IF Testing & Treatment w/o 9.21

keikilove · September 2020

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: Favorite fall food/drink/event?

keikilove · September 2020

ETA: Y’all, I SUCK at the GTKYs for the IF thread!!! If anyone has anything better, please let me know & I will edit it!

inthewoods23 · September 2020

@keikilove sometimes that's why I don't start the IF threads because I never effing know what to ask

I know once October hits we should ask what our favorite halloween candy is!

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

Status (WTO/TWW/TTA): TWW

What are you doing this cycle? (Testing? Treatment?): last cycle trying naturally, then we'll move on with a FET if needed (hoping not! but we'll see, haven't tested)

How are things going?: not too shabby here. Since our timing was so poor and I wasn't going to use OPKs originally, I'm pretty sure I'm just waiting for AF. The question will be when since I've never had a temp bump the day of a first positive OPK so that's super goofy. Normally that happens last least the day after *shrug*

Any questions?: mmm nope

GTKY: Favorite fall food/drink/event? besides the occasional turkey sandwich at a Jimmy Johns, etc, I don't have turkey other days of the year other than Thanksgiving so I always enjoy that. And for the 10th time, hot apple cider is soooo delicious.

misshelen86 · September 2020

@keikilove I like this question! How are you feeling? Hope your little embabies are getting all snuggly!

@inthewoods23 FX that you are a unicorn that gets KU last cycle before FET 🤞🤞🤞

@ramzlau Glad you were able to go ahead with your IUI. Your weekend sounded lovely.. the beach is my happy place too!

Diagnosis (if you've been): MFI

Status (WTO/TWW/TTA): In limbo

What are you doing this cycle? (Testing? Treatment?): We had our retrieval on Friday and we ended up with 8 embryos! Today is day 3, so I will be getting a call in the next few hours with how many are still hanging in there. I’m currently taking estrace and progesterone so we have the option to do a fresh transfer if we only get 1 embryo. If we get more than 2 to day 5 then we will go ahead with our plan to do PGT.

How are things going?: It’s been an emotional roller coaster- I posted about it in last week’s thread, so I won’t get into it again. But right now I am in a good place. I’m nervous about these next few days but I’m feeling hopeful. I keep telling myself that statistically, we are likely to end up with a few embryos. I have a few more days off work, so I’m just planning to do things I enjoy.. reading (outside if it’s nice), going for walks and I have a paint by number I’m going to start!

Any questions?: nope

GTKY: Favorite fall food/drink/event? I love all the fall comfort food... crock pot chilli, soup & grilled cheese... yum! I think I’m going to make a roasted red pepper soup this week. My fav drink is pumpkin spice latte!!

legallykate · September 2020

@inthewoods23 FX you don’t need to do a FET!

@misshelen86 Hope you get great news on your 8 today, I am glad you are feeling good about things!

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

Status (WTO/TWW/TTA): WF my freaking lining to ever be thick enough

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

How are things going?: I am behind on last week's thread so I need to go read and catch up. I am sure I sound like a broken record but work has been beyond crazy. At least it is keeping my mind off of my never ending lining woes. I go back in Wednesday afternoon and am just telling myself that my lining will finally be thick enough, because I don't know what I will do otherwise! I can't believe I have been on estradiol for 25 days already and still don't even have my transfer scheduled

Any questions?: Nope

GTKY: Favorite fall food/drink/event? Football and football snacks, haha. I also can't wait for it to get cool enough for soups and chili.

misshelen86 · September 2020

@legallykate Everything crossed for a nice thick lining!! 🤞🤞

Image: https://us.v-cdn.net/5020794/uploads/editor/yi/lscci3d9ox4q.gif

AFM.. Lab just called with an update...

All 8 embryos are hanging in there!!!

7 are at 6 cells, 1 is at 8 cells and they are all good quality. Now I just wait to see how many make it to day 5!

keikilove · September 2020

@misshelen86 Hooray!!! Great update!

acleverusername · September 2020

@misshelen86 what a wonderful update! Grow grow little embabies!

babyfeverbeliever · September 2020

@inthewoods23 I always say on Thanksgiving, "We should have turkey more often." And it never happens.

@misshelen86 That is amazing news! What a relief you must feel.

@legallykate I know how you feel with crazy workload and falling behind. Hoping for thick lining soon!!

Diagnosis (if you've been): Unexplained Infertility

Status (WTO/TWW/TTA): TWW

What are you doing this cycle? (Testing? Treatment?): Letrozole + Ovidrel + TI

How are things going?: 11dpo today, got a BFN this morning with 3rd urine. This is the 3rd cycle with this plan, not sure what next steps will be if AF comes. Maybe IUI? Not sure, but I anticipate me RE is going to want to tray something else.

Any questions?: nope!

GTKY: Favorite fall food/drink/event? I love the changes of the seasons...in fall I LOVE going to the pumpkin patch and getting apple cider. Best food is probably chili like others have said! I'm also ready to break out some boots and booties...

ramzlau · September 2020

Diagnosis (if you've been): Unexplained

Status (WTO/TWW/TTA): TWW- 4DPIUI

What are you doing this cycle? (Testing? Treatment?): IUI#5 and final IUI before moving to IVF

How are things going?: Okay, it is the sweet spot in TWW where it is too early for crazy SS, so just trying to stay chill

Any questions?: For those who have done fertility acupuncture, my appointment last week was weird. It was the day before my IUI and the acupuncturist just did needles on my hands, back and ankles. I expected some abdomen work? And do the needles usually hurt? I don't think I am shy about needles after all the infertility testing, but dang some of them really hurt.

GTKY: Favorite fall food/drink/event? Ohhh there is this Wassil at Trader Joes that is sooo good, and I am a lover of apple cider too @inthewoods23! We kick off our fall events with a trip to apple orchard in Sept and then a pumpkin patch in Oct. And the boots! Can't wait for it to be cold enough to justify a pair of boots!

@babyfeverbeliever Sorry for the BFN! It has been helpful for me to have conversations with the RE about what course of action results in what kind of improvement on our odds (example doing IUI increased our odds by 5%). Then we were able to discuss if we felt comfortable with next steps given the options. Hope your RE has a solid plan to GYKU!

@misshelen86 My reaction to your update. Grow embabies grow!

Image: https://us.v-cdn.net/5020794/uploads/editor/pl/a65bm4d24bir.gif

@legallykate Come on lining! Its like waiting for gravy to get thick, it seems like forever!

@inthewoods23 I say the same about turkey every year. Never happens. Hope you are a SS with this cycle!

@keikilove Hope you are doing lots of TLC during this TWW! Thinking of you!

@kiki047 I am hoping the silence is a good thing! Sending you all the best wishes!

Anyone heard from @kpearse99? It has been awhile, just want to check on her.

akoros · September 2020

Diagnosis (if you've been): AMA, RPL (unexplained), Factor V Leiden

Status (WTO/TWW/TTA): TWW

What are you doing this cycle? (Testing? Treatment?): Just trying naturally, plus vitamins. Also found my baby aspirin this morning, so taking that just in case (been meaning to buy some but kept forgetting)

How are things going?: Ok, getting anxious waiting on my period and oscillating between hoping it won't come and being terrified

Any questions?: none

GTKY: Favorite fall food/drink/event? Food: going to go with all the cozy foods (stews, soups, chili, baking bread, etc); Drink: apple cider, but also a fan of fall/winter beers (brown ales, Oktoberfests, darker lagers, give them all to me), not to mention scotch to warm you on a chilly evening; Event: the holidays and festivals. Not as much this year, but normally fall is when we have a bunch of neighborhood festivals and also our favorite beer festival. It's the best time of year in DC (if you ever want to do a trip to DC, make it in October -- never EVER come in July or August, I don't understand why so many tourists do that). I also do enjoy football, though my team is stinking it up so far so maybe I'll just focus on fantasy football. I actually managed to win last year, so hoping I can make a good showing

I kind of like fall...can you tell? So, @keikilove, I have no problems with this GTKY

@inthewoods23 I do this with ham, too. I only eat it around Easter (occasionally on Christmas), but wish I'd have it more. Oddly, I saw a pile of frozen turkey breasts at the grocery store a couple of months ago (back when there was a shortage on all the meats...except for apparently turkey) and debated grabbing some. I only stopped because our freezer is small and already packed with other things.

Totally with @babyfeverbeliever on the boots, I got so excited last week when I wore my new booties to go to the dentist.

KNB1027 · September 2020

Hey all! It has been a hot minute since I've been on here

We did 3 rounds of IUI this spring/summer and are now moving on to IVF. I love reading updates on everyone but often struggle to stay engaged with the board during the downs of TTC. My goal is to stay more involved this time to give and get support!

Diagnosis (if you've been): MFI

Status (WTO/TWW/TTA): Pre-IVF cycle

What are you doing this cycle? (Testing? Treatment?): Right now we are wrapping up our pre-testing for our first IVF cycle to start next month with a transfer planned in November.

How are things going?: Honestly it is just a relief to start this process. We took a couple of months after the last failed IUI off to decide where we wanted to go from there and now I'm just excited to get back on the wagon, so to speak.

Any questions?: Not yet. I'm sure I will have more as I get closer to starting meds

GTKY: Favorite fall food/drink/event? So I'm that girl - I look forward to pumpkin spice everything! I recently started Arbonne's 30 day healthy living program to prepare for this upcoming cycle and I have been living on the vanilla protein with pumpkin puree, cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice.

@inthewoods23 FX for this cycle! I have never been an apple cider fan but I try again every year because I hear your tastes change

@misshelen86 WooHoo! Congrats on all 8 little growing eggs!

@legallykate I am sending all the positive vibes to your lining!! Oh the things we say to each other in the IF journey

@babyfeverbeliever so sorry about the BFN those are so stinking hard. It's hard to plan for next steps when you are being so positive toward your current plan. I hope you and you're RE can come up with a plan that makes you hopeful and is doable!

@ramzlau I have my first acupuncture appointment tomorrow so hopefully we can compare notes soon.

@akoros I love my Sooners but am so bummed that COVID has put such a damper on the season. I was counting on it as a good distraction and now I won't even be able to go tailgate and hang out on campus for the games.

ramzlau · September 2020

@KNB1027 I am sorry you find yourself back here. I hope your stay is short. Curious, what pre-testing have you had to do after IUI but before IVF? I am trying to get my ducks in a row for IVF if we get to that point. Pumpkin protein shakes are a favorite fall shake for me too! And are you an Okie?

I grew up near the panhandle. Hope the appointment tomorrow goes well!

KNB1027 · September 2020

@ramzlau I am an Okie in OKC

So we did a mapping appointment, antral follicle count and mock transfer to measure the size of my uterus, ovaries, and make sure he could get the catheter for the transfer where he wanted it. I had to get a new AMH and FSH to determine medication doses, an infection screening/blood typing, and chose to do a carrier screening for genetic testing. DH had to get a new SA since the last one was done over 6 months ago and an infection screening. We are waiting for the carrier screen to come back to determine if he also needs one, to make sure we both aren't carriers for the same things. We also are getting all of our financial ducks in a row with the clinic.

keikilove · September 2020

@inthewoods23 Thank you for understanding why I rarely ever start this thread!

The candy question is always a fun one for next month, happy to find out who loves candy corn along with us and who despises it, hahah! I so hope you are that special unicorn that doesn't need another FET. And yes, apple cider is freaking delish!

@misshelen86 I'm so glad so many of you actually liked the question! It was the only thing I could think of since the season is officially changing tomorrow. I am feeling very well, thank you for asking. I am trying not to SS the very few symptoms I have (blaming them on the estradiol and progesterone to protect myself). How are you feeling after the ER? Any bloating or healing remaining? All your fall foods make me hope it actually gets cold here this fall so we can enjoy all those things.

@legallykate Guuuuurrrrlll, I hope this Wednesday is IT!!! FX for a thick & spongey lining at that check-up. Glad that you have crazy work to keep you busy! And YES to fall football! It's gonna feel weird without the live get-togethers this year...

@babyfeverbeliever Sorry for the bfn. How do you feel about the thought of moving to IUI? I'm sorry I don't remember--are you out of pocket or will insurance cover the cost? If insurance has you covered, I'd say go for it at least once. But your RE will know what the best plan of action is for you.

@ramzlau Oh nice, being in the sweet spot of TWW is so comforting. Hope you are able to stay chill as the week goes by. It's funny you mentioned the painful fertility acupuncture: I went to a woman who was a seasoned acupuncturist but was just beginning to learn about the fertility techniques, and her needles didn't hurt in the slightest. Lately I've been going to a clinic that specializes in fertility, and a few of the needles hurt a lot! She puts them into the tips of my fingers and other really sensitive areas. Both practitioners did put at least one needle on my abdomen during each session, but I think it all depends on what they believe they need to stimulate within your body to get things flowing in balance. So maybe you don't need them on your abdomen because those particular energy channels might be working well? Thanks for thinking of me, you all are so sweet!

@akoros Perfect timing to find the baby aspirin.

I hope you start to feel a bit more settled as this cycle goes on. It's rough to "get back to normal" under the circumstances. And OMG, I love all your answers to the GTKY! Hahaha, a true fan of fall! And I have to agree with all of you on the boots & booties-that is one thing I do wish we could wear in this warm-weather place. All my cute boots go to waste.

@KNB1027 Welcome back! It sounds like you are really covering all of your bases with all of the pre-testing before you start IVF again. Your doctor sounds very thorough and well-informed. That's great! I'm not into pumpkin spice, but your protein shake sounds amazing.

Diagnosis (if you've been): RPL, Elevated NK cells & activity (mostly resolved), 3 blood-clotting mutations, AMA, DOR

Status (WTO/TWW/TTA): TWW, finally!

What are you doing this cycle? (Testing? Treatment?): Did fresh embryo transfer almost a week ago. Trying to remain zen, positive, and centered as we wait to test at the end of this week.

How are things going?: Overall, things are going well. I have very few symptoms, which makes me nervous, and I am pretty sure they can all be attributed to the supplementary estradiol and progesterone. But then I remember that anytime I have had significant symptoms in the past it didn't end well. So who knows? Just trying to go with the flow and be in a spirit of acceptance for whatever is meant to be. As you have probably seen in my other posts, fertility yoga and fertility meditations have become my best friends for staying positive and sane through this process. (Besides you girls, of course!)

Any questions?: NATM. I did ask my RI nurse today if I could test any earlier than the days that the betas are scheduled for, and she said not to. (I asked her this question because I need to coordinate that blood draw with some bloodwork I have to FedEx to their office for up-to-date NK & cytokine levels.) Her logic was that if I get a very early positive it will likely be a really low number due to being so early, and that will just make me stress that it's not gonna work out, so why put myself through that? For once I think I will actually follow doctor's orders.

GTKY: Favorite fall food/drink/event? I love apple cider, wassail, spiked apple cider, and any cider beers like blueberry and pear. Maybe I'm a weirdo, but I also love meatloaf & other heavy comfort foods like that in cooler weather. I mentioned the pumpkin patch that kicks off the fall season here, which we will probably do in the next couple of weeks.

misshelen86 · September 2020

@babyfeverbeliever Sorry about the BFN. 3rd urine at 11 dpo won’t be the most accurate though.. maybe try again in a couple days with FMU. Hope that your RE has a good plan in case this cycle doesn’t work!

@ramzlau The acupuncture needles don’t usually hurt for me. My acupuncturist puts needles everywhere.. wrist, lower arms, lower legs, feet, abdomen, forehead. FX for a chill TWW!

@akoros Hope your period stays away. Glad you have so many fall things to look forward to!

@KNB1027 I felt a huge relief as well after we made the decision to move ahead with IVF. It was a huge step in the direction we’ve been trying to get to for so long! GL getting all your ducks in a row.. that sounds like a lot of tests!

@keikilove I’m feeling pretty good. Still pretty bloated and having some cramps at times, but the heating pad is all I need! Hope you are able to stay zen and positive! Sending you so many positive vibes!! Sounds like a good idea to hold off testing.. when is your beta?

akoros · September 2020

@misshelen86 Unfortunately (fortunately?) my period came overnight and is rearing its ugly head right now. Our timing sucked this cycle, so I'm not surprised. On the plus side, this means I can fully participate in our Oktoberfest-for-2 plans this weekend (basically make pretzels, grill brats, and drink too much beer with my husband on our patio)

misshelen86 · September 2020

@akoros Sorry about your period

But enjoy your Oktoberfest-for-2!! Yum!!!

kpearse99 · September 2020

@ramzlau You are simply the sweetest!!! I'm so sorry I haven't been on/posting at all in like the last 2 weeks or so. I've been trying to keep up with everyone though, as much as possible! TW for mention of LO

It's been extra hard to get on and keep up now that virtual learning has started for DS. I'm WFH and basically homeschooling/assisting with virtual learning and it's exhausting!! Our school district is fully virtual until Feb. 2nd and this our third week. It's going pretty well, and certainly gets better each week, but they are pretty much live all day and DS doesn't have the best attention span! Plus, my home office is now also his classroom so it's just been a lot!

All of that plus I feel like I don't have much to contribute anymore now that DH and I are truly just NTNP. It's hard to try and fully take my mind off TTGP if I'm constantly surrounded by all of the consuming thoughts. So again, I'm so sorry! It's just been so hectic and nearly impossible to keep up with my own thoughts lately!
But I am lurking on all of you. Anyone can feel free to PM me at anytime, I keep checking on here as much as I can just to try and stay in the loop with all of you!!

babyfeverbeliever · September 2020

@akoros I'm right there with you - AF arrived for me this morning. Sliver lining - enjoy those drinks!

@ramzlau I talked with the fertility center today and they are renewing my prescriptions and going with the same method this cycle as last, but said I need to schedule an appointment with the RE sometime this cycle to go over options for next if this one does not work.

@KNB1027 I just cannot get on board with pumpkin spice - probably because I just don't like pumpkin!

So excited for you that you have a new plan and something to look forward to in November!

@keikilove I have everything crossed for you in this TWW! My insurance does not cover IUI. It covers only diagnosis and consultation for infertility, but no procedures, unfortunately. A 5% increase in conception chances is not super high, IMO, but I think I would still be open to giving that a try for a few rounds!

ramzlau · September 2020

@kpearse99 That is a lot to juggle! I hope you find a new rhythm. Totally understand if you need a break from the checkins while NTNP. Feel free to PM me anytime for venting or anything! Much love friend!

@babyfeverbeliever I hope you end up not needing a new plan because this new cycle is the one for you!

KNB1027 · September 2020

@keikilove You've got this girl! Glad your nurse was able to give a good explanation for waiting to test and hopefully the next week will be filled with lots to keep you occupied while waiting.

@misshelen86 when is your transfer scheduled? Does your doc have you do bed rest at all after?

@akoros sorry about AF but glad you get to fully participate in your personal Oktoberfest - it sounds like a tasty and fun plan!

@babyfeverbeliever When do you meet with your RE to decide next steps?

@kpearse99 wow sister, it sounds like you have your hands full! I have had a hard enough time adjusting to all the covid changes and I don't have to worry about a human who needs my help for all the things. Sending energetic and patience vibes your way!

@ramzlau Just got done with my acupuncture appointment! He did put needles in my abdomen as well as hands, feet, knees, ankles, and forehead. The ones in my feet and forehead stung a bit but the pain went away after a minute or so even though I could still tell they were in there.

lickastick · September 2020

Dirty lurker! I hope you don’t mind me chiming in.

@ramzlau I am a fertility acupuncturist in California and the needles don’t need to hurt. That is very dependent on the practitioner. If it is too intense you might be better off finding someone else, or asking if the needles can be done more gently. This is a particular passion project of mine, because I’ve spent my 10+ years in practice doing non aggressive/gentle needle technique and i get great results. It really is a person to person thing, and some people just don’t have the technique to do it in a way that doesn’t hurt, or they come from a background where it’s a point of pride to needle aggressively.

As far as the abdomen goes, you may or may not get needles in your abdomen depending on where you are at in your cycle and what style the practitioner does. I will say that you will know you have a really good practitioner if they do both a front and back treatment. I can’t tell you how sad i am when i get patient’s that come to me from another practitioner and say they only ever had a front treatment and had the same 4-6 needles every time. The treatment should be tailored to your cycle or where you are at going through stims or medications, it should change as your hormones change. Also if you aren’t getting the results you want, go see someone else. I always always tell people don’t throw the medicine away, change practitioners. We all have different talents and specialties and when you find the right person you’ll know. My biggest thing is I want my patients to get the most value for what they pay, it’s not cheap, and i want to see them getting results. Especially if you’ve been on the infertility wheel for a while. You have enough stress and you should feel supported and taken care of by your practitioner, and that includes the bedside manner and needle technique.

Always advocate for yourself and if you say “hey the needles really hurt, is there a way for it to be more gentle?” If the practitioner can’t do that for you, then you know you’ve found their limitations and it might be time to move on. It really shouldn’t be an experience you dislike. I hope that helps and I’m happy to answer any other questions you have. There is so many wonderful things acupuncture can do in the fertility world and having the right person helping you is key.

acleverusername · September 2020

@inthewoods23 This is the last time I'm tagging you in this thread!!! @fitzfizz said it best in TWW, so I'll just copy:

@misshelen86 I'm anxiously awaiting Day 5 update tomorrow. FX. Also, newbie question... is the idea to grow each embryo to 8 cells?

@legallykate I'm really hoping your lining check goes well tomorrow and that you can get this show on the road! I can only imagine how frustrating this must be for you. Especially since you'd previously mentioned how stressful end of month is going to be for you work wise. Good luck!

@babyfeverbeliever I'm in the same boat with my insurance. 😞It really sucks. Also sorry about AF's untimely arrival. When do you meet with your RE? Based on my research, the cumulative chance of success after 4-5 IUIs basically flatlines. Hopefully you RE will have a good plan for you.

@ramzlau I really can't give you any better advice than @lickastick. However, my LAc does different points depending on whether or not I'm in luteal or follicular phase of my cycle. Also, pre-IUI she did very different points, that mostly included my feet, hands, ear(s) and head. The ear was new. I guess some of them hurt? Really though, I'm very used to it by now. Oh, and the one of my head sometimes bleeds a bit.

@akoros Others have already said it, but your Oktoberfest-for-2 sounds totally delightful! What a great date night idea. 🙂Enjoy it to the fullest now that AF is here.

@KNB1027 Welcome back to the most supportive corner of TB. It's great that you've decided to move forward with IVF. Good luck with all the testing, and we'll be here for you every step of the way. Do you have a protocol yet?

@keikilove I feel your positive energy in the Bay Area; that's how strong it is! Hopefully you will have good news soon. Friday is only 3 days away! You RI nurse's logic is sound, and I'm glad you're listening to her Ms. 8DPO Tester! Btw, you've probably mentioned this before, but what is your meditation / fertility yoga source? I've been using Headspace app since March, but it's just general meditation and I'm wondering if I should switch.

@kpearse99 I have missed your sunny posts but it sounds like you have A LOT on your plate so it's totally understandable that you can't be as active. Good luck with virtual learning and managing working/learning from the same space. This is a tough year for all; hopefully 2021 will bring with it some pleasantness and normalcy.

I think I got everyone...?

Diagnosis (if you've been): "Unexplained"

Status (WTO/TWW/TTA): Waiting for AF after stopping progesterone

What are you doing this cycle? (Testing? Treatment?): First IUI was unsuccessful; we're now taking a pause from IUI to figure out what's happening on MH's side. Consult with reproductive urologist is scheduled for 9/30.

How are things going?: I'd been mentally prepared for BFN ever since the IUI, so it wasn't a big shock to the system though my bbt did mess with me a little bit last week. The positive thing we learned from this cycle is: my body responds to Clomid really well; the negative thing we learned: we have more of a male-factor issue than we had planned on. Today we had a follow-up call with our RE and she broadly agreed with the plan I had outlined in a very long post in last week's thread... with the exception of taking time off. We have an appointment with the reproductive urologist booked for 9/30 and will try and diagnose any underlying issues and possibly start treatment (i.e. maybe Clomid?). Either way, MH has only been taking supplements that are supposed to increase count/motility for 1.5-2 months, so we won't see effects of those until end of October / November, so doing more IUIs in the meanwhile would be a waste of money (since we're out of pocket). Finally, she suggested that while we explore MH's issues, that we do a couple of unmonitored Clomid cycles. We did discuss the lifetime max of Clomid, and she said she'll likely have me do 2 more cycles on Clomid and then switch me to Letrazole.

A few other things I learned:
- the quoted IUI success rates is really if your TMC is over 10M
- if urologist recommends any treatment for MH, then it would likely also be beneficial in case we end up with IVF
- for our age group, difference between egg quality now versus 6 months from now isn't significant; so there's really no issue with taking the time to figure out MHs issues; she was supportive of that
- I have to retract my statement from 2 weeks ago, especially for @misshelen86 and @keikilove's benefit: apparently they did wash MH's sperm (otherwise I'd have had some serious side effects), but it was the most basic of washes. They just didn't put the post-wash count on our little report, but the RE said it was the same TMC as pre-wash.

Any questions?: Yeah, the big one I'm struggling with is whether or not I should continue considering going out of state for any further treatments. On the one hand, we really like our RE... she's a good match for us. On the other hand, the cost 🙈... I'll put some in spoiler just to compare. My FIL has a winter house in AZ, so we'd have a place to stay.

IUI (excluding meds; cost minimal): cost in SF - $1566; cost in AZ - $800
IVF, including PGT and FET (excluding meds; cost is pretty high... 4-6K): cost in SF - $19.4K; cost in AZ - $12.4K
Honestly, just looking at these $'s having written them down it's very clear to me; we have to go out of state. It's so freaking unfair that SF pricing is inflated by all the tech co's (mine excluded) that cover the benefit 100%. I don't even know how ppl who don't have high tech jobs can have children if faced with infertility with these kinds of pricing. It makes me so sad / mad.

GTKY: Favorite fall food/drink/event? It's weird... I don't really have an immediate answer to this because I'm still trying to figure out what I like about fall in the Bay Area (spoiler alert: it's not the Wildfire season). But, back home I really loved making hearty fall soups (i.e. butternut squash) and I'm starting to do that again since SF temperatures are always fall-like.

misshelen86 · September 2020

@KNB1027 We are doing PGT which checks to make sure the embryos have the right amount of chromosomes. So our transfer will hopefully be in November after we have those results back. Most RE’s don’t recommend bed rest anymore.. it’s better to get moving and get the blood flowing to the uterus.

@acleverusername The goal is for a day 3 embryo to have 6-10 cells. The ones at 8 cells are more likely to make it to a blast stage (day 5 with about a hundred cells). I’m surprised your RE recommended unmonitored clomid cycles.. that’s how people end up with high-order multiples. I would insist on having a mid-cycle ultrasound so you know how many follies you are working with. I’m hoping the urologist can give you more answers and help you make a plan! And I’m sorry there is such a difference in cost but it’s good you have the option to go to AZ if necessary!

Day 5 update...

Today we have 5 blasts that are being biopsied and frozen!! 😍😭 I never imagined we would have such a good outcome. We still have the potential to have more tomorrow that are just a bit behind. I’ll get a call again tomorrow to let me know if any more caught up.

ramzlau · September 2020

@misshelen86 5! Makes my heart warm! Will keep cheering for those last few to catch up today!

@acleverusername I hate that it is so expensive, but those are the same prices where I am and there is definitely not a lot of companies that are covering it. Maybe it is just inflated city prices? More options? Either way I hope you get answers on 9/30. And hopefully AF stays away long enough so you can catch the next cycle with Clomid after the appointment.

acleverusername · September 2020

@misshelen86 5! That's truly amazing. I am so so happy for you. And who knows, maybe even more today! FX In terms of monitoring, it's an extra cost, and I'm not really sure I needed it. My OB was OK prescribing me Clomid with no monitoring, so I'm not too worried.

@ramzlau You're in DC, right? Weird; maybe it is city prices? Then again, Phoenix is a big city (way bigger than SF!) It's probably supply and demand. AF arrived today, and I got everything organized yesterday to start Clomid tomorrow (just need to take an HPT for some reason. Waste of a test.)

misshelen86 · September 2020

@acleverusername Is this an RE or OB prescribing Clomid without monitoring? This is a common practice among OB’s. I understand that it seems like you are saving money, but it puts you at risk for multiples. You won’t know how you are responding (if too much or not at all) or if you have developed cysts- which could lead to further complications. Plus, it’s only recommended to do a max of 6 clomid cycles, so it could be a waste of time/money if it’s not working. Do what’s right for you, but I would urge you to at least look into the risks of unmonitored clomid.

Day 6 update..

We have 7 embryos biopsied and frozen! One embryo stopped growing, but we have 6 day-5 blasts and one day-6! 🥳 I still can’t believe these results! We will be getting the PGT results in 3 1/2 weeks.

krash_ · September 2020

*lurking*
DD because I did some googling like an adult!

@misshelen86Congrats on your embryos!

mvt2003 · September 2020

*lurking*

@acleverusername I very much second @misshelen86 on being fully informed - unmonitored Clomid with IUI is how the Gosselin sextuplets arrived according to the New York Times. I would really insist on a mid-cycle check at the very least, for your own health and safety.

@misshelen86 Congrats on those beautiful embies!!!!!

babyfeverbeliever · September 2020

@KNB1027 I haven't scheduled the appt yet...but I'm targeting 10/2 because that's when I go in for a mid-cycle ultrasound and could kill 2 birds with 1 stone.

@acleverusername Hoping to meet with the RE on 10/2 and come up with the plan. If not IUI...I'm not sure what my next steps are. I just haven't come to terms in my mind with potentially having to do something beyond timed intercourse or IUI. I don't know THAT much about the other options, so looking forward to learning. And OMG to those prices you listed for SF! If you have the option, it might not only be a good financial decision to go to AZ, it might be a nice change of pace/scenery for you also. I would lean toward that....HEAVILY lean toward that...

@misshelen86 Congratulations!! That is so so exciting!! Hoping those others are ready soon, too!!

acleverusername · September 2020

@misshelen86 @mvt2003 you guys are right; I'll e-mail the clinic to ask for an u/s (this is RE prescribing; not OB). All the reading I've done on Clomid says there's like a 1% chance of something more than twins.

@misshelen86 what wonderful news! Lucky number 7! Hopefully many of them are healthy! How is the recovery going?

optimisticoctopus · September 2020

I popped in here to say hi last month and have been lurking since but felt like I didn’t really have anything to say since timing didn’t work out for our IUI last cycle. I’m jumping in late this week since AF just started my IUI cycle!

Diagnosis (if you've been): no official diagnosis

Status (WTO/TWW/TTA): WTO

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

How are things going?: I feel like I want to say pretty good? I’m a little anxious about the IUI this cycle, and even though I’ve obviously done endless googling because that’s who I am as a person, I’m still feeling a little clueless! Today is CD1, so my RE wants me to come in for BW/US tomorrow, then probably start Clomid on Saturday. I feel like even though I knew it was going to move quickly I was somehow still surprised when the nurse was getting me scheduled this afternoon.

Any questions?: I feel like I don’t know what I don’t know...are there any questions that I should be asking my RE when I am there tomorrow?

GTKY: Favorite fall food/drink/event? Going to agree that warm apple cider is just the best. I’m also a big fan of apple cider donuts, especially when they are fresh and still warm! Also pumpkin bread (which I made last weekend). And like others, we usually go to a ton of fall festivals this time of year. I’m feeling very bummed with all our empty weekends that are usually spent doing fun fall things.

@akoros your octoberfest sounds amazing!! I’ve been saying to DH that I want to do something like that haha

@kpearse sorry you’re feeling overwhelmed with the new normal of virtual learning!

@acleverusername I’m so sorry for insurance/cost stress. I’m glad you have the option to go out of state, but frustrated for you that it may come to that.

@misshelen86 yay for all those little embies!!

ramzlau · September 2020

@misshelen86 Keeping fingers crossed for good grading report! For our IVF I was hoping retrieval in Nov and FET in Dec, but I never took into consideration the time it takes to get a report back on testing!

@runningoncookies I don’t feel like there are any questions until the second ultrasound mid-cycle. Then it is about the number of follies developing and how quickly. Good luck this cycle!

acleverusername · September 2020

@babyfeverbeliever the IUI does increase your chances by 5%, so there is value there. Hopefully your RE will recommend a path forward that you're 💯comfortable with.

@runningoncookies having just done an IUI cycle, I can confirm the time leading up to it moves really fast (but TWW is still just as long 🙁) I'm trying to think of questions I had, and really I don't think I had anything until the ultrasound on Day 11 (I only had 1 U/S) and then it was mostly around size of my follicles, what the trigger shot will do, etc. But I'm sure you found answers to those questions yourself.

@misshelen86 @mvt2003 I did check with my clinic as to why no u/s, and the nurse is saying that since we're using the same dose of Clomid as last time, my body is expected to react in the same way (only 2 follicles developed last time.) Also, since there is no IUI, the chance of success is lower. At this point, I think I'm comfortable with those facts. But, I would only do up to 2 unmonitored Clomid cycles before switching to Letrazole; I would definitely ask for a monitoring u/s with a new medication. You've both raised important points to keep in mind though.

optimisticoctopus · September 2020

@ramzlau @acleverusername thanks! I feel like I should have questions even though it’s totally logical not to at this point in the cycle haha. I think it’s a little bit of about control for me, where I’ve been obsessing over literally every little thing for nearly a year now, and now I’m handing it over to the professionals. Just feels weird and my head is spinning a little bit being brand new to it all!

KNB1027 · September 2020

@acleverusername Yep got my protocol last week! I will start BCPs on day 3 of next cycle, 0.1 ml of Lupron starting on CD 21 and then 150 IU Follistim and 150 IU of Menopur 2 weeks after starting on the Lupron. So looking at a retrieval sometime around the 3rd week of November. Wow that is an expensive difference from SF to AZ! I hate that money dictates so many things in IVF - it really needs to be universally covered since it is a medical condition.

@misshelen86 congratulations on all of your sweet little frosties! We can both hang together for a November transfer

I had read that most didn't recommend bed rest but hadn't talked to my RE about it and lord knows I would prefer not to take anymore time off work than necessary!

@babyfeverbeliever that sounds like a great plan; one visit two purposes!

@runningoncookies yay for a new IUI cycle

I agree with @ramzlau I didn't really have any questions at the beginning of the cycle but more as I got closer to ovulation. I'm grateful my RE has such a lovely nurse who would take my "what if I ovulate too soon" freak out calls

optimisticoctopus · September 2020

Has anyone continued temping during a medicated IUI cycle and found it to be helpful? It feels weird to not track BBT, but I also feel like there’s really no point since my RE will be monitoring me?

ramzlau · September 2020

@runningoncookies I don’t because the trigger shot and progesterone mess up the temps at/post ovulation, so I feel like it is pointless for me. But I do continue to use OPKs after the CD11 ultrasound.

acleverusername · September 2020

@runningoncookies I temped last cycle anyway (out of habit) as @ramzlau pointed out, the meds mess everything up. My chart from last cycle looks nothing like my natural chart and that really messed with my head last cycle.

optimisticoctopus · September 2020

@ramzlau @acleverusername that’s kinda what I was thinking that the meds would mess everything up anyway. Looks like I’ll be letting myself sleep in on the weekends this cycle!

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