PERHAPS THERE IS STILL HOPE - RE suggested natural cycle IVF

[zansi]

I saw my RE today. He was very kind and gentle with me. I was scared that he will tell me that after failed transfer we should move to donnor egg but he didn't. According to him I have better chance of producing good egg with natural cycle and he suggested we start immediatelly. If I get one good egg to blasto stage he wants to do assisted hatching. I don't have enough sperm so we will do two ISCI-s with the next two cycles. RE told me that he has a patient that is 46 years and got preganant using natural cycle IVF. He was very encouraging and my hope is back. I discussed DHEA but apparently it is illegal in South Africa and he was very against it. Instead he prescribed very high dose of Stamina Growth which apparently improves egg quality. I am seeing my acupuncturist on Monday so we will make a new plan to try and get good egg for my next cycle.

[LvnEmbryos]

We usually do not recommend natural cycle, not because it is "alternative" but because in a natural cycle, you go in and take the one follicle that developed on its own.  In older patients, and patients in general with poor fertility even if we have one good egg, the success rates are very low.  We only have one embryo to work with -- and don't see a lot of patients make it to the transfer day.

So all in all - we do not consider natural cycles better, but if a patient wants to try we will usually support their decision and do one natural cycle, then recommend a different course of treatment.  Natural cycle only saves on meds but is still very expensive for patients.  We try not to lead them along after multiple failed natural cycles.

[miky72]

I'm so glad it went well.
Are you starting immediately?
Good luck and keep us posted

[rene67]

Good to know, I did not realize natural cycle were considered better.  I hope all works for you.  My RE have never recommended any med to improve egg quality.  I know South Africa may be a bit more progressive on these things though, US docs are generally reluctant to suggest anything "alternative".

Keep us posted on your progress!

[Helen72]

Glad you have a plan worked out.  I hope natural cycle works for you!!!