IVF Anyone? Part 3

[IVFIVF]

IVF Support & Friendship Part 3
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Our Thread Members:

alo
Age: 30
DH: 32
Married: 10/01
TTC: 2003
DX: balanced translocation chromosomes 1 and 4
4 m/c (3 chemical pgs, and 1 loss at 10 weeks of triplets)
IVF with PGD #1 unsuccessful due to genetically abnormal embryos
IVF with PGD #2 October 2005, unsuccessful

amychris03
Me: Amy, 29
DH: Chris, 35
Married: 6/21/03
DX: PCOS, lack musculature along outside of tubes
Ectopic PG: 9/04
Status: PREGNANT
EDD: 3/26/06

angelgirl8
me: angelgirl8, 28
dh: also 28
married: 7.6.03
ttc: 1.04
testing: cd3 and 7dpo blood tests fairly normal
5.04: SA normal
9.04: HSG-tubes clear
9.04, 10.04, 11.04: clomid, IUI, trigger, progesterone
12.04: gonal-f 150iu, IUI, trigger, progesterone
3.04: IVF#1 (all but 1 of the 22 fertilized eggs multinucleated and fragmented; transferred 1 4-celled embryo on day 3)
5.04: IVF#2; added metformin: (18 retrieved, 13 fertilized, 4 low quality embryos survived and transferred on day 3)
6.02.05: Pregnant with TWINS! EDD - 2/8/06

Applebee
Me: Lori Ann (39)
DH: Ted (36)
TTC: Oct 04
DX: Unknown; All tests ok; SA ok
M/C: Jan 1997 @ 7 weeks
Two snowbabies: 6 day blastocysts; over 100 cells each
IVF #1 APRIL 06: BFN - 3dt w/AH, Grade 1 - 8 cell, Grade 1 - 7 cell
IVF #2 JULY 06: Antagon Protocol; 6/11 BCPs, 7/5 Evaluation, 7/8 Start Stims, Antagon to begin sometime after stims, 7/20 est. egg retrieval, 7/25 est. egg transfer

Asha
Age: 29
DH: 29
Married: 8/03
TTC: june 04
DX: possible pelvic adhesions due to ruptured appendix as a child
3 months of clomid
starting IVF cycle sometime in november

Astro
Me: Astro age 39
DH: DH age 36
TTC since Sept 03
Laporoscopy June 04
Polypectomy October 04
DX: unexplained infertility with a touch of endo and fibroids.
Clomid/IUIs/Progesterone since July 04
Pregnant with Twins
Status; Miscarried at 16 weeks.

AusMarchBride
Me: 39
DH: 42
TTC: Mar 2003
DX: Unexplained IF
IVF#1: Jan 05, unsuccessful
IVF#2: May 05, PREGNANT
BFP: Jun 14, 2005 Sarah born by c-section, 27 Jan 06, 5lbs 2ozs

Bellefior
Age: 37
DH: 36
Married: 5/03
TTC: 5/05
DX: Male Factor Infertility (DH Dxed with varicocele, 6/06)
IVF cycle expected to begin mid-October, tentative ER/ET sometime around the first week in November

Cath
Me: Catherine, 32
DH: 34
Married: 11/01
TTC: 11/03
Dx: PCOS in July 2004
4 failed IUIs
1 chemical pregnancy a month we were taking a break(10/05)
Frozen egg cycle - Sept. 06
Pregnant - EDD May 23, 2007

donm425
me: Donna (35)
DH: Mike (36)
TTC: Nov 04
DX : High FSH (14/20/11.5) and one blocked tube

gator97
Me: 30
DH: 30
Married 11/04
Off BCP 12/04 (started charting 12/04)
8/05 - lap- endo
1/06 - HSG-clear
1/06 - SA normal
4/06- IVF#1- BFN
7/06-IVF #2- BFN
10/06- IVF #3- Pregnant!

Gymwidow
Me: 29
DH: 30
Married: 6/03
TTC: 6/05
DX: PCOS, mild male factor (borderline motility, morphology)
Clomid - 11/05-3/06, 3 with IUI
natural ovulatory cycles - 4/06, 6/06, 1 with IUI
Gonal-F - 5/06, 7/06, both with IUI
IVF - 8/06-9/06
Pregnant!

Happy1
Me: Nikki, 27 (7/17/78)
DH: Tim, 35 (11/2/69)
Married: 6/08/02
DX: Male factor
Status: Just starting out

islandgirlsj
Me: Lisa (37)
DH: Ken (41)
Married: April 26th, 2003
DX: Tubes tied, had tubal pregnancy which took a tube.
IVF#1: Unsuccessful,6/5/05 - We have 10 frozen embries, so we move onto a FET cycle next.
IVF#2 -FET, 7/25/05 - Unsuccessful 8/3/05
Currently taking a break. May try another FET in the New Year.

Jad
me: 34
DH: 33
married: 9/02
DX: male factor
IVF #1 June/July - Chemical Pregnancy
IVF #2: September/October 2005
Twin boys, b/d February, 2006

jon'sgirl
me: 29
DH: 31
married: 5/02
DX: male factor
IVF: currently doing our first IVF cycle.

Jude
Me: Emma (37)
DH: Richard (40)
TTC: July 2005
DX: Low sperm count following chemo, & PCO.

JulesP313
Me - 34
DH - 39
Married - 03/03
TTC - 12/04
Diagnois - high FSH (11.3), possible dysfunctional fimbriae
BFP - 11/05
M/C - 12/05 at 5w5d
06/06 - IVF

Kat(FKA MIPG?)
Age: 36
DH: 40
Married: 9/02
TTC: 12/03
DX: unexplained (HSG, SA, bloodwork all fine)
10/04: miscarried at about 6 weeks
11/04 - 3/05: four rounds of Clomid + trigger (and timed BD) -- all unsuccessful
IVF #1: June '05 (transferred two 8-cell, grade 1 embies)
Status: beta was 6/23
PREGNANT with TWINS!
EDD: 3/2/06 - Boy / Girl Twins!

kemorr
Me: 29
DH: 31, 32 in Feb.
Married: January 5th 2002
TTC: September 2004
IF Info: Grade 2 endometriosis, mild male factor, classified as "unexplained"
3 Clomid cycles, 2 with IUI - all BFNs
4 Gonal-F cycles with IUI - all ultimately BFNs
Possible chem pregnancies on 1st and 3rd Gonal-F cycles, may just be booster HCG at 7 DPO - RE doesn't seem sure!
Laparoscopy 10/05 to remove mild endo
Hysteroscopy 10/05 all clear
Starting IVF Feb/Mar 2006
pregnant! BFP - 2/27/06, EDD 11/03/06, singleton

kischer
ME=Kischer (31)
sway=DH (31)
Married- 10/6/01
TTC- 5/02
HSG- tubes clear
SA- normal
Off BCP- of course
M/C's - 7/04 & 12/04 & 12/05
Two ectopic, one 6 weeks
RE - since 9/04-
Clomid - 7 cycles, 2 OBGYN, 7 RE, I think
HCG - 2 cycles
Acupuncture - yes- 4 cycles
back at the RE - 10/05
Letrozol/Femara - 10/05
1st IVF cycle 4/06 BFN

KLo
Me: Lois (31)
DH: Kevin (36)
Married: May 11, 2002
TTC: July 2003
BFP: October 25, 2004 (officially)
EDD: July 1, 2005
IF Info: Bilateral distally blocked Tubes
IVF#1 – Transferred two 8-cell Grade A embryos – Successful!!
Pg with twins - one lost at 8wks.
DD: 6/16/05 - Matthew Michael George
TTC #2 with IVF - some time in 2006

la_bride_2004
Me: 33
DH: 37
TTC: 2/04
DX: male factor, high DFI
IVF #1- OHSS/ chem. preg (Dec 04)
IVF #2 - FET - chem preg (June 05)
varicocele repair surgery, 8/05, 13 found and repaired
11/05 chem preg.
1/05 normal hysteroscopy, no uterine septum
Status: SCSA testing Feb 06, if normal, on to injectibles/IUI
04/06- Injectables/IUI #1- cancelled, wrong med. dose
05/06- Injectables/IUI #2- 8 follicles- positive beta
Pregnant- due 2/14/07

Ladybug777 (formerly Scorpiobride on WC)
Me: Jazmine (27)
Dh: Taft (30)
Married: 6/15/02
TTC: 3/03
DX: Bilateral removal of tubes (8/05); initially dx w/ left hydro but lap showed both tubes dilated; mild male factor
11/04: IUI #1 w/ Clomid- unsuccessful
2/05 & 3/05 : IUI #2 & #3 w/ injectibles- unsuccessful
IVF #1 (1/06): chemical pg
FET #1: May 2006- BFP! Baby #1 due 2/12/07

Lola9404
Me:Lauren (or my nickname, Lola!) (29)
DH: (30)
TTC since September 04
Diagnosis: Severe Male Factor
IVF #1 - Nov 2005, BFN
Diagnosed w/early stages of cervical cancer Jan 2006
LEEP procedure - Jan 2006
ALL CLEAR! - March 2006
FET #1 - ET scheduled for 6/5/06

Mooshie
Age: 38
DH: 38
Married: 02/03
TTC: since late 2003
DX: Male Factor
I've never been pregnant before
3 IUIs, 2 with gyno, 1 with RE with 100 mg of Clomid on days 3-7 on the 3rd try
Completed our first and only IVF cycle in March and we're PREGNANT Due: 12/11/06 (my bday)
Gender prediction: girl

mrselle
Me: Jo (30)
DH: Ed (35)
TTC: February 2003
5/2004 - Pregnant!!!
6/2004 - Miscarriage at 7w5d
DX - Unexplained
IVF# 1 - Aug. 2005. Transfer cancelled due to OHSS.
FET# 1 - Dec. 2005. PREGNANT
EDD 1 September 2006

MrsR
Me - Jessica, 32
DH - Matt, 33
TTC since: June 2005
Testing results: 4/06 bloodwork normal, HSG clear, SA normal
Treatment:
5/06 - clomid 50mg
6/06 - clomid 50mg
7/06 - Injectibles (follistim)/trigger/IUI
8/06 - Injectibles (follistim)/trigger/IUI
9/06-11/06 - IVF

[IVFIVF]

Our Members Continued

paisleydays
Age: 34
DH: 32
Married: July, 2002
TTC: January, 2004
DX: High FSH & Severe Male Factor
Status: IVF/ICSI #1 Jan/Feb 2006

Sandybride
FET - 8/05
Status: 9/2/05 - PREGNANT!

Scooter
Me: 29
DH:32
Married:8/01
m/c 8/02 at 5.5 weeks
TTC: 4/03
Unexplained Infertility, possible immune issues
3 cycles of clomid & progesterone
2 cycles of clomid + IUI
1 cycle of letrozole + IUI
using acupuncture & on Folgard & baby aspirin
status: on 2nd cycle of letrozole + IUI
next cycle: Bravelle + IUI, and then moving to IVF
Status:8/19/05 - Pregnant

Sebski
me: Sebski (30)
DH: 31
TTC: May 05
DX : High FSH (May = 12.3 / July = 16.1)
7/25/06: 1st RE appt

Sidsou
Ann - 34
DH - 42
DS - Kyle - 8/31/2004 - IVF success story!
Original DX - male factor infertility
New DX for TTC #2 - male factor and high FSH
Status:TTC #2 with IVF September/October 2005
Status: Oct 05 IVF converted to IUI - unsuccessful

Skb
me: 31
dh: 33
10/04: TTC
03/05: hormone levels, US, SA normal
11/05: HSG uterine abnormality
12/05: MRI septate uterus
01/06: septate resection
02/06: HSG normal
04/06-09/06: (6) clomid/US tracking/HCG

Suzlywoozly
Me: Sue (29)
DH: Jeff (33)
TTC: October 2002
10/02: 1st Lap-Found ovarian cysts and endo
4/04: Started Progesterone supplements and 25 mg clomid
8/04 - 11/04: Clomid and IUI's
01/05: Surgery to remove mass on left ovary. Turned out to be endo which caused left ovary/fallopian tube to adhere to uterus
02/05-04/05: 2 clomid cycles with failed IUIs
06/05: Pregnant on unmedicated cycle and miscarried
8/05 -09/05: IVF #1 BFN
10/05- FET-BFN
12/05- HSG shows tubes opened
04/06- FET cancelled due to fluid in left tube
05/06- Lap to remove both tubes. Both were blcoked, filled with fluid. Tubes and ovaries were stuck to uterus.
05/06- Hysteroscopy to make everything look sparkly clean

Tandis
Me - 30
DH - 31
Married- 4/26/03
TTC - 5/04
Known issues: one fallopian tube, half of one ovary (left side), severe scar tissue, assumed poor responder
5/05-8/05 3 IUIs with 50mg Clomid & trigger shot, all BFN
5/05 - Laparoscopy: removal of scar tissue and freed up tube and ovary
11/05-1/06; 5/06-currently - Acupuncture
5/06 - Clomid challenge: Failed CD3 - 8; CD10 - 13.8
7/06 - IVF #1 w/ICSI & AH, using Flare protocol -- BFP!
EDD: March 29, 2007

Tigerest
Me-29
DH-30
Married 7/6/02
TTC 7/03
1/05 - Laparoscopy and Chromotubation - Endometriosis, both tubes blocked
4/05 - Laparoscopy #2 a success! Both tubes surgically repaired.
12/22/05 - HSG #3 - Both Tubes Still Blocked after surgery and Clear Passage
2/06 - IVF #1 w/ femara, 1 embryo transferred, Chem. PG
3/06 - IVF #2 w/ half dose follistim/menopur, 2 embryos transferred, Chem. PG
3/31/06 - Laparoscopy #3 - Tubes, cyst, Endo Removed
FET #1 6/06 BFN (Chem. PG)
IVF#3 8/06 LA3 Protocol

Twinkletoes
Age: late 20's
TTC: 2003
Starting BCP late Sept. 2006
First IVF cycle Oct./Nov. 2006

[IVFIVF]

TTC/IVF Abbreviations

#dp3dt : Number of days post 3 day tfr - That is the number of days since your egg transfer assuming they did the ET 3 days after the retrieval. So, 18 days past retrieval would be 15 days post 3 day transfer, 15dp3dt
#dp5dt: Number of days post 5 day tfr - That is the number of days since your egg transfer assuming they did the ET 5 days after the retrieval. So, 18 days past retrieval would be 13 days post 5 day transfer, 13dp5dt
2WW: "2 week wait"; the approximate time from transfer to menstruation due date/Pregnancy Testing
AF: "Aunt Flo"; your period; Menstruation
BBs: "boobs"; breasts
BCP: Birth control pills
BD'ing: "baby dancing"; baby-making intercourse
Beta: Blood test performed to confirm pregnancy. This is not just a yes/no test but gives levels of the pregnancy hormone HCG and progesterone to confirm that the pregnancy is viable
BFN: "Big Fat Neutral" or “Big Fat Negative”; Negative pregnancy test.
BFP: "Big Fat Positive"; Positive pregnancy Test
CD: cycle day; a particular day in your menstrual cycle. Example: CD1 is the first day of your period
DH: "dear husband"
DPO: Days Past Ovulation; number of days from your post-ovulatory temperature rise. Example: 1DPO is the day after your ovulation
E2: Estradiol; the level of estrogen. Used to determine the quality & maturity of developing follicles
ER: Egg Retrieval
ET: Egg Transfer
FET: Frozen Egg Transfer; same as ET but the eggs were retrieved and fertilised during a previous cycle and have been frozen for use in a later cycle
FSH: Follicle Stimulating Hormone; a hormone which promotes egg growth. Measuring FSH levels can give an indication of ovarian reserve. FSH in a manmade form (Gonal F and Puregon/Follistim) is also used as the trigger shot to cause the ovaries to produce multiple follicles
HCG: human chorionic gonadotropin; the hormone that is present during pregnancy and what the HPTs and blood test measure to determine if you are pregnant
HPT: home pregnancy test; a urine pregnancy test you can take at home
HSG: Hysterosalpingram; a diagnostic test where dye is injected into the uterus and then is traced through the fallopian tubes to ensure there are no blockages that could stop an egg from getting through
IMHO: "in my humble opinion"
IMO: "in my opinion"
IUI: intra-uterine insemination
IVF: in vitro fertilization
MFI: Male Factor Infertility
OHSS: Ovarian Hyper Stimulation Syndrome; a rare and dangerous complication from the body being overstimulated by fertility drugs
PIO: Progesterone in Oil; synthetic progesterone self administered by injection daily after egg retrieval until a positive pregnancy test. Usage can be continued further into the pregnancy if natural progesterone levels are not deemed high enough to support the early pregnancy
PCOS: polycystic ovarian syndrome; a fertility problem
RE: reproductive endocrinologist
SA: semen analysis
Trigger: An injection of HCG given to trigger the ovaries to ovulate and release eggs
U/S: ultrasound

[IVFIVF]

Some Useful & Helpful Information - Links and such

Our First IVF Anyone? thread on CC (http://www.constantchatter.com/showthread.php?t=671&page=1&pp=10)
IVF Anyone? Part 2 thread on CC (http://www.constantchatter.com/showthread.php?t=6388)

IVFer's HCG Levels (http://ivfer.com/hcg.htm)
IVF Pregnancy Due Date and Timeline Calculator (http://www.ivf.ca/calcu.htm)
IVFer's Pregnancy Calculator Page (includes embryo measurements, heartrates and fetal weights) (http://www.ivfer.com/pg_calc.htm)

[ladybug777]

OMG, am I the first one to post! Whoo Hooo!!!

Threadmistress...when you get a chance, can you change my FET date to May 2006. Minor details...

Had my appt today w/ the RE. My lining is @ 11.1. FET is scheduled for thursday @ 10:40.

[IVFIVF]

Whoo hoo Ladybug! Will update you now.

Ladies, we are ready to go with our new thread. I moved everyone's stats over even though we have many inactive members. Pleaes advise in RED if I made any mistakes or if you have any changes. Thank you!

[la_bride_2004]

Hi ALL!!!!!!!!!!

[Suzlywoozly]

Suzlywoozly
Me: Sue (29)
DH: Jeff (33)
TTC: October 2002
10/02: 1st Lap-Found ovarian cysts and endo
4/04: Started Progesterone supplements and 25 mg clomid
8/04 - 11/04: Clomid and IUI's
01/05: Surgery to remove mass on left ovary. Turned out to be endo which caused left ovary/fallopian tube to adhere to uterus
02/05-04/05: 2 clomid cycles with failed IUIs
06/05: Pregnant on unmedicated cycle and miscarried
8/05 -09/05: IVF #1 BFN
10/05- FET-BFN
12/05- HSG shows tubes opened
04/06- FET cancelled due to fluid in left tube
05/06- Lap to remove both tubes. Both were blcoked, filled with fluid. Tubes and ovaries were stuck to uterus.
05/06- Hysteroscopy to make everything look sparkly clean:D


Had my hysteroscopy yesterday. Everything looked fine. They fixed a few minor things and it looks like everything is in tip-top shape now to do a FET. I should hear from the RE tomorrow about what our next step is.

LadyBug- Good luck on Thursday!!!

[gator97]

Thanks for the new thread, wonderful threadmistress! When you get a chance, could you please update my stats:


gator97
Me: 30
DH: 30
Married 11/04
Off BCP 12/04 (started charting 12/04)
8/05 - laparoscopy- endometriosis
1/06 - HSG-clear
1/06 - SA normal
4/06- IVF#1- BFN

kischer- I never got the chance to say I'm sorry. You have such a positive outlook!

ladybug- good luck on Thursday!

Suzlywoozly- glad to hear you are now in tip top shape!

[kischer]

Ohhh, it's so pretty in here! Thank wonderful, masterful threadmistress! :D

gator-Thanks I'm trying!

tiger-That's ridiculous, there has to be a way in. I'm hoping that your doctor will be able to work you into the June schedule. They just have to.

I had some deflating news of course, but I'm still trying. Went into the RE to discuss our options she went though her schpiel of the differences between a FET and a fresh, blah, blah, blah. DH and I thought that we made a decision, FET here we go! Then she told us that we had to find out what insurance covered. Ok, no biggie. Then we started to think more about the chances of thawing and how many to put back and whatever else. We have 17 frozen BTW and with my age they think it's best to only put 2 back. 28% for ongoing delivery. 3 back 30%. That two percent, means the world to me, it also meand 33% of twins, which we are fine with. I kinda want to do three. Anyway, that's not the issue. We decided that coverage would make the decision for us. We go to talk to billing and they let us know that it's $3900 for a FET. Ok, that's doable, for the end result anyway. We decide that we can pay for an FET because insurance only covers 2 attempts per lifetime. Let's pay for this next cylce and we can use insurance for fresh cycle when we need to. Then we find out the with Blue Cross Blue Shield whether we pay or they pay 2 attempts are 2 attempts. that confused the whole issue!! We were pissed! I know that there are definately people that have it worse off, some aren't even covered and I'm sorry I know that I am being selfish. that just makes me so mad. I don't think that's fair! With insurance, it's never really fair is it. So, because of that revelation we have decided to go with another fresh cycle. which is going to be so much more of a toll on me. I'm nervous again and just so, well, you all know. I'm not so bright-eyed anymore. Here we go again...

ETA: Thread mastress, would you please update me...
1st IVF cycle failed

[AusMarchBride]

Thank you wonderful threadmistress for the new thread. Just one little thing, there's no links behind the "Some useful and Helpful Info" section. (When you copy from the old thread, it only takes the actual text, not the links. Silly huh :rolleyes: )

ladybug That all sounds good, all systems go for Thursday. Good luck!

Suzly Hope your RE comes up with a great plan this time. Glad to hear everything sparkly clean on your insides ;)

kischer Firstly, I didn't get to post earlier, but I wanted to say I'm so sorry about the BFN.

From my viewpoint (being upside down as I'm in Australia ;) ) I soooo don't understand US medical insurance, and it seems to get even odder when it comes to infertility stuff. For the life of me I cannot work out what business it is of your insurance company if you pay for 100 cycles out of your own pocket. As long as they decide that they cover 2 cycles (and that's so wrong for a start), where do they get off telling you how many you can pay for yourself, it's just beyond my (admittedly limited) comprehension.

Hang in there, and it's completely normal to lose a little of that "bright-eyed bushy-tailed" thing when a cycle fails. It makes it harder to be positive for the next cycle. Look after yourself and your DH.

[Lola9404]

waving hi to everyone!

Ladybug - SO exciting, I have my fingers crossed for you on your FET. I'm right behind you with an estimated ET of June 5th!

Here are my updated stats:

Lola9404
Me:Lauren (or my nickname, Lola!) (29)
DH: (30)
TTC since September 04
Diagnosis: Severe Male Factor
IVF #1 - Nov 2005, BFN
Diagnosed w/early stages of cervical cancer Jan 2006
LEEP procedure - Jan 2006
ALL CLEAR! - March 2006
FET #1 - ET scheduled for 6/5/06

[Suzlywoozly]

guess what, guess what, guess what?!?!? The RE called and said I can do a FET with my next AF, which should be here in the next few days! That puts us for a ET date on or around our anniversary. This could be a really good sign since we know everything is sparkely clean:D

[tigerest]

Ok so….as my mom said, "sometimes the squeaky wheel gets the grease"!

I left the coordinator ANOTHER message today repeating that I WAS SUPPOSED to start my FET this cycle and to PLEASE call me back. I wait. And wait.

Finally I get a call, "Ok you start birth control tonight, and we'll see you tomorrow". UM? OK? So when will I be having my ET? She said the 9th or 10th!!!!

I have been REALLY upset and on edge for 2 days thinking I wasn't going to get to do my FET this month and then they just call like its nothing!!!

So I am a little confused originally my Dr said I would be on lupron and estrogen. Now I am going on BC for 7 days!

I have a question…I am on antibiotics right now still until Friday, do you think this will be an issue with the BC? I am going to wait until I am there in the office before I bring it up!!!

UGH…what a way to start off a cycle….all stressed!

[tigerest]

Suzly - Awesome!!! Lots of luck this cycle!!!

Lola - ...and you are a couple days before me! Good luck!!!

kisch - Wow sounds like a bit of a rollercoaster too! Insurance sucks, FSA sucks, I find that I have to fight for everything. Its so stressful! So are you starting your fresh cycle right now? Craziness!

ladybug - Wishing you a perfect ET tomorrow!!!

LA_Bride - HI! How ya feeling?

JAN - THanks for the new thread!!! :)

[Cath]

Hi everyone!

The new thread looks great...

Tigerest - wow, that's a crazy way to start a cycle.

Suzly - happy you can do a FET w/this next cycle.

Lola - Hi!

Aus - You're right, US medical insurance, etc. really doesn't make any sense.

Kischer - Hi. Sorry about the bfn and the difficulties with the insurance. I don't know the ins and outs of the Maryland mandate, but it might be worth talking to your financial person to get their thoughts if your insurance is complying (I'm guessing that your insurance is required to comply with the Maryland mandate).

Ladybug - Good luck on Thursday.

As for me, cd1 was Monday, I start bcps on Sunday, May 28 and I should be getting my protocol in the mail today or tomorrow. I haven't picked my meds up, but the list that I've looked at is impressive. I really don't know how I will keep everything straight.

I do have an HSG scheduled for Wednesday, May 31 since it's been a couple of years since my last one. I still think I need to schedule an injections class (I can give myself a follistim shot, but that's about it) and IVF orientation.

Take this one step at a time.

Have a good day, everyone.

Catherine

[ladybug777]

Suzly: Thanks. Great news regarding your hysteroscopy. Sparkly clean!!:D Awesome news about your FET. You're on your way!

Gator: Thanks. I'm so excited.

Kischer: Regarding your insurance, that doesn't really make sense at all. Have you called BC/BS directly or is this what the peopel in billing at the RE's office are telling you? I just ask b/c I've been told wrong info by the billing people before. If your insurance covers 2 IVF cycles, it wouldn't make sense for them to count a cycle that you pay for completely out of pocket. I'd definitly give them a call to verify. Why go through the time, expense and emotional toll of a fresh cycle if you don't have to, when you have so many frozen embies? As for the number to transfer, I wish I could help ya there. But you're right, that extra 2% chance of success is enough to make me stand on my head, if that's what they told me to do. :D

Lola: Your FET is coming up soon! How exciting. June 5th is my beta, so it will be a big day for both of us.

Tigerest: I wouldn't think your antibiotics would be a huge deal w/ the bcp. Especially since you're on the tail end of therapy. Not sure what to make of the whole thing w/ the IVF coordinator. Crazy! If it makes you feel any better, with my FET, I went straight from bcp, to AF, to estrogen shots. There was no Lupron in my protocol at all.

Cath: Good luck to you. And good luck w/ your hsg. Those are always fun. :rolleyes: Yeah for getting the go ahead to start your bcp.
***************

ET is tomorrow and I'm freaking out a bit. The last 2 nights, I've woken up with a horrible sore throat. I don't feel like I'm sick (as in having a cold), but my throat hurts and I have some sinus pressure. I have an appt w/ my MD tonight to make sure I don't have strep or a sinus infection. Of course, this totally worries me w/ the ET being tomorrow. I called my RE and he said that if I do have an infection, to make sure they give me antibiotics that are safe during pg, and that we'll go ahead w/ the FET. It just drives me nutty. Just when I thought everything was going along so smoothly.

[IVFIVF]

***Updated to here

P.S. Ann, I figured it out. :D

[kischer]

ladybug-Thanks for the advice, I did call and you were right. They will not count it as long as NOTHING is billed to them. As long as we pay for everything. Which is fine, but I started to think about it, this is the best time for my eggs and I know that I can do it. So, here goes. Standing on my head, might try that one too. Wishing all kinds of implantation vibes possible!!! I hope that it all goes well and the sore throat is gone soon.

tiger-I'm so glad that it was all that easy. The stress sucks, but the good news is so much better, very happy for you~ :D And, yeah, fresh new cycle, started BCP today.

Cath-Thanks. Where are you in the burbs of DC? Good Luck on the HSG next week! Yeah, when I got my sack of drugs, I was like HOLY SH!TE!! But when it comes down to it, you try to take as much control as you can. It's be easy.

SparklyClean Suzly-Hooray for AF???! ;) it just always seems so weird saying that.

Ann-I think that I caught it some past posts, but you're in Melbourne right? It's not quite upside down, just different. I was actually just there in March, well not there but closer to there than here. Sydney, my dad lives there. I loved it. Insurance is very very different down there. So far we are surviving.

As I told ladybug, we could essentially pay for our own FET cycle, but if one thing is accidently sent or charged to the insurance company they will void and then it counts as an attempt. Honestly, I don't trust anyone that I don't know with that kind of responsibility. So, here goes another fresh cycle. Starting BCP today and then wait until next cycle pretty much. UGH. But it will give me time to kind of chill out. I think, we'll see. That's it for me.
Well, I started the BCPs today. We'll go from there. that's it for me

[tigerest]

Cath - Congrats on getting started! :) Good luck with the HSG and your cycle as well!

ladybug - Hopefully by now you are at home and resting and your embies are settling in! ;) Good luck!

kisch - Its always fun to deal with insurance...not! Glad you are getting started though! Good luck!

Well nothing is ever simple now is it? So things have changed a bit! They REALLY are full and trying to squeeze me in. SO now my ET will not be until June 19th....about 10 days later than originally planned. So I think that explains the change in protocol. I will be on BC for 7 days. I start lupron this Sat. and I will be on that for 2.5 weeks. I also start E2 shots in 2 weeks. Confusing! Anyway, I think they are just controlling my cycle and pushing it out a bit...so its sort of a compromise. I guess it works out for the best because now I will not be having ET on DH's 30th b-day and I can celebrate it with him! :)

[Tandis]

Tigerest - Wow, they're really giving you quite the run around with this FET aren't they? Hopefully this will be it. Did they say anything about the BCP and the antibiotics?

Kisch - I'm so sorry to hear the first IVF didn't work out, but it sounds like you have a good plan going. I wouldn't trust the Dr's office not to screw it up and send a bill to the ins. either, so it's probably for the best that you're just biting the bullet and going to a second fresh cycle. Have they given you a timeline yet?

ladybug - How did the ET go? Hope you're feeling better.

Cath - Good luck with the HSG next week!

Suzly - Yea for AF and being sparkly clean! :D You really needed some good news, so that's fantastic!

**************************

Today is CD5 for me, so I just started the Clomid for the challenge. Dropped off the sperm sample yesterday for the frozen backup. DH and I are on vacation this week, so it worked out great to get this stuff done.

My RE and his staff have the best sense of humor. I dropped off the sample yesterday, and he happened to be standing there with the IVF nurse and the receptionist. We were all laughing about DH hiding in the car and sending me in to drop it off because he was embarrassed. My RE said he needs to get stickers like they have at the voting booth (the kind that says "I voted today!"), but have them say "I gave today" or "I came today" for all the men after they "deposit." :D LOL

We'll have more of an idea of the timeline for this process after we get the results back from the test, but currently we're right on with the prelim. schedule of ER on 7/6 and ET on 7/9, with supression starting around 6/11.

[Suzlywoozly]

Thanks to everyone for thinking happy thoughts for me and my sparkly clean self:p

Tandis- That is totally funny about your RE. I should have a shirt made for DH that says that! Are you totally excited to get your cycle started?

Tiger- I'm sorry you have to start off your so so crappy! At least you get to celebrate with Dh for his b-day.

Kisch- Doesn't insurance suck?? Have you tried calling Blue Shield yourelf to make sure it is totally true? I'd ask for something in writing. It doesn't make any sense that they would count an IVF attempt that you paid for.

LadyBug- How did the ET?? Crossing my fingers for you!:)

Cath- All the meds and protocol seem totally overwhelming at first, but you will get in the groove of things. They should write every little detail down for you.

Hi to Gator and Ann (and anyone else I missed!)!

It seems totally weird that so many of us are going to be cycling so close together this time. It must mean good luck is in the air this next month or so:D

I think AF is playing tricks on me. I totally feel like she is coming but she keeps hiding out from me. If things go as planned, the ET should fall on our anniversary. That should be a good sign ( I hope :rolleyes:) Now as long as my RE isn't on vacation for the 100th time this year, everything will be great.

[Tandis]

Suzly - DH was dying when I told him what the RE said. He couldn't believe a Dr. would actually say that! :D I'm excited, but DH, however, said he'll be excited when it works. We balance each other out that way - I can't remember the last time we were both excited about something at the same time ;)

When is your anniversary? Keeping my fingers crossed your RE won't be on vacation :)

[Applebee]

Hi everyone! Well, I'm on CD31. AF was due yesterday, according to FF. It weird b/c she is always here on my due date or test date (usually two days after due date) so if she's not here by Tuesday, I'll call my nurse to see if they want to give me something.

Kisch, I don't see how that can count against your attempts if you're paying out of pocket. They just wouldn't submit to insurance. Weird.

Tandis, too funny about what your doc said!

Tiger, sorry they moved you again but at least you can celebrate DHs birthday!! Do you have any plans for him?

Suzly, I totally know what you mean about AF and her tricks. I thought she was coming this entire week, but nothing. I'm doing the AF dance for us!!

Ladybug, how are you? How everything go? I hope you're feeling better.

Hello to everyone I missed!!!

[la_bride_2004]

HI all! Wow, lots of ladies cycline around the same time!

ladybug so hope the transfer went well and you are taking it easy!

tigerest hooray on the upcoming cycle.

suzly the white pants/new underwear trick always seems to summon AF for me. How exciting you may be cycling soon!

tandis best of luck on your upcoming cycle.

cath best of luck to you too- you'll be surprised at how quickly it all becomes "routine."

[la_bride_2004]

Me- I see there are lots of new people here, so I will preface this by saying we did IVF and FET for severe male factor and I ended up with chem pregnancies, plus a suprise chem preg afterwards, so we pursued varicocele repair surgery and are now trying iui/injectables. Our male factor was so severe we went straight to IVF. I am remaining on this thread, cuz, heck, I have been here a long time and it's a second home.


That said, I triggered last Mon and went in Wed for the IUI. We could see six big follicles and two collapsed ones. The RE wanted to turn it into an IVF cycle but I was not willing, so we proceeded to an IUI. Holy moly, I can't even tell you how painful it was to ovulate 8 eggs. I could hardly walk.

I was on OHSS watch but luckily I didn't get it this time, but the side effects from the drugs are super strong. Bleah. Beta is sometime mid-June so I will be hanging out until then.




(Ann- I know you asked, there are a lot of reasons why I didn't want to do IVF again that I am not writing about, but chief among them are 1) we only did IVF for male factor- I have no IF issues and 2) We aren't really willing to drop another $15k on IVF b/c of reason #1. We have no state mandate for IVF coverage, hence our insurance pays nothing)

[Suzlywoozly]

suzly the white pants/new underwear trick always seems to summon AF for me. How exciting you may be cycling soon!"

Girl you're on crack.... you think I could squeeze my big ol' ass into a pair of white pants after 2 years of fertility drugs?:eek:

Now the new underwear trick might work! I came to the realization the other morning when I was getting ready for work... you know you have been on fertility drugs too long when it's not just your pants that don't fit anymore, but your underwear too:o

[Applebee]

I've been trying the new underwear trick for two days...nothing :( Damn witch. :mad:

LABride, I hope this IUI cycle works for you!!!

[ladybug777]

Hey all, thanks for all the well wishes.

copied from lj:
So....the FET went really well. We transfered all 4 embies which was a miracle in itself. When we did our fresh cycle, we had 1-8cell and 4-4cell embies left. When we went to transfer, we transfered 1-8cell, 1-7cell, 1-5cell and 1-4 cell. So it looks like they not only survived the thaw, but started growing a bit as well.

Truthfully, I couldn't have asked for things to go any better. All 4 embies survived the thaw and the transfer was a breeze. The only down side to all of this is that I've been sick and coughing ever since. And even though, rationally, I know it's not true, I'm convinced that I've coughed all 4 of my embies out by now. :rolleyes:

My beta is on 6/5. So, now we wait....

La bride: Glad to hear that everything went well w/ your IUI. I can only imagine the pain from O'ing 6 eggs. Ouch!

Suzly: What is w/ RE's always being on vacation? We'd originally planned to do our ET earlier this monht, but of course, my RE was going to be on vacation. Hoping the timing works out for you.

Tandis: Having an RE w/ a good sense of humor is half the battle. I like the idea of the little buttons. Not a bad idea at all....

Tigerest: Glad you were finally able to get things squared away, but my goodness...

Kischer: I'm so happy you were able to get things clarified. Completely understandable about going w/ the fresh this time around. What are the chances that the people in the office would do everything right and not bill your insurance? :rolleyes: Yeah, right! Good luck to you.

I'm sure I missed a few people, but know that I'm thinking of everyone. Good luck!!!

[amychris03]

Ladybug
It does sound like a great transfer! Try not to worry yourself
too much about the coughing. I forget what exactly, but I
had some fear like that when I was in the 2ww and my dr
told me once those little embies are put in there, there is no
way they can come out! Fingers crossed that they get
nice and cozy in there;)

[gator97]

Hello all! I have been faithfully reading along but didn't have to much to add. I started BCP on Sunday. We have a tentative ER around 7/4. Hoping this is the one.

Ladybug--yeah for all embies surviving the thaw! Take it easy these next few days. I hear where you are coming from with the coughing. I was scared to cough, sneeze, etc! Hope the 5th is here before you know it!


labride---glad everything went well. . but ouch!

It does sound like we are going to have a bunch of people cycling at the same time!

Hi to everyone else!

[tigerest]

Tandis - That is a funny story about your RE joking about the SA. Your poor husband! ;) Glad you have your timeline! How are things going so far?

Suzly - Hope AF showed up for you! It is cool that there are a lot of us cycling!

Applebee - Another one waiting for AF! Hope she shows soon for you!!! AF vibes to you!! Are you wearing WHITE underwear!!!

la_bride - How are you feeling? Hope you are doing well!

ladybug - Good luck! I hope your beta gets here before you know it!

gator - Glad you got your ER date! Lots of luck!

I am just hanging out. Having a bit of nausea in the mornings, but the headaches have gone away, so that is good. Thursday I stop the BC and cut my lupron in half, so that will be nice. :) Oh and I have been doing my lupron shots myself...I am so proud. Except I think I caught a vein this morning because I bled a lot and now I have a dark bruise there.

[Lola9404]

I hope you all had a nice long weekend, it was relaxing (thankfully) for us.

Ladybug - yay for an easy transfer! I'm crossing my fingers for you. Your beta and my ET are on the same day, so that HAS to be good luck, right? ;)

Waving hi to everyone else!

As for me, I had my final u/s yesterday and they said my lining looks 'great', so that is a good sign. All systems go for the transfer on 6/5. Keep your fingers crossed for us that our two little blasts make it through the unfreezing process!

I start PIO and prometrium suppositories tomorrow (yuck).

[Suzlywoozly]

Okay, so the new undies trick hasn't worked. I refuse to try the white pants thing, but I did try Khaki capris... no luck! I even tried new white sheets!!
AF still isn't here... It's like it gets to the point where it's going to start and it goes away. I am wondering if I should give it a few days or call the RE for some prometruim. ARGGHHHHH!

[kischer]

tiger-Happy Birthday to DH, when is it? Have fun celebrating! Glad the headaches are gone!

Tandis-No timeline yet. I ovulate late on the norm, so they are just going to wait til the next cycle to break it down for me. I like the "I came today" one! That's hilarious! :D Good luck on the clomid.

Suzly-I did actually call the insurance and they disagreed, but if one thing was charged or billed to them. I'm done, I don't think it's worth the risk! Stupid AF, I hope she hurries already! I mean come on, white sheets?! :p

Applebee-AF yet? yeah, I don't get insurance either, or billing departments.

la_bride-Holy Crap, 8?! Whoa, yeah walking, not so much. Glad that part is over. How are doing other than that?! Mid-June huh, that's not too far. :rolleyes: Oh, and we like having you around, so, there. Thanks for explaining to those that didn't know, it helped to get to "know you".

ladybug-Hooray! Sounds good, nice job embies!!! I know what you mean about "coughing out". When we were waiting to leave, me laying there, DH sitting there, he made me laugh sooo hard and I couldn't stop. I thought for sure that I had laughed those embies out! :D
I'm excited for you! Come on June 5th!!!!!

Lola-Hooray for good lining, BOO for suppositories and PIO!

gator-BCP for me too. It looks like we are around the same timeline, even though I don't have on yet. Maybe we can cheer everyone on this month (June) and then cheer each other on next in July!

I hope that everyone else is doing well. Not much going on with me. Just found out one of my good friends is pregnant. So very happy for them, but well, you all know. I mean I am truly happy for them, but I just wish that the first one worked, even more now. I'm especially happy if they never have to go through any of this.

Hope that everyone else had a great weekend and I will check in again soon!! ****smooches!*** :)

[gator97]

Tigerest- yeah for doing the Lupron shots yourself. That is fantastic! Glad the headaches are going away.

Lola- sounds like all systems are a go. Good luck to your blasts through the thaw. 6/5 will be here before you know it.

SuzlyWoozly- how frustrating! Why is it she always shows up when we don't want her, but doesn't when we do.

kischer- hope you get a timeline soon. I had a friend who just announced she was pregnant. It was all the talk at work for days on end. It's hard to be excited for her while at the same time sad for me. I'm currently feeling like a bad friend due to my lack of excitement. Ah well.

Jan1902- hope you get your birthday gift just a little late.

As for me, I've now learned to assume nothing in this IVF game. I hadn't been given a true timeline with this new cycle--just assumed based on my last time. well, I was wrong. I stop BCP on 6/12, start stims that Friday for a tentative ER on 6/26. A whole week earlier! I'm so excited.

Hope everyone had a great long weekend. Have a great week!

[Tandis]

Jan1902 - Happy belated birthday!

kischer - It's never easy to hear that someone you know is pregnant - especially if they had an easy time doing it. My SIL told us at Easter that she was three months pregnant, after trying for the first time. She's trying to be considerate of us, but it's still not easy to hear about it.

Suz - Still no luck with AF?! Gee, if the new undies trick doesn't work, the new sheets *always* does it! How about running out of, or having no access to, tampons? That seems to work too. ;)

Lola - Good luck on the 5th!

tigerest - Good job on giving yourself lupron shots! Are they like the other shots, i.e., is the tip small? I don't remember from my instructions, and I won't be receiving my meds until next week.

ladybug - Your FET sounds really promising! Especially since they started growing again. The 5th is just right around the corner, so you don't have long to wait now. How is your 2WW going?

la_bride - I don't blame you for not wanting to convert to an IVF cycle, but wow, eight :eek: I can't even imagine how much that must have hurt!

gator - Yeah to moving it forward! That's so exciting
**************************

As for me, I just got back from the SHG and the second blooddraw for the clomid challenge. My nurse gave me the results of my day 3: FSH is 8 and estradiol is 30. I'm happy with the numbers. Due to only having about half of a left ovary, I was a little concerned that because it was doing double the work, the numbers wouldn't be good, so I was quite relieved. I'm supposed to call back this afternoon to get today's results and get the new schedule if necessary.

Also paid the money for the IVF - wow, does that ever hurt! But hopefully it will be worth it in the end.

ETA: Just spoke with the Dr., and he said my FSH level today at 13.8, so, yeah, I went up a bit. He's not too concerned though, since I'm only 29, just doesn't expect to get a lot of eggs, which is what I expected also. He needs to speak with the other doctors to determine the course of action for me, so I'm supposed to call back later this week to talk to the IVF nurse to get the info on when to start the meds and whatnot.

[ladybug777]

Tandis: Things are going well. I'm having a few FPS's which is a bit annoying, but otherwise, I'm good. Glad to hear that your lab work came back within range and you're on your way to getting started. Writing that check for our IVF was enough to make me break out in a cold sweat.

Jan: It's funny, my RE used the same analogy of a peanut butter sandwich. I keep trying to tell myself that. I'm hoping that you get a GREAT late b-day present!

Kischer: June 5th will not get here soon enough. The nice thing about IVF though, is that the 2WW, isn't really 2 weeks. I think mine (from the time of ET) is 11 days. At this point, I'll take what I can get.

Suzly: Okay, I'm officially doing the "AF make a visit to Suzly" dance....

Lola: My beta and your ET being on the same day most definitly HAS to be a good sign for us! Yeah for a "great" looking lining. Just a few more days.....

Tigerest: Just one more bcp and then you're finished tomorrow. Good for you for being able to do your own injections. Just think back to how scared you were w/ your first IVF.

Gator: Yeah for having a ER date. It will be here before you know it!

Amy: Thanks for that. I think I just need to hear people say that every so often.


Things are going well so far. Just waiting, waiting, waiting...

[Applebee]

Hi Everyone!!

I promise to come back tomorrow for personals.

White underwear, brand new white sheets, a thin pair of light blue capri's and nothing!...I still am waiting on AF. I spoke to my nurse Tuesday and if the witch isn't here by Monday, I'll go in for an u/s and b/w. They will then determine if they want to give me something to bring her on. Monday will be CD40, which is by far the longest cycle I've ever had.

It seems I had EWCM two times. Two days during my FF fertile time and then two days last week. I started temping Friday and then got a spike on Saturday, so maybe last week was my real O time. Who knows.

Ok, gotta get to bed. TTYL!!

[tigerest]

Lola - :) Wow, ET is coming up quick!

Suzly/Applebee - UGH! I am sorry AF won't come! Very frustrating I am sure! Hope it comes for you in the next couple days!!!!!


kisch - DH's birthday is a week from Friday!!! Soon! I know what you mean about your friend. {{HUGS}}

JAn - I am not sure if I am on them so long because of immune issues, or if this is their standard protocol. Happy belated birthday!!! Hope you get a late b-day present!! ;)

gator - Thanks. Whoohoo for your ER a week earlier! Thats always a plus!

Tandis - Thanks. These are super tiny needles. They are insulin needles, with a short tiny tip!!! :) Not so scary. HM....your results sound pretty good for only half an ovary! Hoping you get lots of follies in there!!!

ladybug - Yep just took my last BCP! YAY! Oh I remember how scared I WAS!!! SO it does make me feel good! Wishing you a fast couple of days!!!


Feelin' a little blue tonight, having issues dealing with a PG friend, them not understanding what its like to be on my side, and her upcoming shower. :(

[Lola9404]

Hi everyone! not a lot of time but just wanted to check in...

Ladybug - how are you holding up? Have you POAS yet?

Tiger - i totally understand how you feel, one of my good friends just had a baby two days ago and it was a weird mix of emotions (happy for her, sad for me) that I felt when I went to see the baby in the hospital yesterday. I think you just have to allow yourself to feel what you feel and give yourself space from your friend if you need it.

Jan - happy (very) belated!!

As for me, only 3 days until my transfer. Please cross your fingers for our two blasts to thaw out well! I'm very nervous. Started PIO last night and my ass is hurting me this morning! I forgot how sore those shots can make you. :rolleyes:

Hope everyone else is doing well, and I'll check in later!

[Cath]

Hi ladies -

Sneaking in between meetings, so i will have personal shout-outs later today or tomorrow.

I had my HSG yesterday (a repeat from my first one two years ago), everything is still fine with my tubes and uterus. I started bcps this past Sunday and have an estimated ER date of July 6.

I picked up all of my medications over the weekend and also have my protocol. I'm feeling much more comfortable with everything.

DH and I went to our injections class this morning. There was one other couple there, also doing IVF. The nurse teaching the class immediately said there was a problem, she only teaches the injections class for IUI. Therefore, she couldn't go over the protocol in detail, but could only teach us technique. The really annoying part of this is when I called to schedule the class, I specifically said I needed an IVF injections class and scheduled it during the same call when I scheduled my mock transfer.

Obviously, I will be going over my protocol with my nurse and raising this with her. But I have a questions, especially for you ladies at Shady Grove - what did you go over during your IVF injectsion class that I might have missed. Any questions I should be asking that I can't think of right now?

Hope you are all doing well!

Catherine

[Tandis]

Cath - Glad your HSG went well. I don't know what all your class went over, my mine was just the IVF nurse showing me the basics of administering a shot, measuring the dose, etc. She let me practice on a little "dummy tummy" that they had, so I would get the feel. I've never done an IUI w/inj. but I can't imagine that it would be that different.

I'm sure someone with more experience than me can give you a better answer though :)

Lola - When do you find out how well your blasts thawed? It's not on the day of the FET is it? Sorry to hear about the PIO shots. On IVFconnections, I noticed there were a few threads about the shots and how to lessen the pain. It might be worth checking it out.

Tigerest - {{HUGS}} sorry to hear about your PG friend and her shower. Is there any way you can get out of going?

Applebee - Have your temps stayed elevated? Do you still think you might have O'd last weekend?

*********************************

As for me: I called the IVF nurse this morning for a follow-up on the decided upon protocol and my meds. Unfortunately, she returned my call while I was at lunch, so I really won't be able to find out the particulars until tomorrow, but it sounds like they're going to go with the flare protocol for me, i.e., not starting Lupron until my next cycle. So who knows what this means for the prelim. dates they gave me for the ET and ER.

They only thing that has me a little worried is that from the little research I've done, it is recommended that BCPs are given a month beforehand to lessen the chances of corpus luteum cysts, which can flare up with the lupron. Since I'm on Clomid this month - and it has been known to produce cysts with me - I wonder how it's going to effect everything.

Guess I'll find out tomorrow :)

[Applebee]

Hi again everyone!!

Ladybug - I'm sending you tons of sticky vibes!!!!

Tigerest, yayy for doing your own shots! Sorry about the nausea, hopefully that will go away soon.

Lola, glad to hear your ET is Monday!!! Thaw perfectly embies, thaw perfectly!!!!

Jan1902, Happy belated birthday!! That was very nice of your DH to bake you a cake, albeit making a mess!

Gator, WOW! that's fantastic they moved you a week earlier!! I'm just wishing I could get started.

Tandis, first I've heard of a flare protocol. What does that entail?

Cath, yayy for starting BCPs. Glad to hear you have an EER date!! Oh, you know what...I have a video tape about the IVF injections!! I keep forgetting to return it when I go to the office! That is very strange this happened b/c SG is so particular in making sure your scheduled correctly. What office did you go to? Anyway, I can mail it to you if you want. Do we have PM on here? If so, PM me. If not, I'll post my email addy. I had the class at the Columbia office (but go to Annapolis). You basically used a "dummy tummy" like Tandis said, to practice "jabbing". Also, the nurse takes you into a separate room and DH actually gives you a rear injection! They go over how to mix the meds too. It's good if you have your protocol so they can show you exactly what you'll be doing.

Hello to everyone else!!!!!

[julesp313]

May I join? DH and I have just decided to move onto IVF, at the suggestion of our RE. I'm scared and excited and more scared... I've been over in "Still at it" for some time now but I figure with this move onto IVF, I would be better off over here where there's more information and I can learn more.

JulesP313
Me - 34
DH - 39
Married - 03/03
TTC - 12/04
Diagnois - high FSH (11.3), possible dysfunctional fimbriae
BFP - 11/05
M/C - 12/05 at 5w5d
06/06 - IVF

My RE said due to the high FSH and possible issue with the fimbriae (or as DH puts it, the sticky wiggly things that are supposed to catch the egg and get it to the tube), IUI isn't recommended as that won't help in the slightest if my egg isn't getting to the tube. It's been a frustrating 18 months so I'm glad we're moving onto getting some help finally.

[IVFIVF]

JulesP313 I added your stats. Welcome to the thread!

[ladybug777]

Applebee: Thanks for the sticky vibes. Keep em comin'! Not to sure what to make of your cycle. I know my first cycle after IVF was really long. I'm usually 28-30 days, and we're talking almost 40. I think it was my body just trying to reset itself. Hope things happen for you really soon.

Cath: For IVF #1, we went over how much of each med to draw up, when to give them, and which site to give them. We briefly went over my protocol to make sure I understood everything. That was pretty much it.

Lola: This week can't be over soon enough. Nope, I haven't POAS yet. I think I'm gonna on sunday. But we'll see. I may chicken out. :D I'll be thinking about you on monday. Praying that those beautiful blasts of your thaw w/ flying colors!!! Will you be on bedrest after your ET?

Tigerest: Thanks! Hope you're feeling better.

[Lola9404]

Well ladies, just saying goodbye for now as I'll be off next week for ET on Monday and then bed rest until Weds. I'm going to see if my old laptop at home will work so I can check in next week.

Ladybug - GOOD LUCK at your beta and I will be thinking of you on Monday!!


xoxo to all :)

[Suzlywoozly]

Just wanted to say "hi" really quick and tell everyone thank you for the AF dance.... It worked (and I killed the white sheets :o. Thank god for bleach!)!!

Be back later to give lots of s/o's :)

[tigerest]

Lola- At first when I read "saying goodbye" I was like WHAT WHY??? I forgot! Good luck with your transfer!!!! :)

Cath - Yay for starting your cycle!!! :)

Tandis - Thanks. I think we are going to "be on vacation" for the shower. Good luck and I hope you dont have any cysts!

Applebee - Thanks!

julesp313 - Welcome! sorry you have to get to this point! But this is a good place! Lots of good info!

ladybug - Thanks! Hope your cough is getting better!

Suzly - YAY!! FINALLY!!!! She must have gottens tuck in traffic.

I am doing a little better today. I have never been on lupron before and boy...talk about emotional!!!! Apparently, I handle stims better than suprression! ;) But like I said...I am feeling a little better, and trying to find a little humor in all this....bleep!

[Applebee]

Suzly, excellent! Now, send her my way PLEASE!! Sorry you killed the white sheets, but I had to laugh.

Tigerst, glad you're handling the stims good.

Ladybug, yeah, I figure it's resetting itself but I'm just so impatient. I hate waiting on things.

Lola, GOOD LUCK!!

[Bellefior]

Hi everyone. Just got back from the RE and I'm afraid it was not what we had hoped to hear. She is recommending IVF with ICSI because of the male factor is quite severe (the numbers were so low that I don't even want to think about it). Our insurance covers no IVF procedures whatsoever, maybe possibly the drugs but that's it. It will cover all the preliminary testing, so we will be doing that in the meantime. Everything else will be about 12-15K. Not what we were hoping for and not the best way to start our weekend. This really sucks. So I guess at some point when my head gets together, I will be moving over from the SAI thread.

[tigerest]

Bellefior - {{HUGS}} So sorry about your news!

[gator97]

Lola- Thinking of you this weekend and next week! Hope the ET goes well on Monday.

Tigerest- Hope you are feeling better! I haven't done Lupron either.
I do think that my body is getting used to having the hormones out of whack. The BCPs are going much better this time.

Welcome Jules! I'm sorry that you have to be here--but these ladies are a wonderful support!

SuzlyWoozly- glad that the AF dance worked.

Ladybug- Hope the weekend flies by for you.

Bellefoir- Sorry about the news you received. You'll get lots of support in here.

To everyone else I missed, hello!

[julesp313]

Thanks for the welcome - it's strange for me to join a new thread, but also provident - the day we got the suggestion from our RE to try IVF was the day this new IVF thread started. My DH said it's fate - I said it's just the old thread was too long! :)

I called the RE's office last week and we are "go" for their next cycle, which starts at the end of the month. I was told to remain on BCP so I have to get my butt to Walgreens today and get another pack - who'd have thought to get pregnant, first you go on birth control? I don't know what protocol my RE will use for me, but DH is already dreading giving me shots - are they really painful? I don't do well with needles but I figure there has to be ways to make them less unpleasant, right? :)

ETA: Bellefior - sorry to see that you may also be leaving SAI to come here, but I think once we make the decision to move onto IVF, this thread and these ladies in it will be a much greater information and support source than the SAI ladies, only because it's such a different thing to deal with. Y'know? Hugs to you...

[gator97]

Jules- Yeah that you are a go already! Things will really start to move fast now!

I do the stims shots myself. For some reason I would rather do it to myself. There might be a little sting but I found certain spots on my stomach didn't hurt as much. Then, I just stuck in that area. I pinch my skin---and often I will sit down b/c it makes it easier for me to pinch an inch. I've heard some people do the shots in their thighs but if you are given a choice--go for the stomach. From what I understand, stomach is a lot less painful then he thigh.

The first shot was the worst. I spent about 30 minutes just staring at the needle pointing at my stomach. The anticipation was far worse than the reality. It honestly is not that bad. . .and is just second nature now. Not fun, of course, but no longer a big deal.

I do find the PIO shots kind of painful. These my DH does. He is a trooper about it but I know that it really bothers him to cause me pain. He hates giving me the shots. I ice the area beforehand and then make sure I walk around after. I lay on my stomach on the bed with my feet touching the floor and I pigeon toe my feet. Something about that relaxes the muscles. I've heard to put a warm compress on it afterwards but that never really helped me. Sometimes they hurt, sometimes they just felt like a little prick then not too bad. The first shot, I was shocked and surprised that it really didn't hurt that bad. I jumped up and gave DH a kiss b/c I was so excited it didn't hurt. I didn't do that the next night and realized that he really needs that validation that I'm okay. So, that is now the routine. Ice the spot, lean over on the bed, get the shot, kiss the DH, walk around for awhile.

Hope this month flies by for you!

[Applebee]

Jules, welcome! I did my own stims shots. It would burn once in a while when injecting, but other than that they were a fine. PIO was a breeze for me. Absolutely no pain at all. DH wasn't "happy" about doing the shots, but he did a fantastic job.

Bellefoir, sorry about your news {{HUGS}}. I remember at my initial consult when the RE said he felt the best option for me was IVF. I about fell of the chair.

How is everyone else doing?

I go tomorrow morning for an u/s and b/w. I guess this will determine if they are going to give me something to bring AF on. I'm going to tell them I'm pretty sure I O'd late and see what they say.

DH took our old love seat to his cousin's today so we are sharing the sofa. Not liking this at all!!

Here's the sofa we'll be getting Thursday (love seat too but can't find the pic anymore):
http://www.vcf.com/en_US/images/full/MontegoCS_SofaS_1040103LG.jpg

Here's the coffee table (end table to match also):
http://www.vcf.com/en_US/images/full/TS_SltRun_Cktl_785164LG.jpg
Here's the sofa we'll be getting Thursday (love seat too but can't find the pic anymore):

http://www.vcf.com/en_US/images/full/MontegoCS_SofaS_1040103LG.jpg

Here's the coffee table (end table to match also):
http://www.vcf.com/en_US/images/full/TS_SltRun_Cktl_785164LG.jpg

[kischer]

just a quick drive by post. I will do shout outs and all that tomorrow.

ladybug-Hoping the best for you! May June 5th be a day to remember, in a good way! :D Just wanted you to know that I was thinking of you and wishing the best for you!!! ;)

[ladybug777]

Lola: Good luck today!

Kischer: Thanks! I'm so anxious!

Applebee: Good luck at your appt today. Nice couch! And I LOVE that coffee table.

Gator: The first shot is always the most difficult. After that it's a piece of cake!

Jules: Yeah for getting a start date! The shots aren't that bad. Your stim shots will most likely be a small needle and one that you give in your belly area. The progesterone in oil (PIO) are the shots after ET. Those you get to get in your tush. The liquid is thicker and they tend to leave you a bit sore. My advice- use ice to numb the area before every shot. It really helps.

Bellefior: So sorry that you didn't get better news. The cost of IVF can be daunting. But I'm a firm believer that things will work themselves out. Good luck!

Tigerest: Are you feeling any better now that you're off the bcp and have cut the Lupron dose in half?


My beta is this morning @ 7:20.

[Tandis]

Ladybug - Good luck with your beta today! Keeping my fingers crossed for you

Applebee - I have a reclining sofa and a loveseat like that - only mine isn't leather. They are so nice, I really hope you enjoy yours. Love the coffee table. Good luck with your b/w and u/s today!

jules - Welcome! :D

Suzly - Yea for AF's arrival!

Tigerest - How's it going with you?

********************************

So after playing phone tag with the IVF nurse, I finally got a hold of her today. Basically, once AF arrives, I'll get my baseline u/s and b/w, then start the microdose Lupron. Two shots a day, 20 iu's each, for I don't know how long. On the second day, I'll start giving myself Follistim injections also, twice a day, for a while also.

That's four shots a day. My tummy's going to a pincushion!

She said there are also some other meds in there that she'll explain to me later. Doesn't want me to get confused with everything else I'll be doing.

So our prelim timeline is totally out the window now, since I know AF isn't going to wait until the end of June to start. I'm assuming a late June ET/ER, but we'll just have to wait and see.

[tigerest]

Jules - Whoohoo on getting to go next cycle! :) I am totally needle phobic! And thankfully these needles are mostly tiny. Some I don't feel at all, sometimes just a little prick, not too bad. The PIO after ET sucks…but hopefully it leads to a healthy PG! Good luck!

Applebee - Glad you are getting seen today! Good luck. Yay on the new couches!

Ladybug - Crossing everything for you today that you get super high numbers! ;)

Tandis - Glad you finally talked to them. Sorry you have to wait longer, but hopefully AF will get here soon for you.


I am doing much better. Ever since Friday night I am back to feeling like my normal self….thank goodness!!! But I did get AF sat night. They told me to expect a light period. However, its been nothing but light. Super heavy and pretty painful. Should I be worried?

Anyway, I go in for my baseline tomorrow!!!! YAY! And I start my E2 shots tomorrow…boo! ;) But I am getting excited.

[Tandis]

Tigerest - So glad you're back to feeling like normal and that AF has arrived. Yay for the baseline tomorrow! :D

Actually, this new protocol has us doing everything sooner than what we were initially told. The old protocol had us at the beginning of July for ET/ER - now we're looking at the end of June. So really, I'm pretty excited about it, but I'm a bit anal about planning stuff, so not having a concrete timeline is kindof driving me nuts ;)

[Bellefior]

Hi everyone. Well, we did a lot of soul searching over the weekend and have come to a decision. To suck it up and pay for at least one cycle of IVF, once all the preliminary testing is completed if the urologist can't find a specific reason why DH's counts are so low. We're still hoping that it might be either a hormonal imbalance, or something that can be corrected surgically, but we've also prepared ourselves for the possibility that they may not be able to give us a reason for the low counts.

Once you get over the shock factor over what it costs, then the decision is actually an easy one. Yes, it hurts to pay out of pocket when you live in a state that provides mandatory IVF coverage but work for an employer (Fed Govt.) that is exempt from the rules, but what are you going to do? Maybe we'll be lucky and it will work the first time around. If not, then we'll reevaluate our options.

We're hoping that once DH's passes the bar and gets a job, his benefit plan will cover it and we'll dump my Federal Blue Cross Plan. We looked into dumping my insurance anyway and purchasing our own, but it was something like $1200 a month, $5000 a year deductible, and a 180 day wait for coverage (longer for treatment of a pre-existing condition) so it would end up costing the same anyway. At least my insurance covers the drugs (at least that's what they told me).

All of our preliminary testing will take place in June/July, then we meet with the RE again at the end of July, right after DH takes the bar exam. We're hoping the meeting with the urologist will give us some answers and some solutions that might change the current game plan. At least we can hope. And if not, at least we have a plan. Somehow, having a plan makes me feel somewhat at peace with this--or as much at peace with this situation as one can be.

So threadmistress, please update my/our stats as follows:

DX Male Factor Infertility
RE Appointment 6/2
Preliminary testing to be completed June/July
Urology consult at end of June
Follow up with RE July 27th

[Bellefior]

Oh and we did get one very good piece of news. MILs surgery for breast cancer was successful. They got it all, nothing in the lymph nodes, no follow up surgery or radiation needed. They just need to monitor her every six months and will have her on tamoxifen for the next 3 years. We needed some good news for a change!

[julesp313]

Gator - I'm not too worried about the pain, though I had read the PIO shots are often painful, but I guess I'm more worried about DH and I actually being able to give the shots. I'm just worrying myself before I need to, I think! I'll remember about the ice and walking - bending over the bed sounds like a plan, too, though I'll need a step stool as our bed is pretty high!
Applebee - my only concern is that the RE said the shots will be either in the thigh or the hip. I have plenty of padding on both areas but I'm not sure how well I can reach the hip part - I guess we'll find out! I love that coffee table you posted - that would look great in our living room! ;)
Ladybug - good luck with the beta results!
Tandis - yikes, that's a lot of shots!
Tigerest - now that we've made the decision, I want to start yesterday, y'know? My type-A personality doesn't let me wait!
Bellefior - I'm glad you guys came to a decision. It's definitely hard - I know we went back and forth a few times, but ultimately we don't want to look back and say "What if..." which is my biggest fear. Now that we've figured out how to pay for things and work the IVF schedule around my client schedule, we're both (strangely!) raring to go! Glad to hear you got good news about your MIL too. :)

Me - just waiting. I went back to the gym this morning after a far-too-long hiatus. I'm working on shedding about 50lbs of long-term flab so it's imperative I get my butt into the gym on a regular basis. I'm also working on quitting caffeine, which is proving to be much harder!

Does anyone do acupuncture? My insurance covers me for discounted rates so I'd like to try it. Any thoughts?

[Lola9404]

Hi everyone, i'm checking in on my old laptop so hopefully itwillnot crash on me :rolleyes:

Ladybug - I have been thinking of you today and hoping that you get good news! Keep us posted.

As for my news, we had our ET today and it went amazingly well. I was so nervous that something would go wrong but we got really lucky. Both of our 5 day blasts thawed perfectly and in the photo that we got of them you could actually see one of them hatching. It is amazing to look at it. The embryologist said that he was really happy with how well they did and that the one was already hatching. So we were able to transfer both embryos and now comes the hard part - waiting. My beta isn't until June 19th - SO late. So I will def be POAS before.

Suzly - yay for AF! Finally...

Tiger - glad to hear you're feeling better and yay for baseline!

Jan - I'm sending you lots of "thick lining" vibes! It is disappointing that your ET got pushed back but think of how great your lining will be when it finally happens!

Hi and Welcome Jules!

Bellefior - I wish you lots of luck with your IVF, it sounds like you have had a lot going on and I'm glad to hear that your MIL's surgery was successful.

Hi to Gator, Kischer, Applebee (cute couch!),and Tandis

[ladybug777]

Well, without further ado.....

Beta was 100 & progesterone was 57.5

:D

[Mooshie]

Hooray Ladybug! Congratulations! A happy and healthy 40 weeks to you!!!:)

[Applebee]

OMG!!! CONGRATS LADYBUG!!!!!!!
WOOHOO!!!!! YIPPEEEE!!!!!

:D :D :D :D :D :D

[gator97]

Ladybug- :D :D Yeah! I'm so excited for you!!!!

Lola- Glad both the embies survived the thaw and that one was an overachiever already starting to hatch. Hope this 2ww flies by for you!

jules- you will be amazed at what you can do :) I never thought I'd be able to give myself shots--and now I don't even think twice about it.
I had a very hard time not having a hard schedule. I really had to let go. . and it was hard. I'm a scheduler. I really like to have things worked out way ahead of time.

Tandis- not having a concrete timeline does stink but that it awesome you will get started earlier!

Bellefior- hope the urologist finds something fixable. best of luck with all of your testing.

Jan1902-Hope the extra week helps your lining and you get good news at your next visit.

[gator97]

Acupuncture- forgot to chime in on this. I go once a week and have for several months now. I hope that it is helping me fertility wise--but I notice that I do feel better afterwards---even emotionally and mentally. I love it.

[tigerest]

This thread is jumping!!!

Tandis - OH!!! A week earlier...then that is cool! ;)

BEllefior - Well it looks like you are really looking at all your options, but that sucks about your insurance coverage! Great news about you MIL!

JAN - Yep steroids all throughout...seems like forever! I hope everything turns out ok with your lining! I think my ET will be on the 19th....a few days after you!

jules - Oh yea, I totally know what you mean! I felt really good about it and excited once I knew for sure this was the route! I have been doing acupuncture for a while now and love it. I find it very relaxing, helps with pain as well. I go before and after my transfers!

LOLA - I am so glad your blasts made it, and even started hatching!!! Stick embies stick!!!

ladybug - YAY!!!!!! I hope you start a wave of BFP's in here!!! Congrats!!!

[Suzlywoozly]

AAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!! Congratulations Ladybug!!! It is about damn time we get some good news in here!! Looks like you are leading the way for all us girls who are cycling right now!

Real quick beofre I fall asleep on the keyboard...
I went for my post-op with Dr. McHottie (whoever called him that in my LJ, thanks... the name is here to stay! :p) and he said everyting looks great. Based on him making sure everything is sparkly clean, he said there is NO reason why this FET isn't going to work and he knows he is going to see me back next month. I sure freakin hope so. I am trying not to get excited because I am afraid of the let-down and hurt again... but hell, at least this time everything is sparkly clean and ready to go!

I a going of on a tangent and meant to ask... I can't remember but does the estrace make you really tired? I feel like someone has given me super-duper strength benadryl.

[AusMarchBride]

Ladybug Woohoo and congratulations!!! Fabulous news :D Wishing you a happy and healthy time ahead.

Suzly Dr McHottie;) Love it. Yes, this IS going to work, just keep on believing.

gator97 I'm with you on the scheduling thing. That was very difficult to cope with during my cycling, the "I need to have definite dates" gene that I also have drove me nuts. Hang in there

tigerest Hopefully June 19 will roll around quickly for you

Lola So glad your ET went well. Must be amazing photographs of your little frostie starting to hatch. Roll on June 19:D

Julesp Welcome and I hope your stay here is a short one.

Jan Here's hoping your lining is in a sensational condition for your ET. Sending loads of "grow lining, grow" vibes your way ;)

Bellefior I'm glad you have a plan. It always makes me feel better if I have an idea of what's coming up. And I'm very glad for the news about your MIL's surgery, that's got to be a load off your minds too.

Tandis Yeah that whole "having plans changed on me" sucks, but at least they're bringing you forward not pushing you back. So that's a positive thing.

Cath Sounds like you have a plan in place too, good stuff.

Applebee Did you get any more info from the nurse on your protocol and dates?

Hi to everyone else, sorry if I've missed anyone. This thread is soooo busy, and it's great to see many cycling around the same time.

[Lola9404]

Ladybug - YAYYYYYY!! I am SO excited for you! H&H 9 months :D

thx for all the good wishes everyone, I'm on bedrest until tomorrow and then I'll be back at work and trying my best not to POAS until at least the middle of next week.

[Bellefior]

Ladybug Congrats! (toss some of that baby dust this way, will ya?) It makes me very hopeful when I hear a success story.

Lola wishing you all the best. Fingers crossed!

I did find out doing my research that there are currently several bills pending which want to mandate IF coverage like any other medical condition. One deals with coverage for everyone, another deals with coverage for Federal and military employees (which would cover me). Of course, they've been sitting in committee unchanged for the last year so I'm not very hopeful that they will get passed anytime soon. However, I did settle for writing a letter to the head of my agency in Washington regarding the benefits issue, and one to the head of the agency that determines and administers the health benefits for all Fed. Govt. employees. I still can't believe that the reason they don't cover it (at least this is what I was told) is because they consider it something voluntary, because this most definitely is not a condition you choose to have, any more than you would choose heart disease or cancer. We're not talking about freaking plastic surgery here! It should be something covered no matter who you work for.

Anyway, I know writing to the heads of these agencies will probably not have any effect, but boy, was it cathartic to put down everything on paper. When I get some free time, then I'll probably start with letters to my senators and reps, and to the people on that committee where the bills have sat for the last year. If nothing else, it will make me feel better telling them this is not right, and it will only cost me a stamp and the time to set up a computer program to do it all for me. (It's also probably a lot cheaper than seeing a shrink, since my insurance also limits the number of mental health benefits per year as well--figures).

[Tandis]

Congratulations Ladybug!!! H&H nine months to you :D

[julesp313]

ladybug - congratulations! Always wonderful to read a post like yours... :)

Me - I have an appointment with an acupuncturist at 4 today. My insurance gives me a discounted rate so I figure why not take full advantage of it? It also gives me discounted massage therapy so I need to find one of those to go to, too - any relaxation has to be good, right? :)

[Suzlywoozly]

Thanks to everyone for the good lining vibes, I appreciate it. :)

Suzly I get credit for Dr. McHottie. Go me!!!

Damn straight!! I give you all the credit in the world!!:D MMM, MMM, GOOD!! Nuttin' like a little eye candy to liven up a Monday afternoon!

[tigerest]

No cysts, estrogen level good. DH gives me the E2 shot tonight and the cycle is a go!!! :) YAY!! I am getting excited! For some reason right before the appt I got nervous...thinking for some reason it would get cancelled. Silly me!

[Suzlywoozly]

Yay Tiger!! That is great news! I was just sitting here thinking how excited I am getting and had the thought that I have my sono on Friday and what if my cycle got cancelled!?

I want so badly to be excited, but I am so afraid of being let down again. For some reason I think a negative beta this time will be the worst of them all since we know that everything is "sparkly clean" and has been given the seal of approval by "Dr. McHottie" (to bad it's a "seal of approval" and not "sealed with a kiss"!!) :o I a such a bad girl!!

[ladybug777]

Thanks for all the congrats! :D I have my repeat beta on thursday, so fingers crossed!

Suzly: You'd think that as time goes on, the thought of getting a BFN would get easier, but it's just the opposite, don't you think? I'm thinking lots of positive thoughts for ya! Now about this Dr. McHottie......:D P.S.- would you mind friending me over in lj? I have the same user name over there.

Tigerest: YEAH!! Great news!

Bellefior: Eagerly tossing right now! :D

Lola: Thinking lots of good thoughts for ya! When is your beta?

[Suzlywoozly]

Ladybug- Sure, I'll do it right now! The BFN's are never-ever gonna get any easier at this point!

[Lola9404]

Ladybug - my beta is not until 6/19 :mad: I will definitely POAS before then there's no way I can wait that long.

Tiger - that's great news !

Suzly - keep thinking positive - I know how hard it is, believe me!

hope everyone is having a good day, it's my last day of bedrest here:)

[Bellefior]

I'm wondering about something and hoping that all you ladies who are Catholic and have undergone/will undergo some type of assisted reproductive procedure can answer. How do you feel about the Catholic Church's position on assisted reproductive procedures (basically from what I understand, the Church is against it, especially with IVF)?

The reason I ask this question is because I am Catholic and was kind of surprised at their stance (maybe I shouldn't be considering how conservative they are about many things). I guess they would rather have you suffer and continue to remain childless than have a beautiful child by some artificial means. It was fairly easy for me to reconcile the issue within myself by saying who are they to tell me what to do with my life in terms of bringing a child into this world, and if a priest actually told me what I was doing was wrong, I'd walk out the door and look for another church (we don't plan on letting our parish priest know what we are going through). I'm just afraid of the reaction of certain close family members (people who we will have to tell or who will have to know at some point) who are super Catholic when they find out what we are going through--though I guess we could always tell them what I said above...who are they to tell us what to do with our lives in terms of what we need to do to bring a child into the world.

PS. Hope this didn't offend anyone, because that is not my intention. It's just something I've been trying to wrap my mind around for some time and would really like to know how others in this situation have resolved this conflict between what the Catholic Church says and their own situation.

[CapeCod04]

I haven't posted here in a while because we are no longer doing IVF, but I saw the post about the Catholic Church's stance and decided to stick my nose in. I am Catholic, born and bred. I do not agree with everything the Church says. I used to have a bit of a snooty attitude about all the WWJD (what would Jesus do) signs and such - but I have really begun to make that more a part of my life when considering Church rulings, etc. So - WWJD? I think that Jesus would be completely supportive of using assisted reproduction. I think that it is humans who say it is wrong and they are every bit as fallible as you and I are. Now - judgment time may come and I may be wrong, but I am comfortable with the decisions we made to do IUI and IVF and nobody in Rome is going to shake that.

[Applebee]

Hi All! quick post then I'll be back later for personals...

AF is arriving - finally! CD1 will be today or tomorrow!!! IVF #2 here I come.

[Bellefior]

Thanks for the thoughts ladies. We have already decided that any embryos not used for the first attempt will be frozen in case either the first time is unsuccessful or we want to have more children even if it is successful. Under no circumstances, even if it worked and we decided we wouldn't want to have any other children, would we have them destroyed, donated, or experimented on. I don't care if we have to pay storage fees for the next 50 years. DH and I already talked about it, so at least we are comfortable with that. I just can't believe the church frowns on stuff even like IUI where embryos aren't even an issue.

We are hopeful that maybe after the additional tests and the upcoming urologist appointment, they may find something fixable or correctable and we may be able to change the game plan to something other than IVF.

Now I'm going to step off my soapbox but I wanted to mention something weird that happened. I was supposed to go to the dentist today and start work for a crown. When I called to confirm, I asked them if x-rays were involved because even though its not likely, we are still in the 2ww. They asked if I was pregnant and I told them I wouldn't know until next week. We ended up cancelling and bumping the appointment to next week instead, but now I'm thinking I might just put the whole thing off for a while. It's not urgent that it be done right now, and my cousin, who is a dental assistant, told me just to put it off if it wasn't absolutely necessary and deal with the other stuff first. I think she's right. Like I said, its not likely, but I keep wondering, what if? I've also made a decision when it comes to temping. I don't temp during AF, temp and use OPKs until I know I've O'ed for sure, then put my thermometer away. I'm done overanalyzing every change in my chart.

Applebee good luck!

[la_bride_2004]

I'm cautiously peeking in for an update.

I started POAS 10 days after IUI, and they started turning positive. However, I really wanted to see the beta.

I have a strong positive beta!!

I can't think of a better b-day present. (My bday was 06-06-06).

Believe me, I about fell over when I got the numbers. It's still not real yet.

Still praying for doubling vibes and an ok u/s in 2 weeks. Hopefully I will be able to exhale then!





la_bride_2004
Me: 33
DH: 37
TTC: 2/04
DX: male factor, high DFI
IVF #1- OHSS/ chem. preg (Dec 04)
IVF #2 - FET - chem preg (June 05)
varicocele repair surgery, 8/05, 13 found and repaired
11/05 chem preg., SA results now show normal count
1/05 normal hysteroscopy, no uterine septum
Status: SCSA testing Feb 06, if normal, on to injectibles/IUI
04/06- Injectables/IUI #1- cancelled, wrong med. dose
05/06- Injectables/IUI #2- 8 follicles- positive beta

[gator97]

la_bride- a cautious congrats for you!!! Yeah!! Congratulations on the positive beta. . sending you lots of doubling vibes!!!

Alright ladies. . . let's keep this great news coming!

[Suzlywoozly]

Bellefior- I don't know if you ever go over to IVFconnections.com, but I bet there is a whole discussion over there about this and you might get some more advice over there.

[IVFIVF]

**Updated to here**

With best wishes to la_bride_2004 (very exciting to update your stats BTW) and ladybug777!

[Applebee]

Hi everyone! Well, AF is here TODAY!!! I'll start my BCPs on Saturday. My tentative start date for shots is July 4th. My nurse will be sending out my protocol tomorrow or Monday.

LA Bride - cautiously congrats!! Sendings lots of doubling vibes to you!

Tigerest - excellent news!!

[ladybug777]

LA_Bride: Congrats to you!!! I'm so excited for ya!!!!!:D What a great b-day present!

Applebee: Yeah for starting AF!!!

I had my repeat beta today and it was 416! I have another beta on monday and then possible u/s on tues or wed!

[gator97]

YEAH!!!!!! Ladybug. . . keeping lots of sticky vibes going for you!!:D :D :D

[Suzlywoozly]

Yay, Ladybug! That is great news :D

Applebee- Isn't it a great feeling when she shows??? ;)

Holy Crap... I just realized that I never started taking the baby asprin last week when I started the estrace!! I go in for my sono in the morning and I am hoping everything will be okay. Yikes!!!

[Lola9404]

labride - BIG CONGRATS! I hope your beta doubles quickly :D :D

ladybug - great news! Sounds like you have a nice strong embie in there! :D

I'm hoping this good news rubs off on me. I'm dying to POAS but it's way too early at 9DPO. I'm going to wait until 12DPO if I can hold out. I've felt great which is weird since last time I felt terrible (but got a BFN). I definitely had cramping all yesterday and a little the day before so I am crossing my fingers that maybe it was one or both of my little guys implanting.

[mrselle]

I just wanted to peak in a say a big congratulations to labride and ladybug777!!!! Hope all continues to go well for you guys!!!

I don't get to post too often, but please know that I am thinking of every single one of you and sending many positive vibes.:)

[Mooshie]

Hooray LA Bride! Cautious congrats to you!

[julesp313]

LA Bride - congratulations! More good news in here... :)

Me - frustrated at the IVF nurse who said on TUESDAY that she was sending me my schedule and protocol. I have to schedule some client site visits that will mean I can't go to the RE's office for b/w and the like, so I need to know what days they need me there. And to add to that frustration, despite being on BCP, I'm spotting like AF is on the way. Should I call the RE's office and tell them that or wait and see if I really start AF? Sigh... things to think about. And I'm off to LA on Sunday for a week with work so that'll make it tricky to talk to the RE's office. Hmph.

[angelgirl8]

coreen...congratulations! i'm so happy for you! and happy bday!

[amychris03]

Congratulations to Ladybug and labride! Keep the good
news coming ladies :) I'm rooting for ya, just not much time to type
these days!

[Suzlywoozly]

Had my sono and E2 this morning... everything looks good so far. They changed my protocolthis cycle and the ET won't be for another 1 or so. I go back on Wednesday for another sono and E2.

I'm off to bed... it's 1:40 am... we just drove 6.5 hours to Disneyland... Gotta love having a laptop and getting free wireless internet!

[Tandis]

Suzly - So there wasn't a problem with not starting the asprin? That's good. Have fun in Disneyland!

Jules - It wouldn't hurt to call them about the spotting. Sorry to hear about your frustrations. This is the first time I've done IVF and I've already learned that schedules don't mean much when it comes to this. :rolleyes: Of course, it makes it really difficult when planning for work and life. Hope you hear from them soon!

Lola - Good luck with holding out. It's got to be really tough, especially when you get to these last couple days of the 2WW.

ladybug - Those numbers sound fantastic! Congrats again! :D

la_bride - Congratulations! What a fantastic B-Day gift :D

**********************

As for me, I'm just sitting around twiddling my thumbs. We not starting any meds until my cycle starts, and since I *just* O'd a couple days ago, I have a little while to wait. I did get all my meds in though, which was fun. Not as much as I thought there would be, but since my Dr. doesn't do PIO or, heck, any progresterone at all, there isn't that much medication to take.

[amychris03]

SuzlySo glad that the lack of baby aspirin didnt affect anything!
Have fun at Disneyland!:)

[julesp313]

I got my schedule and apparently the IVF nurse didn't listen to a thing I said as she schedule my mock transfer for next Wednesday after I told her I'm in LA all week. Pah. So now I have the mock transfer on the 19th, our injections class on the 24th, and I start stims on the 30th. I'm due to take Follistim in the morning and Menopur in the evening - anyone have any comments on either of those meds? Anything I should worry about? I have my appointments for b/w and ultrasounds and if all goes according to plan (and when does that ever happen in real life?) the ER is scheduled for July 11th. Now I'm waiting to hear from the pharmacy for the cost of the drugs and to get them shipped to me. Then, hope hope, it's a go. :)

[Applebee]

Hi everyone! I received my protocol, which changed slightly:

6/11-7/4: BCPs
7/5: Evaluation b/c & u/s
7/8: Start stims after b/w & u/s monitoring; Antagon sometime here too
7/20: Est. ER
7/23: Est. ET (I have to call my nurse b/c the doc said I would definitely be doing a 5dt this time so that would be 7/25)

Has anyone done the Antagon Protocol (Ganirelix it's now called)? The way I'm reading my sheet, I'll start Bravelle and Menopur before the Antagon.

Suzly, glad to hear everything is ok and no problems from not taking the baby asprin. WOOHOO Disneyland! Have fun!!!

Jules, sorry the nurse didn't pay any attention to you about your schedule. I've seen that happen to a few people. Really frustrating.

Tandis, waiting is the worse. Hope you can keep busy and it goes quickly for you!

Lola, I didn't POAS with my first IVF, but I'm 98% sure I will this time. Good luck!!!

[amychris03]

jules
I had Follistim- for me, at least (though everyone is different) I never
had any side effects whatsoever from the Follistim, and the injections
were a breeze with the Follistim Pen (never got a welt from them at all).

[la_bride_2004]

Ladies- I just wanted to say thank you all so much!! I have been on this thread for more than 2 years and it feels more than a little unreal to be posting about positive results for a change!

My first beta was 187, my second (a little less than 48 hours later) was 406 :D

I think this one may stick, hopefully!!

[AusMarchBride]

Driveby from me

Just wanted to post a huge Congratulations to Coreen I'm so thrilled for you and wish you a happy and healthy pregnancy.

Good luck to Lola for your upcoming beta

For everyone else who is cycling or getting ready to cycle, good luck also and I hope everything goes beautifully.

And here's my little pumpkin Sarah (http://static.flickr.com/52/159013259_30f134481e.jpg?v=0)

[Lola9404]

I can't believe I'm going to post this but here goes:

This morning I got my first ever BFP!!

I'm 12DPO right now. I tested at 10DPO and nothing, I've been having cramping for days now and so I tested this morning and there it was! It's faint but definitely there. OMG!! :eek:

I just called my RE's office to see if they'll let me come in for a beta earlier. My beta isn't scheduled until 6/19.

[Bellefior]

Congrats Lola!

PS. Can you PM me where you are going for your treatments and who your RE is??? I'm also in the Boston area, and am currently being seen by an RE at one of the hospitals, and would like to compare notes as to what you've heard about the different places!

[gator97]

:D :D This thread is on a roll!!! Congratulations Lola! Hope your RE lets you get your beta early. :D

Had my baseline today and got a gold star. . .barring anything weird, we start stims on Friday!

[ladybug777]

Lola: OMG!!! Congrats!!! That is so wonderful! I'm so happy for you. I told you June 5th would be a lucky day! :D :D

Gator: Great news. You're almost there!

La_Bride: Congrats on a 2nd great beta. I think this little one (or two ;) ) is getting nice and comfy!

Applebee: Don't have any insight into your protocol, but just wanted to say YEAH for getting ER/ET dates!

Jules: I was on Follistim for my fresh cycle. I didn't have any problems w/ it. The pen is very easy to use. Hope you were able to work out those scheduling difficulties.

[tigerest]

LOLA!!!! WOW, congrats! :)

This thread is on fire!!!!! :D

[Tandis]

Congratulations Lola! That's so fantastic :D H&H nine months to you, and I hope they let you come in early for a beta. :D

[Lola9404]

Re's office said the earliest they'll let me come in for my beta is Saturday, which will be 17DPO :rolleyes: Oh well! I'll just keep POAS until then and cross my fingers that the lines keep getting darker...

[julesp313]

Lola - congratulations! Another piece of wonderful news in here... :)

Can I ask a question? I don't think my protocol includes anything to suppress ovulation (like Lupron). What's that all about? I think from my Internet reading, I'm taking two FSH stimulants (Follistim and Menopur) but aren't you supposed to also suppress ovulation? Confusing... but I'm very excited to go on the 19th for my b/w and mock transfer.

[gator97]

Jules- I don't do Lupron in my protocol but I'm on minimal stimulation. So, if you are doing traditional then this won't be all that helpful. I did Gonal-F and Menopur. The stims were actually fairly kind to me so nothing to report.

AusMarchBride- somehow I missed beautiful Miss Sarah before. What a beautiful smile!

Applebee- I used Ganirelix with my last protocol. They started Gonal-F and Menopur first, then added Ganirelix as I neared ovulation to keep me from ovulating before they were ready. Yeah for having a schedule.

[ladybug777]

Jules: I did a traditional protocol and I was on Lupron. I started it before I went off bcp and continued it throughout most of the time I was stimming. Definitly ask your RE about this.

Lola: Darn it! But just think, if you're already getting BFP's, your beta is going to be out of this world!!! :D How are you feeling so far?

Tomorrow we go in for our first u/s. FINALLY!

[Lola9404]

Took another FRER test this morning and the line came up DARK! I'm very excited and now i'm just waiting for Sat for the blood test.

I also found out today that TWO of my friends are also pregnant and also due in February and I can't get over it. I'm really hoping this little bean sticks...

Ladybug good luck at your u/s tomorrow! It seems like everything is happening so fast, doesn't it? This board is on a hot streak, let's keep it going ! :)

[Bellefior]

Lola, way to go! (also check your PMs!)

[gator97]

Lola- yeah for a dark line! Hope that Saturday gets here quickly!

Ladybug- yeah for your ultrasound! Can't wait to get an update.

[julesp313]

Quick update - I just got a call from the pharmacy that my meds were ready for shipping. Turns out I do have suppression meds (Ganirelix) but for some reason, my schedule from the RE doesn't mention them - only Follistim and Menopur. When I go for my mock transfer on Monday and pick up my meds, I'll talk to the RE about it - obviously I need to make sure I know exactly what I'm supposed to be taking and when.

Now, for some excellent news - my insurance doesn't cover anything IVF-related, so I assumed my prescription coverage would also not cover anything IVF-related. The pharmacy called my Rx insurance and because none of the meds are solely IVF meds, they covered EVERYTHING with just co-pays! So instead of $4,000 for meds, I just paid $250. I am beside myself with happiness! Now if I can just get a decent schedule out of the IVF nurse, I'll be happy - they really need to give me a chart of what to take and when!

[Applebee]

Threadmistress, please update my stats, thanks!

Me: Lori Ann (39)
DH: Ted (36)
TTC: Oct 04
DX: Unknown; All tests ok; SA ok
M/C: Jan 1997 @ 7 weeks
Two snowbabies: 6 day blastocysts; over 100 cells each
IVF #1 APRIL 06: BFN - 3dt w/AH, Grade 1 - 8 cell, Grade 1 - 7 cell
IVF #2 JULY 06: Antagon Protocol; 6/11 BCPs, 7/5 Evaluation, 7/8 Start Stims, Antagon to begin sometime after stims, 7/20 est. egg retrieval, 7/25 est. egg transfer

[Applebee]

Jules, congrats on the med coverage. Great news!!

Ladybug, looking forward to hearing your report from your 1st u/s!!

Lola, that's fantastic!!!

Thanks for the Antagon info Gator!

AusMarch, Sarah is adorable!

[tigerest]

Hello. I have been following along but haven't had much time to post! I will be back later for S.O's.

Had my appt today...with U/S and bloodwork! Started out exciting....my lining is 10!!!! So as far as my lining goes I am ready. However, my E2 level is still low. So I have to increase my E2 injection again tonight. And go back in for more bloodowrk on Fri. They think by Fri everything will be ready....but then for some reason since I have day 5 embryos my ET will not be until 5/6 days after Fri.....SO it looks like my ET is scheduled for 6/22.

[Suzlywoozly]

Hello. I have been following along but haven't had much time to post! I will be back later for S.O's.

Had my appt today...with U/S and bloodwork! Started out exciting....my lining is 10!!!! So as far as my lining goes I am ready. However, my E2 level is still low. So I have to increase my E2 injection again tonight. And go back in for more bloodowrk on Fri. They think by Fri everything will be ready....but then for some reason since I have day 5 embryos my ET will not be until 5/6 days after Fri.....SO it looks like my ET is scheduled for 6/22.

Hey... we are suppose to be transferring on the same day... you are going to throw my luck off ;)

Jules- That is awesome news!!! I'm all about saving money, especially when it comes to IVF bills:D

[ladybug777]

Threadmistress, can you update me please!

Ladybug777 (formerly Scorpiobride on WC)
Me: Jazmine (27)
Dh: Taft (30)
Married: 6/15/02
TTC: 3/03
DX: Bilateral removal of tubes (8/05); initially dx w/ left hydro but lap showed both tubes dilated; mild male factor
11/04: IUI #1 w/ Clomid- unsuccessful
2/05 & 3/05 : IUI #2 & #3 w/ injectibles- unsuccessful
IVF #1 (1/06): chemical pg
FET #1: May 2006- BFP! Baby #1 due 2/12/07


Our first u/s went well. Looks like we'll be having one baby in Feb!

Lola: Whooo Hoooo for another dark hpt! I can't wait until your beta! Any feeling on how many you're carrying? OMG, it feels like everything is happening in slow motion. If things continue at this pace, this is seriously going to be the longest pg in history. :rolleyes: