New cycle buddies May/June

Hi there!!
Here i am again, trying my 4th cycle and been 100% positive that this will ours BFP and will bring BABY or BABIES home for 2012!!! Im looking for buddies cycles that we can share our experiences, before, during and after the cycles!!
Yesterday i started bcp's on 3cd..just waiting for my new Nurse to call me so we can meet and give me all the new stims meds ill be using for this new cycle..im so excited but at the same time soo scared..but i know that trusting in GOD everything will be possible..we just need to BELIEVE & TRUST IN HIM!!

ME:26, tubal ligation
DH:28, perfect
DD: 8,7 & 4

1st IVF: September 2010 (failed)
Meds: Bcp,Lupron 10 units for 2 weeks then 5 units, Menapur 75, Gonal-f 150, Hcg 10,000 & Endometrin 3x
ER: 8 eggs
Fertlz: 6, all blasto, good quality
ET: 2, frozen 4 blasto
2ww: anxious, no symptoms, AF showed up one week early :-O....:-(

1st FET: December 2010 (failed)
Meds: Estrace & Crinone 1x
ET: 2 blasto
2ww: anxious,waking up middle night to go to bathroom
Beta: @13 dpt=3, BFN :-(

2nd IVF: March 2011 (biochemical pregnancy)
Meds: Bcp's, Lupron 10 units for 2 weeks then 5 units, Gonal F 150, Hcg 10,000 & Crinone 1x
ER: 7 eggs
Fertlz: 2 blasto then 2 slow embies = 4
ET: 3 good quality(2) morula (1)
2ww: breast tender, morning sickness, very tired, running to the bathroom wayy too much..
hpt @6 dpt =(-)
hpt @7dpt= (+) very faint
**early beta = 6 Yayyy!!! BFP!!!!!
hpt @8dpt=(+) more clear
hpt @9dpt=(++) OMG!! Is really positive!!.. O oh.started to spot and to have light cramps.. :( not good...called RE said is normal!! UFF!! got scared!!
hpt @10dpt=(++) Is there im preggo..Thanks GOD you heard my friends and my prayers!! around 10 am started to have severe cramps in my lower back and lower abdomen..OMG NOO!!..when i went to the bathroom there were lots of blood...went to the hospital..the told me i was running with a high fever,too much bleeding and cramping= early miscarriage :(...
Beta: 100 still positive
@11dpt=(++) wake up @ 5am with no symptoms at all!!!!!!!!!!! ooohhh nooo!!! blood is all over me :( im just drowing in tears..I lost them!!...
@12dpt =(++) still showing positive but no symptoms
@13dpt =(+) started to blurr
**Official BETA test= 43 :( it dropped
@16dpt =(-) beta 2, Its all over ..my 3 little angels with God...

LADIES IS TIME TO BRING OUR BABY OR BABIES HOME!!!!
THIS IS OUR'S!!!!!
LET'S BE POSITIVE AND BELEIVE IN GOD!!!!

[MJinWaiting]

Hello! I am a June cycle I beleive. I just started AF yesterday and I have my first appt tomo with RE to start my first cycle. I will be starting BCPs hopefully tomorrow as well. I dont really know what to expect but im excited and feeling positive about this cycle as well. Hopefully this will be the cycle for both our BFPs.

Dh and I had 5 failed IUIs last year (3 clomid, 2 injectables) and we took a break for 4 months. Just getting back into the swing of things and this time for IVF.

Here's to hoping! Love and Babydust

[jessy_fernan]

Hi there!!

Welcome back!!! I know its been hard cuz i've been there..but the good thing of this new cycle for both is that we are very positive!! Im glad we gonna be cycle buddies and i know there's a lot of ladies out there that will join to our new cycle and we all gonna have a BFP and a healthy BABY or BABIES!!

Keep posting so we can keep sharing our experiences and our changes in our lives with this new and last cycle...and i say last cycle because this is OUR TIME!!!!!

Love Jessy :-)

[MEL4141]

Hello , a big welcome back, I too am a regular on here and we too are going for a 4th ivf starting 3rd june, my protocol and reasons for not working probably different to yours( I am older 41 years and only produce few eggs, although like you my first ivf did work but i had early miscarriage)Anyway we have the main thing in common, both wish this cycle to be the BFP one that stays there.
I have been taking dhea which is meant to help with egg quality and production, so only time will tell. I am on the short protocol, max dose of menopur and burserelin, and only get between 3-6 eggs, hopefully will produce that one good egg this time, thats all it takes. Both times that my previous other 2 ivf's failed , i bled form day 11-13 on the 2ww. Will be following your progress and will update when I begin my cycle beginning june time, my best wishes  to you both, melissaxx

[shazza203]

Hi there,

I'm on my fourth cycle aslo. Hoping for ER on Monday. Not sure if it's going to go ahead because my scan yesterday showed that my left side is an odd shape. Have to go back for US on Friday. He did say not to make plans for Monday though, so here's hoping.

Mel4141 - was just wondering what dhea stands for. Like you, I'm 41 and only producing a few eggs each time. Anything to help egg quality, endo lining and everything else. Have proven that it only takes one egg because that's all I got last time. BFP proved that it worked but something went wrong somewhere else.

[MEL4141]

Hello, dhea is a hormone product(i'm from England and we cant get it here) so purchased off internet from canada, i've done my research and have nothing to lose using it going by my previous cycles, just want to maximise my slim chance of getting that "better" egg. Also most dr's in US and Canada and Australia reccommend it for older women with poor egg quality and production. If you google it and add fertility you can read more about it. This has to be our last ivf as we just have no more money, have spent over £16000 with out this cycle. I only had 1 egg the last 2 times to put back and cell division wasnt great so here's hoping for an improvement this final time in June. We did have a BFP ivf but endedin m/c, my very best wishes to and hope this will be your time too, look forward to your updates and progress, we're all here to support as WE know how extreamly herd the road is. melissaxx

[tones99]

hey .. it looks like 4th time will be it for many of us .. I am starting my 4th fresh round (had one frozen too) in about 2 weeks time so procedures will be set for early june .. it looks like I'm in good company with familiar friends ..  always great to have good cycle buddies .. good luck to all for a smooth course!

[MEL4141]

Welcome Toni, so sorry on your previous attempt, was really hoping for good news, my cycle will be early June so we can follow and support each other together, best wishes and will update as and when, melissaxx

[mhv]

Ok ladies!   I am doing my transfer at the beginning of June! (I'm, as most of you know, doing an FET)  Can I join in?!?!  

There are so many familiar faces on here! : )   I feel like I'm with close friends!  

I have to believe we are ALL going to get our BFP's This Time!  We have been soooo patient and we are all so deserving!

[mhv]

Shazza- I saw that you were looking for things to help thicken your lining.... I have some suggestions for you! : )     You can take 1000mg of Vitamin E a day, and ask your RE about taking a baby asprin a day.   :)
Have you thought about acupunture?  That helps too :)  
There is also a tea~ Raspberry LEAF Tea that helps to "tone" the uterus.  You can find it in the organic section of grocery stores, and of course on line.  I found tablets and take them 2-3 times a day.


Mel- Are you going to do acupunture this time?  

[MJinWaiting]

Hello All!!

I had my first appointment today and I got my schedule for the next 6 weeks. I start BCPs tonight and it looks like my ER will be around June 7, 8, or 9th. Then ET 3-5 days later. All of you seem to have already gone through this, any advice for a newbie with IVF? I had 5 IUIs so im thinking it will be similar to that just longer and more invasive. I have done ALOT of reading on IVF to make sure I was aware of exactly what they are doing.

Heres to hoping! Love and babydust!

[MEL4141]

Hello, alot of familiar names for June time, I really hope we all have positive results this time, we are all doing everything to maximise our chances and us few are all of similar age , gives me great encouragement and support knowing we're all in this together. Yes I will try 2 lots acupuncture, did 2 lots before and no comment on wheather it had any effect on the ivf but combined with my extra hormone intake this time, who knows?! so will be checking and updating this post as and when, as always my best wishes to you all.melissaxx

[Relkarmom]

Hello, I will gladly be a part of the May/June buddy squad.  I am on my 4th cycle and am feeling very positive about this one.  I will love to have two babies.  Spoke with my RE this morning which he answered a lot of questions regarding our 3rd failed cycle.  Going for the more agressing and stronger dosage of medication.  My RE mentioned that my prenatal vitamins have fish oil in them.  I have heard something in the past about Fish Oil and pregnancy.  Anyways like you ladies we are looking forward to bringing our BABY/BABIES home for 2012!!!

[jessy_fernan]

Hello my lovely friends...

Im so glad that we are going to hae a lots of support in this one...THIS IS OUR TIME LADIES TO BRING BABY OR BABIES HOME!!...LETS KEEP PRAYING SINCE NOW SO GOD CAN HEAR OUR PRAYERS TO HAVE EXCELLENT FOLLIES AND HEALTHY FERTILIZATON!

Wow!! there's a lots of familiar name in this forum...im so glad to have you all..we have become good friends and very supportive of each of us...This is it..i feel it!! Im so happy and excited for this last cycle and i say last because im very positive that we all will bring the best gift ever in the entire world..OUR BABY!!

As for me..i had appoitment today with my new IVF Coordinator...they are changing a little of my last fail cycles protocol...this time im using...bcp's, baby aspirin(new), dhea(new), prenatal, i think i might be on lupron( the comp have a backordered so is hard to find it now, the same as before), menopur 75(same as before), follistim 225(new),hcg ovidrel(new),doxycyxline(same but this time RE said DH will take it as well..something new in that part), estrace @ day of ET(new) and medrol 8mg(new)..this are my new stims meds..i know this time will work..I KNOW I CAN FEEL BABY INSIDE OF MY BELLY ALREADY!!!

LADIES LETS BE POSITIVE..THIS IS OUR LAST CYCLE!!!
WE ARE BRINGING BABY OR BABIES HOME FOR 2012!!!

Love Jessy :-)

[tones99]

I feel like it is a good omen having all these wonderful women in this thread!! and fantastic new ones too!

I just got news that since I'm in the public system, I can't go private for miscarriage testing .. so that means that I have to try to wangle an app in the fertility clinic at the hospital ... no mean feat!  I will still go ahead with this next cycle as I have my mind made up and mentally prepared for it.  

oh .. and I got the most amazing email the other day from my aunt in NZ .. she is such a fantastic person and we have a very close relationship .. she is relatively well off and wants to pay for our next cycle of IVF .. we are blown away!!  it makes it feel even more meant to be .. my DH is a very proud person and is hesitating to accept it, and I was at first .. but now I know how much she wants to be able to help, I am happy to let her .. will have to work on talking DH into it now!  

count down now to starting drugs early May .. woo hoo!

[mooney608]

I love the very positive attitude and spirit of you ladies
can i join you?
I just had my BFN yesterday for my 1st ICSI although they put back 3 grade A embies but Thank God for eveything,
I know this 2nd will be the one i am waiting for AF to show inorder to see my doctor, they told me to come on third day of my period to discuss next step
anyway i think i wont take any time off i am ready for my BFP soon
Thak you ladies for your positiveness

[ruckychang]

I will be starting my first cycle of injectables + iui on 5/31 (scheduled since I dont have a cycle). I'm nervous about the process but hopeful. At least I know that my problem is now--low estrogen. I'm in the process of trying to gain weight and cut back on execise in the meantime....get some cushion for the future little one :-)

[MEL4141]

Hello and welcome to this thread, yes full of positivity which is WHAT we all want and need, so hoping for all BFP's this time, some are on 1st, some of you on 2nd attempts and others like myself on 4th goes. We all are doing anything extra to maximise our chances wheather it be acupuncture, taking extra vitamins or hormone meds, trying to stress less and the obvious drink less or none at all.
To ruckychang, I myself do not have a cycle due to low body weight so each time we are ready to start ivf it has been ok to begin, my lining is thin and I start straight away. I am trying to gain 5-7 ib before 3rd June(when i begin)to see if it makes any difference, my dr doesnt think it will as the meds stimulate my follicles to get the eggs and weight shouldnt effect this. My previous ivf's didnt work, well 1st one did but I miscarried. It's getting the good egg to stick. Best wishes to everyone and you'll find ALL the support you need with these lovely ladies,melissax  

[Relkarmom]

ALL:
BABY PRAYER:  Almighty - Thank you for each and every lady and their DH's on this sight.  We ask that you give us the 'desires of our hearts'.  Overflow our homes with your most precious little angels so that we may endure all of the pleasures of nourishing and loving them just as you love us.  We Love you dearly, Almighty, and thank you in advance for our special miracle(s).  

jessy_fernan - I agree with you. LET'S BRING OUR BABIES HOME.  

ALL:  I didn't do accupunture on my 1st and 3rd BFN - Did it on my 2nd BFP.  Also I hope this help you as I am making a checklist for my 4th cycle.  Here is my checklist:

-  Acupunture
-  Eat Pineapple for a few day (about 4 days) after egg retrieve but not more than 3 days after egg transfer
-  Drink a lot of water/soup
-  Keep feet warm with socks, listen to relaxation music that makes your mind away of stress and easier to go to sleep
-  Sleep two days after transfer all day (If you have to get up, don’t go down stairs more than once during your 2 days of resting after transfer).  

SSBD to you all.

[ruckychang]

Yes, my doc said that I should try to eat more and cut back on my running,that will likely help the process. Unfortuately, I wanted to "get into the best shape of my life" before becoming preggers, which not I feel has backfired a bit. I'm working on 5-7 myself for the past 2 months, really trying to do it now--I just feel like I am constantly eating!! DH put it great the other day--"you need to do it for our family, look at the bigger picture." I am seriously going to work on "priming my body" this month while I wait to start the cycle. Good luck!

[MEL4141]

Hello I too am going for the 4th ivf and will be doing acupuncture again, can you tell me when you had your sessions i.e before ET , I know you dont have to have many sessions but when do you think are the prime times? also you mentioned you did it on your second ivf, did it make any difference? I am older (41 years) and have poor eggs so have taken dhea for last 3 months and will do acupuncture near and around the ivf cycle. Best wishes to you and everyone , positvity and loads of baby dust for us all, melissaxx  

[Relkarmom]

Hi MEL4141.  Today is my first day going for acupunture for the May/June cycle.  I do it once a week (even though they try to get you to do 2 per week).  So in essence up until the June cycle I should have had 4-5 treatments. Then on the day of my transfer, I do it after the transfer (sometimes they tell you to get accupunture before and after the transfer).  When I did it on my 2nd cycle there were about 6 other women in there who had also been having the reoccuring accupunture appointments throughout their cycle.  No one really knows if it is a key factor or not, but I figure I will do it the exact same as I did it with Cycle 2.  I have done a lot of research prior to my first session.  I will be 41 on May 8, the same age as you. This time I am pulling out all the stops: pineapple - laying flat the 2 days after my transfer, only getting up to go to the washroom - soup to keep my body warm - lots of water - LOTS OF PRAYING.  Thank you for the baby dust and I am throwing it back your way.  Look forward to all of us receiving BFPs.  

[tones99]

re acupuncture .. there are studies that show marked improvements in pregnancy numbers with acupuncture the day of the transfer .. preferably quite close after .. I asked my acupuncturist about coming before the transfer and she said just after was fine .. I also go in the day after my retrieval just to settle things down in there .. but I go weekly as well leading up to treatment and right through it as it keeps me calm .. if it doesn't fit into the budget, check out colleges that teach it .. usually the teachers do treatments at reduced prices .. in Australia in main centres there is also community acupuncture sessions that are really cheap .. everyone is in the same room so that's a bit strange but worth it for the price .. worth looking into options in your area.

Can't wait for the weeks to fly by now so we can all be back into it!

[MEL4141]

Thanks for the info on acupuncture, I've also heard about the benefits to ivf having acupuncture immedietly after egg transfer so will def do it then and prob a bit before. It is costly but this cycle is def our last so I've got to go for everything!!xx 1 month to goxxx

[mooney608]

LADIES,what do you think if each of us list some advices from her dr. or any thing from a friend's experience that helped in someway
i'll start
My dr's advices for improving egg qulality (it really worked)
-Drink at least 1.5 liters of water daily
-Drink 1 liter of fresh juice daily
-Drink 1 liter of milk daily
-Eat lots of proteins (eggs, meat , chiken,..)
-Eat fresh fish, lobsters, shrimps, clams (keep away from canned tuna and sardines because they are high in zinc)
-Eat nuts , honey
-Do moderate exercise (walking for half an hour daily is the best)
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

After ET
- stay calm and avoid emotional situations
-avoid any effort for 5 days at least
-avoid sex for 10 days eat lots of fresh fruits and vegetables and dont eat only one kind
-never never eat liver or drink cinnamon
- drink lots of water and milk and fresh juices
  

[mhv]

I too am going to do acupunc. This time, although mine will be just to help thicken my uterine lining
.I did it last time and saw first hand that it works.  I would like to say that you should find someone, if possible, that specializes in fertility.  I switched 1/2 way through treatments last time to someone that did, and saw a huge difference.  Well ladies, it is the last day of April! We are almost 1 month closer!!!  

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~Sending baby dust to everyone!!~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

[tones99]

just to add my thoughts a few things that have been said on doctor's advise on what to do leading up to and during treatment ... I am a nutritionist and I would never advise drinking a litre of fresh juice .. it is very high in sugar and even though this is fruit sugar .. it's still sugar .. 2 pieces of fruit is what we recommend .. so much less sugar than 1Lof juice and the added bonus of fibre.
Only drink cow's milk if it a agrees with your body .. many people don't digest lactose properly and this would be worse for your body rather than better.  If you are fine with lactose, I still think 1L is excessive, but definitely find sources of calcium in other foods .. I take a supplement to ensure that I get my daily dose as well as eating nuts and white cheese.
I agree wholeheartedly with increasing water intake .. I would say 2L a day minimum but no more than 3L
Definitely increase protein - I would add fish, nuts, seeds, legumes and grains to the list of meat eggs milk etc.  You should be having a good source of protein at every meal and snack
canned tuna and sardines are fine in small amounts .. zinc is a completely necessary mineral for ttc .. there can be a risk of high mercury if the supplier does not have a reputable source . .this is just a matter of research as food brands that are ethical and sustainable advertise this fact so you can find out easily.
I agree completely with exercise .. moderate exercise helps our body cope better with what we are doing to it

we all do what we can and more which is a lot more than a woman who has never struggled with her fertility does so don't worry if you're not perfect .. as long as you feel good about what you're doing and putting into your body, that's the main thing.

good luck everyone .. I can't wait to get started again .. the waiting is always hard!  enough procrastinating now .. back to work for me

[MEL4141]

Hello all, my little imput/advice from my Dr is to definetly increase your protein( which I think we all agree on)He said that was most important and even though I did it the last 3 times, I will again, more fish and chicken, nuts and pulses. As a supplement the only one he said for me to try was royal jelly, he's not a fan of herbal meds and doesnt encourage dhea or fertilaid which I know alot of women do take. Also exercise and plenty of water, my best wishes and roll on June.xx

[mooney608]

thank you for the advices, my dr says i want you get all vitamins from natural resources other than supplements

hey ladies
today is day 3 of my period i will go to see my dr today to decide on next step, I hope we will start quickly
i'll let u know everything step by step

[tones99]

you are right .. you can get all you need from food as long as it is a good source .. buy organic food that hasn't travelled far to get to you and avoid processed foods with preservatives and additives and you can be almost certain that it will retain all the nutrients you need.  B vitamins are very unstable and are easily destroyed by freezing and heating so that is one supplement that I always recommend just to be sure you are getting the right dose.

good luck with your meeting and getting your cycle started!

[mooney608]

where are you ladies?

I have a question, is there anyway to ensure your ovaries produce big # of eggs or is it only the meds?

[Relkarmom]

mooney608 - Great advice I am charting it down along.  

ALL - Here is my list and it should actually be started now:

- Acupuncture
- Eat Pineapple for a few day (about 4 days) before egg retrieve but not more than 3 days after egg transfer
- Drink a lot of water
- Eat hot soup, fish, nuts, eggs and milk
- Keep feet warm with socks, listen to relaxation music that makes your mind away of stress and easier to go to sleep
- Sleep two days after transfer all day (If you have to get up, don’t go up or down stairs more than once during your 2 days of resting after transfer).

Stay encourage ladies as we will be bringing our baby(ies) home.  Also please be careful with how much exercising you will be doing.  You don't want your body to change in any way (temp, weight, balance, etc....).  

[Relkarmom]

I forgot to add, absolutely:

NO ALCHOL (although I did have a glass after my last BFN - but only one as I am readying for my next cycle).
NO CAFFINE.

[mhv]

No Caffine!  Ugh, That's a hard one! : )   I drink 1 can of soda a day, and have never heard that you have to give it up completely... Ladies?  What have you heard??

[Relkarmom]

Please read this link about women who had successful IVF cycles while giving up caffine.  A doctor who had twins also gives her input on coffee.  Hope this helps - Let me know.  

mhv - interested in hearing your thoughts after reading this.

http://www.fertilethoughts.com/forums/i-wish-someone-had-told-me/526925-caffeine-exercise-w-ivf.html

[mhv]

hmmm.... I find it very interesting.  I will have to read up more on it.  I only drink 1 can a day.  and other then that, I eat pretty healthy, and try to excersise.... anyway, I guess it's my one vice.  I will have to talk to my RE about stopping it after my transfer (we are doing a fet).  Thanks for the infor though!  I guess I've seen just as many ladies on here get preggers when they didn't stop.  I will have really give it consideration!  Maybe I can cut down to 1/2 a can a day.... but will definately ask!!!  Thanks for sharing!

[globetrot]

SSBD to you all!!!!!!!!!!

[tones99]

and to you too!!

[mooney608]

thats great,
I also forgot to say that my dr told me
-No caffiene -No alchol -No smoking (he was strict about these)
-No preservatives(only fresh everything)
-No chocolate :o(
-No canned beef or burger or sausages
-NO JUNK FOOD
-LOTS of FRESH Vegetables and fruits
-LOTS of protien

[mooney608]

I saw my dr. last night , we were discussing the cause of my first IVF failure, he told me they were in shock that i got BFN because they transfered 3 grade AA embies, ovulation was great, all hormone levels were great everything was textbook great, even my endo (ovarian endometriomas) was sleeping quiet

he told me they need to make sure my endometrium is doing well and that thers is definetely some reason that the embies didnt stick, so I must have my blood checked for antibodies and other stuff,
he wrote some blood work (ANTITHYROID ANTIBODIES - CD56 - F.S.homocysteine) i will have them done today because i have to be 12 hrs fasting

[mooney608]

ladies
I noticed most of you are doing IVF more than once, did you know what is the reason for the failure? did you try to fix it before moving to next step?

[MEL4141]

Hello a lot of us have had failed ivf's for different reasons, some like yourself great embryo's, cell division etc but just didnt stick, my reason is poor egg quality and production(I am 41 yrs), slow cell division and then the embryo didnt stick ,I always have got to the transfer stage(I KNOW SOME WHO DONT GET THIS FAR)but after a 2 or 3 day transfer my embryo's are only 2 or 3 cell, divsion not good, my dr is always hopeful as he say's he's had women with slow growers that have stayed pregnant, I always bleed on day 11-13 but this time I have been taking DHEA which is meant to be good for egg quality and production, royal jelly, will do acupuncture, drink loads water, more protein and hope a pray our little embie(S) stick in June time, best wishes to you melissax  

[mhv]

I did alot of research about a year ago on why IVF fails, and the # of times it takes to succeed.  What I found was this:  They say on average it take 6 times for IVF to work.  They can't explain why it does or doesn't work.

From what I have learned on here.... some of it has to do with the quality of eggs, and unfortunatly, it seems some of it has to do with the success of the clinic/and embryo lab.    

I have seen ladies on here go to 1 clinic do multiple failed cycles, move to another lab, with better success rates, and a better lab, and succeed.  

I think you can follow everything that everyone suggests and recommends, and you can still fail.

But, if you do fail, You cannot blame yourself for that.  Even if you have eaten a piece of chocolate, or didn't eat pineapple, or if you did eat junk food during your stimming/2ww, or didn't stay in bed for 24 hrs or more after transfer. Sometimes, it just doesn't work. And sometimes people have things that have to be done like having  kids at home they have to take care of, and can't follow the bed rest rule.  

I will be flying 3days after my 5 day transfer, and am paranoid as heck that it is going to effect something in some way, but the reality is, I have to come back home, and I have to trust that if my precious embies were going to implant that they will anyway.  

Some clinics actually tell you to do nothing different after your transfer, and ladies still become pregnant.  

I wish us all success this cycle!  I pray that each and everyone of us receives the BFP we so desperately want!
I am sending tons and tons of sticky baby dust to ALL~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

[mooney608]

MEL, DHEA is good my dr wrote it for many ladies i got to know at the clinic to improve egg quality, besides believe me your diet has great effect too eat fresh fruits an vegetables, drink water, protien also helps a lot, try to drink full cream milk, yogurt, nuts, stay away from caffiene and alchol and all junk food and fizzy drinks, i'll pray for you , this time will be the one, trust the ALMIGHTY

mhv, your ar 100% right but we have to do whatever we can but not balme ourselves, its all in God's hands

i had my blood drawn for the tests and they told me to wait for their call to let me know the next step

you ladies rock
I love you all

[mooney608]

forgot to tell u
I asked my dr. last night about bed rest after ET he told me this is total crab , you need to avoid stress but not to lay down in your bed just treat urself as pregnant but dont over do it, live ur life normally and if it is meant to happen , it will

SBD to all

[Relkarmom]

mhv - yes, just do a little research and do what you feel is best.  Thanks for the Choc. and junk food info.  I will make sure not to eat Chocolate and even though I am not a big 'junk food eater' that will have to go as well.  Besides that i keep telling myself my family and I need to eat better.

mooney608 - thanks I will add your NOT TO'S to my list.  I am pulling out all the stops for this 4th ivf.  Also, you are doing great getting prepared to bring your baby home with the steps you are talking :) good for you.

ALL - Ladies before I started my first IVF, I did lots and lots of research on IVF and the doctors.  I work in a law firm and one of my attorneys I work for did the same research.  I jut didn't want to go any doctor.  The research kept pointing us to the best doctor, whom had the best success rates in Illinois, Dr. Marut.  Although I have to drive 2 hours to get to him, I do my blood work etc at a clinic about 15 minutes away from my home.  The clinic reports the results to Dr. Marut.  So in summary, please make sure you do your homework and as mooney608 said it, find out why.  I am unsure if you are aware but my doctor's office informed me that the insurance company's will not call it a IVF cycle if you do do the transfer phase of it, but they will pay.  So if you need to do a little research now to make sure your doctor is up-to-par, please do so.  

[mhv]

The no chocolate is probably because there is caffine in it. :)  

It's so funny what different doctors say is important and not inmportant.  My first RE told me bed rest for 12 hrs after transfer, then do everything as normal...eating, excercise, work... ect. ironically, that is the transfer I get pregnant on.  Unfortunately I misscarried, but, I dont' think it's from anything I did or didn't do.  But, I guess I will never know.  My new RE says 24hrs bed rest, then normal... That's why  I think no one knows for sure.  
I haven't received my full list of instructions from new RE yet, but I will let you know what she says :)

[Hoping2BAMom]

Lots of familiar faces on here!!  I'll be starting my 2nd IVF attempt soon.  I hope it's ok if I join in with you guys:)  

We switched doctors after our first attempt failed in March (had to take April off to let the ovaries rest & thought this was a good time to do a little Dr/clinic research).  The new Dr. came highly recommended by several people that all have babies now (via their second, third and fourth attempts at IVF).  The new Dr. has excellent success rates especially with women over 35 (I'm 38), and he has been doing IVF for nearly 20 years.  He was able to go through the records of our first attempt and really point out some things he would have done different that could have been "possible" reasons for the failure (although I don't think they always know what exactly causes it to fail).

My cycle should be starting tomorrow, so I will be going in for the baseline sonogram and starting Lupron soon after.  I'm really excited and hopeful this one will be a success.  But I know it is ultimately in God's hands and I must keep praying.

@mhv...I'll be very interested in what you find out about the caffeine.  I too have a very hard time giving up my coke and also limit myself to one can a day like you.  I had read that you can have up to one 8 oz cup of coffee a day while pregnant (which has about the same amount of caffeine as a 12 oz can of soda).  During my last IVF cycle, I gave up caffeine altogether (with the exception of a small piece of chocolate every few days).  It was really HARD!  Now that I am waiting to start my next cycle, I've been back to drinking my one coke a day, and it would be so nice to not have to give that up;)

[Relkarmom]

mhv: Thanks for the Chocolate info.  

Hoping2BAMom: Welcome aboard

ALL:  Got my medications today!  Whew!!! Excited.  Still awaiting my instructions.

[jessy_fernan]

Hello my to all my cycles buddies!!

I agree with the fact of eating healthy before and after ET...i didnt add this before during my process but what i did for my last cycle was:

* i ate pineapple core for 5 days after ET
* lots of water
* lots of rest"no stress"
* home made soup,mmmm (spanish style)
* no caffeine
* obviosly NO SEX :-(..LOL
* 3 cups of nice and cold milk

Im not a fruit eater but i do anything to have a healthy baby!!

My RE also said just relax the first day after ET, but i opt to stay resting for the 2ww...and i got a BFP ending in early miscarriage :-( but at least this time it did worked!!

OMG LADIES!! we are almost there to start STIMS meds for some of us!!! IM SOO HAPPY!!!
i will start stims meds on May 15th and last bcp on May 18th...

Ladies lets keep praying from know so all our eggs will come a healthy one so we can have excellent embryos when they do ET!!

is amazing how our forum has been growing and will continue to grow...i really thanks MEDHELP and all of you ladies for all your support and all your warmest words when i needed most!!!

BUT LADIES...WEEEE ARE BRINGING BABY OR BABIES HOOOOME!!
WE NEED TO KEEP POSITIVE THIS TIME WILL B THE LAST CYCLE FOR ALL OF US, BECAUSE IS OUR TIME!!!!!!

LOVE JESSY

[Hoping2BAMom]

Congrats on getting all your meds in!!  Sending you lots of super sticky baby dust and of course I'll be praying for you too:)

I should be visiting my RE in the next few days and find out what the plan is from there.

[Relkarmom]

T H A N K  Y O U.... (singing) I'm soooooo Excited, and I just can't fight it.  I know, I know, I know I want you......   blowing, blowing, blowing, blowing, blowing, blowing, blowing some SSBD back to you.  I look forward to all of us moving this forumn to a 'I'm Pregnant" forumn.

[Hoping2BAMom]

@Jessy_fernan...I TOTALLY agree this will be OUR time to bring home a baby or babies!!  Lots of prayers and positive thinking for us!!

Some of these will echo what others here have said, but here's what I did in my first IVF cycle:
~NO caffeine (this was realy hard for me) and NO alcohol
~Bedrest for 48 hrs after ET
~Light activiy during the 2WW
~Limit stress and emotional situations (easier said than done when going through this)
~Eat lots of fresh fruits and vegitables
~Eat lots of lean protein and some fish (with smaller amounts of mercury in them like shrimp, lobster, & salmon)
~Drink lots of water (64 oz if possible)
~Drink milk
~Take prenatal vitamins
~Keep your MIND busy with other things (reading, watching movies, working on a hobby, etc)

I had not heard that about the pineapple.  My lining was good in the first attempt, but I'll add that to my list for this next attempt;)

[Relkarmom]

I am doing a little research on Pinapple (just started) did you all know that you are suppose to eat the CORE of the pinapple.  Nonetheless I am still doing research.  Here is where I am starting at, but be sure to share your thoughts on this:

http://www.amandabears.com/pineapple-core-for-implantation.html

[SS2003]

I love this forum..thanks everyone to share such a wonderful tips..they really are useful..:)
And,you all are being very supportive..

As for me, This is my second IVF..and I am really positive this time..I have done with meds and shots..and I am going to give myself Trigger Shot tonight..yay!!!! I still can't believe..I am so happy and nervous at the same time..my ER will be on 5/5..so, crossing my finger tightly :)

Even, I have heard about Pineapple..so, girls should I try it or not..and Please share some tips about what to eat before and after ER and what to avoid?please share your experience!!!!1
Good luck everyone..Finally, our time has come..God bless us!!!!

[mooney608]

Just as a side note,
If your prolactin level is high avoid the pineapple because its known to make it higher (or so I read)

SS2003, as we mentioned above:
-No caffiene -No alchol -No smoking (dr. was strict about these)
-No preservatives(only fresh everything)
-No chocolate :o(
-No canned beef or burger or sausages
-NO JUNK FOOD
-LOTS of FRESH Vegetables and fruits
-LOTS of protien (milk, eggs, fish, meat, chiken, nuts, etc..)
-lots of water
-milk and fresh juices

[tones99]

this is a great thread with so much good advice .. I heard from a friend before I did my first IVF who'd been through fertility troubles before me 'if you don't want to blame yourself for it not working, don't do anything at all that you might question' this has stayed with me through failed rounds .. miscarriages and lots of heartache .. and one thing that I feel good about through it all is that I did everything I could .. I can't blame myself in any way .. very good advice I think!

Hoping that this great positive thread brings us all good luck!

[mhv]

Hey Tones!  Nice to see you here! :)  

Your right we have to do all we can! : )  

Hugs!

[Hoping2BAMom]

That is excellent advice!!

After my miscarraige (miscarriage) and failed IUI, I second guessed everything I had done or not done.  I finally accepted that I had nothing wrong.  I did everything I knew to do or not to do whatever the case may be.  I feel like after accepting that, I was better able to handle it when my first IVF attempt failed.  I think it has also helped me to have and keep a more positive and hopeful attitude about my upcoming second IVF attempt.

[ZUZ]

Hi All,

I had my FET today.  I had a successful IVF which resulted in our amazing baby boy, then a failed FET, then failed IVF number 2, now on second FET.  I quit coffee cold turkey, been trying to drink tons of water...and I'm sure I'll start going nuts soon from the wait!  I wish you all luck and healthy BABIES!

[Relkarmom]

OK LADIES TODAY IS FRIDAY --- let's begin to BRING OUR BABY(IES) home.  Today and for the rest of this cycle, we will think positive, be positive, say positive things, have clean minds, have clean hearts, clear clutter from our minds, bodies and souls so our bodies will be prepared for the GREATEST gift our SUPREME BEING is giving us.  Today is a bright day whether the sun is shining or not.  TODAY, as all days we thank our SUPREME BEING in advance for the life(s) he is implanting in us...Enjoy the day ladies and we will BRING OUR BABY(IES) HOME!!!!!

[SS2003]

hey Everyone,

Thanks for Support...My ER was yesterday and they have found 5 eggs..I dn't know it's a good no. or not.
But, I am so positive this time..taking rest and having Protein as my dr. told..I am taking Endometrin since this morning..ET will be on this Sunday on Mother's Day :)
please God bless us!!!
good luck everyone!!!

[Relkarmom]

YEA! YEA! YEA!  So exciting.  5 eggs, you go girl.  Make sure you rest after the ET.  Gosh, I am so excited.  Keep us appraised. :)   SSBD  SSBD  SSBD to  you and DH.

[Relkarmom]

Ladies, you might find this read interesting.  I found this website (http://www.amandabears.com/pineapple-core-for-implantation.html) while doing some Pinapple research:  Here you go:

For IVF [in vitro fertilization] cycle: one pineapple core, divided into 5 portions - consume one portion each day, over five days, beginning on the day of your embryo transfer.

IUI [intra-uterine insemination] cycle: one pineapple core, divided into 5 portions - consume one portion each day, over five days, beginning on the day of your IUI.

Timed intercourse cycle: one pineapple core , divided into 5 portions - consume one portion each day, over five days, beginning on the day after ovulation.

Note: Be careful not to start consuming pineapple core too early in the cycle. Beginning to consume pineapple core BEFORE the recommended days above can actually affect your vaginal and cervical mucus PH, making it more acidic.  Here is a website to better clairify:  http://howtocutapineapple.com/

Do NOT eat the meat of the pineapple- You need to AVOID Pineapple Juice. Do NOT take with Baby Aspirin as these are BOTH blood thinners!Pineapple juice is not recommended for use in TTC and/or pregnancy. In large doses, it can cause uterine contractions and bring on spontaneous abortions (miscarriage).

Side Effects: Large doses may cause uterine contractions, miscarriage, vomiting, diarrhea, skin rash, very heavy menstrual periods. Unripe pineapple is poisonous, causing excessive diarrhea.

[SS2003]

@ Relkarmom, Thanks a lot dear.. I am so much relieved now : )
And, I sure will take rest as much as I can : )

You all are in my prayers because this Mother's day is going to give joy and happiness in our lives..Just be positive and Believe in God!!!


good luck everyone!!!!!!!

[jessy_fernan]

I hope that when i return to Medhelp all of you will be preggo and ready to bring baby or babies home!!

DH and I decide to pospone our cycle due to much stress..we both need to be stress free so i can bring our baby or babies home soon!!

Isn't a good-bye is just a see you all soon!!

Ladies keep positive and dont stop praying for each of you so God could hear all of you and with all the faith you all will bring baby or babies home!!

It was a wonderfull journey with all of you..ill pass around to see how everybody doing being preggo!!!

`*`*`*`*`*`**`*`*`*`*`*`*`*`**`*`*`*`*``*`*`*`*BABY DUST TO ALL`*`*`*`*`*`*`*`*`*`*`*`*`*`*`*`**`*`*``*
Love you all

Jessy

[tones99]

oh love .. sorry to hear that you're both stressed, but a very wise idea to postpone .. I went into my last very recent cycle stressed about the earthquake in my home town, going to see the destruction, a friends hen's night and wedding .. all just too much to cope with and as a result (I believe), I found the drug regimen harder than ever and had no luck.

this cycle we have made sure to stay away from stressful situations .. and am feeling much better and ready to start.

I look forward to hearing that you're feeling much better and ready to start again in the near future x

[mooney608]

hey ladies, where are you?
How are you doing?

I got a call from my dr.'s office they told me that my bloodwork results are here and I am supposed to meet the dr on Tuesday to discuss the next step, i asked about the results they told me i have elevated immunity (i dont remember the words but when i asked they told me this is the meaning) that may be the reason for implantation failure last IVF

Jessy good luck with ur break

[tones99]

I was wondering where everyone was too .. I think once more cycles kick in it will get busier on here again .. great that your clinic is looking for reasons .. good luck for getting some answers.

I start provera today and then Lucrin on Friday .. also going friday for pregnancy test and scan to see if my cyst has stayed away or refilled .. I suppose that will be when I have to decide whether to carry on .. really don't want a cyst to affect my chances but I will discuss it with the doc.  Getting excited about going again .. this time feels better.

Good luck on tuesday!

[Relkarmom]

jessy_fernan I, too, think this is the best decision as our body needs to be colpletely destressed. Good for you and DH.  Relax your body and we'll see you in the baby's room :)

[Hoping2BAMom]

Well I go to see my new RE again to actually start my 2nd IVF cycle.  I think he's going to start me on Lupron and possibly BCP tomorrow.  SInce we only had two eggs that fertilized from the 1st time around and transferred them both, we are having to start all over from scratch.  So he thinks my ER will be the first week and in June.  

I'm trying very hard to stay COMPLETELY positive, but truth be told, my mood is more like cautiously optimistic.

[Relkarmom]

Think success and you will have success - Word for the Day....  Anyways, do you think he will start you on BCP and Lupron at the same time as I have not heard of starting the Lupron now, please advise.

[Hoping2BAMom]

To be honest with you, I'm not sure.  My first IVF Dr. didn't use either one of these things.  He started me on Follistim and then added Ganirelix to keep me from ovulating too early.  Then used the Ovidrel trigger shot and then begin the Progesterone injections after ER.

I'm think he said he might start me on the BCP for a week and then add the Lupron or just go straight to the Lupron.  I didn't use either of these things with my first IVF cycle, so I'm not sure how it works.  I have a BUNCH of questions and will be bombarding him with them tomorrow.  I will find out all the info tomorrow and I'll let you know for sure what the plan is.

[Relkarmom]

Received my instructions today.  My last BCP is 5/30.  I start meds two days ater 6/2/11.   Looking to have my ET around June 7th or so.  I am now taking a deep breath.  By the way, in answer to my earlier question I start Lupon two days after ending the BCP.

[tj178]

Hello,

I am definately a newbie here.  This is my first IVF cycle and I feel totally overwhelmed.  From everything I've read it doesn't look like I'll get pregnant but I thought I would at least try.  I'm 45 so the chances are slim to none, but God can overrule the statistics.  I had my 1st bloodwork and ultrasound last Friday and started Menopur shots that evening and estradiol pills.  Had a second set of tests today and my levels are still the same, so they have me adding a Bravelle shot in the AM along with teh Menopur shots I take in the PM

TJ

[Relkarmom]

Welcome aboard tj178.  You'll be fine, think positive, stay positive and lots of praying.

[MEL4141]

Welcome, there are a lot of us in our 40's on this forum, I am 41 but have had 3 failed attempts but not ready to give up just yet, it takes that one good egg and that is a cert as I know various ladies of our age that ivf has worked for after 1 or 2 or more attempts at it. Dr's can tell you statistic figures and that we have very slim chances but then it happens and you read about a pregnant lady 42, 43 even 47 years of age. My friends grandma had one child at 44 and another at 46, not ivf but it goes to show you we can STILL produce good eggs at an older age. My best wishes for your cycle and hope you get a BFP very soon, please follow this forum as a lot of us older ladies begin our 3rd and 4th attempts in June(me included) love melissax

[SS2003]

Hey All,

how everybody is doing? I understand we all are going through this journey which is not at all easy but please DO NOT TAKE STRESS. Because this cannot help us. Leave everything on God's hand. be positive, eat well and try to be happy and cheerful :)

As for me, I am in 2WW, trying to be relaxed, eating well and very much positive.

Good Luck Everyone & Enjoy this journey very positively!!!:):)

[Hoping2BAMom]

@tj178j...welcome aboard!  It's great to have you with us:)  As SS2003 said, not stressing and not worrying are some of the best things you can do.  I know that's easier said than done however.  During my 2WW with my 1st IVF attempt, I tried to keep my mind busy...watching funny movies, reading a book, and doing a non active hobby (jewelry making for me).  Pamper yourself and try your best to relax!

@Relkamom....
It sounds like you are all set!  
I got my instructions on everything today.  They aren't doing the BCP with me (because my cycles are like clockwork...something good I have going for me), So I will be starting my Lurpon injections in 2 weeks on 5/24 before my next period and I'll continue them until before the ER.  On 6/4, they will have me decrease the Lupron dosage and add in Menopur in the AM and Follistim in the PM.  It looks like the ER will be sometime b/t 6/14 & 6/16 with the ET 3-5 days later.  As with the 1st IVF cycle some dates may be off slightly depending on how my follicules grow and progress.    

In the 1st IVF cycle, I had a VERY dominant follicule which the new RE thinks may have been a contributing factor to so many of the other follicules being too immature.  They are trying very hard to avoid that from happening again.  He wants all of the follicules to grow as evenly as possible.  He says this usually leads to more mature follicules that can be fertilized.  

I'm thinking positive, praying (A LOT) and wishing all of us lots of SSBD!!  

[trlyblsd]

Hi, I'm Lin and I am 41 yo. I am also new to the IVF cycle. My Stim is due to start on 6/10 bc I will be having surg on 5/20 to remove fibroids. This will be my first cycle. I am very nervous and excited at the same time (if that makes any sense)...lol. This seems like a great community in which to give and receive lots of advise and support.

[MEL4141]

Welcome aboard! Your quite normal to be nervous, first and hopefully last time to go through it all, mentally and physicaly it is exhausting. My best wishes and follow all of us on this post, some like myself start our 4th go June timexx support and advice always herex

[tj178]

Hey All,

Thanks for the words of encouragement.  I thought I was pretty bullet-proof when it came to stess.  That is until I started the IVF process. I'm finding it a challenge not to stres out.  My body doesn't seem to respond so far to the drugs.  5 days of meds and still nothing!!!!  Hopefully accupuncture will help the process along today.  If nothing else it should help calm me down.

TJM

[Hoping2BAMom]

Hi and welcome to the group!  YES it makes total sense to feel nervous and excited at the same time!  I'm beginning my 2nd IVF attempt and I am feeling the same way:)  This a great place to find support, understanding and people to listen to what you're going through.  The ladies on here are GREAT!

Glad to have you here!

[MJinWaiting]

Hello ladies! Sorry its been a few weeks (about 2) since ive posted. Life has been crazy. Im taking some college courses so things have been insane with finals and trying to get things out of the way to be totally focused on this IVF cycle. I am 2 weeks into the BCP pills. I went to RE this morning for BW and US and my Med Inventory ( just to make sure I have all the stuff I need). My house looks like junkie heaven. Its so crazy. I start lupron shots tomorrow and then i go back the 27th to see when to start stimming. They are estimating my retrieval date for une 7th or 8th at this point.

I have been having a hard time with the BCP though. It makes me so nauseous every day and really bad headaches in the afternoons and evenings, plus a few light headed spells here and there. I only have 5 more days of that though so I can tough it out.

Im super excited about this cycle and feel very positive!! My girlfriend just found community accupuncture appointments near me, its wayyy cheaper than individual ones and since were paying out of pocket for IVF we need all the savings we can get lol. So I have an appt on saturday to see how I like it. Ive never done it before so im a little nervous.

Looking forward to hearing more about your journeys!

Here's to Hoping! Love and babydust to all!!

[MJinWaiting]

To those of you who have done this before. This is my first cycle. I just took my first Lupron shot this morning, it didnt really hurt but my belly is still all red and i took the shot about 45 minutes ago...is that normal??

1 shot down...a ton more to go lol

How are all of you?

Here's to Hoping!!  Love and Babydust to all!!

[mooney608]

headaches is very common with the meds i used to have awful migranes (migraines) on my first IVF,
but it will fade by time dont worry GL with your shot

I visited my Dr. we discussed my blood work results, I have elevated ATA (antithyroid antibodies) and also NK cells :(
he wrote Selenium and other vitamins for one month and then re-test
and told me this cycle is off for me and asked me to try to relax and take a break till we retest a month later and told me it would be good to test on CD 1 or 2 and if the results came back good we should start immediately

[mooney608]

plz try not to stress urself too much, its ok not to respond to some meds, most drs change the meds and it works try to read our posts above on what to avoid and some drs advices to help u produce high quality eggs
good luck

[mooney608]

it depends on the type of the shots, i used to take Menogon and it gave me hard times it was leaving (big red patch of rash like mark) and it was very hot and sore  but dr said its ok and this was a known side effect that goes away after about 30 hrs :(

[Hoping2BAMom]

@MJinWating...Glad you've found the forum and joined us:)  I'm about to start my 2nd IVF cycle and yes the headaches from the meds are normal, but your body will get used to the meds and then the side effects will fade.  The redness on your stomach is also normal.  The meds I injected in my stomach often caused redness and sometimes itchiness on my stomach that would fade away after an hour or so.   My Dr. told me this was a normal side effect.  So no worries!  Try to stay calm  and relaxed.

I will be starting my Lupron injections on 5/24 and the the stim meds (Menopur & Follistim) on 6/4 and my Dr. is thinking the ER will be on 6/15 or 6/16 with the ET 3-5 days later.  I'm starting to get excited now that it's getting close to starting the next cycle, and I'm trying to think positive that this WILL be the one that works for us!

@mooney608...I'm sure the next month will fly by and you will starting your cycle before you know it.  I'll be thinking about you and sending prayers your way:)

[Relkarmom]

Good morning my IVF buddies.  To the negative thoughts you are feeling.  Remember, you MUST stay positive, think positive and so on.  Do everything in your power to BRING YOUR BABY HOME.  I am reposting my IVF list which I hope will help any of you, just please keep in mind that this is my list and can be questionable by others:

- Acupuncture
- Eat Pineapple CORE ONLY (Bromelain) starting day of transfer (five days total)
- Drink 1 cup of grape fruit juice after ER until 1 week after ET
- Eat Turkey (1 week before ER and two days after ET) (???)
- Drink a lot of water/soup
- No chocolate, sweats.  Eat plenty of fruit, vegetables, fish, shrimp, nuts.
- Keep feet warm with socks, listen to relaxation music that makes your mind away of stress and easier to go to sleep
- Sleep two days after transfer all day (if you have to get up, don’t go up or down stairs more than once during your 2 days of resting after transfer)

[MEL4141]

Hello, just been reading updates, I start short protocol (the one they mainly use in England for older mums who dont produce many eggs) and will start meds 3rd june(if lining is thin enough, has always been in last 3 cycles) so my ET & ER will be mid/third half of june, around your time and providing I get that far and the egg(s) fertilize and divide,last time we only got a 2 cell, 2 day transfer so was a slow one that didnt stick. Have been doing everything this time, taking more vitamins, dhea(good for egg production and quality so I'm told)going to do acupuncture, eating a good protein diet. My best wishes again to you and everyone beginning their cycles, melissax will update any progress as we beginx

[Hoping2BAMom]

I'm so excited to hear that....we can be 2WW buddies:-)!! I too have been eating lots of protein and taking a prenatal multi-vitamin with DHA/EPA and Folic acid in it.  My first time around I had 18 follicules showing on the u/s prior to ER, but only 9 were actually retrieved and of those only 4 were mature and out of those only 2 fertilized (we transferred both).  I switched REs during the break between IVF attempts, because I just felt like the first Dr. wasn't doing all that he could to help me have an optimal IVF attempt.  The new Dr. seems to specialize in women over 35 and has very good results (he came highly recommended by three different people who all have babies now and are ages 34, 41 and 44).  I'm 38, so I figured he'd be a better choice for me.  

After looking over the records from my first attempt, he saw some things he would have done and is doing differently this time around.  I respond well to the meds and have had a good lining, but I had a very dominant follicule the last time around that he said was the result of the previous Dr. going up and down with the dosages too many times on my stim meds.  He says the dominant follicule grew too big too fast, which more or less caused the other follicules to either be immature or not produce an egg at all.  He wants to see the follicules growing as evenly as possible, because they are more likely to produce eggs that are mature.  So he's going to try some different meds (Lupron and Menopur) to see how I respond to them.    

So here's to hoping we are both pregnant by the end of June!!  Lots of SSBD for us and everyone else!!  

[MJinWaiting]

Thanks for all the advise and helpful words! I appreciate all that I can get. I cant believe my ER is in 23 or 24 days already, i feel like this is actually moving pretty quickly and im very excited!! I did my first accupuncture this morning. I wasnt sure what to expect but it was not painful at all and very very relaxing. I love the women and seemed to get along right away which is something I have heard is really important when trusting someone to your body with accupuncture. She said that I should cut down on coffee (my one true nemesis) and take out my belly button ring (bc the metal gets in the way of my core sending the right vibes to my body) and eat as many fresh fruits and veggies as possible with lots of watermelon and greens! So thats what im going to do for the next 3.5 weeks to keep things moving in a positive direction. Thanks for all your advice on what to do and what not to do during this entire cycle. I find it helpful to hear what worked for others.

I am feeling positive that we will all have a great cycle this time and will bring home our baby/babies.

Hope everyone has a great weekend!


Here's to Hoping!! Love and Babydust to all!!

[Hoping2BAMom]

I'm so glad to hear everything is moving along so smoothly!  I understand about your nemesis, mine is Coke/Dr. Pepper.  I am limiting myself to only one a day for now and then I will probably give it up completely during the cycle like I did during the first cycle.  UGH!  

I've been feeling only cautiously optimistic, but today I am just feeling really positive and optimisitc that this is going to be the cycle that works!  

Lot's of prayers and SSBD for all of us!  

[tones99]

hello ladies .. I haven't posted for a while as I don't seem to see this thread on the front forum page but today there it was so thought I'd check in

sounds like a few cycles have started which is very exciting!!  mine is well under way now after a little bit of a false start .. positive pregnancy test for one day .. but that obviously didn't implant properly or something was wrong with it as negative tests now so back on the regime which is fine .. still feeling very positive about this round!!

I know that there are a few BFP's happening around these boards at the moment which is very exciting .. all of us will be next for sure!!

[Hoping2BAMom]

I love your positive energy!  I'm feeling the same way!  My Lurpon arrived yesterday and I officially start cycle #2 of IVF next week.  I'm thinking super posiitve that this WILL be the one that works for us!!  

[tones99]

hey love .. I did have a bit of a downer day on monday when I got the negative test but then thought about how lucky I am that I am getting a host of tests done to see what is causing my losses, and that I also have this IVF to focus on .. it would have been much harder not having that to fall back on.  

I am hoping that the chinese herbs I have been on for 3 weeks now will be the key to this round working!  I hope so as I have tried so many other things.  exciting that your starting so soon!  yay .. you will be a few weeks behind me.

[MJinWaiting]

Do you know when your ER will be? seems your not far behind my schedule as I just started lupron last thursday.

For those of you that have done this before, did you gain weight from the meds??? I have gained 5.5 pounds in the last 3 weeks!! I feel so bloated and my pants are all getting tight. Is it the meds or am I indulging a little too much lol.

Here's to Hoping!! Love and Babydust to all!!

[Hoping2BAMom]

I'm not far behind you at all.  I start my Lupron injections next Wednesday, and my ER will be either 6/15 or 6/16 if all goes as planned!

I definitely gained weight (about 6-8 pounds) during my 1st IVF attempt in March, and was shocked.  I talked to a friend that has been through 3 IVF attempts (3rd time was a charm and she has twin girls now) and she said she gained over 10 pounds.  I think because so many of the meds are hormones, they make messing with our metabolism and appetite (at least that's how I felt...like I was eating more and larger portions than normal).  

Lot's of SSBD to us all!

[tones99]

hi girls .. some of us gain and some lucky women don't .. I unfortunately have gained weight with all of my rounds (3) and then gained more with both my miscarriages (that was chocolate indulgence though)  .. the last round I was determined not to and managed to hold off the gain while on the luphron but gained a bit on the stims .. it's such a pain isn't it!!

like we don't have enough else to think of besides worrying about weight gain .. I try to wear my gains as a badge of honour of what I've been through in the last few years .. I'm not happy about it but can see that it's as a result of what I've been through physically and mentally and hopefully one day when we have our baby finally,

[nmenyo]

Hi there, I hope you don't mind me jumping in. We are doing a back to back cycle. We didn't take a month off from our last cycle. Started bcp on day 2 of my AF. I should be starting Lupron on Monday. With a ER and ET sometime around the sencond week of June. This is our fourth cycle as well.  Third full IVF. We had a FET in there somewhere :-) So this is our fourth time trying, 3rd cycle. I am praying its the lucky one.

[Hoping2BAMom]

I'm on my 2nd IVF cycle and start Lupron next Wednesday.  My ER and ET will also be the second week of June.  So I'm right there with you!  Lots of prayers and SSBD for us all!!

[tones99]

we are pretty similar .. I am on my 4th cycle and have done this one back to back from the last .. just a few weeks in between .. but I started on the luphron last friday .. got just over a week till I start the stims .. so will have my ER 1st week of June and ET 2nd week .. lets hope its the lucky cycle for us all!

[nmenyo]

Wow, we are on the same schedule tones and Hoping. It would be great to share our symptoms, problems and experiences through all of this. I pray this is the one for us all. I will keep you posted when I start the meds, again!!!! SSBD to all

[Hoping2BAMom]

I'm so excited that we're on the same schedule!!  I totally agree we should share symptoms, problems, feelings, etc.  It will be a huge support!!  I'll let you know when I start my meds next week too.

[MJinWaiting]

nmenyo, Tones, Hoping-

I am on the same schedule as Tones so that will be nice to have someone there too. I am looking as of now for ER june 8th and ET june 13th hopefully. I go back to the RE on friday and hopefully start stims on sunday! I am so excited. I am a very high stress person (just naturally) and to be honest i have been so relaxed and laid back during this whole thing, which is weird for me lol. I am 4 weeks in with 2 weeks left until ER. I feel very positive and happy about this. I was wayyyy more stressed and obsessive with my 5 IUIs than I am with this which is odd to me.

I was in Florida for the weekend visiting family for my brothers wifes baby shower and my mom rubbed and kissed my tummy goodbye and said hopefully the next time she sees me ill have a big round belly!! and boy do I hope shes right!! I realized why the scale was up so much, i started AF on friday so I think it was her evil fault! but im praying that was my last one for the next 10 months!!!

How are you all doing? Lupron shots yet?? Im excited to hear about your journies with you!

Here's to hoping! Love and Babydust to all!!

[tones99]

great that we're on the same time frame .. I have had nearly 2 weeks of lucrin (luphron) and actually feel ok .. a bit tired now but that's ok .. I start puregon (fsh) injections on friday so that will be 2 daily injections .. and now my RE is putting me on a blood thinner even though I don't have any clotting or immune issues .. he just thinks it can't hurt to so that will mean 3 injections a day!!  I will be black and blue!

Maybe you're more relaxed because with IVF it's all out of your hands .. I feel great with IVF as it takes the guess work out of it .. you know that fertilisation happens and that you have a live embryo put back where as IUI you're still guessing.

[MEL4141]

Hope you're doing ok, nearly half way through your meds- I don't really understand the protocols but do you know why you do a long cycle and i've always been put on this short protocol?  my dr says its a better cycle for older ladies and we get the follicles to a good size(may not contain eggs).
Stressful at home at mo, my husband is such a good man but I know he doesnt want us to "waste another £5000"-he is trying to get positive now but after the dr's tell us our chances are so low and from the previous 3 ivf's and their outcomes I do know where he is coming from.Anyway heart geared up for the 3rd June even if head isnt quite there yet, my best wishes to you and I'll be following yours and everyones progress, lots love melissax

[tones99]

sorry to hear that money is making this hard at home .. I know the feeling!  we haven't been able to save anything for the last few years and my DH is getting stressed about that but I can't even think about it .. I just want our baby!

the short protocol is given to women who don't respond as well .. it tends to work better for them for some reason .. I have asked for it but they said because I respond well and get good embies that I am more suited to the long .. don't ask me exactly why ... I don't know .. my problem is that with 2 out of my 3 fresh rounds, I have only had one blast at day 5 .. my RE said that it is always a really good quality blast but that he would like at least one more .. my 2nd round I got 3 goodies so hopefully this round will be the same!

you will get your head into it once you start!

[MEL4141]

Hello everyone, just thought I'd get this post going as a lot of us are beginning/in middle of cycles come early june(now). How's everyone getting along? I know we are all on different protocols so some are nearly ready for ER and others starting bc pills, I hopefully start my short protocol friday(menopur max 450). My best wishes to one and all and please all update as so much help and support is available on this thread, lots love melissax

[MJinWaiting]

All,
Hello! I just went to the RE this morning for BW and US and looks like im still chugging right along. I started my stim meds sunday night (follistim) and so far the follicles arent big enough to measure yet but I have about 10 on my right ovary and 8 on my left ovary as of now. I will add menopur to my follistim tonight (along with my lupron still) and then go back fri and sat for another US and BW.

Im feeling great and doing well, this process is going pretty fast for me, 5 weeks down and 1 week to go until my retrieval, which is scheduled for next wednesday june 8th.

Melissa-How long is your short protocal? What meds are involved for that? Do you know when your ER will be?

Here's to Hoping!! Love and babydust to all!!

[MEL4141]

Hello, short protocol can be 9-11 days max stimms, if going by my last cycle ER will be either june 15th or 17th depending on my follicle growth, they like them to be 18mm and above. I have injection buserelin and 450 menopur each day leading up to ER.  Just hoping I produce more follicles this time and hopefully more eggs, time will tell. My best wishes to you, keep us posted, melissax.

[Hoping2BAMom]

Hi everyone,

I've been so busy and at a training class last week, so I haven't been able to check the thread.  I feel like I've been gone forever.  I'm glad everyone seems to be doing really well!  I've kept you all in my prayers.

I started my Lupron last Tuesday and the irritability side effect is definitely kicking in (my poor DH is getting the brunt of it)!  My period was supposed to come on Monday and I am due to start my stim meds on Saturday (Menopur & Follistim), but no period yet.  I called and talked to my nurse today and she said to continue on the Lupron and I have an appt for US and BW Friday morning. So hopefully AF will have arrived by then.  I really don't want to have to delay this cycle any longer.  Oh well, nothing I can do about it, so I'm trying not to worry about it.  It will happen when it's supposed to.  

[tones99]

yay Mel .. June 3 is almost upon us and you can get excited!!  Get that mind strong girl! and thanks for starting this thread up again .. I was wondering where everyone had gone.

mjinwating .. so excited that your follies are coming along nicely .. you are just a few days behind me!  and great that you've been feeling good .. that bodes well for sure

hoping2b .. what a pain that the one time you want af to arrive .. it takes it's time!!!  as soon as it does though the rest of the time will just fly by

I am day 7 of stims and feeling pretty tired now .. but apart from that ok .. I had a BT for oestrogen yesterday and it was 1551 which is ok for me .. for others that would be too high for day 6 but going by my past ivf's it just seems to be the way I respond .. hoping that there will be some nice developing follies when I go for a scan tomorrow.

Good luck ladies!

[MJinWaiting]

How was your scan? How are your follies developing?

I go back in tomorrow for another scan. I am definietly a little sensitive today. I can feel my ovaries and they are tender for sure. How do they feel at day 7 of stims? tonight will be my day 5 of stims and i cant imagine how ill feel after 8 days...yikes. But none the less im super pumped about this cycle and feeling very positive and happy still.

Mel-you start your shots today right? Im excited to hear how your short protocal is treating you.

Hoping2B-I hate waiting for AF, shes so mean, I dont understand why ppl call her :"your friend" shes definelty my enemy! Im just hoping that none of us see her again for the next 9 months. Shes just being rude and showing off for her last perfeormance for the next 9 months lol.

Here's to hoping! Love and babydust to all!

[MEL4141]

Hello, I start meds tomorrow all being well with my lining. Toni hope all good with you, and best wishes to all, lots love melissax

[Hoping2BAMom]

Well, no AF today, but they still have me continuing the Lupron.  I go tomorrow morning for BW and U/S to check lining (the nurse mentioned something about checking the lining can help them determine where I'm at in the cycle).  They did BW to check progesterone last week and the nurse said it looked great and I had already ovulated in the current cycle, so I don't know what's going on.  My AF is usually like clockwork, comes every 27-28 days and today is day 30.  I'm supposed to start my stim meds Saturday, but I don't think they can do that if my AF hasn't come or can they measure the uterine lining and decide that my new cycle has started already despite AF not showing up?  

Glad everyone is doing well.  

tones...I know you're right that time will fly by once AF comes!  She just needs to hurry up.

MJinWaiting....You are absolutely right about her being rude!  Very rude!

Lot's of SSBD to us all!!

[MEL4141]

Have just got back from scan, lining nice and thin and ovaries clear(no cysts) so I'm on this rollercoaster again! Starting buserelin tonight and unlike last time starting 450 menopur tomorrow(nurse said doing it this way may help not fuel off one of my follicles into large cyst which it has done in last 2 cycles), next scan next friday and the plan is ER friday 17th. Look forward to hearing everyones updates and progression as we all get to the dreaded 2WW-as always my best wishes to all, melissax

[Hoping2BAMom]

OK, I just got back form the Dr.'s office having my BW and U/S done.  AF still hasn't arrived.  The U/S showed that my lining is very thick and it looked like I had what might be a cyst.  However, after reviewing things, they think that because my period is 4-5 days late (it comes like clockwork every 27-28 days), my progesterone level showed that I have already ovulated, and the fact my DH and I have had intercourse that it might not be a cyst, but that I am pregnant.  So they are running a Beta test today and will call this afternoon.  I AM NOT getting my hopes up, because I just don't think it's possible.  The U/S showed that I had ovulated from my left ovary and my left tube is the one that's partially blocked.  I know that the egg could have gone down the right tube, but I just think it's too far fetched (I'm just not that lucky).  

So it looks like my cycle is delayed until AF comes or the Beta comes back showing I'm already pregnant (highly unlikely in my mind).  I know I should think positive, but I'm just too much of a realist and it will be too disappointing to hear no again.

[MEL4141]

If your test comes back and you ARE pregnant, that will be the 3rd story I have heard of ladies getting pregnant just before they are due to start an ivf cycle! really, really hope thats the case here! what a wondeful BFP to start this thread!  waiting in anticipation for your result, best wishes and love melissax

[MomofJordy]

Hello Special Ladies!

My husband and I embarked on our 3rd round of IVF in May and had our egg retrieval on the 20th of May. We got 13 eggs of which 9 fertilized via ICSI. As the days went by we had 6 then 4 and then 2 embryos to transfer on day 5 post egg retrieval. We opted to transfer one, as I miscarried twins last year at 7 weeks, which was very traumatic and my Dr believes that my uterus won't cope with twins. Our ET was done on the 25th of May and today is day 9 post ET. We wanted to freeze the other embryo but were told that wasn't possible as it didn't grow any further! I did a HPT this morning, which was negative, so I'm feeling a bit anxious... I know that perhaps it is too soon to get a positive result. When I did a HPT last time with the twins, it came up positive immediately on day 10 post ET, but then I understand that my HCG Levels would have been much higher with twins. I have my pregnancy blood test on Monday morning and really praying for a positive result!
Anyway, I thought I'd touch base with you and wish you all the best in your endeavours to become Moms and great Moms you will be!
Sending you oceans of love, light & baby dust!
K xx

[Relkarmom]

I have been keeping up with everyone's post.  Unfortunately I had to delay our May/June cycle and go into the June/July cycle. As I have to await, it is still exciting to hear what's going on with everyone else.

Hoping2BAMom - Don't be surprised as GOD is a God that 'makes it happen' so I can't wait to hear your good news.

Well good luck everyone and SSBD to you and DHs.

[Hoping2BAMom]

Hey Ladies,

Well, it was negative just as I suspected.  I really didn't think I was, so I'm not upset.  Estradial level was high, so it confirms the cyst they saw on the U/S.

So I have to stay on Lupron and I go back next Thursday for more BW and another U/S to see if the cyst has gone away and I can start my stim meds.  Hopefully, AF will be arriving very soon now as my lining today was thick, so she needs to hurry up!!  

I just want to hurry up and get going on IVF attempt #2, because I KNOW it is going to be the one that works!!!

Hope everyone else is doing well...I'm praying for all of you!  

[Hoping2BAMom]

I just realized this (I know I'm kind of slow...lol), but we'll probably be really close together as mine is delayed, so I think mine will now be more of a June/July cycle.  The ER was originally going to be 6/15 or 6/16, but now I'm probably looking at 6/22 or 6/23 at the earliest for the ER, possibly later depending how long it takes this cyst to go away.

[MustangSally14]

Hi Ladies!  I am coming in late to this thread, I just found the site and joined yesterday.  I've done 3 IUIs and 2 IVFs over the past 5 years. I've had one ectopic pregnancy, one chemical pregnancy and one miscarriage after we saw the heartbeat last year.

I participated in a mind/body infertility therapy group last year as well as an egg donor therapy group.

I am in the middle of a fresh egg donor cycle.  My TTC journey has been over 6 years long!  I am at the end of it now. Everything has been paid out of pocket and this is it!!!!

My donors retrieval brought us 16 follies, 15 were mature.  10 of those fertilized.  Today out of those 10, 10 were dividing (yah).  I am doing a 5 day transfer on Monday.  I won't get any further information until I go to the doctor on Monday and talk to her and the embryologist.  

I am so glad to have found you all!!!  Hoping2BAmom, hang in there.  The roller coaster ride is no fun, I know.  I notice you have 3 horses. I am a horse gal too; but I only have one.  

I would love to buddy with you all this month.  I am in my 2WW even though the transfer hasn't happened.... and you all *KNOW* I am going to POAS at 11 dpo.  (laughing).  I picked up a positive HPT last year at 11dpo and have known others who have picked it up as soon as 10dpo.  

[Relkarmom]

Great I look forward to budding up with u. Anyway it goes we will all be bringing babies home around the same time.

Mustangsally14- welcome aboa

[Relkarmom]

Great I look forward to budding up with u. Anyway it goes we will all be bringing babies home around the same time.

Mustangsally14- welcome aboard.  The more the merrier.  Have u tried to have insurance pay?

[Hoping2BAMom]

Welcome aboard!!  That is absolutely awesome that all 10 of the embies are dividing.  I'll be thinking about you today and hoping your transfer goes well.  

And yes I am a horse gal:-)  Right now, being able to ride a little longer is the ONLY bright side to having the start of my next cycle delayed.  Afterall, riding is my therapy and what I do when I'm stressed and upset.  So that makes going through all this that much harder, because I can't do one of the thing that helps relieve the stress.  So I spend quality time grooming them and doing groundwork with my yearling.  And of course my DH who is my constant support and "rock" through everything.

Can't wait to hear how everything goes for you today!  Lots of prayers and SSBD for you.

[MEL4141]

My best wishes to you-all those eggs dividing-thats excellent! my last 2 cycles we only got 3 eggs fertilized and only 1 started dividing after day 1, poor cell division hence BFN. Anyway that was last time, this is now and I am on day 4 of stimms, ER due 17th June, hopefully everything going to plan. And hopingtbamom, sorry your next cycle delayed, you get yourself geared up and then have the setback, but you'l be back on route next to no time, and it will be your time. I keep saying that to everyone as I am trying to get that positive feeling back for myself, 4th go-please please work, best wishes all melissax

[MJinWaiting]

Mel-Im glad to hear your on day 4 of stims! Thats exciting! Count down to ER is on for you now!

Hoping2b-Any word on when he thinks you'll start?

Mustang-Holy schmoly 10 are dividing? Thats wonderful news and makes me feel hopeful!!

I went to the RE today and I have 11 follicles that are mature and we will have our ER on wednesday!! Im super excited that its here!! and to hear MustangSally say that 10 are dividing gives me hope that my 11 are enough to make it through to transfer 2 embies back.

Here's to Hoping!! Babydust and Love to all!!

[MEL4141]

Thats wonderful having 11 follies! really hoping you get 2 good embies to put back, that would be my dream to get 2 embies. Have always only got few eggs and 1 fertilizng always poor cell division, but you never know, have been taking dhea to aid egg quality and production so I will be very interested to see any improved results. Best of luck for wednesday, I am 10 days behind you so you'l almost be getting your good news when I go in for ER. lOTS LOVE MELISSAX

[Hoping2BAMom]

They were waiting for AF to come and the cyst they found last week to go down before they start the stim meds.  AF started yesterday, I don't think I've ever been that excited about AF coming...lol.  I go back this Thursday, so I guess I'll find out then what the cyst looks like and if I can start my stim meds.  I'm still doing the Lupron injections daily.  I am not very good at waiting.

[MEL4141]

Really excited for you to get going!! I had a cyst when I was on clomid and was put on the birth pill to disolve it and give me a bleed. As soon as I had the period I could start my ivf cycle. So I am pretty positive for you when you have your scan, you'l be able to get going on your stimming meds. My best wishes to you and I pray we all have some BFP'S , my 4th and last attemptxxx melissax

[Relkarmom]

Hello ladies.  

Hoping2BAMom - Glad to know AF came home finally.  I got AF yesterday as well, and this morning went in to get my baseline checked.  Awaiting word from doctor to start bcp.  Ok, I'm right behind you just make sure you and THE REST OF THE LADIES get your protein in.  Follow the TO LIST.

MustangSally14 - How are you doing...I'm so excited.

[tj178]

Hello Ladies,

This will be my 2nd round of IVF.  I start my stims tomorrow morning.  My 1st cycle never made it to ET.  Seems I ovulated prematurely.  I hope this cycle goes better.

TJM

[MEL4141]

Hello and welcome, my best wishes to you as you start stimming, I am on day 5 of stimms and this is our 4th and final attempt at ivf, lets hope for BFP's all round. Look forward to catching up on yours an everyones progress through the next few weeks, all my love melissax

[Relkarmom]

Good morning ladies, I am scheduled for June/July cycle I did a baseline and US yesterday morning.  My RE informed me that I have to take an Ovadril injection and follow-up visit in 5 days as it seems that I have developed a structure which simply means that my body is producing very early follicles and he wants to slow this down.  The ovidral injections will allow me to be on shedule as originally planned.  Have anyone had this happen to them.  

Hoping2BAMom - aren't you going through something similar, but instead it is cyst and not follicles?

[Hoping2BAMom]

Yes mine's a cyst that they think developed after/during ovulation this month.  They were waiting to start my stim meds until AF came (which she has now) and the cyst went down.  I go tomorrow morning for an U/S and BW to see if the cyst has gone away and I can start my stim meds.  

@tj178...welcome!  I'm also getting ready to start my 2nd IVF attempt!  

[nmenyo]

Hey Ladies, sorry for the delay in posts, just really busy. So I started Lupron and finished my BCP on Monday so now I'm waiting for AF. Should be here soon. Then it's off to stims. Looks like alot of us are very close in schedules, which is great. If no AF then I go in on the 16th for bw and us, but I have a feeling she is right around the corner. I hope everyone is doing well. Bigs Hugs to all.

[MJinWaiting]

MEL- I have heard alot of women take DHEA and it helps so I wish you luck with that!! and yes I will have my beta on the 23rd so ill only be 5 days away when you have your retreival. What is the next step in your short protocal?

Hoping2b-Im glad that AF finally came from you!! I know we usually dread her but this is usually the one time we wish her to be here lol. Im excited to hear about your US and BW to see when you will start your stims.

Relkarmom-glad you started AF as well and excited for you to start your bcps to get this cycle moving.

TJM-welcome! I hope your 2nd cycle brings you and the rest of us our long awaited BFPs.

Ladies-I had my Egg retrieval this morning. Im doing well. i thought it was going to be a lot worse than it was. I arrived at 540am to the clinic which was locked until 6am (our appointment time) those 20 minutes were so slow. After we went in and paid the balance of what was left, they took DH to give his sample and then took me back to the surgery suite. it was quick and after an hour of recovery I was out and on my way home by 820 this morning. They got 8 eggs. Im nervous but hopeful thats enough for us. The ideal situation would be to have 2 transferred and 2 frozen but who knows what god has in store for us and our embryos. Im already excited to hear how many fertilized. THey will call me tomorrow to let me know. I thought I was going to be in a lot more pain. Im definitely uncomfortable but its more of a bloating and uncomfortable pain, not a terrible ripping cramping pain. I hope we make it to a 5 day transfer!!

Here's to hoping!! Love and Babydust to all!!

[Hoping2BAMom]

I'm so glad everything went well today.  I will be sending lots of prayers that you guys have a lot of eggs that fertilize and turn into embryos!  What you're experiencing sounds a lot like what I felt after my first ER.  I was uncomfortable and very bloated, but no terrible cramps.  

I'll let you know how the Drs. appt goes in the morning.  Hopefully, I'll be able to start the stim meds soon.  I am terrible at this hurry up and wait!

  

[MEL4141]

Well done on getting 8 eggs, that would be my dream!! Our next step on short protocol is to have progress scan tomorrow, that will tell us roughly how many follies, hoping for 6-10. Then carry on stimming until next wednesday when it will be pregnyl and getting ready for egg retrieval for friday 17th. My best wishes to you melissax

[Relkarmom]

WOW WOW WOW good for you and DH.  Are you sure you would only put in 2 if you had a choice.  I would definately go for 3 - what do you think?  This is exciting.  I think we are as excited for you as you are for you!!!

[MJinWaiting]

Ladies, we are soooo excited!!! Just got the call from the RE and out of the 8, 7 were mature and out of the 7 there were 5 that fertilized normally!!!!!! Yayyy so we have 5 babies right now!!! so happy!! They said that they look good and they think we should get some to freeze also. She said they will call me tomorrow to make an appt for a 3 day transfer for saturday and if there are 2 that look better than the rest they will do a 3 day but if they all look the same then they will cancel and make it a 5 fay transfer for monday.

Rel-I am young, im almost 26 and my dr doesnt want to take the chance of triplets. hes hesitant to put 2 back but DH and I decided thats the right number for us and it gived us a better chance for at least 1 sticking!

Im soooo happy right now! I just have to hope and pray that all 5 divide and grow normally from this rate on.

Here's to Hoping! Love and Babydust!!!

[Hoping2BAMom]

Had Drs. appt this am and the cyst had almost completely dissolved so I am starting my stim meds on Saturday!!  YAY!!  I'm so excited to finally start cycle #2.  

@MJinWaiting...That is awesome news about how many "little guys" you have and that you might be able to freeze some of them!!

[MEL4141]

Fantastic news! you're with us all in the rollercoaster again! this will be your time like I am telling myself it will be mine(our 4th ivf).
Anyway am feeling more positive today as just got back from first progress scan and follies havedone really well for me , all 14, 15 size and 9 of them!! excellent so far, so they will be bringing egg collection forward to next wednesday 15th June. I know not all follies will contain eggs and then we've got the fertilizing and dividing bit to get through but so far so good for us. Am focusing on that today and the only thing i have done differently is that I have been taking dhea for past 3 months as its meant to help egg quailty? Next scan monday then to EC, my best wishes to all melissaxx

[Relkarmom]

Hello everyone.  When I had my last consult I asked my RE about DHEA, but to no avail.  DHEA has always stood out in the back of my head. Being that this is my 4 IVF, I decided to revisit the DHEA thoughts so here is what I have been finding.  This is very positive so now I will be on DHEA w/o the knowledge of my doctor.  Read this one very interesting post and please share your throughts after reading:

"Report
SpamAbuseby PawSafe, Aug 25, 2009 02:57AM
Hi All: I just wanted to add my success story (and ask for some SSBD!)  

I was 39 before we decided to have children.  We never "tried" much on our own, just went off the pill and right to the RE due to my "advanced age".  I quickly had 3 miscarriages (possibly due to clomid which can cause a thin uterine lining in many women over 35).  More cycles with injections, Gonal F, Folastim, etc.  Nothing.  We decided to try IVF (read: were pushed and bullied into it) even though I was getting pregnant fairly easily.  IVF failed, I responded poorly and had to go on the highest dose of everything possible to get a response and even then:  9 follies, 5 eggs, 3 good embies, BFN...  and I was now over 40.  We changed clinics and two REs would not even see me unless I used donor eggs.  (I was also doing acupuncture and various other alternative methods throughout this whole process)

I went to see a recurrent pregnancy loss specialist and put together a final plan since things were not looking good: 3 more injection cycles + DHEA 75mg (and a myriad of other supplements).  I chose the DHEA on my own and did not discuss with anyone.  The first cycle with half the dose of IVF meds at a new RE (who was pretty hopeless, TBH), I produced 13 follicles!  He was shocked.  So was I.  I was on DHEA for 60 days at this point but it's the only thing I changed and what a great change.  We did the IUI even tho I had so many follicles but still - BFN.  The 2nd cycle was in Sept of 07. I halved the meds again (on my own b/c this RE was known for getting women pregnant with way too many embies and 13 follies was way too many in my book - I also have a PhD and a lot of medical training and I figured I had nothing to lose anyway)  SO... this cycle was now at 1/4 the amount of IVF meds and I produced 4 follies.  All grew at amazingly similar rate, did the IUI and on June 4th, 2008, and I gave birth to a beautiful and perfect little boy at the age of 41.  He's now 14 months and I am 42 years.  AND...we're starting another cycle now that I have stopped nursing.  I found out last week that my inhibin B is 31.  That's *very* low, altho my FSH is 8.9 and everything else looks "good". The RE now wonders if my ovarian reserve wasn't an issue before and might account for some of my problems before.  Who knows what it all means.  Also, he doesn't know about the DHEA yet and is very negative about our chances for another success, nearly as bad as when I first showed up in his office 2+ years ago but he's an aggressive guy who won't give up until I say when so I like him  :)  

So, I am back on the DHEA with a vengeance and we'll see how things go.  I did get pregnant naturally a few months ago but that ended at 8 weeks so I am quite hopeful with the DHEA added back in, that things have a chance of working out again.  I can only do my best.

Notes:  

DHEA has had no side effects for me.  I am a psychologist in private practice and work with lots of older women with fertility issues.  I give them all info on DHEA.  Most of them use it and I rarely hear of negative side effects except acne and one woman says it makes her aggressive right before she ovulates.  I buy mine from Vitacost.com b/c they're cheap and the cheap kind seems to work the same for my clients.  It's all I've ever used.  Overall, I see so many good results, big changes in follicle counts, better pregnancy/delivery rates, etc. so I am a firm believer.  

Of my clients who discuss DHEA with their REs, the response it overwhelmingly negative and discouraging.  I used to tell everyone to be sure to talk it over with their REs after I gave them the info or web links but I don't suggest that any more since I've had clients who were warned that if they used DHEA the RE would no longer treat them.   A colleague of mine had clients be told by her RE that she would not be treated if she used fish oil (!) let alone DHEA.  That's just sad.  So, now I leave it to their own discretion.  In an ideal world everything would be open for discussion and consideration but the practice of medicine doesn't often work that way.  My clients also tend to be at the end of their ropes already and they don't need more negativity piled on top of the long list of failures most of them already have  -- hence the visit to the psychologist  :)  If they want to discuss it with the RE, great and if they want to do bloodwork, great.  For those of us running out of options and/or money, DHEA is a pretty safe and very inexpensive one to add to the arsenal IMHO.   I have not yet seen anyone use DHEA and have any problems.  

My injection cycles were with Bravelle and Menopur (also helps egg quality, I am told).  I have a 44 y.o client who is pregnant now with the same RE, same meds and the DHEA (has not told the RE about the DHEA).

DH has no issues and is a bit younger.

I believe the DHEA is the reason I have my wonderful and healthy son.   Just wanted to share a hopeful story with everyone and send out plenty of sticky vibes.    

-Deb "

[Relkarmom]

Here is the link to the DHEA post about other women who have been taking it and conceived.  - At this point I think it is never too late.  Again, let me know your thoughts.

http://www.medhelp.org/posts/Fertility/New-cycle-buddies-May-June/show/1509377

[MEL4141]

Thank you  for your research on this product. I will not pass judgement until I get further along my cycle i.e to transfer but have NO complaints so far. This is my 4th ivf , I am over 40 and have had 3 bad cycles, so who wouldnt want to try anything different that has been approved by many to help with the eggs and their quality/production. I dont know about the implantation side, but I am going to rest fully for the first few days and make sure I have correct leutal support, last time I always wonder if  was on right progesterone and had the correct amount.
My best wishes to you and all, melissax

[Hoping2BAMom]

I definitely wouldn't pass judgement on anyone for trying this.  If it works and no negative side effects, especially to the fetus, it's worth a try.  I'm on Lupron & Rx prenatals and will be adding the Menopur & Follistim tomorrow.  I'll stick with all of that for now, but if this cycle is not successful, the DHEA will be something I might try with the next one.  

[MEL4141]

Hello everyone,
Just got back from second progress scan-nurses cant believe how I have responded this time to meds-my 4th ivf , all I have done differently is take dhea for past 3 months, and I got told today 11 follies(only had 4-5 last time) but size wise fantastic, 2 at 22mm, 3 at 21mm, 4 at 18mm, 1 at 17mm! and 1 at 16 bit smaller, and my lining is nearly 10. I know it doesnt guarantee eggs but from my previous cycle I got 2 eggs from 4 follies, 1 fertilized so going by the above it would be my dream to get 2 eggs and 2 fertilize/divide to put back.
ER wednesday, then transfer friday (2dt)-feeling more hopeful now and more optimistic, best wishes to all and hope june is going to produce many BFP's, melissax

[Hoping2BAMom]

That's awesome news!!  I'll keep you in my prayers and hope for you to have a smooth ER with lots of mature eggs that fertilize:-)  

I started stim meds on Saturday and decreased Lupron dose.  The new RE has me on different meds this cycle (75u of Menopur AM & 225 Follistim & 5u of Lupron in PM) and I am just exhausted.  I didn't feel like this the last time around.  I have no idea if it's a good thing or not.  I went in this am for BW, and will go for a progress scan on Wed I believe.  

[Relkarmom]

Wow, good for you on the DHEA.  I, too, started taking DHEA this past Friday.  Every bit of research I have found gave positive results with DHEA and IVF, just as you experienced.  WOW - keep us advised.  I am hoping I can have it in my system at least 4-6 weeks before starting anything.  YEA for you.

[Relkarmom]

How many mg of the DHEA did you take?

[MEL4141]

Hello ladies, didnt mention my eostrogen level from when they took blood this morning, 12000! was only 482 o previous cycle! consultant very surprised and pleased. Anyway I have been taking only small amount of dhea 25mg per day for past 3 and a half months plus my folic acid. That is all I have done differently and I am so anxious and interested to see what happens next at egg collection. My best wishes to hoping2bamom as you start your meds, it comes so quick and now I cannot believe I will be in dreaded 2ww on friday. I Will update on wednesday as to how I get on at ER, in England dhea isnt recognised and I only took it after reading up on it and that US and canadian dr's recommend it for egg quality. This is over 100% better than any of my previous cycles and at this stage I am very thrilled. Love and support to all, melissax

[anika75]

Hello ladies! Can I join you? I am not doing ivf but iui. It is tomorrow! After 7 days of taking Follistim, my dr prescribed also Menopur and Ganirelix. Todays scan showed 2 follies on left 21mm and 18 mm. Right side is taking brak this cycle. I had trigger shot and scheduled iui for tomorrow. This is my #2 iui. First was sucesful ( with only 1 follicle)but ended at 5 weeks. Since Febryary I am taking dhea, weed grass and doing acupunture. Tomorrow she wants me to come for acupunture just before iui and just after. I am praying this time will be sucsesful...
Good luck to all!

[MJinWaiting]

Mel- Im so excited for you about all your follicles!! Im excited to hear about your egg retrieval on wednesday!! It really sounds like the DHEA is working for you.  I am excited for you to join me in the 2ww!!

Hoping2b-Im glad you started your stim meds, how are you feeling?

Rel- How are you doing? HOw is the DHEA did you start it yet?

Anika- Welcome! Good luck tomorrow with your IUI.

Ladies, I had my transfer today. 5 day transfer with 2 embryos. Im kinda sad. Ive been so happy and excited and looking forward to this and everything seemed to be going great, they called on saturday and said out of the 5 embryos that all 5 were still growing well and they wanted to wait and push me to a 5 day. They brought us in today and after a long wait (and them mixing us up with another patient....who had great blastocysts) brought us in to tell us that he was dissappointed and really thought with our age and how they looked on saturday he thought they would be great blasts but they werent. We had one 1BC blast which he said he thought would be better and one early blast that he thought would have developed by now but he really doesnt know what that one will do. He put in both embryos and were just hoping for the best possible outcome. However!! the transfer went extremely well!!! I have a retro verted uterus and for the first time in a year and a half my uterus was exactly where it should be and in the perfect position. The dr said the transfer couldnt have gone any better. So thankfully that part was smooth and we can rest assured at least that went smooth.

Im officially in my 2ww ladies and I feel pretty anxious about the next 10 days. My beta is scheduled for next Thursday the 23rd

Here's to hoping!!! Love and Babydust to all!!!

[Relkarmom]

Hi MJ, I am doing great.  Couldn't be better as everthing happens for a reason. Awaiting AF to arrive again and we will see where we are at that point.  I did, indeed, start DHEA on Friday so I wouldn't mind doing an July/August cycle, which will entirely depend on AF.  So good to hear from you.  And I definately cannot wait for you to get BFP.  Keep us advised.

MEL, what type of DHEA are you taking?

[MEL4141]

Hello I was taking biovea dhea, 25mg(only small amount) and my folic acid. best wishes melissax

[MJinWaiting]

Rel-I really needed to hear that today!!! that Everything happens for a reason. The embryologist called me today and told me that none of the 3 remaining embryos made it to freeze. So now we just have to hope and pray that the 2 little ones in my belly stay strong and grow for the next 9 months!!

Mel-Good luck tomorrow!! Ill be thinking of you!!

Here's to hoping!! Babydust and love to all!!

[MEL4141]

Just got back from ER, feeling very low so may not update for a while now, only got 4 eggs and  was told 2 of these were border line?(what does that mean) now have agonizing wait to see if any fertilize and divide, transfer scheduled for friday am, best wishes melissax

[Relkarmom]

We continue to pray for the best SSBD.  Get some rest and we'll talk to you soon!

[MEL4141]

Deflated and very sad today-only 1 egg fertilized out of 4-After starting this 4th ivf very positivly, its all gone pear shaped, had good levels, nice lot of follies and now will have only 1 embie to transfer tomorrow. Its a repeat of last 2 cycles and I expect it will be a 2cell 2dt that wont stick. I am negative I know but have been here before and just right now cant see any light. best wishes to all you other ladies, melissax

[mhv]

Aww, i am so sad that this is the outcome.  I know you were hopeful for so much more.  But, it only takes 1 and hopefully this is the one!!!!  The fertility road can be so trying on us.  

Hugs!

[Relkarmom]

I agree mhv, its not ova until its OVA (purposely spelled it this way)....  so keep moving forth and keep you head up and be positive - It only takes 1!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[MJinWaiting]

Mel-Im sorry your outcome made you sad. I can understand that feeling. But the other ladies are right, it only takes 1. Tweet on one of the other may june forums only had one fertilize and she is now at 6000 beta!! It does only take one. We'll all be praying for you and you little miracle embie!

MHV-havent seen you for a while. How are things with you?

Rel-How are you feeling? Has AF started yet?

Hoping2b-How are you since starting your stims?

Anika-How was your IUI? How are you feeling today?

I am doing well. Today is 3dp5dt and im feeling more positive today. trying to keep ony good thoughts but some of the negativeness keeps creeping in. I keep thinking im going to get a positive but deep down im afraid of failing and getting only negatives.

Here's to Hoping!! Babydust and Love to all!!

[mhv]

I am good!  Thanks for asking...

I have pretty much dropped off the boards, cause everytime I joined one, my transfer ended up getting delayed, so I am not going to join a post until I get an actual date.  I think we just completed our final step towards getting our embryos transferred from TX to OH, so hopefully in the next week or so, they can be moved, and we can get an appt with the doctor to get the show on the road!  It's been very, very trying on my patience, so, I have just been laying low, stalking everyone :o)

[Relkarmom]

Hello you.  I am doing great, no AF visit just yet so still helpful.  Dr. wanted me to start Lupron about 2 days ago but I couldn't get it as the pharmacies are out and it had to come straight from the manufacture which took about 3 to 4 days.  Other than that, still awaiting adn doing my acupunture and getting plenty of protein.  

[Relkarmom]

Glad to know you are still around stalking us (LOL).  Just kidding, please keep us informed.  

MEL - hope u r feeling much better!

[mhv]

OH Yes, Do Not Fret!   Lurking I am :o)   haha!  I will update when I have some thing new to report.. hopefully that will be very very soon!!!!!

[MEL4141]

After what has been a very up and down cycle-we have just got back from transfer, and I feel a lot better than I did yesterday!
First thing this morning got a call from embryologist and straight away thought the worst, our 1 fertlized egg hadnt divided, infact it was the embryologist calling to say our egg had fertilized, our 2 day transfer was on and our egg was now a 4 cell-which is the best we could have hoped for(thought it would be another slow growing 2 cell) Our consultant was surprised and disappointed we didnt get more eggs from the follicles I had this time, but he says its an age thing-But he said on the plus side he would rather have 1 good embryo to put back than 2 or 3 poor quality ones. Now on the dreaded 2ww with test day 1st july. my best wishes to all of you especailly to those who have sent me supporting messages over the past few days, lots love melissax

[Relkarmom]

You go Mel4141 - that's what I am talking about!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[MJinWaiting]

Hello everyone!! Well I tested this morning at 6dt5dt (technically 5.5 dp5dt bc transfer was at 330 in the afternoon and I tested at 5am) and i got my BFP!!!!! Oh my goodness I am soo happy right now!! It was faint but it was definitely there! no questions! and I triggered 12 days ago so I think thats out of my system by now. Im going to keep testing to see if the line gets darker but for now im positive and happy!!

Here's to Hoping!! Babydust and love to all!!

[MEL4141]

Warmest congratulations! so happy for you, may your little bean continue to grow and give you a nice stress free nine months! lots love melissax p.s have you done anything differently this time

[MJinWaiting]

Melissa- I did acupuncture which I beleive really did help and my acupuncturist told me to eat alot of watermelon which i did!!! and also I ate pineapple the day before and few days after the transfer, that and the power of positive thinking!!!

Thank you so much!!! We cant wait for tomorrow to make sure the lines getting darker!!

Here's to Hoping! Babydust and love to all!!

[Relkarmom]

ALRIGHT!!!!  Your Go MJinWaiting ---- WHEW ----- such great news.  I'm so excited for you and DH I can dance.... Congrats

[tj178]

Hello All,

Has anyone had problems with premature ovulation?  This is the second IVF round that I have ovulated before the eggs could be retrieved.  I'm so disappointed and frustrated at this point.

[Hoping2BAMom]

@MEL4141 and MJinWating...That's great news...I'm so very excited for you for both of you!

I had my egg retrieval yesterday morning and they got 14 eggs.  12 were mature enough to fertilize and the embryologist called this morning and let me know that 10 of the 12 have fertilized.  We are SO excited!  We only got 4 eggs last time and only 2 fertilized, so this is a huge improvement.  I'm scheduled for a 5 day transfer this Saturday and then my beta will be on July 5.  We're hoping that all the embryos keep dividing and growing, so we'll have a couple to implant and some to freeze.

Lot's of SSBD and prayers for us all! :-)

[MJinWaiting]

Rel- Thank you so very much!! Ill dance with you!! lol

Hoping-10 fertilized eggs is awesome!!! Congrats!!! Grow embies grow!! Thats great! I hope that they make it too for you to have some to freeze! let us know how the transfer goes.

tj- Im sorry but I dont know anything about premature ovulation. Has your dr given you a new plan for the next try?

I too another HPT this morning and its still +. the line this morning was a little teeny tiny bit lighter than yesterdays but it was still wayy darker than sundays and i think it was probably bc of the crazy obseen amount of water that I drank yesterday, it was probably diluted a little bit. I will test again tomorrow to make sure that it gets darker and not lighter again.

Im having some cramping off and on, its more annoying than painful but its there. and twinges in my bbs here and there too. I have had metal mouth a few times, and a headache last night. Also Whenever I have an empty stomach I get nauseous! I cant wait for the drs on Thursday to find out if everything is good. If Beta is good then ill prob go back saturday and monday for beta again.

Here's to Hoping! Babydust and Love to all!!

[Hoping2BAMom]

I am so excited for you about your positive HPTs.  I'm sure your beta will be positive as well.  I can't wait to hear though.  

I'm starting to get nervous again about the 2WW although mine will be more like a 10 day wait, so there is that.  Last time around, I had myself convinced I was pregnant and took an HPT the morning before my beta and it was negative.  It was heartbreaking, so I don't know if I'm going to do an HPT this time around.  

I'm hoping that with so many having BFP, some of the good vibes will rub off on me maybe...lol.    

[trlyblsd]

Hi all, I am sad to say DH and I cancelled our cycle on yesterday. After all the injections and surgery, etc. We were due for him to have the TESA/MESA procedure on today and he couldn't get off of work, because he started a new position. Our ER was scheduled for Thurs with the ET on Sunday. Its so sad because I felt we were so close. Also, being that I am a young 41 yo my doc is wanting us to come in for the Donor egg consult since I only had to eggs anyway. Maybe if I look at it as a blessing in disguise I won't feel like crying..

Linda

[MEL4141]

So sorry you have come this far and had to stop-if you can have another try, dont dismiss your own eggs, at 41 you still may have a chance, it only takes one!! and donor eggs dont always work first time. my best wishes in what ever road you take, melissax

[trlyblsd]

Thanks for the support. You are so right, it does only take one.

SSBD your way and thanks again.

Linda

[tj178]

The Dr wants to start the Ganerelix on day 8 instead of waiting for my E2 levels to rise above 200 which is usually around day 12 or 13.  Thinks it may help

[Hoping2BAMom]

I'm so sorry you had to cancel your cycle.  I know it's hard, but try to hang in there.  MEL is right.  It only takes one to do the job!

[MEL4141]

Hello everyone-getting very anxious now 6 days(including today) till test day fri july 1st-stupidly did a hpt yesterday 8dp 2dt and had a faint line, then did one today v faint line almost gone-so i def think its the remains of trigger (10000 on mon 13th)AND my leutal support as i had that instead of pessaries-2 x 1500 pregnal injections last one being a week ago-i really shouldnt do these tests as now i think they will be all neg-when do you think i can get a realistic  TRUE reading positive- i am on day 9 of 2dt only 1 embie, many thanks melissax p.s hope you all are coping and doing okxx

[Hoping2BAMom]

You're right it probably is the remains of the trigger shot.  I've actually decided this time around I'm not doing a HPT.  I did last time and got two BFN and it was just too hard.  I figure if I don't do one at all before the beta test, I can believe I'm pregnant until I have the beta test.  I know that may seem silly, but I think it will be easier on myself emotionally.  

I had my 5dt yesterday of 2 blast and found out this morning they were able to freeze one remaining blast.  The embryologist said the remaining blast that they freezed looked great today.  I'm hoping that means the two they transferred look even better as they were the best looking ones.  I have my fingers, toes, and eyes crossed for us all that we get our BFP soon.  I'll be keeping you in my prayers for yours on Friday.  My beta is Tuesday, July 5.  

[hoping4baby2009]

good luck everyone

[Relkarmom]

My sentiments exactly by hoping4baby2009.  I too have started June/July cycle so I am very anxious now.  

So good luck to everyone and lots of SSBD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Hoping2BAMom]

How are you?  How's everything going with you?  I'm so glad you've started your next cycle.  I have my beta test Tuesday, July 5 and I'm staying very positive.  So we'll see what happens.

[Relkarmom]

Hello I am good - started leupron Sunday and Gonal F tomorrow, so I thinking 2 weeks at the most .  Other than that, just waiting in anticipation with you.  Have you heard any GREAT news yet!!!