Alpha Gamma Preggo

DETOUR!!

[Helen72]

Good luck with your u/s tomorrow!!!  I hope they will be gentler than the other place.
Wishing you many mature follies!!!!
So glad you are doing the trigger.  What a nightmare last month with OPK's!  This way there will be no guesswork about O-timing.

[babyalive]

Thanks Helen!  You are such a great cheerleader!!  

[HeathJo]

Well, we know you have 3 follies, and if they can find your other ovary without "popping the mature CYSTS", you have a darn good chance of getting pg!

[empty]

Lisa good luck. I will awake tomorrow to news you have been treated like a queen?

[magda_s]

Thanks Lisa for pointing out the detour... duh... I DID read the post about starting a new thread but guess the head's not all there and I just carried on with the old one.
but yes, as I was saying and, as you said, DH and I have done a lot of talking and we're going with a fresh start.  I still feel a bit strange about not using the frozen embies but we agreed that IF this new cycle doesn't work then we'll have more frozen embies for a FET.  I'm hoping it won't be necessary but one should plan ahead I guess.  But like I said, I do feel strange about it because if it DOES work - and I pray it does - then the frozen embies won't be used.  
But I do think the chance to travel before the next try will do me a great deal of good and I'm so looking forward to seeing my sister.
Hope all goes well for you with the u/s tomorrow Lisa.

[Helen72]

Magda,
if you do not get your wish and have a singleton from this fresh cycle, you can try to have another baby in a few years with your frozen embies.  So, your kids will be 2 years apart but that is so very common!
Glad you are in better spirits and looking to the future!  I am looking to start my first ivf cycle in about 2 weeks.  Perhaps we'll be in 2ww together.

[magda_s]

Good to know re the 2WW Helen!!
Unfortunately, we won't be trying again in a couple of years.  This is the reason I so badly want twins.  I know this might sound ridiculous - particularly to anyone who is an only child - but having a sibling I just feel that you get so much from a sibling and I would feel I'd done my child a disservice not giving them a sibling.  However, this is something that was discussed at length between myself and DH.  He's quite a bit older than me... 56 last October and he's already a bit nervous about having a baby at this stage in his life.  I think he's crazy because he's a very energetic person and very young at heart and is so amazing with children.  But point being, aside from being nervous, he feels it's unfair to the child (the fact of him being older) and he's not prepared to try for another in a couple of years down the line.  So we agreed, one success story only for us.
Like I said, that's why the twin thing is such a big deal to me.
But, as I've said before, I will be thankful for even just one.
I'll just be disappointed for that one.

[ms320]

Magda:  Whether twins or a singleton, your child/chilren will have a bunch of cyber siblings.  I think all of the AGPs are connected for life

[magda_s]

That's a lovely thought!!!!!!  Thank you for giving me a positive thought to stick in my head over the whole twin thing!

[babyalive]

Oh, Mary what a lovely sentiment!  

This is going to be short because ds (dear Sparky) is pestering me for some attention.  He gets very jeolous of the computer, my cell phone, the television, or any book/magazine I might be reading. He'll start dancing around the house picking up things he shouldn't be picking up just to get my attention.  Or, he'll just simply try to jump on the book I'm readiing, stand in front to the tv I'm watching, lay over the laptop I'm trying to type on, or just lay at my feet and rest his head in my lap and STARE intently at me until I stop what I'm doing and give him my full attention.  Very cute. Reminds me of a child.   (-:

OK.  Todays u/s was AWESOME!!!!   I almost cried AGAIN!  But, this time because I was overjoyed at what a breeze it is!! OMG!!!  It took all of maybe 3 minutes, the dr. was so GENTLE!  Everytime he would move the wond just a scosh he'd apologize.  I'm like "Oh, that's nothing!!"  I can not tell you what a relief this was to me.  I really am calling the other clinic Mon. am to complain about their incompetent techs.  Now that I know what a real u/s should feel like, I will not tolerate this "searching" for 20 minutes for an ovary while treating my cervix like a punching bag.  

Now the goods...6 follies.  Before you jump for joy for me 2 of the six are too small to even mention, less than 10 mm,  1 of the six, still fairly small, 15 mm, but the other 3 are good.  The largest was 26 x 22 mm,  18 x 15 mm and  16 x (something).  I have my IUI on Tuesday in the morning.  I do my Ovidrel tonight.  

Very excited!!

My new photo is of my donor as a baby.  Isn't it just the cutest!

[Helen72]

Congrats!  I knew you had more than what they found last time!  So glad this was painless.  Your 15mm will probably be at least 17mm or more by Tuesday morning.  So, you will probably have 4 eggs released.  Your chances look so good!!!
I can't believe you get your donor's baby pic.  That's amazing!!!

I hope you are doing your IUI at the good clinic.  If they could not find your ovary I hate to think what they would do to you when they look for an opening in your cervix.  

[babyalive]

I know!  I love that I get pics!  He is such a cute little baby. (-:

Yes, my IUI is at the good clinic.  Thank goodness.  They don't even do IUI's at my OB's clinic. Probably couldn't find the cervix if they did.  

Hope your 2ww is a swift one that ends in BFP!

[Helen72]

Thanks for your good wishes.  I just entered all of my BBT info into fertility friend chart and it confirmed that I O'd on the day of the IUI. Made me feel sooo happy I did not just imagine those O pains after the procedure.  I am afraid to feel very hopeful but at least I have a chance.
Are you taking 100 or 150mg of clomid?  I have no idea how I respond to clomid but hope I have more than one chance.

[HeathJo]

Helen--you have had a great run of good timing this cycle! I am keeping my fingers crossed for you. I am sure you are responding well to the Clomid. I seem to be the only one who did not, but I have the PCOS c r a p and you do not.

Lisa--WOOO HOOO!!!! Based on my previous post last week, research shows that 3-4 follicles give is the ideal chance for BFP with IUI w/out having a litter! Glad they stuck the u/s in the right hole, and found the right parts. If your local clinic were doing the IUI, I'd be scared they would stick the ds in your ear--I mean, a hole is a hole is a hole, right? (DUH!!!)

You know I love that baby photo, and I am sorry I have not answered your pm yet. I will soon-promise.

Mary--Well, you sentimental little fool, you! Who woulda thunk it? :-)
Seriously, though, I agree that all our little ones will have a bond and know each other. We will have many future travel expenses staying in touch ourselves, as well as keeping them in touch. Who knows, maybe one of us will be future in-laws! Ok, that is a stretch, but fun to think about!

I had a panic attack about the stupid grammy party where the gossippy bee yotchs were, and refused to go. They would have been the only 2 people we know there. Mainly, I am just tired and a bit queasy, as I always am at this stage b/c of the meds and my insomnia. We had "a bit of a row" as the Brits would say, but in the end it turned out he really did not want to go either but felt he had to. I told him it wasn't a wedding for God's sake, just call and tell them you're tired! So, he did, Thank God. I was just so not in a social mood, not wanting to hear all the questions like: "So, what do you do? Oh, you don't have kids? So what DO you do all day??" I had my answer down on that though. I'd just point to my dh and say "I DO him all day!"

[magda_s]

Lisa, SO glad to hear the u/s went so well.  That's brilliant!  
And Heather... absolutely delighted you got out of the grammy party!!!!!!!!
Well, AF has finally shown.  A bit too soon for my liking... I was hoping for the 12th at the earliest just because it would allow for other plans to run smoothly but hey, we can't have it all.  And besides, it's a step forward in a way so it's actually got me feeling a touch better.
Although, has anyone else experienced exaggerated AF symptoms after something like this?  My back is KILLING me and I was an emotional wreck all of yesterday... I mean on the verge of tears all day and I almost did start crying over the stupidest thing.  I actually can't remember what it was!!!  Some sentimental **** in an email or something!!!!  I'm usually a touch emotional when AF is about to show but not overly so!  However, feel okay today I think so hopefully that was that.
Right... best get my day started...

[empty]

hi guys

so i had 3 glasses of wine tonight...i just had to....i called up the hospital and my next appt could be the 19th of Feb for my next steps towards IUI. I am researching whether i could do IUI alot closer to work at the moment as there is a IVF place literally 5 min walk away. Its a hard one especially as it now means a new enviroment i could hate!

magda you vent  all you want - trust me we all have our turns here :) thats the beauty of this forum.

lisa - i am glad all went well. really excited you are a day away (my time) for your IUI. I started giggling about the baby pic....thats so cute and so funny. imagine if only the guy knew we were all gawking at him.

mary - ohhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh thats so sweet but i wouldnt let my kids mix with you nutters. JUST JOKING.

Ok no more woine fooor meeeeeeee

[ms320]

Lisa:  I am so glad that this u/s went so smoothly.  It is amazing how easy it is when it is done correctly.  The follie count looks great.  You put so much positive energy out there, it looks like it is finally coming back to you.  Dear Sparky better get ready to share his mom.

Helen:  I've said it once, I will say it again ... timing is everything.  It looks like everything is aligning in your favor this month.  I ma very excited for you.

Heather:  Good job at getting out of the Grammy party.  The first rule is to take care of yourself.  You get an A+.  Enough about me being a senimental softy though.  You will ruin the image of a tough girl that I have worked so hard to earn.  (At least it was plausible before this whole TTC fiasco)

[fifi blue]

Lisa, good luck with your IUI tomorrow.  I'm wishing, hoping and praying for you.  

[HeathJo]

Magda--I had hugely bad AFs while on Clomid. Horrible cramps, migraines, and my emotions were WAY out of control. I guess I will (or hopefully won't??) see how it is on the new regime.

Empty--You Aussie lush! I love it! You should post tipsy more often!

Lexima--I know you are on vacation and won't see this, but I am thinking of you and hoping a little bun is baking in the oven!

Mary--Sorry I outed you! But truthfully, we all know what a huge heart you have :-)

Fiona--What is your new protocol and when does it start?

Lisa--I am SSBD to you every hour, on the hour!!!!

[empty]

Hi Guys
Ok so i am now definately booked in for 8.30am 19th Feb for "protocol" for IUI. What does that mean?

Also guys i dont know if i am overanalysing this but my period is really really heavy at CD4. Is this because of the HSG I had 2 weeks ago?

[babyalive]

Empty, you are very cute.  You drink up girl!   You've certainly earned it by now!

Heathjo - glad you opted out of the grammy party.  I think that was a very good decision on your part.  So, it seems like the 2ww is going well with you?

Mary - Yes, I too know you are a real softy at heart.  But, shhhhhh...we won't spread it around!

Magda Of course the hormones are having their way with you.  I'm very sorry for how you're feeling.  But, you are on a positive course and taking steps to get you closer to that BFP.  

Helen - you are steadfast as always!  You must be on cd 4 or 5 now?  Any signs/symptoms of implantation?

Thank you everyone for all your encouraging words.  They mean soooo much to me!!  I think each of you ladies are the bomb!

[babyalive]

By the way I meant to also say that it does seem like things are going your way this cycle!  I am so glad to hear about BBT discovery and you did catch the egg on the way out!  

I don't know about you ladies, but I sure feel a positive turn in our AGP.  I sense at least 1 BFP this cycle, if not 2 or 3!  Go BFP!!!!!

[Helen72]

babyalive,
You know, about a month before AGP started I was in a 2ww group and 3 girls got BFP that month, Wendy90, wannabemama and praying_hard, all 3 following IUI w/ injectables.  So, it's not impossible!  Heather and Lexima have the same protocol so this may be a successful month in our little family.
I hope your IUI tomorrow goes smoothly!!!  You are almost in 2ww!

Empty,
on Feb. 19 you will be on cd12?  I guess they will check your follies and give you a trigger.  It's difficult to figure out what they meant by IUI protocol appointment...
Note that IUI makes more sense if you O on the side with unblocked tube so perhaps they want to check that.  Again, I am just guessing here...
Did you take any meds last cycle?  My AF is soooo much heavier with clomid.
I hope IUI works for you!!!

[HeathJo]

Empty--Helen is correct: if that is cd12 for you they are probably going to check your ovaries for follicles. Depending on their size, they will either have you track your LH surge at home, tell you when to administer a trigger shot, or have you come back in a couple of days if there are no mature follicles yet. Even if you O'd on your "good" side last month, if you are on Clomid or other meds you could produce follicles on BOTH sides. If for some reason it is just a coincidence that your appt is on cd12, maybe that is just when they will give you the run-down on what to do the following month. As for your AF being super nasty, I think Magda is having the same problem, and I know I did on Clomid!!!

Lisa & Helen: Lisa--good luck tomorrow!!! Helen, how are you feeling??? I hope you guys are right about someone getting a BFP. We deserve one!!! (at least!) Helen, were these other ladies lucky on their first try w/IUI & injecatbles or did it take a while, or both? (If you remember)

I don't know if I am just being negative, or if I believe the predictions of that psychic back in October (remember, the one my sis got for me?), but I don't feel as if this is my month. The psychic said I would be pg with a boy and a girl twins, in about 5 months. Now, that was October 8th, and I was so eager back then and asked her "Really, that long?" (Oh how naive was I!) She said "Well, it could be 5 weeks, I keep seeing 5,  but I really think it is months, so that would be around March." So does that mean it COULD be later this month?? Or, in March, period? Jeez, I am driving myself nuts over this silly thing! It's probably a scammy Madame Cleo type of person. I'd be happy if it was anytime, really, but I am starting to get pretty impatient!!!

I am 5dpiui, and my body is starting to play its games on me again. I am having O pain, mainly on the right, and earlier my face was really flushed, hot and pink on the cheeks. I am worried this all may be indicative of an ovarian cyst or something. I do NOT want a cancelled cycle!!! I am also a bit more fiesty than usual, and not at all emotional or weepy like I usually am. Could be because my MIL is p i s s ing me off! I won't even go into why . . .nothing to do with TTC.

I go in Wednesday for my progesterone test. In the past (on Clomid and the month I O'd on my own) my prog was only like a 9, a 10.3, and 10.8. They said that they need to see at least at 10 to be sure you O'd, but is there some magic number that may indicate if you are pg? I thought I saw on here that someone w/a BFP had a prog level in the 30's a week after O'ing.

Thanks for all of ya'll's support about this whole grammy party thing. I don't think I could have controlled my mouth last night! I was in a b i t c h y mood.

[Helen72]

Heather,
sorry about MIL troubles.   Mine does not even speak to me so I guess I am one of the lucky ones!
Progesterone # 's are tricky and depend on how many follies you produced.  I bet this month you will get progesterone above 15 since that is what they expect on medicated cycles with multiples follies.  The more follies, the higher the #.  
From what I remember, Wendy and Wannabemama were trying IUI with injectables for the first time.  They both had PCOS and that was the first protocol that worked for them.  Praying_hard was doing IUI for the 5th time or some high # like that.  She produced about 6 follies that month and was pregnant with one.  She also got a very nasty overstimulation and ended up in ER due to pain.  She had multiple cysts on both sides.  One ovary was so overstimulated they could not find her uterus since her ovary pushed it aside.  This did not negatively affect her pregnancy.  It was very uncomfortable and painful though but they told her it was going to get better in the second trimester.  This is what I remember.  Ashort and Sunshine were with me in that very lucky 2ww thread; they may recall more details.  I think Lexima was also in it and as soon as those 3 got BFP's we were like, we have to try what they are doing!.

Please do not obsess about prediction by Miss Cleo: it's for entertainment purposes only!!!!

[HeathJo]

Thanks sooo much for your always quick and educated responses! :-) Maybe I'll take a gander at their profiles/journals.

AHHH, Yes, dahlin, Mizz Cleo never make no promises, ja know. It's a up to YOOOO to deeeecide. (But, don't you forget it'll cost you $3.99 a minute, homegirl, or I'll get all up in your fa-shizzle!!!!! )

[HeathJo]

SO, this is weird. I got the flushy feeling again, and hot, pink spots on my face.I had the random chills/goosebumbs on my entire right side about an hour ago, and was chilly.  I just now took my temp out of curiosity, and it was 99.6 F. Now, I have never charted or anything like that, and I do not feel as if I am ill at all. I am having still mild/moderate O pain on the right side. Do you guys think this is hormones? My trigger shot (Ovidrel 250) was exactly a week ago.

[magda_s]

Finally got a name of a doctor here who's supposed to be really good.  Apparently he only opened his practive a year or two ago and studied in the UK.  I spoke with him and he sound snice on the phone.  Have an appointment for TONIGHT at 8pm.  I didn't realise how much I was hoping this would work out... I can't believe how excited I am at the thought of being able to do this without all the travel and I will be so upset if we don't like him for some reason!!!!
Heather, sorry, I have no idea what that might be but I know I've had similar feelings at different times without ever figuring out what it was so perhaps it is hormones.
Empty, my DH was looking over my shoulder at the forum last night and he pointed at your post and said, "She must be an Aussie"... He was just kidding but it cracked me up!
Lisa, good luck and... errr... out here in my little neck of the woods, we try not to mention 'bombs'!!!!!!! ;-)
Helen, I expect I'll be starting the 2WW around 27 - 29 March... is that about the same for you?

[empty]

hi guys.

so i am trying not to overdose on the alcohol. i still have to have a normal life outside TTC right. well i have decided not to change doctors cos i just get an earlier appt with where i am at the moment. i am having a doozy of a period. At CD4 its way too heavy. I didnt have meds just the HSG. i cant wait to join you guys in IUI - i feel like a total virgin.

ohhhh i am with you guys - someone is due for a super dooper BFP. We have all been hanging around waiting for it for too long thats for sure. And you know once it starts it catches.

heather and heathjo - thanks for the info - i will be on CD10. hopefully its just not a chat appt about my choice to go IUI and then off i go home.

magda - i am an aussie. you husband is too right? is he from melb? how was you appt?

lisa - you know i am always thinking of you. best wishes babe.

[HeathJo]

Yes, of course your insomniac American friend is wide awake! It is 4:11 am Tuesday morning here.

Magda--YAY! You seem to have found a great new doctor, and a more convenient one as well. I am so happy for you! :-) Let us know how your appointment goes!!!!

Empty--It is probably the HSG test, then, that is making AF so heavy. I believe you and I both had ours within a week of each other. The good news is that this is showing how that test really "clears out the cobwebs" and can increase fertility in the short-term. I'm sorry it's hurting you, though.

[magda_s]

Heather!  Good grief woman!  I hope you're asleep now!

Yes, very excited about the appointment tonight... soooooo hope it goes well... sooooo afraid it won't.... but... Must think positive!  And, worst case scenario, if we really aren't comfortable with him then we have to put up with a bit more travel... Such is life.

Empty, yes, my hubby's an Aussie and from Melbourne!  You should have seen his face when he said "She must be an Aussie" and I said, "Err... yes, she is!!"
Hmmm... doesn't say much for you lot on the alcohol front! ;-)
But I will admit to have indulged a fair bit myself for a few days there.
However that all stopped because I'm taking advantage of my BFN to try to lose as much weight as possible prior to the BFP I have decided to obtain in the very near future!!!!!!!!!!

[empty]

heathjo - are you sleeping yet ??? I am about to go to bed so you have skipped a whole nights sleep now.

oh magda - imagine if you come here?? How cool would that be? Yes we do have meals with our alcohol here. I have 5 brothers in law and its quite scary how much thye get through. Mind you their mum and sister is no better. What suburb was hubby from? Tell him i am in williamstown. Good luck tonight.

ooohhh lisa 4 more hours.

[HeathJo]

Sadly, I am still up. Insomnia s u c k s!!!!!

I am getting offline now to see if I have a chance in h e ll of getting an zzz's.

SSBD to my far-away friends! Have a good (day?night?)

[babyalive]

I think our next thread should be INSOMNIAC THEATRE!

WELCOME TO INSOMNIAC THEATRE featuring AGP and the Trying To Concievers.  Today's program features Hot Flashes, Mood Swings, OPK, The Infamous Baby Dancers, and the much anticipated BFPs!   We hope Aunt Flo doesn't show up because she tends to ruin the show.  Be sure to boo her off the stage if you see her sneaking around!  We'll have a special appearance from donor 1982, DH and the Injectables.  Don't miss it!  It's sure to be a heck of a show.  

(-:

[babyalive]

Sorry about the 'bomb' reference.  Yes, I understand that term has a whole other meaning in your neck of the woods.  I'll refer to you ladies next time as the Venus, bright, beautiful, hot (as I'm sure we are all hotties) and out of this world!

Heathjo:  Yes, Miss Cloe.  Well, don't forget to miss the point which is you are getting a BFP.  5 could mean in May, (month 5) could mean you'll deliver on the 5th, could mean they'll each have 5 fingers and 5 toes on each hand and foot, could mean you'll concieve (conceive) on the 5th day of the  month....But, the point is a BFP is coming!

Hey, I've got my fortune cookie telling me as much as well.  Whatever gets us through it, right?

[babyalive]

OK, I'm the posting queen now..

Just wanted to mention that your symptoms, while I'm sure uncomfortable they do sound promising!  I simply can't wait through your 2ww!  What cd are you on?

[magda_s]

Lisa, that was classic about the Insomniac Theatre!!!!!  And I was just kidding re the 'bomb' ref.. although, I'm sure you're aware of that.
I did get to sort of experience one during my last 2WW.  Don't know if you heard about the bomb that went off in Beirut when someone tried to kill the US consul.  It was day 1 of my 2WW and hubby had just arrived back in Damascus and I hear this incredible noise and the windows of the building rattle for a bit.  Then my aunt comes in with a little portable radio and aside from listening intently, she seems really rather calm.  eventually I couldn't take it anymore and I'm like "Errrr... look I'm sorry but I've never experienced this before and I was just wondering if I should be calling Neil to tell him to get right back here to pick me up."
My aunt actually laughed at me and told me not to worry!!!!!!!!
All a bit surreal.
You must be pretty excited... not long now at ALL !

Heather, since you've not been back I'm assuming you managed to pass out!

empty, sorry... hubby's not actually from Melbourne.  I tend to forget because we always say that just because no one ever understands when he says where he is from. However, you might! He's originally from a teensy place called Orbost.  Know it?  He went to Melbourne for uni then moved to Beechworth where he found a job and he ended up staying there for 20-odd years before moving away from Oz.

[magda_s]

Just thought... funny story about my DH and alcohol... Well, I find it funny.  Him... not so much!
Just over a year ago he was diagnosed as being alergic (allergic) to the stuff!!!!!!!!!
He went through a period when he would suffer really terrible headaches as a result of drinking and this wasn't an ordinary hangover.  He kept cutting down and got to the point where even one very small glass of wine would cause the exact same reaction.  In the end he went to a doctor.  I always joke about how he just wanted to find out what was wrong so he could fix it so he could drink happily again but in all fairness, he got a bit freaked.  He did every test known to man starting with getting his liver and kidneys checked out to having an MREI of the brain and everything in between.
We discovered two things.  a) he is EXTREMELY healthy and b) he has developped an allergy to alcohol.
He doesn't drink anymore and insists at every opportunity that he can find that it's a crime for him to be an Aussie and not be able to drink.
For the longest while he was going around telling this story and he';d always end up explaining that "after 35 years of drinking heavily, I can't drink anything anymore."
I've finally convinced him to drop the "heavily"!!!!!!

[Helen72]

Magda,
your dh may be allergic to the additivesin vines.  It's a pretty commonallergy that causes hangovers.  Can he drink beverages other than wine?  He should try vodka; I am from the former USSR and never heard of anyone being allergic to that!  :)
I will know more about my ivf protocol  and schedule in about a week when I schedule my shot lesson.  I'll keep you posted.  Glad yuo found a local clinic.  I hope it works out for you!

HeathJo,
I agree with Lisa that your symptoms sound promising.  Can you send me some?  I have no symptoms at all.  

Lexima,
so cruel of you to go on vacation during such a promising 2ww!  I bet you are going to test soon and we need to know the results!!!!
Seriously though, I hope you are relaxing.  

Mary,
how are you doing?  I hope the meds do not give you any nasty symptoms.  

[ms320]

Helen,
Thanks for inquiring.  The meds are actually not too bad.  I did notice that my abdomen is slightly bloated, but that is about all.  I also get a short-lived local reaction to my Ganirelix injection.  I get a burning sensation, followed by a golf ball sized red area around the injection site.  Fortunately, the whole thing lasts less than an hour.  

No symptoms for you?  That is not a bad thing, you know.  When I conceived last year, I didn't feel anything until a week after I took my HPT.  I mean nothing at all.  I wouldn't have even taken the HPT if AF wasn't 3 days late.

HeathJo,

I hope you are sleeping as I am typing.  I can't believe that epidsode of insomnia.  I've had it from time to time, and it can be really difficult.  I would always crash in the late morning, so by the time my "normal" sleep time rolled around, I wasn't tired yet.  The whole thing can really mess with your sleep pattern.

[magda_s]

Helen: Nope... He can't drink a damn thing!!!  No wine, no beer, no gin, no scotch.  But in all fairness, he never tried Vodka I don't think.  I wonder if I should suggest it or just keep him in the dark!!

Ladies: I have a question which I'm also going to post as a new thread but I thought I'd stick it in here too.
First of all, we went to see the doctor here and although he doesn't seem as sweet AND friendly as the doctor in Beirut, he does seem knowledgeable and professional and I liked that he listened to us and was flexible about certain things but only to a point (as in, he wasn't about to compromise his professional beliefs).
Now, we're going with the same sort of long protocol I've been on before... a month on the pill and then an HCG shot a few days before the pill is done and start the stimulation meds a few days after AF shows after the pill.
I told him that the doc in Beirut had said I should start the pill on day 5 of AF and asked if that was how he would go.  He said he'd prefer to go with day 3 but 4 or 5 are okay too.
I explained that I was actually hoping he would say day 6 or 7 was okay too because I was hoping to push everything a couple of days.
He then said that if I wanted to push things, that was fine... I should go ahead and start the pill on day 3, 4 or 5 of AF and explained that I should buy two packs and use a few from the second pack to delay AF.
He said it was far better to take the pill a bit longer than a regular cycle than to start it too late as with the latter situation you risk your body already getting busy producing an egg.
Now, he started saying you could push it for as long as you like but then later he got a bit more serious and said that you wouldn't want to be on the pill for FORTY days but to take it for a few extra days was okay.  He said that taking it for too long defeats the whole purpose of taking it because then you start spotting and you have no idea if AF has actually shown up or not.
So... finally, to the question... Does anyone know what's acceptable as a "few extra days"?
Obviously I will ask him but I won't be able to do that for a couple of days and wondered if anyone knows.  I'm planning to start the pill on day 5 of AF and to take it for 28 or 29 days.  Is that acceptable or too long?

[babyalive]

I would assume a few days means anything less than a week.  He doesn't want you going 40 days, a typical cycle is 28 days.  So, I would say a safe bet would be anything under 7 days.

[babyalive]

I have a question that I may post as well.  Are any of you taking progesterone suppositories?  Sleepless_Mom recommended I start taking them.  So, I asked my BIL to write me a prescritp.  for them and he did.  But, I'm not sure if I should begin taking them today.  Does it interfer with the IUI at all?

IUI went well by the way.  I didn't have my regular nurse.  I really like her and missed her.  But, other than that, I'm officially now in 2ww.  

Helen, so tomorrow is my 1dpo right?

Mary also I keep meaning to get back to you on a post from a while ago.  I wanted to thank you for the post about the woman with an FSH of 30(?) that became preg. and delivered a healthy baby.  Defintely gives me hope.  Thank you for sharing that with me!

[Helen72]

Magda,
I will be starting b/c on cd3.  I am not sure what the reason for that is though.  My nurse only told me that they wanted me to have a normal AF.  Not sure how shifting this may affect your ivf cycle.
As for your new doc, the main issue is not whether this doc is friendlier but what are his success rates.  If his success rates for your age group are better than for the clinic in Beirut you should stick with the new guy.  Here many people travel to a clinic in Las Vegas for ivf just because they have better success rates.  That is the main criteria.  

Lisa,
glad your IUI went well and w/o stress regarding your timing.  Did you have O pains today?  Tomorrow you will be 1 dpo!  I am 5 dpo today so you are just a little bit behind me and Heather.  What was your clomid dosage?  I asked you this before but don't remember your answer.  I am taking 100 mg.  

[babyalive]

I was on 100 mg Clomid taken cd 5  - 9.  Then the HCG trigger was Sunday eve.  36hrs later I had the IUI.   I hadn't had much o pain this cycle and I was concerned about it.  BUT, today am making up for lost time.  Having strong o pain, especially on the right.  I overslept this morning because I was up with the insomniac group earlier.  Anyhow, because I overlsept - I didn't have time to shower before my IUI.  I need to go to the pharmacy and p/u the progesterone but the o pain is making me feel lazy.  I just want to lay on the couch and breath through the pain.  I keep putting off getting in the shower because I don't want to move.  

I really hope this is your cycle so you won't have to go IVF route.   How was your o pain on Clomid?

[Helen72]

O pain today is good!!!  This means that IUI was timed really well.  I am soooo excited for you!

I typically know which side I ovulate on because of sharp O pain that lasts a few hours.  Last month I had no pain at all.  This month I had barely any on the day of the IUI and only on my right side.   I am hoping for a BFP but afraid to hope.  

Today I feel soooo sad because of miky's bad news.  I feel like crying myself.  This feels so unfair since she went through so much already!

[HeathJo]

Lisa--Yes, the Insomniac Theatre is a crazy place to be! I am there A LOT! Thanks for making it more fun than usual. I am glad all went well with the IUI. I TOTALLY had the same O pain this cycle as you are. It was like stabbing, heavy, pinching, crackling crazy active pains! It lasted several days before the IUI and 2 days after, and strangely came back day before yesterday and yesterday, although not as bad. Nothing really today. Anyway, a heating pad really helped, as did some ThermaCare heat wraps, if you can make it to the store. Hang in there, let's hope this is a good sign :-)

Helen--No symptoms yet today, although my day just started at 4PM! I fell asleep finally at about 9:30 AM. However, as we all no, symptoms can mean nothing and no symptoms can mean a lot! I just note them here b/c given this is cycle 1 on injectables, I am just tracking how my body reacts. On a completely different subject: are you really from Russia?

Mary--I am sure you know better than most, being in the medical field, what lack of sleep, specifically REM sleep, can do to a person. Honestly, this is my most prominenet physical problem. I did a sleep study, and, at least while I was there, I never entered REM sleep, and stayed in stayed mainly in Stage 2. It started in college, and my Mom and sister have problems also. That study was done like 4 years ago, and I am sure I get better sleep now because I started actually having dreams again about a year ago! It's still way off though, and the chronic fatigue during the day, whether I sleep or not, is pretty debilitating sometimes. Gosh, aren't I a cheerful presence? ENOUGH about ME,ME,ME!!! That injection reaction sounds pretty painful--at least it doesn't last too long. Did you try ice?

Magda & Lisa--Your questions go way beyond my scope of experience, but good luck getting answers :-) I am sure you will find them here.

See ya'll later, after American Idol (I know, I know--I am addicted)

[babyalive]

Oh, I'm totally addicted to AI as well.  (And not artificial insemination).  I even like cranky ole' Simon.  Have you tried taking Melatonin for sleep?  It's  natural and safe to take during pregnancy.  

Oh, Helen, I know I feel so bad for Miky too.  Although I have hope for her still.  So many times I read posts that just sound so awful and then a few days later everything turns out ok.  So, I'm hoping that's the case for her.

  

[magda_s]

The benefit of being in the middle east is that IVF is so much cheaper than in the western world and that ethics are not held in quite as high regard as in the western world, hence my having 6 embies transferred both times.  However, equally, it means that there is no way of really knowing how good a doctor is or what the success rate is.  They can say whatever they want; there's no one who regulates anything.  
I went for laser hair removal once and the doctor who was lauded as having studied in Germany BURNED my leg because she didn't know how to use the laser properly  She also lied to me about the kind of laser she was using and it should not be used on tanned skin.  When I came back to her the next day with blisters covering my upper leg, she said I was allergic to the laser!!!!!!!!!!!
So, in this case, I have to just go on faith and on the word of an obstetrician who I've never met but who is apparently the "best" and says that this guy is "the best" for IVF.
The funny part is that this doctor refuses to transfer more than 3 or max 4 embies so I don't even get my six if I go with him.
Does anyone have any thoughts on this?
He insists that transferring 6 does not actually increase my chances of twins but does increase my chances of triplets or more, therefore increasing my chances of requiring a reduction and he also said something I didn't know; that a reduction carried a one in ten chance of triggering a m/c.
All I keep thinking is that if we transferred SIX and THAT didn't work; what chance do four have of working let alone producing TWINS????
But he says it's not actually a numbers game and that I have as good a chance with 4 embies as I do with 6.
Lisa, I so have my fingers crossed for you.  Unlike so many of the others, I have NO idea about anything to do with o pain or symptoms so I can't even begin to guess what any of it means but I am sending lots of positive thoughts your way!
Heather, how are you doing??  Are you sleeping??????

[empty]

Fellas - oh my god. I just spent 4 hours after work in my PJs proofreading our catalogue...somebody kill me. Mind you i had 3 glasses of sparkling red beforehand to help. What is it with me and 3 glasses of alcohol??
I am at CD5 today and getting really excited about my appt on Tuesday.

Lisa - oh my god ....o pains after your transfer is a good sign. I am so glad youre feeling the pain as this is really good ...YAY!!!!!

Heathjo - how are you feeling?? If i were an insomniac at 5dpo i would be POASing like crazy or at least thinking of POASing like crazy. Sleep at the moment is the only thing stopping me from obsessing about TTC.

Helen -  i am going to be a sticky beak but why wont your MIL talk to you? You sound so sensible and lovely?

Magda - tell hubby i know where Orbost is - havent been there though. today was a big day for us here in Aust as it was the day that the govt said sorry to the aboriginal people for years of forcibly removing aboriginal children from their homes to be raised in institutions. This happened through the 1920s right up to 1970. It was very big deal here and i am sure he would have seen in online in the Aust papers.

If hubby was in Aust everyone would feel immensely  sorry for him for this allergy. Infact i am sure they will drink ot the fact that they are not him.

Mary - i cant tell where you are in your cycle.....i hope you are well?

[empty]

oh i just saw milkys post. sometimes i dont know why we put ourselves through this and i know its only cos of you girls that i get through TTC on a daily basis. Night girls.

Dee

[Helen72]

HeathJo,
I am not from Russia; I am actually from Ukraine but I do speak Russian.
How are you feeling today?  A permanent shift in temperatures up is a good sign.  Do you still feel flushy?

empty,
mil does not speak to me for two reasons: she hates all Soviets (which I am sort of) and she does not like the fact that I am half-jewish.  Since I cannot change my origins, I don't loose much sleep over the fact that she hates me.  She disliked me before she ever met me so I do not take this personally.  On the bright side, she never asks about us having kids.  In fact if we do, she'll probably be devastated.  
I hope you are having drinks for all of us in 2ww!!!

Had lunch with my pregnant friend.  That always makes me so sad...  All she can talk about is her baby growing, moving, what they are changing around the house for the baby, etc.  She even asked me for advice on C-section vs. natural childbirth.  I felt so sick when she did.  I am happy for her but so depressed nevertheless.  
I just want this 2ww to be over with so that I can move on in some direction!

[fifi blue]

empty, i agree with you.  Don't know how I'd get through this without you ladies.  

Lisa, glad to hear your iui went so well.  I'm excited for you.
Heathjo, feel your pain re: insomnia.  Can't seem to make it past 4am.  Maybe if I exercised once in a while!  How are you coping with 2ww?

Started birth control yesterday.  Go for suppression test on March 3 and then hopefully start meds again for 2nd ivf.  My meds arrived yesterday and they cost $5k!!!  Yes, five thousand dollars.  Was going to drive to Canada but wasn't enough of a price difference.  Buying over the internet makes me nervous, didn't want to take a chance.

[empty]

oh helen thats horrible when friends are preggers and you have to put up with their chatter and inside you are jsut like hyperventilating. I actually know this is bad but i now avoid all of my pregnant friends or babies. I just cant cope otherwise. I have so few friends now its not funny!

fifi - 5k!!! omg. do you get to claim any?

[HeathJo]

Hi Guys, Thanks for all your concerns about my sleeping. Unfortunately, it has not improved. I had a MAJOR panic attack at 3am because I was still awake. I was shaking, heart-beating fast, hyperventilating. I woke up my dh and he ws very sweet. I have managed to get about 4 hours of sleep late in the late morning.

I apologize for not being able to address each one of you personally right now, but my brain is fried. I have felt very emotionally unstable the last few days--fearful (of what? who knows), anxious, and a bit just plain flat and blah.

I'm 7dpo, cd21. Had to reschedule progesterone test for tomorrow b/c last night fridge compressor broke and all our food was ruined, so I had to be here for the repairman.

I hope you are all doing better than I am right now, and I will check back in later.

Big hugs and SSBD to all you guys

[empty]

heather - oh you poor love. all this monitoring we do is enough to drive us all bananas so i totally get it. i am coping with it by obsessively checking this forum and responding to every post i can.....as you can tell. On Tuesday, i had to go somewhere to meet DH and i managed to get myself so lost that i just gave up. It feels like all my strength is in TTC that even the simplest things now breaks me. So please dont feel badly about it.

Happy Valentines Day Fellas.

[babyalive]

Helen - Well your MIL has no idea what a wonderful person she is missing out on.  I can't believe people this day and age, are so ignorant!  Just makes me mad!!  You are right, considering the source of this "seperation"  You are better off without her.    I know what you mean when you say you're afraid to hope, yet hope we do!  I think it's safe to allow yourself to hope, it can make the 2ww more bareable.  Although I certainly understand the comfort in trying to avoid believing in the almighty BFP, because as we've all experienced it is just so devastating.  Hang in there.  6 days to go if you want to POAS early!

Fifi - as I mentioned in my pm, I am so happy things are moving forward for you.  

Dee - You little cutie.  Drink up buttercup!  Because soon you'll be in 2ww!

HeathJo - You are so much like me in many ways!  I too wake up in the middle of the night with anxiety/panic attacks!  They've increased since being on Clomid.  Very odd, the racing hard, difficulty breathing, sense of shear panick is a feeling I know well.  The Melatonin I mentioned earlier for sleep sometimes can help with that.  As does Chammomeal(sp?) tea.  Ultimately, they can become so bad for me at times I  have to take Xanax. Although it's a class C drug during pregnancy so I won't be able to use it when I get my BFP.   I'm sure it's the hormones just racing through your body.  Try to avoid caffeine of all types, even in the amount in choc. bars, and sodas can create that racing heart and insomnia.  

Well little ladies.  Here we go again.  May the BFP(s) win!!

Well, I'm 1dpo and feel pregnant!  KIDDING!!  LOL.   I did have very slight spotting over night.  So slight it was just like very, very light pink cm.  But, have never had this proceeding an IUI.  This is a first for me.  The o pain is almost gone.  Very mild and fleeting today, which is good.   Maybe this cycles unique symptom are a good sign.  Who knows.

[HeathJo]

Helen--I am sorry your MIL is such an ignorant, biased, prejudiced b i t c h. I am ashamed to be American at times like this. Breed away, that'll stick it to her! And, yes, the flushes came back this evening, same time. Very weird. So sorry about feeling blue being around pg friends. That would tear me up.

Empty--I am afraid to POAS, an anti-addict. Can't really handle the answer right now. (Plus, it is too early--8dpo,cd22 tomorrow). I am just TOTALLY not myself right now.

Fiona--I am so glad you are barrelling ahead.

Lisa--Sorry we have the panic in common :-( But, it sounds as if this is a promising cycle for you so far.

I am going to try and sleep, although I am unsure if I will be able to.

[babyalive]

I am so sorry you are going through such a rough time!!   You are getting so close though!!!! Just a few more days.....Can you and dh get away for the long weekend?  It sounds like a weekend getaway might be just what you need.  I don't know anything about TX.  In Oregon I can go to the beach, it's just about an hr. from where I live and sometimes the change in scenery can really do a mind good.  Even if the body isn't up to it, sometimes the spirit just needs a change of pace.  Is there somewhere you can go in your area for a change of scenery even if for one night?

I'm going to start a new thread, this one it taking a while for  my comptuer. Or, I'm just an impatient b i t c h, whatever!   (-:   I'll use Insomniac Theatre to get your alls attention.