was an absolute miracle at regulating my cycles almost immediately.
@bluejeanbabi05 thank you!! I guess that'll just be something I'll have to address with my OB when the time comes. GD is certainly a concern, but again, cross that bridge when we get to it? Really appreciate the insights!
TTC History:
Me: 36 MH: 39, TTC since Dec 2017
Aug '18: PCOS dx
Nov '18: MH SA - 19mil
Dec '18-Mar '19: Letrozole + TI - all BFN
Apr '19: Letrozole + TI, - BFN. Repeat SA (27mil) & DNA fragmentation test (17%)
@lulu1180 yes! thanks! i am going to add onto what you've pointed out about the article by looking at some others. but good reading. @marebear15 from what I've read about TWW (I read a lot about this recently bc I just didn't know as we were NTNP for a while before recently) studies indicated the opposite as well: there are studies that say HIO during TWW is great for TTGP and studies that say it might affect the chances negatively (though, now that I've done MORE research on this just today, there might just be that one that says it's def. negative? and the rest say that it's only negative if there are other negative things already affecting chances. See spoilers/below...) For sure, from what I read, more studies have said it's beneficial/doesn't affect chances than not beneficial/does affect chances.
Okay, I warned youall in my newbie intro a bit ago that I'm long-winded, haha, and I'm about to get all "professor" on this article since--that's what I do! Though I teach English not Science, I do teach research writing! My findings are in the spoiler/s for no other reason than they're long. But I suggest if that article freaked you out to please read forth!
The article (by Michael A. Thomas) posted is only an "abstract and commentary" for one study that takes into consideration two studies--in other words, it's incomplete; it seems a full study has been done--just not published in a journal/trusted source in full. Or at least: I can't find any longer version and I spent the last ~hour or so haha researching this thoroughly. This would mean-- I wouldn't let a student use this as a "scholarly" source in a paper. (They could use it as a source, but not a "scholarly" one.) In addition, no one has cited this study since it's dropped--which was 3 years ago--a bad sign for the paper's vitality! This means, other professionals in his field aren't referencing it--meaning they don't care about it. There's a fairly low sample size & there's no way to tell how valid the study is without the whole article pub'd. Another point: the very last line of the Thomas article says, "Whether 'abstinence in order to conceive' will be part of any future discussions will depend on larger multicenter studies that replicate these counterintuitive findings." And I think it's safe to say, considering no one cited this article, its findings haven't been replicated. Scholars are often pushed to find and defend arguments that haven't been made in order to advance their careers--this article kind of stinks of that in tone and especially when held up against other articles on the topic that are more nuanced.
As for research that provides more nuanced counter-examples, this study about the timing of intercourse & chances of conception published in a scholarly journal in 1995 [yes, 20 years before the other one, but my point is still valid] has been cited *1,121* times. This means people DO trust it. It's also a full, scholarly source. This one, published in 1999 in full in a scholarly journal, cited 453 times, specifically says in its summary, "Does sexual activity in pregnancy harm the fetus? (if there are no risk factors: no)." Okay so, not specific to TWW, but still. [You can't read the whole article via that link, so if anyone wants the whole article, I downloaded a PDF of it from my school.] Neither of these articles specifically say sex is good/bad so bluntly as the Thomas article. Another good about this second one: it's a "meta-content" study, which means it's, like--a lot of different studies all analyzed in one. The Thomas article is one study of two studies, that no one cited, which--really, again, that's a good sign it's insignificant data to medical professionals. Finally, this article provides info that directly counters the original Thomas article, published in 2000, & has been cited over 100 times and was published by a scholarly journal. I'd say its data is more reliable/trusted by medical professionals. But it's specifically about patients on IVF.
I do want to say, though, even after all this, that if you're gonna be stressed bc of one one kind of bad study--that's totally fair because emotions are complicated and just bc something might not be true or isn't medically unadvisable, doesn't mean that we don't read otherwise and believe it and psych ourselves out and then won't be able to enjoy ourselves anyway. Also, women tend to have a decreased sex drive during TWW/1st tri according to what I skimmed in these articles anyway.
OKAY TL;DR VERSION: The article is not pub'd in full in any scholarly space & its info hasn't bee triangulated at all or cited at all & there are a lot of other more scholarly sources that say different (though not the exact opposite necessarily) stuff. So I would argue: DTD when you want to DTD bc no one seems to really know. But also: if you don't want to DTD during TWW, that's fine too. This (not scholarly) piece on "What To Avoid During Implantation" references the Thomas article and also provides a good summary of what I've summarized here in its section on sex.
Also, since it took me a while to do this and there might already be other replies to this debunking the Thomas article that are less long-winded so--yay for ppl who are less long-winded & efficient! (just hit post, self!)
I just had a thought this morning as I was lying on the table getting my 19385th ultrasound this month... the lube they use for the dildo cam... I'm assuming they're not using something like pre-seed or anything sperm friendly, so how long does that hang around all up in my lady parts? Could it hinder MF's swimmers?
I recognize there isn't really any way around this because we're doing cycle monitoring for a reason but I was curious if this has occurred to anyone other than me? I don't even know what I'd google if I were to go searching for answers.
TTC History:
Me: 36 MH: 39, TTC since Dec 2017
Aug '18: PCOS dx
Nov '18: MH SA - 19mil
Dec '18-Mar '19: Letrozole + TI - all BFN
Apr '19: Letrozole + TI, - BFN. Repeat SA (27mil) & DNA fragmentation test (17%)
@kiki047 I actually asked this at one of my monitoring appointments prior to IUI. My RE said it wasn't sperm friendly, or sperm not friendly. Although I wish they would use something sperm friendly! Haha. That would make more sense!
@kiki047 huh... Interesting point. Does that matter for an IUI or IVF though? IUIs use a catheter to put the sperm in the uterus so if there was lube from the US probe (although I love the term dildo cam ) it wouldn't matter right? Because the sperm is going past that? Buuuut... Don't they put lube in the catheter for easier insertion? HMMM!! I'm not really sure!
*TW* History:
Me: 34 DH: 36 | Together since 2007 | Married July 2016
TTC #1 since 7.2017 Dx: low morph (1%), ANA positive, low decidualization score, high TSH and testosterone, histone antibodies
IUI #1-3| all BFN IVF #1 | 6.11.19 | 24R, 17M, 15F, 6B, PGT-A tested - 5 normal, 3 girls & 2 boys FET #1 | 9.10.19 | BFN "I know you, but we've never met. I'm with you, but I don't know your name" RPL, Receptiva, & ERA testing | all normal/negative, recommended going on gluten and dairy free diet for next FET FET #2 | 3.31.20 | Opted to cancelled due to pandemic, continued diet and tried naturally over the summer 2nd Opinion with another RE | 8.20.20 | Not immune to measles (received 1 dose); SA results similar to 2 years ago; decided to move forward with FET #2 redo at start of next cycle Surprise natural BFP! | 9.22.20 | MC 10.23.20 at 8 weeks TTCAL naturally | starting 11.22.20 Initial consultation with Reproductive Immunologist | 9.14.21 Decidualization score biopsy | 10.1.21 | abnormal - low score of 1; endometrial scratch recommended and progesterone supplementation Saline sono | 10.15.21 | normal Bloodwork | 10.21.21 | high TSH, high testosterone, positive for anti-nuclear antibodies and histone antibodies, high protein S, multiple genetic mutations BFP! | 11.3.21 | EDD 7.14.22 | biopsy provided same effect as endometrial scratch; added supplemental progesterone and estrogen, prednisone, levothyroxine, and MTX Support to maintain pregnancy DS born 7.19.22 after induction
TTC #2 begins 6.2023 Consultation with RI | 6.6.23 Saline sono, endometritis biopsy, skin & eye check | all normal Labs | high TSH, Factor XIII mutation, high %CD56 Follow up | 8.8.23 | prescribed metformin, prednisone, plaquenil, and levothyroxine Repeat labs after 3 weeks on meds Follow up | 11.9.23 | Green light!, increase in prednisone, added lovenox Repeat labs in 8 weeks Follow up | 1.16.24 | Green light continues TTC put on pause
@kiki047 No, that gel/lube that they use is not sperm friendly (not usually at least, you can ask to confirm). You can ask them to not use any or you can bring preseed with you and ask them to use that instead. I'm sure you would not be the first person to ask either way.
"It's time to try defying gravity."
Me: 38 DH: 38 Married 6/11/16 TTC Since 6/2016 12/2016 RE appt; 1/2017 SA & HSG results - all normal 3/2017 Dx Hyperprolactinemia; 5/2017 Prolactin levels normal; 8/2017 Low Ovarian Reserve 8/2017 TTA for personal reasons; 10/2017 NTNP; 12/2017 Re-start TTC 7/2018 Clomid+IUI 11/2018 Letrozole+TI 12/2018 Letrozole+IUI 2/2019 NTNP 5/2019 Stopping all TTC efforts; living Childfree
@inthewoods23 I don't think any lube is used for the IUI, but I wasn't paying that much attention last time tbh, they insert the speculum, insert the catheter and then push the plunger to inseminate with the sperm. Even if it were just for an IUI, that would mean that any TI you do to increase your chances prior to the IUI are in vain because those swimmers may not be able to get through the lube used for the u/s
"It's time to try defying gravity."
Me: 38 DH: 38 Married 6/11/16 TTC Since 6/2016 12/2016 RE appt; 1/2017 SA & HSG results - all normal 3/2017 Dx Hyperprolactinemia; 5/2017 Prolactin levels normal; 8/2017 Low Ovarian Reserve 8/2017 TTA for personal reasons; 10/2017 NTNP; 12/2017 Re-start TTC 7/2018 Clomid+IUI 11/2018 Letrozole+TI 12/2018 Letrozole+IUI 2/2019 NTNP 5/2019 Stopping all TTC efforts; living Childfree
@lulu1180 yeah I don't recall how it went for the HSG they did a few months ago. Maybe they don't use lube with that since it's small
*TW* History:
Me: 34 DH: 36 | Together since 2007 | Married July 2016
TTC #1 since 7.2017 Dx: low morph (1%), ANA positive, low decidualization score, high TSH and testosterone, histone antibodies
IUI #1-3| all BFN IVF #1 | 6.11.19 | 24R, 17M, 15F, 6B, PGT-A tested - 5 normal, 3 girls & 2 boys FET #1 | 9.10.19 | BFN "I know you, but we've never met. I'm with you, but I don't know your name" RPL, Receptiva, & ERA testing | all normal/negative, recommended going on gluten and dairy free diet for next FET FET #2 | 3.31.20 | Opted to cancelled due to pandemic, continued diet and tried naturally over the summer 2nd Opinion with another RE | 8.20.20 | Not immune to measles (received 1 dose); SA results similar to 2 years ago; decided to move forward with FET #2 redo at start of next cycle Surprise natural BFP! | 9.22.20 | MC 10.23.20 at 8 weeks TTCAL naturally | starting 11.22.20 Initial consultation with Reproductive Immunologist | 9.14.21 Decidualization score biopsy | 10.1.21 | abnormal - low score of 1; endometrial scratch recommended and progesterone supplementation Saline sono | 10.15.21 | normal Bloodwork | 10.21.21 | high TSH, high testosterone, positive for anti-nuclear antibodies and histone antibodies, high protein S, multiple genetic mutations BFP! | 11.3.21 | EDD 7.14.22 | biopsy provided same effect as endometrial scratch; added supplemental progesterone and estrogen, prednisone, levothyroxine, and MTX Support to maintain pregnancy DS born 7.19.22 after induction
TTC #2 begins 6.2023 Consultation with RI | 6.6.23 Saline sono, endometritis biopsy, skin & eye check | all normal Labs | high TSH, Factor XIII mutation, high %CD56 Follow up | 8.8.23 | prescribed metformin, prednisone, plaquenil, and levothyroxine Repeat labs after 3 weeks on meds Follow up | 11.9.23 | Green light!, increase in prednisone, added lovenox Repeat labs in 8 weeks Follow up | 1.16.24 | Green light continues TTC put on pause
@nomangos23 I don't know what's worse, showing up with it to be like, "here, I brought my own" or having to carry it around in my purse ... what if I forget it's there? I went to the store after my appt this morning to pick up something for my work party this afternoon ... imagine I went to pull out my wallet and lube fell out? @crookshanks10 I'm glad I'm not the only one that has thought about it. You would think they'd use something sperm-friendly? I guess it's not exactly cost-effective given how many u/s they do a day. @inthewoods23 you're right, it probably wouldn't matter for IUI or IVF. Just wondering because we're doing a letrozole + TI cycle and I don't use any lube so was curious to know how long it hangs out in there. We're on a PM HIO schedule so it's like 14 hours between u/s and BD so I'm hoping it will have dissipated by then? @lulu1180 thank you for the reassurance. I'm probably way overthinking this but it's haunting me now.
TTC History:
Me: 36 MH: 39, TTC since Dec 2017
Aug '18: PCOS dx
Nov '18: MH SA - 19mil
Dec '18-Mar '19: Letrozole + TI - all BFN
Apr '19: Letrozole + TI, - BFN. Repeat SA (27mil) & DNA fragmentation test (17%)
@inthewoods23 My RE didn't do my IUI but a PA did and she explained everything very well. The speculum cannot have any lubrication or be warm because it is not sperm friendly. They wipe the cervix so anything remaining, including CM, is wiped off. There is no lubricant on the catheter but it's really small. Obviously a lot of clinics do things differently that's just how mine was done.
Me:37 MH:37
TTGP since 07/2017
**TW** in spoiler
DX: PCOS, anovulatory, AMA
Femara X3: no response
Clomid X3: BFN (cyst and thin lining)
IUI (Dec '18) MMC
IVF (April '19) 9 retrieved, 7 fertilized, 2 normal PGT-A
@kiki047 I had a rental car when I was traveling once and found a GIANT bottle of lube in between the center console and the passenger seat. It was still in the box and when I saw it I thought it was a cosmetics box so I very excitedly squealed (thinking I might be the brand new owner of some Clinique products) and pulled it out. My boss was literally opening the door to get in and heard me squeal and shove something back in between the seats. To which of course he was like "Oh what's in there?" And then I died.
@kiki047 I would think 14 hours is more than enough time! GL!
*TW* History:
Me: 34 DH: 36 | Together since 2007 | Married July 2016
TTC #1 since 7.2017 Dx: low morph (1%), ANA positive, low decidualization score, high TSH and testosterone, histone antibodies
IUI #1-3| all BFN IVF #1 | 6.11.19 | 24R, 17M, 15F, 6B, PGT-A tested - 5 normal, 3 girls & 2 boys FET #1 | 9.10.19 | BFN "I know you, but we've never met. I'm with you, but I don't know your name" RPL, Receptiva, & ERA testing | all normal/negative, recommended going on gluten and dairy free diet for next FET FET #2 | 3.31.20 | Opted to cancelled due to pandemic, continued diet and tried naturally over the summer 2nd Opinion with another RE | 8.20.20 | Not immune to measles (received 1 dose); SA results similar to 2 years ago; decided to move forward with FET #2 redo at start of next cycle Surprise natural BFP! | 9.22.20 | MC 10.23.20 at 8 weeks TTCAL naturally | starting 11.22.20 Initial consultation with Reproductive Immunologist | 9.14.21 Decidualization score biopsy | 10.1.21 | abnormal - low score of 1; endometrial scratch recommended and progesterone supplementation Saline sono | 10.15.21 | normal Bloodwork | 10.21.21 | high TSH, high testosterone, positive for anti-nuclear antibodies and histone antibodies, high protein S, multiple genetic mutations BFP! | 11.3.21 | EDD 7.14.22 | biopsy provided same effect as endometrial scratch; added supplemental progesterone and estrogen, prednisone, levothyroxine, and MTX Support to maintain pregnancy DS born 7.19.22 after induction
TTC #2 begins 6.2023 Consultation with RI | 6.6.23 Saline sono, endometritis biopsy, skin & eye check | all normal Labs | high TSH, Factor XIII mutation, high %CD56 Follow up | 8.8.23 | prescribed metformin, prednisone, plaquenil, and levothyroxine Repeat labs after 3 weeks on meds Follow up | 11.9.23 | Green light!, increase in prednisone, added lovenox Repeat labs in 8 weeks Follow up | 1.16.24 | Green light continues TTC put on pause
**Total lurky-loo** but @kiki047 my RE’s office always uses water instead of the lube for pre-O ultrasounds. They even went so far as to switch out the wand when the tech accidentally lubed it up once. So yeah, I’d recommend bringing Preseed or asking them to use water (or I think saline is ok too but don’t quote me on that one!) Good luck!!
Let me preface by saying I’ll be asking my RE - but did anyone else on clomid or fermara have horrendous O pain?? Last night I’m pretty sure my side was splitting 😩
@chichiphin wish I could have an answer for you, but I'm only through day 3 of letrozole and I haven't felt anything different. Maybe I'll have a different story next week as I get close to O
*TW* History:
Me: 34 DH: 36 | Together since 2007 | Married July 2016
TTC #1 since 7.2017 Dx: low morph (1%), ANA positive, low decidualization score, high TSH and testosterone, histone antibodies
IUI #1-3| all BFN IVF #1 | 6.11.19 | 24R, 17M, 15F, 6B, PGT-A tested - 5 normal, 3 girls & 2 boys FET #1 | 9.10.19 | BFN "I know you, but we've never met. I'm with you, but I don't know your name" RPL, Receptiva, & ERA testing | all normal/negative, recommended going on gluten and dairy free diet for next FET FET #2 | 3.31.20 | Opted to cancelled due to pandemic, continued diet and tried naturally over the summer 2nd Opinion with another RE | 8.20.20 | Not immune to measles (received 1 dose); SA results similar to 2 years ago; decided to move forward with FET #2 redo at start of next cycle Surprise natural BFP! | 9.22.20 | MC 10.23.20 at 8 weeks TTCAL naturally | starting 11.22.20 Initial consultation with Reproductive Immunologist | 9.14.21 Decidualization score biopsy | 10.1.21 | abnormal - low score of 1; endometrial scratch recommended and progesterone supplementation Saline sono | 10.15.21 | normal Bloodwork | 10.21.21 | high TSH, high testosterone, positive for anti-nuclear antibodies and histone antibodies, high protein S, multiple genetic mutations BFP! | 11.3.21 | EDD 7.14.22 | biopsy provided same effect as endometrial scratch; added supplemental progesterone and estrogen, prednisone, levothyroxine, and MTX Support to maintain pregnancy DS born 7.19.22 after induction
TTC #2 begins 6.2023 Consultation with RI | 6.6.23 Saline sono, endometritis biopsy, skin & eye check | all normal Labs | high TSH, Factor XIII mutation, high %CD56 Follow up | 8.8.23 | prescribed metformin, prednisone, plaquenil, and levothyroxine Repeat labs after 3 weeks on meds Follow up | 11.9.23 | Green light!, increase in prednisone, added lovenox Repeat labs in 8 weeks Follow up | 1.16.24 | Green light continues TTC put on pause
@nomangos23 omg I missed your story yesterday. That's hilarious!
*TW* History:
Me: 34 DH: 36 | Together since 2007 | Married July 2016
TTC #1 since 7.2017 Dx: low morph (1%), ANA positive, low decidualization score, high TSH and testosterone, histone antibodies
IUI #1-3| all BFN IVF #1 | 6.11.19 | 24R, 17M, 15F, 6B, PGT-A tested - 5 normal, 3 girls & 2 boys FET #1 | 9.10.19 | BFN "I know you, but we've never met. I'm with you, but I don't know your name" RPL, Receptiva, & ERA testing | all normal/negative, recommended going on gluten and dairy free diet for next FET FET #2 | 3.31.20 | Opted to cancelled due to pandemic, continued diet and tried naturally over the summer 2nd Opinion with another RE | 8.20.20 | Not immune to measles (received 1 dose); SA results similar to 2 years ago; decided to move forward with FET #2 redo at start of next cycle Surprise natural BFP! | 9.22.20 | MC 10.23.20 at 8 weeks TTCAL naturally | starting 11.22.20 Initial consultation with Reproductive Immunologist | 9.14.21 Decidualization score biopsy | 10.1.21 | abnormal - low score of 1; endometrial scratch recommended and progesterone supplementation Saline sono | 10.15.21 | normal Bloodwork | 10.21.21 | high TSH, high testosterone, positive for anti-nuclear antibodies and histone antibodies, high protein S, multiple genetic mutations BFP! | 11.3.21 | EDD 7.14.22 | biopsy provided same effect as endometrial scratch; added supplemental progesterone and estrogen, prednisone, levothyroxine, and MTX Support to maintain pregnancy DS born 7.19.22 after induction
TTC #2 begins 6.2023 Consultation with RI | 6.6.23 Saline sono, endometritis biopsy, skin & eye check | all normal Labs | high TSH, Factor XIII mutation, high %CD56 Follow up | 8.8.23 | prescribed metformin, prednisone, plaquenil, and levothyroxine Repeat labs after 3 weeks on meds Follow up | 11.9.23 | Green light!, increase in prednisone, added lovenox Repeat labs in 8 weeks Follow up | 1.16.24 | Green light continues TTC put on pause
I keep seeing everyone talk about FAM and advanced settings on FF. What is the difference and which one is better? Im still relatively new to temping, so I have zero idea about anything beyond the basics.
Hi, @kbrown2385! FAM, from what I read in TCOYF, is just the idea of charting/keeping track of fertility signs like CP, CM, BBT, etc. generally--you can chart on your own, for example, via a chart you can download from their website or most BBT packaging comes w/ a paper chart. FF is an app that fills in the info for you onto the chart--you just punch in the info & it organizes it into the chart. I've never used/haven't upgraded to the VIP in FF yet, but I'm finding it's regular settings work fine for a beginner. For the most part, it's good enough for what I need it to be. I am tempted sometimes by the notes that announce"You Must Have A VIP Membership!" to perform this function, but the app definitely has what I need it to have to chart. There are definitely some peeps on here w/ the VIP membership who can speak more to its benefits. FF itself, though, is free. And, obvs, writing stuff down on a downloaded printed chart = also free.
@chichiphin yes, I do. I'm on my 10th Femara cycle and it has been like that every cycle for me. It wasn't like that on Clomid. It is so bad I can barely walk. This time it was especially bad, so I'm going to ask my Dr. what is going on. Sorry you are going through it too, but glad to know it isn't me!
@kbrown2385 I was about to ask in here too. My understanding is FAM uses temps and advanced uses CM, CP and opks to determine O. But my issue is, what is better? I could see it depending on the person and the cycle. I honestly don’t think I am either good at determining cm or my body likes to SS it. (Or daily allergy medicine alters the results) plus I didn’t have opks this month.
With temps only, my O date changed by 3 days on FF when I switched from advanced to FAM. My LP is generally long and consistent, so I plan on using that to determine whatO day is correct.
@kagesstarshroom I’ve been using FF for the past 3 months for temping and tracking my cycles and I like it.They have different settings, including fam and advanced, which some have recommended done way or the other. I wasn’t sure what the different settings meant in the app.
@holly321 that makes sense! I feel like I personally lean more towards fam than advanced since, like you, I have trouble figuring out the cm. I also don’t necessarily keep track of all the different things, except for temping every morning. I’m sure the advanced is better since it takes more into account. ETA: I switched it to FAM and it says I didn’t ovulate at all, while advanced gave me crosshairs for when my symptoms lined up with my temps. I’m so confused lol.
@kimmer1412 Implantation dips can really only be seen in restrospect after you have a positive test. Sometimes there can be random estrogen spikes in our TWW, and that’s why your temperature drops. Unfortunately it’s not a clear sign of anything. It’s good that your temp went back up, though! FX!
Me: 31 DH: 31 DS born 6/2017, became a heart angel 8/2018 CP 3/2019
Where my progesterone ladies at? Should I basically expect to have ALL the symptoms of early pregnancy with 400mg a day? I’m telling myself that if I can‘t properly SS due to meds, it will be less stress. (Yeah right)
@chichiphin I’m on the gel currently and I’ve got some side effects/potential symptoms. My RE mentioned that it’s possible the progesterone can cause it. Af isn’t due until earliest Wednesday, so it’s either the that or early pregnancy.
@kbrown2385 good to know - I’m only 3DPO and only one day in with progesterone and really wondering what it could be like a week from now. The one thing that is different and is making me paranoid is that I am cramping a lot more after O than normal, which I am attributing to the letrozole + progesterone
@chichiphin I'm on 200mg daily. I prefer to take it at night because it makes me drowsy during the day. The only other symptom that bothered me was the bloating. Not extreme, but definitely more so than normal.
@chichiphin My first month on progesterone, I cried at everything and was tired. I thought, “This is definitely it! I’m KU!” and AF was like, “Imma let you finish, but...”
TTC History
Me: 38 DH: 52
Started trying June 2018
BFP Jan 2019 DD born October 2019
TTC July 2021 BFP, ended in MMC August 2021
TTC October 2021
BFP January 2022
MMC March 2022
Beginning May 2022 under the supervision of an RE - Benched while undergoing testing
@chichiphin I had awful O pains on the letrozole on Friday. Same symptoms, I felt like my side was splitting open. Since I was given some conflicting information that the follie was either going to relinquish an egg (or in my case, both 30mm+ follies did), or it was going to turn into a cyst and it could burst. Thankfully it was the former, but OUCH. Also, I'm still crampy 2dpo and I'm not taking progesterone this cycle.
@kimmer1412 Not to be the bearer of bad news but it is possible your first temp spike was a false rise and you didn't actually O on CD15 like you thought. This is one of my an-o charts in the spoiler. You can see I had a false rise around CD17/18 that corresponded with my CM and +OPK, but my temps dropped back down through to CD26, spiked again, dropped back down, then were just all over the place for the rest of my cycle. How long is your LP usually? If AF doesn't show in the next 5-8 days I'd question your O date.
TTC History:
Me: 36 MH: 39, TTC since Dec 2017
Aug '18: PCOS dx
Nov '18: MH SA - 19mil
Dec '18-Mar '19: Letrozole + TI - all BFN
Apr '19: Letrozole + TI, - BFN. Repeat SA (27mil) & DNA fragmentation test (17%)
Re: Chart Stalk / Questions ~ December
@kiki047 answer in spoiler as well *TW*
TTC History:
Me: 36 MH: 39, TTC since Dec 2017
Aug '18: PCOS dx
Nov '18: MH SA - 19mil
Dec '18-Mar '19: Letrozole + TI - all BFN
Apr '19: Letrozole + TI, - BFN. Repeat SA (27mil) & DNA fragmentation test (17%)
Aug '19: Letrozole + HCG trigger + IUI + prog supp - BFN (MH: 16mil)
Sep '19: 2nd IUI, same protocol - BFN (MH: 16mil)
Dec '19: IVF #1 w/ICSI, PGT. 5 retrieved, 4 fertilized, 3 blasts, 3 PGT-A normal.
Mar '20: FET #1, perfect 5AA blast transferred. BFN.
Sept '20: FET #2, 5BB tsf. 9/18/20 BFP!! EDD: 5/27/21. MMC 11w
Feb ‘21: FET #3, last 6BB blast transferred. BFP, EDD 11/2/21. MC 5w3d.
May '21: IVF #2 w/ICSI, PGT. 8R, 7M, 6F, 6 blasts - 3AB, 3AB, 3BB, 4BB, 5BB, 6BA. Fresh tsf 5/13/21 - BFN.
June '21: PGT-A results = 3 abnormal, 1 low level mosaic. Referred to new REI, had consult with 2nd RE in between.
Sept '21: RPL, immune testing normal
Oct '21: IVF #3 w/IMSI, PGT. 33R, 26M, 23F, 9 blasts (7 day 6, 2 day 7). PGT-A = 5 normal, 1 mosaic
Dec '21: Positive for endometritis, RX Flagyl & Keflex
Jan '22: FET #5 - Kitchen sink immune/RIF protocol incl. PRP, intralipids, prednisone, medrol, nivestym, fragmin - CP
Feb '22: FET #6 - Kitchen sink immune/RIF protocol w/higher doses of pred & fragmin - BFN
Mar '22: Mock cycle for ERA - cancelled, repeat endometrial biopsy instead. Still positive for endometritis. RX ciprofloxacin & amoxicillin.
Apr '22: IVF #4 w/IMSI, PGT. 28R, 23M, 16F, 11 blasts. PGT-A = 6 normal.
June '22: FET #7 - Microdose lupron downreg w/kitchen sink immune/RIF protocol - double embryo transfer. BFN.
July '22: FET #8 - Mini stim w/Puregon + trigger, kitchen sink immune/RIF protocol. BFN.
Sep '22: Taking a break
Dec '22: Attempted abdominal myomectomy, fibroid too close to cervix and major blood vessels. Wasn't removed.
Feb '23: FET #9 - Modified natural w/baby asp, HCG trigger, PIO, PRP, Medrol, HCG wash, embryo glue - BFP!! EDD 11/11/23
@marebear15 from what I've read about TWW (I read a lot about this recently bc I just didn't know as we were NTNP for a while before recently) studies indicated the opposite as well: there are studies that say HIO during TWW is great for TTGP and studies that say it might affect the chances negatively (though, now that I've done MORE research on this just today, there might just be that one that says it's def. negative? and the rest say that it's only negative if there are other negative things already affecting chances. See spoilers/below...) For sure, from what I read, more studies have said it's beneficial/doesn't affect chances than not beneficial/does affect chances.
Okay, I warned youall in my newbie intro a bit ago that I'm long-winded, haha, and I'm about to get all "professor" on this article since--that's what I do! Though I teach English not Science, I do teach research writing! My findings are in the spoiler/s for no other reason than they're long. But I suggest if that article freaked you out to please read forth!
The article (by Michael A. Thomas) posted is only an "abstract and commentary" for one study that takes into consideration two studies--in other words, it's incomplete; it seems a full study has been done--just not published in a journal/trusted source in full. Or at least: I can't find any longer version and I spent the last ~hour or so haha researching this thoroughly. This would mean-- I wouldn't let a student use this as a "scholarly" source in a paper. (They could use it as a source, but not a "scholarly" one.) In addition, no one has cited this study since it's dropped--which was 3 years ago--a bad sign for the paper's vitality! This means, other professionals in his field aren't referencing it--meaning they don't care about it. There's a fairly low sample size & there's no way to tell how valid the study is without the whole article pub'd. Another point: the very last line of the Thomas article says, "Whether 'abstinence in order to conceive' will be part of any future discussions will depend on larger multicenter studies that replicate these counterintuitive findings." And I think it's safe to say, considering no one cited this article, its findings haven't been replicated. Scholars are often pushed to find and defend arguments that haven't been made in order to advance their careers--this article kind of stinks of that in tone and especially when held up against other articles on the topic that are more nuanced.
As for research that provides more nuanced counter-examples, this study about the timing of intercourse & chances of conception published in a scholarly journal in 1995 [yes, 20 years before the other one, but my point is still valid] has been cited *1,121* times. This means people DO trust it. It's also a full, scholarly source. This one, published in 1999 in full in a scholarly journal, cited 453 times, specifically says in its summary, "Does sexual activity in pregnancy harm the fetus? (if there are no risk factors: no)." Okay so, not specific to TWW, but still. [You can't read the whole article via that link, so if anyone wants the whole article, I downloaded a PDF of it from my school.] Neither of these articles specifically say sex is good/bad so bluntly as the Thomas article. Another good about this second one: it's a "meta-content" study, which means it's, like--a lot of different studies all analyzed in one. The Thomas article is one study of two studies, that no one cited, which--really, again, that's a good sign it's insignificant data to medical professionals. Finally, this article provides info that directly counters the original Thomas article, published in 2000, & has been cited over 100 times and was published by a scholarly journal. I'd say its data is more reliable/trusted by medical professionals. But it's specifically about patients on IVF.
I do want to say, though, even after all this, that if you're gonna be stressed bc of one one kind of bad study--that's totally fair because emotions are complicated and just bc something might not be true or isn't medically unadvisable, doesn't mean that we don't read otherwise and believe it and psych ourselves out and then won't be able to enjoy ourselves anyway. Also, women tend to have a decreased sex drive during TWW/1st tri according to what I skimmed in these articles anyway.
OKAY TL;DR VERSION: The article is not pub'd in full in any scholarly space & its info hasn't bee triangulated at all or cited at all & there are a lot of other more scholarly sources that say different (though not the exact opposite necessarily) stuff. So I would argue: DTD when you want to DTD bc no one seems to really know. But also: if you don't want to DTD during TWW, that's fine too. This (not scholarly) piece on "What To Avoid During Implantation" references the Thomas article and also provides a good summary of what I've summarized here in its section on sex.
Also, since it took me a while to do this and there might already be other replies to this debunking the Thomas article that are less long-winded so--yay for ppl who are less long-winded & efficient! (just hit post, self!)
I recognize there isn't really any way around this because we're doing cycle monitoring for a reason but I was curious if this has occurred to anyone other than me? I don't even know what I'd google if I were to go searching for answers.
TTC History:
Me: 36 MH: 39, TTC since Dec 2017
Aug '18: PCOS dx
Nov '18: MH SA - 19mil
Dec '18-Mar '19: Letrozole + TI - all BFN
Apr '19: Letrozole + TI, - BFN. Repeat SA (27mil) & DNA fragmentation test (17%)
Aug '19: Letrozole + HCG trigger + IUI + prog supp - BFN (MH: 16mil)
Sep '19: 2nd IUI, same protocol - BFN (MH: 16mil)
Dec '19: IVF #1 w/ICSI, PGT. 5 retrieved, 4 fertilized, 3 blasts, 3 PGT-A normal.
Mar '20: FET #1, perfect 5AA blast transferred. BFN.
Sept '20: FET #2, 5BB tsf. 9/18/20 BFP!! EDD: 5/27/21. MMC 11w
Feb ‘21: FET #3, last 6BB blast transferred. BFP, EDD 11/2/21. MC 5w3d.
May '21: IVF #2 w/ICSI, PGT. 8R, 7M, 6F, 6 blasts - 3AB, 3AB, 3BB, 4BB, 5BB, 6BA. Fresh tsf 5/13/21 - BFN.
June '21: PGT-A results = 3 abnormal, 1 low level mosaic. Referred to new REI, had consult with 2nd RE in between.
Sept '21: RPL, immune testing normal
Oct '21: IVF #3 w/IMSI, PGT. 33R, 26M, 23F, 9 blasts (7 day 6, 2 day 7). PGT-A = 5 normal, 1 mosaic
Dec '21: Positive for endometritis, RX Flagyl & Keflex
Jan '22: FET #5 - Kitchen sink immune/RIF protocol incl. PRP, intralipids, prednisone, medrol, nivestym, fragmin - CP
Feb '22: FET #6 - Kitchen sink immune/RIF protocol w/higher doses of pred & fragmin - BFN
Mar '22: Mock cycle for ERA - cancelled, repeat endometrial biopsy instead. Still positive for endometritis. RX ciprofloxacin & amoxicillin.
Apr '22: IVF #4 w/IMSI, PGT. 28R, 23M, 16F, 11 blasts. PGT-A = 6 normal.
June '22: FET #7 - Microdose lupron downreg w/kitchen sink immune/RIF protocol - double embryo transfer. BFN.
July '22: FET #8 - Mini stim w/Puregon + trigger, kitchen sink immune/RIF protocol. BFN.
Sep '22: Taking a break
Dec '22: Attempted abdominal myomectomy, fibroid too close to cervix and major blood vessels. Wasn't removed.
Feb '23: FET #9 - Modified natural w/baby asp, HCG trigger, PIO, PRP, Medrol, HCG wash, embryo glue - BFP!! EDD 11/11/23
TTC #1 since 7.2017
Dx: low morph (1%), ANA positive, low decidualization score, high TSH and testosterone, histone antibodies
IUI #1-3 | all BFN
IVF #1 | 6.11.19 | 24R, 17M, 15F, 6B, PGT-A tested - 5 normal, 3 girls & 2 boys
FET #1 | 9.10.19 | BFN "I know you, but we've never met. I'm with you, but I don't know your name"
RPL, Receptiva, & ERA testing | all normal/negative, recommended going on gluten and dairy free diet for next FET
FET #2 | 3.31.20 | Opted to cancelled due to pandemic, continued diet and tried naturally over the summer
2nd Opinion with another RE | 8.20.20 | Not immune to measles (received 1 dose); SA results similar to 2 years ago; decided to move forward with FET #2 redo at start of next cycle
Surprise natural BFP! | 9.22.20 | MC 10.23.20 at 8 weeks
TTCAL naturally | starting 11.22.20
Initial consultation with Reproductive Immunologist | 9.14.21
Decidualization score biopsy | 10.1.21 | abnormal - low score of 1; endometrial scratch recommended and progesterone supplementation
Saline sono | 10.15.21 | normal
Bloodwork | 10.21.21 | high TSH, high testosterone, positive for anti-nuclear antibodies and histone antibodies, high protein S, multiple genetic mutations
BFP! | 11.3.21 | EDD 7.14.22 | biopsy provided same effect as endometrial scratch; added supplemental progesterone and estrogen, prednisone, levothyroxine, and MTX Support to maintain pregnancy
DS born 7.19.22 after induction
TTC #2 begins 6.2023
Consultation with RI | 6.6.23
Saline sono, endometritis biopsy, skin & eye check | all normal
Labs | high TSH, Factor XIII mutation, high %CD56
Follow up | 8.8.23 | prescribed metformin, prednisone, plaquenil, and levothyroxine
Repeat labs after 3 weeks on meds
Follow up | 11.9.23 | Green light!, increase in prednisone, added lovenox
Repeat labs in 8 weeks
Follow up | 1.16.24 | Green light continues
TTC put on pause
"It's time to try defying gravity."
Married 6/11/16
TTC Since 6/2016
12/2016 RE appt; 1/2017 SA & HSG results - all normal
3/2017 Dx Hyperprolactinemia; 5/2017 Prolactin levels normal; 8/2017 Low Ovarian Reserve
8/2017 TTA for personal reasons; 10/2017 NTNP; 12/2017 Re-start TTC
7/2018 Clomid+IUI
11/2018 Letrozole+TI
12/2018 Letrozole+IUI
2/2019 NTNP
5/2019 Stopping all TTC efforts; living Childfree
"It's time to try defying gravity."
Married 6/11/16
TTC Since 6/2016
12/2016 RE appt; 1/2017 SA & HSG results - all normal
3/2017 Dx Hyperprolactinemia; 5/2017 Prolactin levels normal; 8/2017 Low Ovarian Reserve
8/2017 TTA for personal reasons; 10/2017 NTNP; 12/2017 Re-start TTC
7/2018 Clomid+IUI
11/2018 Letrozole+TI
12/2018 Letrozole+IUI
2/2019 NTNP
5/2019 Stopping all TTC efforts; living Childfree
"It's time to try defying gravity."
Married 6/11/16
TTC Since 6/2016
12/2016 RE appt; 1/2017 SA & HSG results - all normal
3/2017 Dx Hyperprolactinemia; 5/2017 Prolactin levels normal; 8/2017 Low Ovarian Reserve
8/2017 TTA for personal reasons; 10/2017 NTNP; 12/2017 Re-start TTC
7/2018 Clomid+IUI
11/2018 Letrozole+TI
12/2018 Letrozole+IUI
2/2019 NTNP
5/2019 Stopping all TTC efforts; living Childfree
TTC #1 since 7.2017
Dx: low morph (1%), ANA positive, low decidualization score, high TSH and testosterone, histone antibodies
IUI #1-3 | all BFN
IVF #1 | 6.11.19 | 24R, 17M, 15F, 6B, PGT-A tested - 5 normal, 3 girls & 2 boys
FET #1 | 9.10.19 | BFN "I know you, but we've never met. I'm with you, but I don't know your name"
RPL, Receptiva, & ERA testing | all normal/negative, recommended going on gluten and dairy free diet for next FET
FET #2 | 3.31.20 | Opted to cancelled due to pandemic, continued diet and tried naturally over the summer
2nd Opinion with another RE | 8.20.20 | Not immune to measles (received 1 dose); SA results similar to 2 years ago; decided to move forward with FET #2 redo at start of next cycle
Surprise natural BFP! | 9.22.20 | MC 10.23.20 at 8 weeks
TTCAL naturally | starting 11.22.20
Initial consultation with Reproductive Immunologist | 9.14.21
Decidualization score biopsy | 10.1.21 | abnormal - low score of 1; endometrial scratch recommended and progesterone supplementation
Saline sono | 10.15.21 | normal
Bloodwork | 10.21.21 | high TSH, high testosterone, positive for anti-nuclear antibodies and histone antibodies, high protein S, multiple genetic mutations
BFP! | 11.3.21 | EDD 7.14.22 | biopsy provided same effect as endometrial scratch; added supplemental progesterone and estrogen, prednisone, levothyroxine, and MTX Support to maintain pregnancy
DS born 7.19.22 after induction
TTC #2 begins 6.2023
Consultation with RI | 6.6.23
Saline sono, endometritis biopsy, skin & eye check | all normal
Labs | high TSH, Factor XIII mutation, high %CD56
Follow up | 8.8.23 | prescribed metformin, prednisone, plaquenil, and levothyroxine
Repeat labs after 3 weeks on meds
Follow up | 11.9.23 | Green light!, increase in prednisone, added lovenox
Repeat labs in 8 weeks
Follow up | 1.16.24 | Green light continues
TTC put on pause
@crookshanks10 I'm glad I'm not the only one that has thought about it. You would think they'd use something sperm-friendly? I guess it's not exactly cost-effective given how many u/s they do a day.
@inthewoods23 you're right, it probably wouldn't matter for IUI or IVF. Just wondering because we're doing a letrozole + TI cycle and I don't use any lube so was curious to know how long it hangs out in there. We're on a PM HIO schedule so it's like 14 hours between u/s and BD so I'm hoping it will have dissipated by then?
@lulu1180 thank you for the reassurance. I'm probably way overthinking this but it's haunting me now.
TTC History:
Me: 36 MH: 39, TTC since Dec 2017
Aug '18: PCOS dx
Nov '18: MH SA - 19mil
Dec '18-Mar '19: Letrozole + TI - all BFN
Apr '19: Letrozole + TI, - BFN. Repeat SA (27mil) & DNA fragmentation test (17%)
Aug '19: Letrozole + HCG trigger + IUI + prog supp - BFN (MH: 16mil)
Sep '19: 2nd IUI, same protocol - BFN (MH: 16mil)
Dec '19: IVF #1 w/ICSI, PGT. 5 retrieved, 4 fertilized, 3 blasts, 3 PGT-A normal.
Mar '20: FET #1, perfect 5AA blast transferred. BFN.
Sept '20: FET #2, 5BB tsf. 9/18/20 BFP!! EDD: 5/27/21. MMC 11w
Feb ‘21: FET #3, last 6BB blast transferred. BFP, EDD 11/2/21. MC 5w3d.
May '21: IVF #2 w/ICSI, PGT. 8R, 7M, 6F, 6 blasts - 3AB, 3AB, 3BB, 4BB, 5BB, 6BA. Fresh tsf 5/13/21 - BFN.
June '21: PGT-A results = 3 abnormal, 1 low level mosaic. Referred to new REI, had consult with 2nd RE in between.
Sept '21: RPL, immune testing normal
Oct '21: IVF #3 w/IMSI, PGT. 33R, 26M, 23F, 9 blasts (7 day 6, 2 day 7). PGT-A = 5 normal, 1 mosaic
Dec '21: Positive for endometritis, RX Flagyl & Keflex
Jan '22: FET #5 - Kitchen sink immune/RIF protocol incl. PRP, intralipids, prednisone, medrol, nivestym, fragmin - CP
Feb '22: FET #6 - Kitchen sink immune/RIF protocol w/higher doses of pred & fragmin - BFN
Mar '22: Mock cycle for ERA - cancelled, repeat endometrial biopsy instead. Still positive for endometritis. RX ciprofloxacin & amoxicillin.
Apr '22: IVF #4 w/IMSI, PGT. 28R, 23M, 16F, 11 blasts. PGT-A = 6 normal.
June '22: FET #7 - Microdose lupron downreg w/kitchen sink immune/RIF protocol - double embryo transfer. BFN.
July '22: FET #8 - Mini stim w/Puregon + trigger, kitchen sink immune/RIF protocol. BFN.
Sep '22: Taking a break
Dec '22: Attempted abdominal myomectomy, fibroid too close to cervix and major blood vessels. Wasn't removed.
Feb '23: FET #9 - Modified natural w/baby asp, HCG trigger, PIO, PRP, Medrol, HCG wash, embryo glue - BFP!! EDD 11/11/23
TTC #1 since 7.2017
Dx: low morph (1%), ANA positive, low decidualization score, high TSH and testosterone, histone antibodies
IUI #1-3 | all BFN
IVF #1 | 6.11.19 | 24R, 17M, 15F, 6B, PGT-A tested - 5 normal, 3 girls & 2 boys
FET #1 | 9.10.19 | BFN "I know you, but we've never met. I'm with you, but I don't know your name"
RPL, Receptiva, & ERA testing | all normal/negative, recommended going on gluten and dairy free diet for next FET
FET #2 | 3.31.20 | Opted to cancelled due to pandemic, continued diet and tried naturally over the summer
2nd Opinion with another RE | 8.20.20 | Not immune to measles (received 1 dose); SA results similar to 2 years ago; decided to move forward with FET #2 redo at start of next cycle
Surprise natural BFP! | 9.22.20 | MC 10.23.20 at 8 weeks
TTCAL naturally | starting 11.22.20
Initial consultation with Reproductive Immunologist | 9.14.21
Decidualization score biopsy | 10.1.21 | abnormal - low score of 1; endometrial scratch recommended and progesterone supplementation
Saline sono | 10.15.21 | normal
Bloodwork | 10.21.21 | high TSH, high testosterone, positive for anti-nuclear antibodies and histone antibodies, high protein S, multiple genetic mutations
BFP! | 11.3.21 | EDD 7.14.22 | biopsy provided same effect as endometrial scratch; added supplemental progesterone and estrogen, prednisone, levothyroxine, and MTX Support to maintain pregnancy
DS born 7.19.22 after induction
TTC #2 begins 6.2023
Consultation with RI | 6.6.23
Saline sono, endometritis biopsy, skin & eye check | all normal
Labs | high TSH, Factor XIII mutation, high %CD56
Follow up | 8.8.23 | prescribed metformin, prednisone, plaquenil, and levothyroxine
Repeat labs after 3 weeks on meds
Follow up | 11.9.23 | Green light!, increase in prednisone, added lovenox
Repeat labs in 8 weeks
Follow up | 1.16.24 | Green light continues
TTC put on pause
**lurky-loo out 😉**
married 11.1.14
ttc #1 since 5.18
bfp 12.22.18 letrozole + progesterone
d&e due to trisomy 13/hydrops at 15wks
bfp 7.21.19 letrozole + IUI
little girl A born 3.26.20
TTC #1 since 7.2017
Dx: low morph (1%), ANA positive, low decidualization score, high TSH and testosterone, histone antibodies
IUI #1-3 | all BFN
IVF #1 | 6.11.19 | 24R, 17M, 15F, 6B, PGT-A tested - 5 normal, 3 girls & 2 boys
FET #1 | 9.10.19 | BFN "I know you, but we've never met. I'm with you, but I don't know your name"
RPL, Receptiva, & ERA testing | all normal/negative, recommended going on gluten and dairy free diet for next FET
FET #2 | 3.31.20 | Opted to cancelled due to pandemic, continued diet and tried naturally over the summer
2nd Opinion with another RE | 8.20.20 | Not immune to measles (received 1 dose); SA results similar to 2 years ago; decided to move forward with FET #2 redo at start of next cycle
Surprise natural BFP! | 9.22.20 | MC 10.23.20 at 8 weeks
TTCAL naturally | starting 11.22.20
Initial consultation with Reproductive Immunologist | 9.14.21
Decidualization score biopsy | 10.1.21 | abnormal - low score of 1; endometrial scratch recommended and progesterone supplementation
Saline sono | 10.15.21 | normal
Bloodwork | 10.21.21 | high TSH, high testosterone, positive for anti-nuclear antibodies and histone antibodies, high protein S, multiple genetic mutations
BFP! | 11.3.21 | EDD 7.14.22 | biopsy provided same effect as endometrial scratch; added supplemental progesterone and estrogen, prednisone, levothyroxine, and MTX Support to maintain pregnancy
DS born 7.19.22 after induction
TTC #2 begins 6.2023
Consultation with RI | 6.6.23
Saline sono, endometritis biopsy, skin & eye check | all normal
Labs | high TSH, Factor XIII mutation, high %CD56
Follow up | 8.8.23 | prescribed metformin, prednisone, plaquenil, and levothyroxine
Repeat labs after 3 weeks on meds
Follow up | 11.9.23 | Green light!, increase in prednisone, added lovenox
Repeat labs in 8 weeks
Follow up | 1.16.24 | Green light continues
TTC put on pause
@RedBreast35 thank you!! Water makes so much more sense to me. But what do I know?
TTC History:
Me: 36 MH: 39, TTC since Dec 2017
Aug '18: PCOS dx
Nov '18: MH SA - 19mil
Dec '18-Mar '19: Letrozole + TI - all BFN
Apr '19: Letrozole + TI, - BFN. Repeat SA (27mil) & DNA fragmentation test (17%)
Aug '19: Letrozole + HCG trigger + IUI + prog supp - BFN (MH: 16mil)
Sep '19: 2nd IUI, same protocol - BFN (MH: 16mil)
Dec '19: IVF #1 w/ICSI, PGT. 5 retrieved, 4 fertilized, 3 blasts, 3 PGT-A normal.
Mar '20: FET #1, perfect 5AA blast transferred. BFN.
Sept '20: FET #2, 5BB tsf. 9/18/20 BFP!! EDD: 5/27/21. MMC 11w
Feb ‘21: FET #3, last 6BB blast transferred. BFP, EDD 11/2/21. MC 5w3d.
May '21: IVF #2 w/ICSI, PGT. 8R, 7M, 6F, 6 blasts - 3AB, 3AB, 3BB, 4BB, 5BB, 6BA. Fresh tsf 5/13/21 - BFN.
June '21: PGT-A results = 3 abnormal, 1 low level mosaic. Referred to new REI, had consult with 2nd RE in between.
Sept '21: RPL, immune testing normal
Oct '21: IVF #3 w/IMSI, PGT. 33R, 26M, 23F, 9 blasts (7 day 6, 2 day 7). PGT-A = 5 normal, 1 mosaic
Dec '21: Positive for endometritis, RX Flagyl & Keflex
Jan '22: FET #5 - Kitchen sink immune/RIF protocol incl. PRP, intralipids, prednisone, medrol, nivestym, fragmin - CP
Feb '22: FET #6 - Kitchen sink immune/RIF protocol w/higher doses of pred & fragmin - BFN
Mar '22: Mock cycle for ERA - cancelled, repeat endometrial biopsy instead. Still positive for endometritis. RX ciprofloxacin & amoxicillin.
Apr '22: IVF #4 w/IMSI, PGT. 28R, 23M, 16F, 11 blasts. PGT-A = 6 normal.
June '22: FET #7 - Microdose lupron downreg w/kitchen sink immune/RIF protocol - double embryo transfer. BFN.
July '22: FET #8 - Mini stim w/Puregon + trigger, kitchen sink immune/RIF protocol. BFN.
Sep '22: Taking a break
Dec '22: Attempted abdominal myomectomy, fibroid too close to cervix and major blood vessels. Wasn't removed.
Feb '23: FET #9 - Modified natural w/baby asp, HCG trigger, PIO, PRP, Medrol, HCG wash, embryo glue - BFP!! EDD 11/11/23
TTC #1 since 7.2017
Dx: low morph (1%), ANA positive, low decidualization score, high TSH and testosterone, histone antibodies
IUI #1-3 | all BFN
IVF #1 | 6.11.19 | 24R, 17M, 15F, 6B, PGT-A tested - 5 normal, 3 girls & 2 boys
FET #1 | 9.10.19 | BFN "I know you, but we've never met. I'm with you, but I don't know your name"
RPL, Receptiva, & ERA testing | all normal/negative, recommended going on gluten and dairy free diet for next FET
FET #2 | 3.31.20 | Opted to cancelled due to pandemic, continued diet and tried naturally over the summer
2nd Opinion with another RE | 8.20.20 | Not immune to measles (received 1 dose); SA results similar to 2 years ago; decided to move forward with FET #2 redo at start of next cycle
Surprise natural BFP! | 9.22.20 | MC 10.23.20 at 8 weeks
TTCAL naturally | starting 11.22.20
Initial consultation with Reproductive Immunologist | 9.14.21
Decidualization score biopsy | 10.1.21 | abnormal - low score of 1; endometrial scratch recommended and progesterone supplementation
Saline sono | 10.15.21 | normal
Bloodwork | 10.21.21 | high TSH, high testosterone, positive for anti-nuclear antibodies and histone antibodies, high protein S, multiple genetic mutations
BFP! | 11.3.21 | EDD 7.14.22 | biopsy provided same effect as endometrial scratch; added supplemental progesterone and estrogen, prednisone, levothyroxine, and MTX Support to maintain pregnancy
DS born 7.19.22 after induction
TTC #2 begins 6.2023
Consultation with RI | 6.6.23
Saline sono, endometritis biopsy, skin & eye check | all normal
Labs | high TSH, Factor XIII mutation, high %CD56
Follow up | 8.8.23 | prescribed metformin, prednisone, plaquenil, and levothyroxine
Repeat labs after 3 weeks on meds
Follow up | 11.9.23 | Green light!, increase in prednisone, added lovenox
Repeat labs in 8 weeks
Follow up | 1.16.24 | Green light continues
TTC put on pause
But my issue is, what is better? I could see it depending on the person and the cycle. I honestly don’t think I am either good at determining cm or my body likes to SS it. (Or daily allergy medicine alters the results) plus I didn’t have opks this month.
With temps only, my O date changed by 3 days on FF when I switched from advanced to FAM. My LP is generally long and consistent, so I plan on using that to determine whatO day is correct.
married 11.1.14
ttc #1 since 5.18
bfp 12.22.18 letrozole + progesterone
d&e due to trisomy 13/hydrops at 15wks
bfp 7.21.19 letrozole + IUI
little girl A born 3.26.20
@holly321 that makes sense! I feel like I personally lean more towards fam than advanced since, like you, I have trouble figuring out the cm. I also don’t necessarily keep track of all the different things, except for temping every morning. I’m sure the advanced is better since it takes more into account. ETA: I switched it to FAM and it says I didn’t ovulate at all, while advanced gave me crosshairs for when my symptoms lined up with my temps. I’m so confused lol.
Edit words
DS born 6/2017, became a heart angel 8/2018
CP 3/2019
married 11.1.14
ttc #1 since 5.18
bfp 12.22.18 letrozole + progesterone
d&e due to trisomy 13/hydrops at 15wks
bfp 7.21.19 letrozole + IUI
little girl A born 3.26.20
married 11.1.14
ttc #1 since 5.18
bfp 12.22.18 letrozole + progesterone
d&e due to trisomy 13/hydrops at 15wks
bfp 7.21.19 letrozole + IUI
little girl A born 3.26.20
@kimmer1412 Not to be the bearer of bad news but it is possible your first temp spike was a false rise and you didn't actually O on CD15 like you thought. This is one of my an-o charts in the spoiler. You can see I had a false rise around CD17/18 that corresponded with my CM and +OPK, but my temps dropped back down through to CD26, spiked again, dropped back down, then were just all over the place for the rest of my cycle. How long is your LP usually? If AF doesn't show in the next 5-8 days I'd question your O date.
TTC History:
Me: 36 MH: 39, TTC since Dec 2017
Aug '18: PCOS dx
Nov '18: MH SA - 19mil
Dec '18-Mar '19: Letrozole + TI - all BFN
Apr '19: Letrozole + TI, - BFN. Repeat SA (27mil) & DNA fragmentation test (17%)
Aug '19: Letrozole + HCG trigger + IUI + prog supp - BFN (MH: 16mil)
Sep '19: 2nd IUI, same protocol - BFN (MH: 16mil)
Dec '19: IVF #1 w/ICSI, PGT. 5 retrieved, 4 fertilized, 3 blasts, 3 PGT-A normal.
Mar '20: FET #1, perfect 5AA blast transferred. BFN.
Sept '20: FET #2, 5BB tsf. 9/18/20 BFP!! EDD: 5/27/21. MMC 11w
Feb ‘21: FET #3, last 6BB blast transferred. BFP, EDD 11/2/21. MC 5w3d.
May '21: IVF #2 w/ICSI, PGT. 8R, 7M, 6F, 6 blasts - 3AB, 3AB, 3BB, 4BB, 5BB, 6BA. Fresh tsf 5/13/21 - BFN.
June '21: PGT-A results = 3 abnormal, 1 low level mosaic. Referred to new REI, had consult with 2nd RE in between.
Sept '21: RPL, immune testing normal
Oct '21: IVF #3 w/IMSI, PGT. 33R, 26M, 23F, 9 blasts (7 day 6, 2 day 7). PGT-A = 5 normal, 1 mosaic
Dec '21: Positive for endometritis, RX Flagyl & Keflex
Jan '22: FET #5 - Kitchen sink immune/RIF protocol incl. PRP, intralipids, prednisone, medrol, nivestym, fragmin - CP
Feb '22: FET #6 - Kitchen sink immune/RIF protocol w/higher doses of pred & fragmin - BFN
Mar '22: Mock cycle for ERA - cancelled, repeat endometrial biopsy instead. Still positive for endometritis. RX ciprofloxacin & amoxicillin.
Apr '22: IVF #4 w/IMSI, PGT. 28R, 23M, 16F, 11 blasts. PGT-A = 6 normal.
June '22: FET #7 - Microdose lupron downreg w/kitchen sink immune/RIF protocol - double embryo transfer. BFN.
July '22: FET #8 - Mini stim w/Puregon + trigger, kitchen sink immune/RIF protocol. BFN.
Sep '22: Taking a break
Dec '22: Attempted abdominal myomectomy, fibroid too close to cervix and major blood vessels. Wasn't removed.
Feb '23: FET #9 - Modified natural w/baby asp, HCG trigger, PIO, PRP, Medrol, HCG wash, embryo glue - BFP!! EDD 11/11/23