Sucess with single embryo transfer?

Hi all, I'm new to this forum and don't understand most of the abbreviations, but was wondering if anyone had any answers for me. I'm 29, DH is 34. We have unexplained infertility. My hsg test was normal and don't have any endometriosis. We have been thru 3 failed IUI w/t clomid cycles. I'm going thru my very first ivf cycle right now. I had a low response to fsh and they only got 10 eggs at retrieval time, only two fertilized thru ICSI. There was only one embryo of quality 6B- on day 3 and I had the transfer done yesterday. Was wondering if anyone else had any success with a single embryo transfer? Also, why am I such a low responder to the fertility drugs?

[Heather5]

I've never tried fertility drugs or had an IVF...but just wanted to bump up your questions, so others will see it :-)

[llenda]

I am going on my third IVF and I am not a great responder to the meds either.  I have managed to get three good embies to transfer each time though.  No pregnancy.  I usually have one follicle that outgrows the rest and then on retrieval the others are too immature to make it.  Maybe yours were either too mature or too immature.  Do you remember the size of your follicles before they retrieved them?  Were they all about the same size?  Also your estrodiol level needs to be about 150/mature egg.  So if you had 10 mature eggs your estrodiol level should have been at least 1500.  I go for U/S and blood work tomorrow.  I had 6 follicles on Tuesday.  It was too early for them to tell if one was out growing the others.  Hopefully tomorrow I will know.  This girl I work with had several IUI's done and they didn't work and her first IVF worked.  She is almost ready to deliver.  It only takes one good embryo.  Your age is also a good factor.  I hope this works for you, keep us posted on how you are doing.  SSBD!!!!

[neni1]

I am new to the forum, I am also going through the same, going for U/ S on friday, to see size of follicles, with possible retrieval on monday or tuesday, this is my first IVf and I am nervous about it, I am 39 years old, so I really don't know the quality or quantity of eggs i am going to have. Hope it works !!! Any suggestions ???

[Julie1615]

Thanks Heather for bumping the q up:)

llenda, your information helped me understand a lot about my ivf cycle. I was on 300 units of Gonal-F for about 13 days in total before the hcg shot to trigger ovulation. I had 5 follicles in my right ovary (on the last u/s one follicle was 25mm and the others were about 17mm). There were 4 follicles in my left ovary (the biggest one was 19mm, the others were 16mm). My E2 levels took quite a few days to become high, on the last blood work done, they had reached 2960. On the day of retrieval my RE said they got 10 eggs out. We did 5 ICSI and 5 natural fertilization. Only two of the ICSI fertilized and none of the natural. They tried day 2 ICSI on the other 5 eggs, but it didn't help. So I only had two potential embryos. On day 2 they were 4C and 2C. On day three, they were 6B- and 4D. So they only transferred the 6B- embryo on day 3. I'm afraid to even have faint hope that this one embryo will survive... but keeping fingers crossed. I will keep you posted on the progess. Good luck to you!!

Neni,

I don't know much details about you, but good luck for your first IVF:)) I do hope you have several good sized follicles which all mature together! Keep us posted and all the best!

[llenda]

Hey Julie, I think you still have a good chance.  I have noticed that age does have a lot to do with it.  I had two of the best quality eggs transfered the first time and still BFN.  I have read where some people had average to poor quality embies transfered and got BFP.  Because of my age they have done ICSI each time.  I went for my u/s and blood work today and it didn't look so good again.  I have one follicle 15mm in one ovary and one 11mm on the other side.  They say that I have several that are under 10mm.  This is what happens each time.  My estrodiol level is never even above 1000.  I have read that high estrodiol levels have been known to bring better IVF results.  That is another plus for you.  I go again on Saturday although they may call today and cancel this cycle.  We will see.

Neni, hi, I started my first IVF at 39.  I think everybody is different as far as quality and quantity at this age.  I think we are really close together with our cycle.  I may be having ER on Wednesday.  So let me know how your u/s turns out.  I think it is so exciting to see how they are growing.  Although, today I feel a little depressed.  I don't have many follicles growing at the same time.  I am waiting for them to call and tell me my estrodiol level and let me know what they want me to do.  I was really hoping that I would respond better to the meds this time.  Oh well.  I am excited for you.  Good luck and let me know how Friday goes.    

[Julie1615]

Hi llenda, thanks for all your support:) I had feared about getting that one runaway follicle which would outpace the others. I'm definitely planning in grilling my RE with all sorts of questions regarding quality of eggs and embryos, although they don't seem to have many answers. meanwhile, wishing you all the best for your appt on saturday!

[llenda]

Thanks Julie.  I know what you mean about the RE answering questions.  I like my RE, but he doesn't really expand on any questions.  I have got more info off of this forum.  He pretty much tells me that they shoot for at least three good embies to transfer and they don't really know why they do not stick.  He does say that a grade 1 (the best at my clinic) in a 40 year old is not the same as a grade 1 in a 20 year old.  He says your best grade 1's are ovulated first, meaning when you first start having a cycle.  I will let you know how Saturday goes.  When is your beta?  This is the hardest part that dreadful TWW.  Try to stay hopeful and relax.  I think stress reduces the chance of your body allowing the little embie to stick.  I am still waiting for them to call.  Talk to you later.  

[neni1]

Thanks Ilenda, I will let you know tomorrow, how my u/s went. Hoping the follicles are good size for the ER on monday or tuesday. Good luck to you too and keep me posted !!!

[Julie1615]

My beta is tomorrow morning. I live in california. I have read that your levels should be quite high, so just crossing my fingers:) ttyl.

[llenda]

Julie, how did your Beta turn out?

[Julie1615]

Hi llenda, they never did it!! I had just assumed when they gave me an appt that it was for the beta test, but was surprised to find out that they had no such plans.. lol. They said it would be too early to do a test and the next blood test would only be the pg test 2 weeks after the et.

Do let me know how your doc visit went today. Sending you a lot of sticky baby vibes:)) Good luck!

[llenda]

Well they said one follicle was 15mm and one is 16.?mm.  My estrogen is 681 which is actually good for me.  I have some smaller follicles but I think they are too immature.  I go for another U/S and blood work again tomorrow to see how fast they are growing.  I guess if they aren't growing too fast they will try to let some of the smaller ones catch up.  I'm excited to see the difference.  I will let you know.

Thats a bummer about your appt.  So what was the appt. for.  I didn't even realize that you were only like 4 days post ET.  So you are on that dreadful TWW.  Are you relaxing?  I worked last night and now I will be off for 13 days.  Woohoo!!!  I hope this will help the little one stick.  SSBD to you!!!  

[40smama]

Not to intrude on your thread but just wanted to let you know that I had a single embryo transfer but I did have an egg donor who was 22 years younger than me (I'm so old when put that way :-((().   It was a day 5 embie.  I'm not too sure about the grade only it was really high.  Anyway, I got pregnant - actually still am at 18w3d.  Hope this helps and good luck and much SSBD!!!!!!!!!!! - jennifer

[Julie1615]

Hey Jennifer, of course you're not intruding:)) Thanks for sharing your experience. Congrats on your BFP!!!  Like they say it only takes one and a day 5 embryo (which is a blastocyst) which is of high grade has an excellent chance of survival. Just wondering, did you try any IVF cycles with your own eggs before going in for DEs?

[Julie1615]

Haha thanks llenda:)) I am trying to relax and take it easy as much as possible! Hey great to know you're going be off work for a couple of weeks, that sure must be so relieving. Lots of luck and SSBD to you too!!

[llenda]

Hey girls, 40smama you don't sound old to me.  I think your story is very encouraging.  Well I went and had my u/s and bld work today and I have two follicles that are 20mm and a 14 and 13mm.  The actual RE called me (not my RE but the one working today).  He pi??ed me off so bad.  This is my third IVF and I never respond to the medicine that well.  I usually only have one follicle that is way bigger than the rest.  Each ER they tell me that I probably won't have but one embryo and I always end up with three to transfer.  So anyway, I was trying to explain this to this RE (very nicely) and he just blurted out that WE ARE NOT GOING TO TRIGGER TONIGHT.  He said I could either cancel the cycle or make an appt for tomorrow and let my regular RE decide what to do.  I was not even trying to talk him into triggering, I was only letting him know that I am not one that responds well with the IVF protocols.  I tried to explain to him that I feared that these two good follicles might be ruined if we wait another day; he said they probably will but there is no way that they will do ER for two eggs.  I told DH that my RE is off today and this RE does not want to make that decision.  He even told me that tomorrow he wanted me to go to the clinic that my RE will be at so he can evaluate.  The problem seems to be that known of these guys read my history before they see me.  I was told today that they may switch me to IUI, well I said that is going to be pretty hard since I don't have any tubes.  Everytime I go for my u/s they tell that my cycle is probably going to get canceled b/c I have two dominate follicles, but when they call me later that day they say everything is looking great and continue with your same medicine.  It just makes me mad that they are not consistant with there stories.  I think some of them don't want to fool with people that don't respond well b/c it brings their number of success stories down.  Sorry about this post, I am very hormonal and mad.  I will let you know how tomorrow goes.  Oh, I hope everything is well with both of you.  Julie SSBD to you.  40smama I am glad to hear of your success.    

[myluv4rain]

I can sooooooooo understand your frustration!!! If you don't mind me asking...what doctor...practice is this? I live in MD. and can not believe that you have to be subjected to this kind of treatment. I am 44yrs. old and know how it is dealing with doctors who have an age-attitude mentality. I tell them right off...that I don't need them to concentrate on my age...that I understand that I am "older", but I don't allow them to discourage me. My girlfriend was 46 yrs. old when she got prego...no meds...no type of tx. what so ever!!! She turned 47yrs. old on May 10th this year & had her baby on May 30th!!! They can be sooooooo negative with that age thing. I have one more ivf to go that I am going to do in Feb. I have had 2 ivf's & 6 iui's. BFP on 2 of the iui's (age 42 & 43)...BFN on the IUI's. So...hopefully this will encourage you. I don't know what kind of facility that is that would waste a cycle. If it is paid for, they should do the ivf...no matter that you have only one transfer.

I am mad for you...they can be sooooooooo insensitive!!! What type of training has this nut case received? It is really pitiful when you have this craz-o's who think they are God and can dictate to you if you will conceive or not. They are just the instrument he uses...do not allow them to steal your hope. I hope you will find another doctor. If you are willing to travel...I know of one in the D.C. area.

I Pray that the Lord will send you a very special BBOJ (Beautiful Bundle Of Joy). ;o)

Rain

[llenda]

Hey Rain, thanks for the encouragement.  I am near you.  I go to Shady Grove.  I forgot the RE's name but he is usually at the Leesburg office in North Va.  He is usually pretty nice but today he seemed to be really short with me.  I have been reading about the "poor responders" to IVF.  I guess I fit into that category.  It doesn't really sound good.  I have mentioned to DH about maybe going to a different clinic if this doesn't work.  What clinic are you talking about?  I live like 20 minutes from D/C.  Thanks for the prayers and the info.  SSBD for us both!  

[myluv4rain]

I started to ask if you were txing at Shady. I'm not sure about the Leesburg office. Is that Loudon County? At any rate...I was txing at the Annapolis Office which is great. The practice in DC is Columbia Fertility...the doctor there...Dr. Butler would like to have 4 transfers, but always says all you need is one. ;o) So...if you are looking for a different attitude regarding age...I say check it out. ;o) Keep me posted...I pray that your cycle isn't wasted!! That is really sad that someone would say well...since you only have one retrieval, we are going to do nothing, which is what it amounts to if they don't transfer since there is the tubal situation. Stay encouraged. BTW...spoke with a young lady on anther site...she was in tx. w/Shady for 3 yrs. no success right? She got prego and delivered a baby boy on her own a year later. I know you will need assitance due to the nature of circumstances, but this is to show they aren't the only ones in the biz w/success and that just because they deal with a lot and I am sure have many success...this young lady (36 yrs. old) didn't have success with them and she was obivously healthy enough to get prego on her own. ;o)

[Julie1615]

Hi llenda, Rain,

I know exactly what mean!! At the clinic where I go to, I've been seen by almost every RE who works there and some of them don't bother to read your case history before scaring the hell out of you by making an incorrect diagnosis.

You remember llenda when I went in for a visit on friday and realized that they wouldn't do the beta test after all? Well the RE who saw me, she's a new hire at this clinic and she's supposedly got this whole list of alphabets plastered after her name. She even went to harvard(rolling my eyes here:)) When I asked her the reason for my low response to the stims despite my being fairly young and all my blood tests came out okay and I don't have blocked tubes or endometriosis.... The woman's casual response had my blood boiling. She said I might have ovarian failure and I should consider donor eggs in case this cycle fails !!!!!!! Can you believe that?!!! Here I am frightened to death and this person doesn't even care to read my file fully before making some awful diagnosis.

I read up on google soon after I came home and found out that to have ovarian failure, you should have irregular periods, high FSH levels, hormones off the charts, etc. I have none of those.. and yet it didn't stop this re from telling me that I might have it! My regular RE always told me that since our infertility was unexplained he was still banking on us being able to conceive naturally. But he's the busiest doc I've ever seen and he hardly ever sees me.

Sorry for ranting so much, but I feel so awful that these well educated people don't have a little bit more humanity:(

llenda, good luck to you this cycle, hope they're able to get good embryos:) Sending all my best wishes to you too Rain.

Julie.

[llenda]

Thanks Julie.  I couldn't help but laugh when I read about all the letters behind her name.  Don't be sorry for ranting.  

Let me tell you guys about today.  LOL!  You know my hormones are just going crazy.  I am really having a hard time trying to be positive with this cycle.  In the mornings, they tell me it is probably going to be canceled and in the evenings, they say everything looks great; I have been having U/S and bld work everyday since Sat. and I am taking six shots a day (I have bruises all over my belly as well as my arms).  So my RE came in while they were doing the U/S and told me that it was up to me if I wanted to continue or stop and start over with a new cycle.  He said it was not the greatest cycle but that I may not have a cycle thats better ( he was actually very compassionate,but this is my third IVF and this same thing happens each time).  He said well we can help with your insurance and I just burst out crying.  I was crying and talking and the girl was doing my vaginal u/s; it was actually funny.  I told the RE that this was driving me crazy and that DH and I were thinking of using donor eggs.  I wanted to tell him about the other RE but I knew if I started telling him that I would never stop crying.  Anyway, he cracked a little joke and we all started laughing.  He told me that poor response did not mean that my egg quality was bad.  He also said that he understands if I am tired of not getting any results for all my hard work.  He said that donor eggs will definitely give me a better chance but that it was up to me.  I like him so much better than that other guy.  You know Julie I don't think you should give up trying with your eggs till you are ready.  I am so scared of the MC rate at my age.  My RE helped this girl I work with get preggo (took 4 IVF's) she was 42 but she mc at 5 months.  It scared me to death.  I don't want to be scared throughout my pregnancy.  Anyway, sorry for the book.  I really enjoy talking to you guys.  Thanks for listening.  Julie, you seem to be doing good with your TWW.  SSBD ; )  

Oh,  

[llenda]

Oh yea, I am triggering tonight and will have ER on Wednesday morning.  I have two follicles 20.5, one 15, and one 14 and then some smaller ones.  My estrodiol level is 1249.  I am taking a HCG IM shot does anybody know if it hurts?

[Julie1615]

Hey great to know your RE seemed very compassionate:) I know about the shots girl!! Some days I had to take 4 because the gonal-f units would be split between two pens. I didn't take any shots on my arms, just around my stomach. They have turned black and blue with all the pricking. yeah MC is such a scary thing. Hey I took the HCG not too long ago  and I was terrified to take it since hubby was the one incharge of doing it. I was still waiting for the stinging pain to come, but it was all over in a few seconds. I didn't even feel the inch and half needle go in! So don't worry about it at all!! All the best for your trigger and your ER.

And btw, I'm kinda embarassed to admit that I succumbed to my nerves today morning and took an HPT which was a BFN:( It's 10 DPO and I know it's early to test, but I had just one fair quality embryo. So although it was depressing for a few hours... I am kind of prepared for my next cycle since this time I had a low response. I'm planning to ask my regular RE if I should go for a second opinion about my low response to the stims.

At any rate, sharing experiences here certainly gets my mood in a better state:) And glad to know you a good cry at the doc's office;)  

[40smama]

Julie - Sorry for such a long wait - ugghh!  I'll blame it on pregnancy brain - LOL!  Anyway, I did try one cycle w/my own eggs.  Since it was unsuccessful, I decided to go straight to donor eggs even though I had good FSH numbers, estradiol (sp?).  I just couldn't go through it again & knowing my age and the stats on getting pg & miscarrying at 43, it just made sense.  You are really young so there's so much hope for you!  I also wanted to wish you much SSBD to you.  You're right - it's too early to test so keep up those positive thoughts!!!

llenda - just wanted to wish you much GREAT, GREAT luck on your er!  My re sounds like yours as far as telling me that my poor response had little to do w/egg quality and such forth.  I guess I just got discouraged & kind of gave up on my poor eggs.  It was hard to do that because two months earlier, my sis who's 41 gave birth to a healthy girl & she got pg on her own w/out even trying!  Anyway, I'm sorry about that crazy re who was so negative to you - I hate that!  I think it should be a personal decision as to how to decided to handle a cycle or future cycles.  Your follicle size sounds great!  Just to add one more thing, I hate that the re's don't do their 'homework' (reading the pt's history) before calling & acting like they know something when they don't!  I'm glad that you stuck to your guns!  Keep thinking positive & let us know how things go and much SSBD to you! - jen

[Julie1615]

Hey Jen, thanks! Awesome to know your sis got naturally preg at 41:)

Also, I read somewhere that you won't get your AF unless you stop taking your progesterone. I'm due for the actual blood test to determine pregnancy next week, but since I already tested negative on Day 10 DPO, wondering if my af is getting delayed. Do you remember when you tested postive... how many days post the ET? Also, I don't have any symptoms at all...

ssbd to all:))

[llenda]

Hey ladies

Julie, I think you tested too early.  I was told that the HCG shows up in the blood and then starts getting peed out.  Those hpt won't pick it up till the level gets a certain amt.  My clinic usually waits at least 2wks and sometimes 16 days before testing (that is after transfer), I guess to make sure.  When you say 10 DPO is that like 7 days after transfer, b/c I think it is like 3-10 days after transfer that they are implanting.  My AF didn't come on both of my previous IVF's till like 4 days after I stopped the progesterone shots, but I have heard that AF can come while on the shots.  It definitely delayed my AF(37 days, I am usually 25days).  That last week drives you crazy.  I am praying that you get preggo.  

Jen, I have really been thinking about donor eggs myself for the same reasons.  This is so hard and to think that even if I do get a BFP I have a high chance of mc.  I would love to have my own biological baby but as I go through these continued rollor coaster rides it doesn't seem to matter as much if its mine or someone elses.  Anyway, I know once I feel and see the baby it won't matter.  Plus, I want to get on with my life.  This IVF is just taking years away from me.  I can't plan things, I am always trying to see how I am going to change my work schedule to accomodate all these tests, and not to mention getting mentally ready for each cycle.  It is very stressful.  I just have to come to grips that a donor egg will be my baby.  I keep saying it is my husbands baby.  Were you having feelings like that and if you were how did you overcome them?  Did your feelings change once you heard that great thing BFP?  Thanks for the imput.  I am still hoping this IVF cycle works but I want to think about a back-up plan.  

SSBD!!!!!      

[40smama]

llenda - I did go through those feelings & I don't know exactly what tipped the balance for me.  I know the re was more concerned about us having a successful pregnancy & she thought that donor eggs was the way for me so that probably influenced my decision.  My dh was thoroughly convinced that since the baby would be in my body that I would manage somehow to be even more connected to him than even dh or the donor.  He thinks I'm that stubborn!  I so badly wanted to have a biological baby w/him but you're right - in the end it really didn't matter.  That baby's so much mine that I don't even think about the donor anymore.  I guess I overcame my ambivalent feelings (I guess that's the way to describe them) about using donor eggs by the support of dh.  That's really how I got through it.  By the time, we got our bfp, I was already in the mind set that this baby was all mine - weird as that sounds.  I'm hoping that your cycle's successful & that you get that great BFP - write to me anytime, publicly or through im if there's anything else that I can do.

Julie - I was almost symptom free except for mild sore bbs even up until the day of the beta.  I did have some mild cramping 2-3 days et.  I was so symptom free that I was convinced that I wasn't pg believe it or not!  Since I had a blast transfer (day 5), my beta was on day 10 post transfer & I cheated & took hpt on 9th day (that evening) & got BFP but I must add that the nurse whom I asked if I could take it said if it was BFN to still come in the next day for the beta so even if there is a BFN, one mustn't lose hope. I've read too many posts from women who test at home, get BFN and then get a BFP beta.  I hope this helps & again keep us posted on how things go - SSBD :-))) - jen

[andykk]

Ladies...looked through your comments and was touched by each. We have been on all ends of the spectrum you wrote about...so I am sending very positive vibes to you! We miraculously got prego when I was 27 after starting fert work up. Then after 5 yrs not conceiving, started again. We did 6 IUI's and nothing...nothing could be found through tests we did... so moved on to IVF. 1st unsuccessful, didn't make it to transfer, although had 20 eggs retrieved...all bad...then did another one before making the jump to donor. My dh was ready to go donor from the get go...said it didn't matter to him about dna, just that we had a child and sibling for other (he is an only child. ) going donor route was the BEST thing in the world for us. We have the most wonderful child ever (seriously!) that couldn't have came to us any other way. It Our doc put it this way when we were debating on donor. It's like building a house...The donor gives you the framework, and you put everything into it to make it a "home".  We just did another transfer w/ our frozen and put in one blast. We ended up w/ positive preg test but my hcg levels have been doing some crazy stuff...so u/s on friday to see what up (will be 6 wks). Wish you all the best of luck...so yes...donor works, and yes...1 transferred embie works, too!  

[llenda]

Thanks andykk, I am going for ER in the morning.  DH and I are so ready for a baby.  We have been talking about donor eggs so much, it is almost like we have just given up on this IVF.  DH even said he is willing to adopt if I don't want to do the donor eggs.  Which beleive me that is a big step for him.  I think this is taking a toll on him too.  I told him that if we do donor eggs I would like to have more than one child (not really at the same time but separately..LOL).  Good luck to you!!!  I hope those hcg levels straighten out.  

[andykk]

much luck your way!!! i will be thinking about you and sending you my best baby vibes/dust! keep rested and take care of yourself!!! go get em'!

[Julie1615]

Hi Girls, thanks soooo much for all the support and the information. I think I'm a little more calmer now;) llenda, thank you so much for your prayers, I'll keep you in mine too. Okay sending out positive vibes and happy thoughts :))

[Julie1615]

Morning everyone... how are you all doing. I'm trying to hang in there... whereever that is.. haha. Also, I have been trying to not think about it too much, but next monday is the day of my final blood test and also the day I turn 30. Have been wondering if I should move my blood test to tuesday so I can atleast enjoy the day I step into the next decade... but I know that even an extra hour of not knowing will torture me no end:)))

[llenda]

Good morning!  Julie I hope you get a BFP for your birthday.  That would be great!  

Well this morning was another crazy emotional morning.  Well I don't know if I told you guys but I am taking a chemistry class and of course my final exam was scheduled for the same day as ER (today).  That was not a big deal, my professor was nice about changing my date.  Oh but today of all days it decides to snow.  Not only does it snow but everybody was driving crazy so there were no less than 12 wrecks on the way to the ER.  It took us 3 hrs to drive about 28 miles.  I just knew we were too late.  I called them and they told me that they would try to get me as soon as I got there but it may be too late.  I was just boohooing and DH didn't know what to do.  I mean the traffic was not even moving for about an hour, there was no other route to take, and time was running out.  I was suppose to be there at 7:45 am and didn't get there until 9:40 am.  Thank god they were at the door waiting for me.  They quickly started the IV and ran me in there.  I had nine eggs.  We will see tomorrow how many fertilized.  That was another thing it is hard for DH to perform his duty under pressure so we do it at home and take it with us.  We were both afraid it was going to be too late.  So far everything is good.   wheh!  I am glad that is over.  Julie I know you are going a little crazy.  Did you test again or are you going to wait?  SSBD!!!!

[40smama]

Hi ladies - Sorry about the wild morning, llenda.  I can't believe it took 3 hours for 28 miles!  That's horrible - you poor thing.  Nine eggs sound great so everyone keep their fingers crossed for fertilization & growth.  On what day does your re transfer the embies?  

Julie - that's hard question.  Congrats on turning 30 - for me that was a wonderful decade.  If it were me, I'd probably still do the beta, but it's completely up to you.  I agree w/llenda that it would be a great present to get a BFP for your birthday.

[Julie1615]

Hi llenda, gosh what a nerve racking experience. I know what you mean about being stuck in traffic, although it's not becoz of snow;) I work pretty far from home and during peak rush hour it takes me an hour and half to get home in the evenings. I remember when I used to take the stim shots that I used to be soooo tensed if I couldn't get home by 7pm!

Keeping my fingers tightly crossed for your fetilization results!! And I've decided not to test again and wait for the official blood test on monday. I keep thinking of that line from the Adam Sandler movie Mr. Deeds: Goosfraba. LOL. Helps quite a bit in relieving tension. So goosfraba to all:))) SSBD too!!


40smama, thanks! I am trying to enjoy the last few days of my "20s". LOL. Hey I did think that I would be doing the beta test, but apparently my clinic won't do it until it's officially two weeks after the ET. I only did the HPT once on Day 10 DPO and the bfn I got has cured me of trying to do that again. Right now... ignorance is bliss;)

[llenda]

Hey ladies,  Julie you are so funny.  Goosfraba to you too!  So are you hanging in there?  I know it is so hard.  I don't blame you for not wanting to test.  I didn't test at all the second time because it was such a let down to see that BFN and then continue with the shots and all, and it still didn't really make the blow any easier.  Hey you know so far I think my 30's were the best (of course I just made it to the 40's).  My mom didn't even get her first Harley till she was 54.  Life is just beginning and hopefully your 30's will start with a baby.  That would be great.  The 20's for me were crazy.  Although, I did like my metabolism a little more back then...LOL.

I will let you guys know about the fertilization tonight.  I have a final exam today a 2Pm and then a lab from 3:30 to 6:00 tonight.  So I may not be here for the call.  

Hey Jen, how are those beta numbers coming?  When do you go again and what have they been running?  Do they know why it is doing this?  Oh, I wanted to ask you, did you use the same donor both times?  Sorry about all the questions.  I hope everything is alright.

Good everybody!!!  SSBD!!!      

[40smama]

Hey llenda - I'm praying for those little eggies to hurry up and get fertilized and do great!  You sound really positive and do keep us posted.  I think it's andykk whose beta numbers don't look good and she's the one who's pg w/her 2nd pregnancy w/donor eggs.  Does that last sentence make sense?  I'm 19 weeks - in fact I was wondering if I would go through this again.  We have nine frozen embies so I do have options but I would be 46-47 when I'd want to go through this again.  If we don't use them, I'd like to donate them to couples who can't use their own eggs/sperm.  My re says she has a really big waiting list so after all we've been through, I'd love to help another family.

Julie - sorry that I didn't read your post more carefully.  I thought your beta was scheduled on your b-day.  I agree - ignorance is bliss and enjoy the 30th b-day.  Have a great b-day as a matter of fact!  I'll never forget my 40th.  My stinky daughter threw me a surprise party & decorated w/black and cemetary like stuff.  It was fun but kind of creepy - LOL!  - jen

[llenda]

I am so sorry Jennifer about mixing you up with andykk.  My mind is crazy.  19 weeks is great.  I am so excited for you.  Is this your first child?  I tell you I wish I could have started all this earlier in life but I couldn't afford it.  I guess this is when it was meant to happen.  I know I have to have one child before thinking of two but my dream was to have two or three.  DH only wanted one.  He is a financial freak.  Anyway, I think after you have this baby you will be able to decide if you want another one.  I don't think 46-47 is too old unless you are not healthy.  Remember todays 40's are like the 30's.  As long as you keep yourself healthy, you will do fine.  And I am sure you are going to be a wonderful mom.  We need more loving and attentive parents these days.  

Oh my gosh,  I forgot to tell you guys,  my nurse called.  She said 7 eggs were mature.  SEVEN!  and 5 got fertilized.  FIVE!!!!  Pardon my excitement.  I can't believe it.  This is the best I have done.  Thank god!!!  I know it doesn't mean any will stick but I am just amazed.  See these docs don't know themselves half the time.  I asked my nurse if the Re would please consider putting 4 embies back.  He told me at one time that it is likely that 3 out of 4 of my eggs are not good.  Oh gosh, I am just so happy right now.  This is my roller coaster.  Happy one minute sad the next.  As of now they plan to do the transfer on Saturday.  Now if they can all make it till tomorrow.  WooHoo!!

SSBD!!!!  Linda    

[Julie1615]

Oh my gosh... that's wonderful news Linda!!!!!! 5 fertilized is just fantastic. Sending you super super super sticky vibes... hope all them divide away to glory:)))) I do support your idea of putting more than 2-3 embies back... that always gives a higher chance that one of them will implant. I'm sooo happy to hear this... it gives me so much hope too!!  And enjoy your roller coaster ride... we're all hopped on it too .. hahaha.

Btw, how were they fertilized? ICSI or naturally?

SSBD to you...and sending lots more goosfraba your way;)

[40smama]

llenda - OH MY GOSH!!!  I'm so excited for you!!!  Five fertilized!!! That's so fantastic!  I agree - I think they should put all of the healthy embies back - four or whatever.  I do have children from a previous marriage so I'm very lucky in that respect.  Dh and I have none together although he considers my children his own.  My dd was 4 when we got married so she knows him better than her own biological father (sad I know).  Anyway, keep us posted on how things are going - again much SSBD to you!!! YEAH! - jen

[llenda]

Good morning,  how is everybody?  Well the nurse just called me and all five embies are still multiplying.  They also told me that if I wanted I could put back 4 embies.  Julie, they did ICSI.  They said for my age that is usually the way to go.  They will also be doing assisted hatching.  We will do our transfer tomorrow morning at 10:00.  Jen, DH sounds like a gem.  Neither one of us have any children, and I was beginning to think that I was never going to have any.  I met DH and he is a bit younger than me (33) and inspired me to start trying again and plus, this is the first job I have had that helped pay for IVF.  I am keeping my fingers crossed.  Well I am trying to decorate and shop a little for Christmas, I will check back later.  SSBD!!!    

[Julie1615]

just an update from my side... i began mild spotting this morning, so AF seems imminent. how are your embryos doing Linda? ssbd!!

[zansi]

Hi Julie, I just joined the forum. I am planning to try IVF for the first time at 45. I am reading a lot about the subject and I found an interesting medical article on research done in scandinavian country that shows that one egg transfer may have the same chances of pregnancy as would transfer of few eggs - which is amazing. This article suggests that chances are in fact the same but complications are less with one egg transfer. To find the article try key words such as: one egg transfer and medical research and scandinavia. Good luck.

[Julie1615]

Hi Zansi, welcome to the forum:) Thank you so much for the info and tips. will google it right away!!
So you're embarking on IVF  as well... wishing you all the luck and strength for your journey;)

Best,
Julie.

[zansi]

Thanks Julie. Let me know if you get any other staff. Will follow how you are doing on the site. Best. Z.

[llenda]

Hey Julie,  sorry it took so long to reply.  My family came from out of town and we are at williamsburg for a few days.  I am fine.  I had four embies put in.  They say all were grade one.  (the best at my clinic).  They tried to talk me down to three but I know the odds for me and I insisted on four.  You know spotting is ok.  Don't lose hope yet. Today is your big day right?  I am praying for you.   Oh, and Happy Birthday!!!!  SSBD

Welcome to the forum Zansi.  Where are you at with your IVF? I will try to get back to you guys later.  Bye!

[40smama]

hi llenda - congrats on such great grade embies!  Is your beta going to be 14 days from now?  I'll be praying for you.

Julie - happy b-day (hopefully I got that right).  I hope everything turns out good for tomorrow!  And welcome to the forum zansi.  I too have read research about the single embryo transfer although not the one in scandinavia.  Good luck on your upcoming ivf & ssbd! - jennifer

[zansi]

Hi Ilenda, I have app. with fertility doctor and endocrinologist (because of my thoroid antibodies) in January to repeat all my tests and see where I am. I am not sure about IVF timing. Two astrologers told me that I should not do it at the beginning of the year but focus on getting my fertility increased by acupuncture and ferti-boost tablets. Both said that my chances increase from middle of the year. But I am feeling under such pressure with my age - it is difficult to wait. I made contacts with specialised clinic that treats infertility with acupuncture and other methods and found that on their forum many woman of 40 and over seem to have greater sucess with IVF due to acupuncture. Perhaps it is a good idea to do that for two months and than go for first IVF. I am going to try three IVFs. If the first produces too little fertilised aggs I will try ICSI. It is a huge pressure as next year is my last chance to get pregnant.
I see that you are in that waiting period... about 14 days? I really hope it will work and that you will be blessed with healthy baby. Good luck.

[Julie1615]

Thank you so much for the bday wishes Linda and Jennifer. Got a BFN today... but had got my period the day before so it's not much of a shock. Hubby surprised me with lots of flowers and a very expensive piece of jewellery, and I had a blast today. Ate a mountain of chocolate cake too:))

Planning on burning some of it off in the coming weeks...

Linda, I'm so glad to hear that you have 4 grade 1 embryos. I wish you all the best and will keep you in my prayers. Good luck and SSBD.

Going to take a break from the forum and will be back for my next cycle ...hopefully.

bye all.

[40smama]

Julie - so sorry about your bfn.  I'm sad for you but glad that you got some great jewelry.  Glad that you celebrated by eating chocolate cake - I'm hungry now!  I hope that you try again and again much ssbd to you!  Keep us posted - jen

[llenda]

Hey ladies, sorry it has taken me so long to reply but I have been out of town without computor access.  I am so sorry Julie.  I know there is not a lot that will help you feel better.  I am glad you had a blast on your B-day.  That was so sweet of DH.  

Zansi, hello, yes I am in my TWW.  I have my beta on Dec. 24.  I'm not sure if that is good or bad.  Anyway, you know everybody was suggesting accupuncture and so I did do it for about a month, but I didn't really care for it to much.  It seemed to be causing me more stress than not.  I do believe that it can help you if you believe in it and use it as a type of relaxation period.  It just didn't seem to be for me.  I also think that if you can find something of your own to help relax you that it will also work.  I was also told to combine accupuncture with the herbs they use for infertility.  I just decided for myself to eat right and exercise for good blood flow and relaxation.  I also took a baby asa all the time even before IVF.  I am not by any means talking for or against accupuncture, just wanted to let you know of my experience.  I had been following SDScientist who was doing accupuncture and I saw where she still got BFN so that was when I was sure I didn't want to go anymore.  Anyway, good luck and let me know how you like it.  

40smama, how are you?  Thanks for the congrats.  We are really hoping that this time works.  It is so hard to not think about it.  My RE nurse called yesturday and told us that our fifth embie didn't make it to freeze.  She said it did grow a lot more but just didn't make it through the freezing process.  My mom said she had a dream that we had twins.  I am just praying and hoping for one to stick.  I am really trying not to be greedy.  Well I will talk to you guys later.    

[Julie1615]

Hi Linda,

I haven't posted for so long. How are you doing? I'm soooo anxious to know how you did with your ivf cycle last... I do hope you're still reading this forum and you'll post soon.

xoxoxoxox
Julie