Any 40+ on IVF with failed attempts

[Sheetz0902]

First, I realize this is a broad and an exclusive question. So, I apologize for that. Second, I am still learning the shorthand and acronyms lingo on all the blogs.  I My husband and I were trying to get pregnant and in the process I was diagnosed with breast cancer. And, due to possible chemo, ended up seeing and onco-fertility doc. This started my process of the possibility of IVF. I started my first cycle last Monday at which point no follicles. Friday they saw four. To date, they are still 10mm and havent grown. I started with letrozole and gonal-F. I was also prescribed Menopure, Gairellix and noverel. It looks like I will have to stop the cycle. I know I don't have much time considering my surgery next week followed by 2-4 week recovery. I am considering a visit with my doc to be more agressive and all possible alternatives. Has anyone tried acupuncture along with it? I have heard good things with positive outcomes. Though, I feel hopeless at times. I have also decided to try teh three strike rule. Should I give up tafter three tries? Please help!

[Ginger077]

RE is short for reproductive endocrinologist. My RE did not push acupuncture on me. I asked if he thought it would help and that's when I found out that the most important time was immediately before and after the transfer.
I cannot remember the name of the web site off hand but there is one for these select few acupuncturists specializing in fertility. If I think of the name I'll be sure to share it with you.
Ginger

[Sheetz0902]

Hi Ginger, thank you for your reply and hopeful words. Who is an RE? You and others on here are so positive. This is only my first attempt for me to say it failed but, my eggs are still below 10mm at day 10. so I will try IVF as well as acupuncture. My docs "do not recommend it", but I will look for a certified acupuncturist in my area! Again thank you both!

[Sheetz0902]

great, thank you AB! that is exactly what it means. your words are encouraging.

[Ginger077]

Yes my acupuncturist and RE say the that acupuncture does increase the chances for success. I see an acupuncturist who specializes in fertility. A lot of them say they treat it but there are few with credentials that specialize in it. I also take supplements she has recommended I take to improve my overall health. The most important time to have acupuncture treatments are immediately before and after the embryo transfer. They meet me at my clinic and do the treatments there. It's expensive but well worth it if you don't have to go thru another ivf cycle. I have had three ivf's the two I had acupuncture with the one specializing in fertility I was pregnant both times. The first one I used a regular acupuncturist who just treated fertility I got a negative result. I miscarried twice so we are still trying but it had nothing to do with the treatments I had. I recently had to cancel our ivf #4 because I wasn't responding to the meds but I also wasn't going to acupuncture because I was too depressed over the losses to leave my house.
Good luck to you. If I can be of anymore help please feel free to message me.
Ginger

[AnnieBrooke]

I did acupuncture with my IVF tries.  Was successful the first time but not the subsequent times.  However, the research shows that women who did acupuncture along with IVF have better results.  Three strike rule means what, three tries with your own eggs?  Don't forget the possibility of donor eggs.  Good luck.