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Good morning girls,
I woke up today with some cramping (like period cramps) and some brownish spottingVaginal bleeding between periods. Today is 6dp a 5dt. I need your help because I don't know what to do! I feel like my period is going to start. I do a suppository of my progesterone and I noticed a littleLittle noses decongestant Little tummys brownish on the stick. I feel like I can't concentrate on anything but this right now. Did anyone experience this?
Thanks.
I know what you mean I am experiencing the same thing right now. I am really starting to worry. I have had two HCG checks and I go back on Monday for another one. I guess right now I am just relying on God and the faith I have in him.
hi guys im still spotting and cramping have been now for 6 days my clinic is really happy with me so dont panic im still pregnant and doing well so think positive x x x
Well, it's not looking good for me now. I layed down for a while from my cramps and I was starting to feel better - so I woke up and felt a gush. Sorry, I know it's gross, but I went to the bathroom and bright red blood! I felt sick...not knowing what exactly feel other than simply sad. It's just like all that time and thoughts (and $) so into this and just like that...it's done! It's been about 45 minutes and no more blood but I'm sure it'll start back up. I just don't know what to think. Do I have any hope for this cycle still or am I just fooling myself??
This is sounding too familiar. On Thursday I starded spotting, and on Friday It turned from light & brown to heavy & red. I called the doctor's office and they told it was normal and very impotant that i continue my progesterone and show up for my bloodwork on monday. I know that it is close to impossible that this will turn out ok, so i have already braced my self for another cycle.
I turned into a couch potato this entire weekend taking it easy, but the blood is like a heavy period now. Best of luck to everyone, I will keep you up to date about the results tomorrow.
I'm sorry, it seems like you got your period. Everytime I did IVF I knew I wasn't pregnant when the progesterone stick came out with blood on it. Then my period came for sure within a day or so. I'm sorry, it's heartbreaking. You still have to go for your test. You never know. Hang in there, Linda
To all the Ladies, I apologize, I can't keep up with who is who and who is due for a test this week, I want to wish all of you LUCK.
Erica--WHAAAAAAATS UUUUUUP? 3 MORE DAYS FOR ME.....YEA
Hello Ladies! I just got finished catching up on the many entries. I too have started bad cramps today. I am also 6dp a 5dt. The cramps do not feel like my period cramps but they are sharp off and on pains. However, I went to our church service this morning and the pastor's entire sermon was on FAITH! He said two things that really touched me and that I really needed to hear in the midst of severe cramps in church. He said that" Faith is trusting completely in God's Word." Ladies completley is the key word. So many times I said that I have faith that he is going to allow me to be pregnant, but then I go and take a hpt. How much faith is that and what do I really have faith in(GOD's word or the hpt). The pastor also said that "God will not share the spotlight with you." This means that if we pray to God and turn it over to him, then we need to let him deal with it alone. He doesn't need our help to handle our problems/situations. If we are going to keep stressing and worrying about it then he is going to step aside and let us handle it. When we pray we leave it with God to handle and then we stop worrying about it. Today the sermon was directed just to me. I was driving myself crazy with ever cramp and ever spot. After this sremon, I left it soley with my God and him alone. I now feel that if I don't become pregnant, then he has something else in store for my husband and I. I hope this helps someone, just like it helped me today. I will keep you all in my prayers.
It sounds like we do it totally different in england we only have a choice to do a blood test on day 10 and hpt on day 12 which is what i chose to do and it was positive im not sure what beta levels mean... But i have been lucky when i phoned my nurse to say i was bleeding she said as long as it was brown and stayed the same flow things would be ok........ she did up my progesterone pessaries from 2 a day to 3... Good luck and keep faith alaways thnk positive prayers your way x x
Sounds like I have missed out on alot this weekend. I took the weekend to spend some much needed time with the family. I went roller skating for the first time in 20+ years and I had so much fun, just not worrying about anything. Don't get me wrong I am so SORE, I used butt muscles that I didn't know existed, but I did not fall down, so that was a plus. I had a water balloon fight, and laughed so hard, I peed myself (not that you needed to know that). So now, lets get serious.........
I have spent so much time worrying about getting pregnant that I have forgotten that there is a big world out there to enjoy, and most of all who I am. I also know that it is hard to focus on our lives. let alone ourselves, when we are trying so hard to make a life. But ladies we have to try and not forget who we are. We are stronger then this beast, look at what we have endured so far. This weekend I realized that whatever is meant to be will be and I cannot change that, but this battle I have been fighting will not change who I am anymore, and ladies you cannot let it change you anymore. If you do, it will continue to play tricks on your minds, make you think your cycle has failed, and that all is lost, and then it has won!!!
I want to say to all the ladies who are hurting tonight, I will be here for you whenever you need to vent, or cry, or ask advice. I will always be your friend, and I will always hold your hand when you need outside comfort, I am no God, but I have been there so many times. I needed to hear those words many times before, but did not, at least until I found all of you, and right now that is what I can offer those who need to hear it. You are not alone, God is always here, and so are we, and you cannot lose your hope!!
To all who have a big week coming up, You are in my prayers daily, and I will be thinking about each of you on your big day!! I hope that some of you understand what I have been trying to say this entire chat!! Have faith and prayers are on there way to you now! xo xo!
Erica
So I've been off this site for a little while. I started feeling sick yesterday...unfortunately not any sort of pregnancy sickness...sore throat, achy muscles, headache, etc. I'm feeling so yucky. And then for some reason I broke down, mid-day and took a pregnancy test. Negative. So I haven't cried too much yet about that. I thought I maybe saw an ever so faint line, but I'm not really optimistic. I've taken too many of the Ovulation Predictor Kits where a half-faint line means a negative. I will test again in the morning before my Beta. I am going to beg my doc office to tell me the results tomorrow so I can get some relief for my sickness. I'm not really sure what I can take or do with the chance that I'm pregnant. I've not been very optimistic lately anyway, as I haven't been feeling ANY pregnancy symptoms, I have been spotting since 6dp5dt (11po) and it has increased slightly since then. This seems to me like a symptom of my period want to break out. :-( I am 30 years old and totally thought this was going to work. I had a blast graded 4BA transferred...but my doc gave me a 50/50 chance. I guess I just want to know what went wrong. I mean, it was hatching when they put it back in me. What can go so wrong in 7-8 days? I guess a lot. I'm just hoping the second IVF works out...but can't start until Jan. :-( Well, time for bed. Talk to you gals later.
Anxious334: I'll be thinking of you this morning and anxious to hear what they say about your bloodtest results today. I feel like my period is full on right now. I usually have to take 800mg of Ibprophen for my cramps, but they haven't been bad enough and I'm taking nothing. I just don't understand how they could say it's "normal" to have such bleeding? I'm hoping for the best for you. Keep us posted.
Bonnicsc: How are you feeling today? Have your cramps subsided at all?
HPTfanatic and sasygirl: Your words on trusting in God and knowing that he is in complete control and so encouraging. Thank you so much for sharing your stories yesterday. The truth in them brought tears to my eyes.
I am feeling okay. I actually did not get any cramps at all. I am just spotting some only when I wipe. I go to the lab today for another HCG testing. I am just keeping my faith. I hope you have a great day.
Just as I thought, it was my period, one week early in spite of all these meds. I went in for my HCG this morning, and they just called it was negative. I am strangely allright with the results. I am going in next week for a consult of what next. Good luck everyone, I'll keep you posted.
Well I am confused because the whole ivf cycle went well. All my body was okay i went for my third HCG numbers today and they were not good. 14, 37 and now 12. The nurse told me it is a chemical pregnancy! Do they not do an ultrasound to make sure
I am so sorry for your disappointing results. You both must be very strong women to have the strength to continue on despite your disappointments. This is my first IVF cycle and I'm almost positive it will be my last. It is too emotionally and physically draining. I am very proud of you both. Please keep the faith that one day you will here great news! I will keep you both in my prayers. Please keep me in your prayers as well because I go for my HCG test on Friday.
Bonniesc and Anxious I am so sorry that you didn't receive the news you were hoping for. I will keep you both in my prayers.
Bonniesc, I had a chemical on my first IVF cycle and they had me keep going in for blood work until the number was 0, but never did an ultrasound. Although it is so upsetting, it is a good sign that your cycles are headed in the right direction and you will get pregnant. Keep your head up!]
HPTFANATIC I am sorry that you don't feel positive about your cycle this time. Good luck Friday you will be in my prayers.
I'm sorry to hear both of your situations. Similar stories everywhere today. I was supposed to have my preg test tomorrow (tuesday) but started my period yesterday. They told me the same thing as you Anxious334, that they needed to do a test to make sure. So they tested me early today and I recently got the phone call that it was truly my period and I am not pregnant. My number was 5.5 so I have to go back once more but it's still a negative (just a formality). It was quite the shocker to see my period come, and I am better today than I was yesterday. I also have my follow up meeting with the doctor next week to talk about next steps. I'm looking forward to moving on and getting a game plan. I think it will help with the healing process. Take care, Lindsey
My heart is hurting for all of you today. I know there aren't words right now that will help ease your pain but just know there are so many of us out here that are praying for you.
Wishing you luck on Friday. Remember most paople do not have an symptoms or signs they are pregnant until they miss their period. Try to keep hope and stay positive, we'll all be praying for you for good news on Friday.
Hello!! This is the first time I have ever posted on one of these although I read them a lot. I felt the need to post when I read some people who are unaware of what testing procedures are out there BEFORE doing IVF. My husband & I have been TTC for over 12yrs. I went through my 1st GYN who "played" at fertility. He did Hysterosalpinogram, Laproscopy, & put me through round after round of Clomid to no avail. I then went to a fertility specialist who did another Hystero, some blood work etc., & then put us through 3 yrs of shots & timed intercourse AGAIN to NO avail. We decided we were done. THEN, at the beginning of this year we went to a GREAT doctor 3 1/2 hrs away & after 12 YEARS of the diagnosis of 'UNEXPLAINED" infertility we had answers. They do a COMPLETE work up before they do anything!!! They did bloodwork ALONG WITH an antibody test & they always do a "saline ultrasound". They found that my antibodies were 19 (normal is 0-9)...this meant that my body was fighting pregnancy every time & my blood was clotting so therefor it would clot the blood off to any baby & therefor result in a misscarriage. Also they found out that (through saline ultrasound) that my uterus was completely closed off & FULL of scar tissue & adhesions due to MULTIPLE miscarriages. (Iknew I had 3 but I was SO wrong, I was having miscarriages ALOT). I had surgery in Jan. to clean out my uterus & they also found out that my uterus was misshapen & they fixed that while they were in there.
I am currently 10pt from a 5dt. They implanted 3 strong embryos & were able to freeze 2. I am UNpatiently waiting for Saturday to arrive to get my first preg. test. Oct. 11, 2008
I know this was a LONG one but I want all you ladies to know that there are answers out there. Never stop asking questions, researching for yourself & change Dr.'s if you need to. It's YOUR life NOT theirs & you need to feel that you are getting the best care possible!!! After all it's emotionally draining, not to mention financially. Why not have the best chances possible?! After all had we went through with IVF with our last fertilty specialist we would have had nothing to show for it & still no answers!!!
Good Luck to all!! Remember God is great & does everything in HIS time!! He does have a plan for us all.
Wow, thank you so much for telling us about your experience! I've never heard of a "saline ultrasound" and all the findings that come from that. My first IVF cycle just failed and it is devasting to think that something so advanced and that seems to go perfect...just fails. We have a meeting with our doctor next Wednesday and I'm already putting together a list of questions. I don't want him to say "well, sometimes it just doesn't work"...I really want answers. I want to know what they learned from the failed attempt and what they are going to do differently next time around. We have 2 frozen embryos - but if the first 2 didn't work, who is to say the frozens are going to be any better!
tjfrance - can I ask you where this new doctor is located? Any other suggestions would be so much appreciated. I will pray for you in your results on Saturday. Hang in there!
I'm so glad the info I gave was helpful. I thought all day about what I wrote on this site & hoped it would help someone.
The saline ultrasound opens up your uterus so they can look at it & make sure that the shape is good & that there are no obstructions...like scar tissue.
The fertility clinic I go to has one of the highest success rates in the country. It is in North Carolina. It's called NNCRM (North Carolina Center for Reproductive Medicine). They have a great website...www.nccrm.com.... the doctors & staff are wonderful!!! They will answer ANY question that you have & I DO PERSONALLY know SEVERAL people who have had success with them. They will NOT procede with ANY procedure without first doing a workup on you. I thought that was GREAT!!! Again knowing the answers after all this time is great!! My husband & I both are very happy & content with whatever the results are simply because...now we know why!! That is SO important to your peace of mind. This year has been the best year for us because we feel like a weight has been lifted with the answers.
I wish you luck!! I am so sorry about your results & know how devistating that is. It makes you feel empty & useless. BUT...we're not...our husbands didn't marry us for the children we would give them, they married us for US & we need to remember that. God is absolutely in control!!!!
God Bless & good luck. I hope you find the answers you're looking for & most important I wish for you your own little bundle of JOY!!
BONNIESC & ANXIOUS334--How are you both doing?? I am so sorry to hear of your news. I know how truly disappointed you must be. I hope you will find some peace over the next couple of days, and the strength to endure another journey. I just know that all of us will be blessed in the end with our hearts desire. Have you guys thought about your next step? I am sending lots of prayers your way.
HOPEFULX--ARE YOU OUT THERE?? ARE YOU OK??
DEVISTATED--Where you at girly?? How are you doing. Is everything going as planned?? I have been thinking about you a lot the past couple of days. I had an unexpected death in the family and had to go out of town. I have been suffering withdrawl from my chatting. I have missed chatting and hope you have good news to send back my way, I could use some. Prayers your way!!
LJ2005--How are you feeling? Sorry to hear of your news!! I was excited to see that you are ready to get a game plan. I have found that if I think ahead about the new cycle my mind stays off the disappointing past cycle. I feel like that with each cycle comes new hope of a happy ending. I am anxious to hear your new game plan. Good luck and prayers your way!!
MB789--How are you doing. I hope all is well with you and you are feeling good!!
HPTFANATIC--I will continue to keep you in my prayers for good news!! I know what you are saying about this whole process being so emotional, and believe me when I say that I have felt the exact same way you are feeling, but also believe me when I say it might just be the emotions telling you not to do it again!! I have told myself the past 4 cycles that I was completely done, I will never do it again, but then I find myself right back in the IVF process. I feel like that each time presents a new challenge that eventually I will win. This of course is my own personal opinions and feelings, and you may not feel that way, but I think it is natural to feel like you won't do it again, b/c of all the freaking hormones we have, all the shots, and then the dreaded 2ww. I guess what I am trying to say is keep positive and don't count yourself out of the game yet....Good Luck and lots of prayers!!
TJFRANCE--Welcome...I was truly inspired by your story. I have family that concieved through that facility and had 2 boys!! I have had 4 failed cycles and since I found this forum have discovered that an antibodies test could be beneficial to me. I have had 2 sonohystergrams, 2 months of antibiotics treatments with one miscarriage. I love my doc, but come on, what is the hold up here. Some of the ladies have suggested new tests for me to ask my doc about and since I have questioned him, we have come up with a new game plan and I am hopefully on my way to a resolution to my so called UNEXPLAINED INFERTILITY!! He is a family friend and it is so hard to switch docs, b/c he has 9 of my frozen embies..but it is also frustrating to not be pregnant yet!! I will be having a hysteroscopy and antibodies testing over the next several weeks and am hopeful they will find the problem and solve it. When you said you had your uterus cleaned out, what did they do and what is misshapen?? I am just trying to gain more knowledge for my journey. I admire your determination to concieve and hope I can continue to have the strength you have shown over the years!! Sounds like you have a lot of positives in your favor. Good embies and your doc solved all your fertility issues. Good luck on Saturday and I am anxious to see your results.
PS--I am the nosey one, where are you from??? North Carolina??
If I missed anyone, I am sorry and hope that this little chat finds you in good spirits. I have missed all you gals and am so happy to be back chatting. GOOD LUCK TO ALL, AND LOTS OF PRAYERS YOUR WAY!!
Hey there!!
Well I'm glad to hear that you are going to be getting some answers. I wouldn't be able to leave my doctor either if he had my embies.
The surgery I had was to cut out all the scar tissue & adhesions from all the miscarriages I had in the past. When he did my saline ultrasound he found that my uterus would not open up at all because of all the scar tissue. So he went in & cut it out. When he got in there he found that my uterus wasn't shaped right (probably since birth). The uterus when open is naturally shaped like a balloon, the bottom part (by the cervix) was fine & the top part (like the top of a balloon) is where an embryo implants. Instead of my uterus being shaped that way it was like the top fell in. So therefor when an embryo implanted & started growing it could only grow so much before it aborted due to lack of room. So he reshaped the uterus & inserted a balloon into my uterus to keep it open while it healed. I had to have that in for 1 month (WOW, did I figure out where my uterus was). It was VERY uncomfortable. When they took the balloon out I had to wait until I started my cycle again & then they rechecked my uterus through saline ultrasound again. All was well, so here I am. The anti-bodies problem was no big deal....well it is BUT there is an answer for that. I have to take Lovenox shots everyday until I am 4 months along. This is a blood thinner so I won't clot.
I hope this helps. I am praying for you & please keep me informed. I'm about to go nuts waiting for Saturday!!!
By the way I don't think that's nosy, I like straight & direct people...after all that's why we get on these sites...direct answers...right?
Oh yeah... I'm from Virginia!!
God Bless
Hello my dear friend, I am sorry to hear about the death in your family. That is always a hard thing to go through. Again, I am really sorry. If you need to talk to someone I'm here.
I went for my transfer today, and it was PERFECT. My bladder was full the fullest a bladder could be. I thought I was gonna pee on the doctor. (Thank God I didn't) The procedure went well and he went right in, no trouble, I didn't even know he was in there. We put back two. They thawed all three embies, one did not make it. We had planned on only putting two back anyway. I watched the embies float in my uterus, it was so cool. The doctor showed me while we were waiting for an "all clear" from the catheter. So we all know what is next. THE TWO WEEK WAIT. Actually I only have to wait 9 days, I go next Friday the 17th. Woo Hoo.
Did I read right. You talked to your doctor about the next step? When do you start all the new tests? When you first started this whole thing, did your RE do a complete work-up on you and your husband?
I am off until Monday and I have Jury Duty on Tuesday and I have to qualify at the shooting range on Thursday then before you know it, it will be Friday........I feel good.
I'll talk to you later, Linda
New here and hoping for some comfort , got the bad news yesterday that i had a biochemical pregnancy . I am devasted and don't know what to do for next cycle . I now wonder if the 3 day transfer was a mistake and maybe i should have waited for the 5 th day but who knows if they would have made it right ? very confused and sad .
Welcome, Boy you are full of information. I love it and am thankful for your knowledge. I just did a frozen transfer today, we put back two. Everything went great, so now I have to go through the 2ww. You are almost done, Whats going on, have you done a hpt or are you going to wait. Can I ask you how old you are? My RE only puts back two on day 5 transfers. You said you are from Virginia, I am from New Jersey and I have been on this website since May when I had my first fresh transfer, then another one in August and now my first frozen transfer. I wouldn't' know what to do with myself if I didn't have these girls to talk to. The HUSBAND is great, but it's not the same. Talk to you soon, Linda
Sorry to hear about your bad news. You came to the right place. Ya know I googled 5 day ivf transfers and read loads of information just this morning. I had my first ever 5 day transfer today (frozen) but I had two 3 day transfers within the last 6 months. Everything I read says that 5 day is better, cause on day 3 the embies would be in your fallopian tubes and it's not the same as your uterus. (this is all based on a natural cycle) On day five your embies are supposed to be in your uterus, so on a day 5 transfer they are right where they are supposed to be. Does that make sense? If you want I"ll find the article and tell you where to look. Some also said that the sooner the better, cause inside your uterus is where they need to be instead of in a laboratory. They also said that the doctors do day 3 for the money cause if they waited until day 5 there might not be any embies that make it and there will be no transfer. (no transfer no money) I don't know I'm just telling you what I read. I have been going back and forth for months with the day5 vs. day 3 transfer. Don't know if it's much comfort, I honestly believe that it doesn't matter what day it is, You'll get pregnant when it's your time. Did you have any to freeze?
Don't be sad, start thinking of what's next. Linda
Hey there!! Thanks, but I'm sure we are all full of info. I've read some of yours too & I thought the same about you...I love to hear others that know exactly how I feel!! I swear if I hear one more person who doesn't have a clue tell they know how I feel I think I'll puke!! I know they are trying to be supportive but REALLY, come on.
Well I am 33. My husband & I decided to wait until Saturday, that way if it's good news I know for CERTAIN it's good news & if it's bad news then I only have to hear it once...plus I don't think I could make it through work tomorrow if I found out something negative. I'm VERY positive thinking though. I haven't had any spotting ...knock on wood :) & I have had a few cramps last week but they were minor & went away when I laid down. I have clasic symptoms but I'm trying not read anything into those since the hormones could be doing that. I don't know, we'll see. This is my 1st IVF. I did 5dt...3 embryos & froze 2. I hope this works because that's it for us. We have been doing this for 12 yrs. & we are ready to either be parents or live our life without them. We can't afford another round so it's either this or the frozens.
I really appreciate all the people on this site. I wish you the best. I'll be praying for you this week & especially next Friday!!!
God Bless.
I'm so sorry to hear about your sad news. I feel your pain. I found out this past Sunday (5 days ago) and I still have a hard time getting out of bed to face the day. I wake up thinking "did that really happen" and where are we going to go from here? It's a crazy feeling because I'm usually been a positive person, but this is just knocking me down. Know that it's okay to have your feelings though. It's a devistating event when you plan for something and it suddenly fails. Know that we are here for you. If you want to vent or just bounce around ideas of what we should do next - we're here to listen. I'm meeting with my doctor next week. Are you guys planning on trying again? As emotionally (and financially) draining as it is... we can't give up! I will be praying that God will give you strength and faith as you go through this.
Take care,
Lindsey
Thank you for the sweet words , I am a complete mess so knowing that i finally have others who understand is what i need . I think the fact that none my embies were frozen made it worse as i have to do it all over again and i have had the worse hyperstimulation. Since you have done this before do you know how long I have to wait to start another ivf round ? I live in NJ so I am not sure if it's the same everywhere . I keep holding on to the thought that i will be pregnant it's just a matter of when b/c if I don;t keep that thought going i will lose it again . I went nuts when the nurse told me on the phone , i think i scared her as i have not had my call returned since . To make matters worse i have a houseguest who just doesn't get how devasted my hubby , myself and our son is over this so coming to this forum is soooo what i need .
Thank you Lindsey , I need all of the prayers that I can get as my prayers are clearly not answered yet . I am sorry for your loss , my son drew a picture of me with a preggo tummy as he was excited to be a big brother so it has been hard to explain it to him . Let's just say that life is a bit tense right now , what i struggle with is seeing all of these prego women arround me and all i can think of is that should be me . I have found myslef wondering if i caused this pregnancy loss , what could i have done differently . Like you I am going to keep trying until i give birth to a baby for our son to be a big brother too . I gained a butt load of weight and not gonna stop , it consumed my every thought . This biochemical pregnancy has played mean tricks with my mind . I went kickboxing and looked nuts but i am just sooo sad and angry that i need to hit something . Going back to the dr's like you , do you know when I will bleed ( sorry , not trying 2 be crude ) so that i can get going again ? , what have your dr's told you about what to expect ?
Thanks again , very happy to have some great women who get how i feel and what i am going through .
Hi, I am in NJ also, wouldn't it be freaky if we both has the same doctor? I am from Berlin. My doctor is in Voorhees. You? Every time I had a negative result I was instructed to get a period, which happened the day of or the day B4 my scheduled blood test and then I would go in for a new cycle the very next period. So to answer your question you only have to wait one period not counting this one. Approximately 2 months. It doesn't seem that long of a wait. They like to give your body a rest after a cycle fails. I know not what you wanted to hear. Ok your situation is a little different. I have had two tubal pregnancies that ended early and for that you have to wait until the numbers go to zero. What were your beta numbers? I completely understand the tricks this plays with your mind, but trust me I promise, you did nothing wrong. Maybe the embies just did not hatch, or did not attach if they did. You will never know. Are you "unexplained"? The hardest part is not knowing why....Could you believe that it just wasn't right? Try not to beat yourself up. I hope I helped you out a little.
Hello Everyone!
Welcome to all the new ladies!! I can't keep up with everyone now ;).
Sassygirl: I am feeling great, thanks for asking! I kind of feel like a truck hit me at different times throughout the day, but other than that doing well. I go for my ultrasound on Tuesday morning, and I thought the last 2ww was bad! How are you doing? I am sorry to hear about the death in your family, that is never easy. My prayers go out to you and your family.
Some of you were talking about the 3 day transfer vs. the 5 day. I'll just throw out what my doctor said to me for another point of view. He isn't convinced that the 5 days are better or have more success. He has a higher success rate with the 3 days. If you want to do the 5 he has a very strict policy that you must meet: (1.) must be younger than 37 (2.) 7-8 perfect or near perfect embryos on the morning of day 3 (3.) Normal FSH levels (4.) no failed attempts at IVF.
Growing embryos in the lab is a difficult process and the longer they stay in that environment the less chance they have in making it. Unfortunately it is not possible to know how many and which ones will make it or could have made it if they were implanted in the uterus at day 3. Research is saying that of the embryos that actually make it to blast stage, they are believed to have a greater chance of implanting.
Also, approximately only 40% of the embryos in younger women and as few as 8% from older women usually make it to blast stage.
Your best bet is to look at your particular doctors stats on 3 day vs. 5 day transfers and see what his success rate is.
I don't know if that helps you out any, but with everything that my husband and I have been through we trusted in our doctors advice and transfered 3, 3 day embryos. Ask your doctors opinion and do what you feel is right for you.
Anxious334, Bonniesc and LJ2005: How are you doing? I've been thinking about each of you.
HPTFANATIC: Tomorrow is the big day? How are you? I know I was scared to death and wanted to go back in time to before the transfer. Praying for good news for you!!!
DEVISTATED--Congragulations lady. I am so happy for you and full of hope for you. Thank you so much for the kind words about the death. I hate funerals, and this time of the year ***** for me anyways. Thankfully, it was old age (not that, that makes it any better, but still) he lived a full life (cousin). Anyway, so to answer your questions, a bit of bad news on my end. I was suppose to be going to my OB tomorrow, but he cancelled due to surgery, so I called my RE again, he found another OB that accepts my insurance and has surgery rights at the same hospital as my RE. My Re wants to be there during the procedure. I see the new doc on Monday, but my RE said depending on what they find, I won't be able to start another cycle until late Dec. That really *****, b/c I am a little impatient, but I also want it to be right this time. My RE did not do a complete work up on us, I don't know why, b/c everyone else seems to have had one..he just checked my husbands count and did some minor bloodwork on me to check for blood disorders. I don't think it was a work up, but who knows. I am praying hard for you lady, and I am so excited for you!! Good Luck and no stressful activities....Did you rest today???? I can't believe you are in the dreaded 2WW, but at least you have us all.....
STEPHINK--WELCOME, you came the right place for lots of comfort and understanding. Believe me you will not find one person who does not understand truly how you are feeling right now. I just completed my 4th failed cycle and without these ladies, I would not have recovered. I was always a complete wreck before and now that I have people that really know the stressful fertility life I don't feel so alone. You can always talk to the spouses or in-laws, but they can't truly know how we feel deep down inside. I am so happy that you found us and I hope that you will take your future journeys with us all!! We are a growing family and I am so happy that you are a part of it now.....Cheer up and keep chatting it is such good stress relief!
TJFRANCE--Wow, you are full of great info. Thank you so much for your insight. I am going to an OBGYN on Monday to start all the testing. My RE recommended him, they share hospital priveledges and my RE wants to be there for everything. I think he finds me a challenging patient...he seems to be just as desperate to get me pregnant, as I want to be pregnant...Sounds like you have come a long way to get where you are today, and I am sending lots of prayers and baby dust your way!! I will be praying for good news on Saturday, you are so close. Good Luck and keep me posted on your news!!!
MB789--Thank you for the kind words..Glad to hear you are doing good. I can only imagine how you are feeling going through the wait to see the first sight of your new addition. Have you dared to think about what you might find in there??? I am so happy for you!! I will continue to keep you in my prayers and you continue to stay well!!!
Lindsey,
Hey lady, how are you doing? I have been thinkin bout you and was happy to see a post from you tonight. You were so encouraging and very positive and you should not sell yourself short. What day are you going to the doc? I go Monday to start the long process again, although I will be doing a lot of testing before an actual cycle. How bout you, will you get to start again in Nov?? I will continue to send lots of prayers your way, and look forward to sharing good news with you in the future!!!
You are so sweet! I love to hear that your doc is determined to get you pregnant. It's always nice to feel that drive by your doctor. I will go for our post-meeting with our doctor on Wednesday. I am looking forward to getting more information so I can start looking ahead. I am making a list of questions. Honestly, I want him to know exactly what went wrong and tell me they are going to do something different...but I know that's wishful thinking. Did you say you will not be able to do another cycle until December? You amaze me with your strength after going through so much yourself, you continue to be positive and encouraging to everyone here. I look foward to sharing good news with you too someday:)
~Lindsey
i am sorry to hear what you have experienced . i honestly feel like numb at this point , i am so confused as to what will come next with my body as i have a hard time getting my period so i pray that they can give me something to help me have a period b/c right now all i feel is like i am sitting and waiting to bleed which is very depressing . I am in Hoboken NJ , i going for blood work today which i feel is like going inn to hear the bad news confirmed . I too have to wait for my levels to go to 0 which i hope is soon but i am left with so many questions . how have you delt with your loss? what i struggle with is that my tummy looks pregnant and now i am not , i have to go out with our son but i try to avoid it as i just want to stay in my pj's and hope that time goes by fast . thank you for the sweet words . how r you feeling devistated ?
thank you for the words of comfort , i am sorry for your loss . you are right no one understands the pain and stress i feel like you guys . i think what worries me most is the side effects of doing it all over again with the hyperstimulation which i know is worth it in my getting pregnant and having a baby but i am still scared . i now am walking into this cycle whenever it starts without the optimistic outlook i had and i know that sounds bad but the heartbreak was too much for me to handle so i am now wondering what kind of perspective i will bring to this next cycle . i am going for bloodwork today and i am nervous as i had a nervous breakdown when they told me the bad news. thanks again for your sweet words !
I am really sorry that you are going through this, I promise it will get better in time. You really never get over the loss and to be honest I remember the days and I will imagine what my baby would be now, at this time. It hurts. It really does consume your life. I read your post to Erica (sasygirl) and I cried for you. You said you were scared to start a new cycle. I can only tell you my experience. Both times I had a loss, I couldn't wait until I got my period, I called the doctor a lot and told them I didn't get it yet and they said it was "normal" and it would come. Did you get a shot (methotrexate) not sure on spelling? I did both times, cause we caught it early enough and the doc did not want the baby growing in my tubes. He told me I would get a period within a week, and I did. Then I had to go back once a week until my levels were zero. After I was at zero, I believe I had to wait until another period before I started again. The entire time your heart is breaking every second of the day. Then when you get your period for the second time you start to look at hope again and maybe allow yourself to be excited for the new cycle. Then before you know it you are in the horrible 2ww. I hope you find it in yourself to be excited again. Did you always have trouble with fertility? How old is your son? If you can't find the strength to get through this; find it for your beautiful son. You will feel better, I swear. Linda
I know there are a lot of us out there struggling right now. A friend recenly reminded me of this passage. It brings me comfort and I hope it does the same for you.
Galatians 6:9-10
So let's not allow ourselves to get fatigued doing good. At the right time we will harvest a good crop if we don't give up, or quit. Right now, therefore, everytime we get the chance, let us work for the benefit of all, starting with the people closest to us in the community of faith.
Well I just heard from the nurse and I am not pregnant. We are very disappointed, but I truly believe that God has his reason for a negative test result. We may not understand it today, but we will one day. I will keep everyone in my prayers.
I am so sorry to hear about your news. There are no words to say to take away your pain. Just know that you have our support. I just read over one of your older posts that talked about the sermon you went to (while having cramps) about having COMPLETE faith in God and what He has in store for us. We do each have a story, its His story, and its a good story to live in. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Take care,
Lindsey
Hello everyone!!!
I wanted to let you guys know that I went for my 1st pregnancy test this morning & got my results about 1 hr ago!!!! I AM PREGNANT!!!!!!! my numbers were 229!!! They said that was great. I of course go for the other two on Monday & Wednesday. Ultrasound in 1 month!!!
I just wanted to spread the good news!!! I have NEVER been so happy in my whole life!!! GOD IS GOOD!!!!
God Bless to all & you are all in my heart, thoughts & prayers!!!!
Joy
Tifrance---YEA Congrats. I am so happy for you and your husband. 12 years. OH my God. We needed good news. Keep us posted.
hptfanatic---I am so sorry.
sasygirl----Hi, I'm trying not to go crazy, so far so good. Feeling slightly crampy, not quite cramps. Not sure. Trying not to read into anyghing. Talk to you soon. Linda
Thank you for your uplifting message. I've never responded on any chat forum before. I was doing a search to see what info I could find on my symptoms and ended up learning about all of you. Being reminded that God is in charge is key. Someone else wrote about hearing a great message during mass and that helped me too. I have been praying, but letting thoughts of doubt intervene. I must give this whole IVF experience up to God and have faith that tomorrow will bring good news. This is my first IVF cycle. The retrieval was very rough (meds made me pretty sick and developed a blood clot b/w bladder and uterus). I got one 7 cell embryo to transfer. They rate it a 3 out of 4 too, which is pretty encouraging. My transfer was Monday, Sept 29. I started bleeding pretty moderately on Oct. 8 and today I had a 1 inch clot discharge followed by cramping and sadness. My husband said the best thing he could have: "Don't worry, no matter what the result is tomorrow, I will still love you and you will still love me." God is with us. And I know he will help all of us on this site. It is a real weird way of living for a month while going through IVF. I'm glad I found this site today and meet such strong and positive woman. Good luck to each of you.
Well the 6th of October I found out my HCG number had dropped to 12 which was not good. I had been spotting since Saturday. Tues october 7th around 9:45pm I did have a micariage. I have never experienced anything so painful. I am full of emotions. I know if god wanted me to have a baby he would of helped me keep this one. I do not believe I will do another cycle. One cycle of IVF is enough on my body I could not handle it again. I find myself upset, sad and just not understanding. I also find myself not able to look at any baby things in the store. I use to love seeing babies and now when I see them I hurry as fast as I can to get away.
My husband just left today to go on a TDY and I am in a new place, no friends, and still looking for a job. God will pull me through this. I wish all of you continued success on your journey. Take care Bonnie
I am very sorry to hear that you are not pregnant. I see that your husband just left on a TDY. I just wanted to let you know that my husband also deploys at times and I know first hand how hard this can be. Please feel free to contact me should you want to chat about that and if you would like support during his time away. You are in my prayers.
Hello everyone! I am new to the site, as well as to the IVF process. Forgive me for not knowing the IVF lingo, so I'm going to spell out everything. :-) 3 healthy transfers on 10/4. I go on 10/17 for my BT (right) :-) My transfer was done on day 3 and I have no tubes so they were put right in mommy's uterus. :-) I do the progestrone shot every night (it's killing me) and change 2 estrogen patches every other day. My husband and I are both 41 with no children and very much desire and have prayed for them. We are claiming that all 3 survive (I was really hoping for twins, but I will welcome the 3rd with open arms.) I have beat all of the odds that were placed before me at the very beginning of this journey (i.e., my age, my hcg level was not climbing as quickly as it should have been and they could only see 4 to 5 follicles). My God is good! My hcg level started to climb rapidly (more than 100 pts each day) and when they thought they could only retrieve 1 or maybe 2 follicles, I was told they retrieved 3 and then all 3 fertilized. We are just claiming this pregnancy and keeping the faith. I've had mild cramping in lower ab and some in my back, breast tenderness and I'm very, very fatigued. Please keep us in your prayers.
LaLou
Hello Ladies!
Well, today I had my first ultra sound, one beautiful baby with a perfect heart beat! It was amazing. I get to go back every week to see the progress and will stay with them through my first trimester. Then we will gradutate to an OB. Still feeling pretty good, tired and neuseas a few more times troughout the day, but absolutely tolerable!
I will keep you posted!
Welcome to all the new ladies!!!!
TJFRANCE: it sounds like some congratulations are in order. I am so happy for you and your husband, now the wait for the first ultra sound. That was hell!! Make sure you drink TONS of water and rest as much as you can.
Bonniesc and HPTFANATIC: How are you doing? I've been thinking a lot about you both and hoping you are starting to heal. You're in my prayers.
Sassygirl: Did you start your testing this week?
DEVISTATED: Looking forward to a name change for you!!! How are you feeling? When is your blood test?
mb789----Hi, I'm happy for you that you had your first ultra sound. It must have been amazing. I could only imagine. Did you get your babies heart rate? Once a week is awesome. I think that's what my specialist does as well. I go for my test on Friday (16th) I must confess, I just asked the hubby about 10 minutes ago, should I hpt. He immediately said NOOO!!!!! I have one left over from last time and I was thinking maybe on Thursday morning. Today is the first day I've gone completely crazy, I've had cramps on Saturday and Sunday they were gone, but my boobs were uncomfortable and it felt like I gained 40 pounds in each one. They don't hurt to the touch, but just feel HUGE. Yesterday kind of the same a little twinge of a lingering cramp lower right side. Today I feel like I have cramps again. Not so bad, and not quite period cramps, I don't know what to think. I'm loosing it. I need some advice, I have to pull it together. Every thought I have, I correct it with "Stay Positive" so I am talking to myself. (lol) I also have nothing to compare it with cause the last two times I did this they were completely different from each other. Oh what the "H" (can't wait to change my name)
Sasygirl----where are you my friend? Hope you are OK.
LaLou67----Hi, You came to the right place. Our tests are one day apart. I had a frozen transfer on the 8th. Technically it is a day 5 transfer. This is an exciting time for you, your first time. How are you coping with the 2ww. It ***** don't it? Today is hard for me. I was fine until today, I think cause it's almost here and every little thing I feel, I think its over until I say to myself "think positive" then I'm OK for about a minute. I am 36 and my husband is 38, I'll be 37 next month. But we have been trying for about 3 years. I've gotten pregnant on my own and it ended very early (tubal) I also got pregnant with an Insemination (IUI) that also ended early (tubal) I am what is called "unexplained" in this world. I fear my age has something to do with it, but that's another story. So I'm glad I have a buddy waiting to test along with me. I wish you the best of luck and keep us posted.
Hi everyone. I know I'm new to the group, but I know that you all will understand. Family and close friends are very supportive, but they have no idea what it is like to go through an IVF cycle. I was so happy to find all of you the night before my pregnancy test. I had my pregnancy test on Monday and it was negative. :( My first experience with IVF and already I have to decide if I can go through this again. My husband is willing, but I am not sure. It is really hard to understand how such a strong and healthy embryo didn't make it!! The doctor told us it was very good quality embryo, rated a 3 with 4 as the highest. We are heartbroken!
Devistated: I'm having the same question as you on the whole age thing. I am 38 and have never been pregnant. I've only had this one IVF cycle and it didn't work. I will think positive thoughts for you and all others awaiting your pregnancy test.
Did anyone have a hard time, physically, with the retrieval and/or transfer? Also, does anyone have input/info on using the Endometrin suppository vs the progestrone shots?
I am so sorry to hear about your results. I know family and friends are supportive and they try so hard to say the right things. Really, there are no words that can take away the pain of a failed IVF cycle. Just know that you are not alone. Mine failed a week ago when I started my period 2 days before my first blood test. It was devistating. I wanted to comment on the suppository vs. progestrone shots. I participated in a study and I received the control - which was crinone suppository progesterone. I know the doc office usually uses the shots. I'm interested to know if my period started early because the progesterone wasn't be absorbed? Versus with shots, I think it goes directly into your bloodstream. We are meeting with our doctor for a meeting on our "next steps". I am going to ask him about the progesterone and I will let you know what he says if you're interested.
Take care, Lindsey
I wanted to let you guys know what's been going on. On Monday I had my 2nd HCG test & my numbers were great...410. But today I started bleeding. I have been bleeding since 1:00 this afternoon. It's bright red (Iknow TMI) but it doesn't show up on my pad only when I go to he restroom. I go tomorrow for my 3rd HCG. When I called my doctor the nurse told me to go home lay down, keep my feet up, & drink TONS of liquids. She said this is sometimes normal, but I am SO scared. She said if my numbers go up then that is a good sign. I hated to have to tell my husband... if you could have seen the look in his eyes. It broke my heart...he hid it VERY quickly but I caught it. I have faith that everything works out for a reason but it is SO hard to keep going.
I hope everyone is OK, I will be praying for you all.
God Bless.
Joy
DEVISTATED: HI! Yes it has been an amazing day for us. It sounds like you have some good signs going on. I know what you mean about the "cramps". They don't hurt or last long but you notice them, dull, pulling and twinges. That is how I was, mostly between days 5 and 7 after the transfer but on and off after that. My boobs got a lot larger too, busting out of my bra. They weren't ( and still aren't) painful but just uncomfortable because they are so big. I also noticed about 2 days before my test that the veins in them were very apparent. Don't do the pregnancy test if you can help it. Give it to your husband and have him hide from you. As soon as they told me I was pregnant I did an HPT so I could see the positive! Thursday will be here before you know it, I have good feelings for you and I will keep sending you prayers. Keep telling yourself to stay positive, after everything we have all been through it is so hard. I really couldn't believe I was pregnant until I saw the heartbeat today. After so many negatives it is hard not to guard your heart, but keep positive. You have so many people praying for you!
LaLou67: Welcome! It sounds like you have a great outlook and so far so good! All I can say is stay positive and just take it as easy as you can. My husband wouldn't ( and still won't) even let me mop or vaccum. He doesn't want me even driving around in case someone were to hit me, but I drew the line there! The shots were killing me too, it looked like I grew two extra hips and it was soooo painful! They took me off of them and put me on the crinone cream suppository. It had to be approved by my insurance company and finally it was. It was $215 for 9 days, now $35. I do one in the morning and one in the evening. The only down side i can see is that the suspension that the progesterone is in doesn't get absorbed by your body, I'll leave the gory details out for now!, but I will take that over the shots anyday!!
Cecilianna: I am so sorry to hear about your news. It is so hard to understand why and you will drive yourself insane if you ask it because no one has the answer. We put in 3 "perfect" 3 day embryos and only one attached. I was so happy today when I saw one heartbeat there but I had to wonder about the other two. Why didn't they make it too?
I had no trouble with the retieval or transfer, both went very smooth. As I told LaLou67 the progesterone shots were so painful they had to put me on the crinone. Best thing I could have asked for. I didn't even care if insurance wouldn't pay for them at that point! I had a hard time giving myself the shots because I knew that it was going hurt after the fact. My best advice to you is to keep trying. Make sure that you trust your doctor 100%, do as much research as you can and ask questions. Has your doctor done a full work up on you? Blood tests making sure you aren't attacking the sperm or fertilized egg, thyroid, etc? Also the sonohystogram and the like? That should all be done prior to IVF. Did he have you on baby asprin for your lining? All of this is worth it if it brings you the baby you have always wanted. The shots suck and so do the emotional ups and downs and living your life in 2 week sections!!! It is more than I ever thought I could take. But looking back now, I'd do it all again to get us to where we are today. Have faith in God and know that he is listening. We're all here for you as long as you need us!
tjfrance: I will be praying for you and your baby tonight.
Thanks for the warm welcome and prayers. I have a question - I took a blood test 2 days after my transfer. I can't remember what it was for, but I was told it was over 20, so that was good. What is this test for? Also do the shots give you puberty pimples or is that a good sign that I am pregnant? I thought me feeling so tired and just wanting to sleep every chance I get was a good sign, but the nurse told me that it was probably the prog. shots. Has anyone had a transfer done without having fallopian tubes? Mine are there, but are filled with fluid, so they have been surgically detached from my uterus. The dr. didn't want to remove them in fear of causing scar tissues.
Hello Ladies,
LaLou67---- Hi, I took a blood test 5 days after my transfer, every time I did a transfer and it was for your progesterone levels, it's only to see if the doctor needs to adjust your dosage on any of your meds. AS far as the pimples, I got them from the medication Lupron before I did my transfer, You could have played connect the dots with my face. But that's the only time I got them. Remember everyone reacts different to all types of medications. The crappy thing about it is you also get pimples when you are pregnant. Friday will be here before we know it. Hang in there.
tifrance---You are probably scared ******** right now. I don't know what to say. I hope everything is OK> Think positive and tomorrow will be here before you know it.
mb789----HI, thanks for the advice. (hpt) I'm gonna try my hardest not to do it. If I can get through tomorrow morning, I'll be good to go, cause I am a firm believer in 1st morning urine....Thanks for telling me about your signs, this is gonna sound weird, but I was relieved to hear that my boobs weren't the only ones acting up. (LOL) Do you all see what this does to a girl. You explained exactly what I'm feeling. I'm glad you saw your babies heart beat today. Thanks again. Linda
Cecilianna----I'm sorry you had a negative result, Your first IVF huh? I would like to say (without sounding to forward) that you should give it another try. I can only tell you how I feel and for me after a failed cycle (approx. 3yrs of TTC) it gets better, cause I get excited all over again and prepare for the next cycle and I always say to myself what if this time works. I feel if I was to stop I would be missing the chance. Does that make sense? Just how I feel. One of the girls said it the best earlier, Who would have ever thought we would be living our lives in two week sessions. That is the Gods honest truth and you will get used to it. Best of luck to you, Linda
Just wanted to let you guys know what's going on. I got my 3rd test today & my numbers went up but not very well. They were 589 (should have been 820). My nurse said that if I was pregnant with multiples I may have lost one OR if I'm pregnant with one then I could be trying to miscarry.
I go back Friday & Sunday for more HCG levels. I am trying to be hopeful but it's so hard.
mb789: Thanks so much for your prayers. They really help!!!
DEVISTATED: Thanks for the kind words & positive attitude. How are you? Aren't you going tomorrow for bloodwork? Let me know, I'll be thinking about you.
One more day before BT. The prog. shot really got to me on Tues. My husband gave me the shot and the pain seemed to triple. I started crying and couldn't stop. I try not to tear up because it makes him feel really bad because he has to do it for me. I did better last night. Thanks again, for the positive words and please, please keep us in your prayers. Best wishes to you, as well.
LaLou67---Yes, one more day, not even, just 12.5 hrs. for me. I wont get my results until after 1 pm. How about you? I am very excited, I wont be able to sleep.....I'm gonna try and explain a way for your husband to give you the shot it relieved some of my pain when we did mine. I'm not on prog. shots now, just inserts 3xms a day. So last time I did the shots, I cried very very hard the first two nights. Then my husband took his forefinger and thumb of the hand not holding the needle and spread my skin, held the position and put the needle in. I swear it was so much better, it still hurts but no tears. Did I mention that I'm so excited? Good Luck and of course I will pray for you. Linda
Hi all, I am very new to this and have been following all your comments which I have found extremely helpful and comforting. I can't believe there are so many of us in exactly the same boat!! I just need to let some things out as I am going nuts during this 2ww. Today is 9dp a 5dt and I have almost no symptoms besides huge bbs. I am so so worried that my period will come any minute. 2-3 days after the transfer I had mild cramps but that seemed to completely disappear. My bt is not until Mon so I have to get over the wkend hurdle. DH and I place all our trust in the Lord and truly believe that He is in control.
DEVISTATED : Good Luck tomorrow, I am so excited to hear the news! I'll say an extra prayer for you guys tonight!!!
LaLou67: HI! Your shots really shouldn't hurt that bad. Have you talked with your doctor about it? Are your hips swollen and warm/hot to the touch? If they are that is not OK and you need to call your doctor. I always put a hot patch on my hips ( the kind you stick on for 8-12 hours) and that seemed to help some. WHen the massaging got too painful they switched me to the crinone.
Faith79: Welcome! Don't stress out about symptoms and no symptoms. With all the hormones and progesterone we are on it is next to impossible to distinguish what is real or not. I know, easier said than done! Try to keep your mind off Monday and relax and drink lots of water. We'll all be thinking of you!
I have been so frustrated because my home PC wasn't working and my work PC would not let me post anything so I could read but not post.. I have no idea why. Anyway we got the PC doctor and now its working. Firstly I have been thinking about you both everyday, devastated I am hoping and praying and doing more hoping and praying for you. Its today right that you get your news. I had cramping on my first IVF and although I kept thinking my period is coming a little voice kept saying but it not the same type of cramp so I am so hopeful for you right now. The second time as you know the cramps were awful. Please please let us know as soon as you can. I will be ecstatic if you get the GOOD news.. xxxxx
Sassygirl, I read you post and I totally understand your impatience but as you say it will be worth it if everything is covered off before you start again. I am also sorry to hear of your sad news.
I went for my review app and I can start again at my next period which is due on the 31st Oct. I am being very realistic I have three embryo's frozen which may not survive thaw and may not make it to blast. I asked what grade my last transfer was and they said 3, not sure if its the same over there but basically 1 is the best and they wouldn't use anything graded 4 or 5. I also asked about my cramps which were so severe and she said once it didn't implant my body was trying to expel it and the medication was fighting against it hence the pain. She also said your mind probably knew this which made me feel better in a sense because at least I wasn't being negative i just knew it wasn't right. We have to do a council session which is mandatory and she asked me how I coped and In told her about these two fantastic ladies I talked to through it who kept me sane. Its so true, you both did. Its funny I have never met you but regard you with such a fondness and can talk to you with such openness and honestly. I got an awful flu afterward which I'm still trying to shake and my little boy was also sick so it hasn't been a great few weeks for me.
I am so sorry its hard to keep up without everyone.
I just wanted to say I am so sorry for anyone who has had a negative. I had one at the beginning of the month so I know exactly how you are feeling. I am starting again at the end of the month when I get my next period. I have 3 frozen left but am very realistic about the chances of even getting as far as a transfer so really I am already think about the following cycle which will be a fresh one, a lot more invasive!! The way I see it you just have to keep trying to have a chance and its gotta work sooner or later. I am going to say a prayer for us ladies that the next one will be a positive one.
To the ladies who got a positive a huge congratulations, I am delighted for you all, its a battle but so worth it. I had my little miracle through my first IVF attempt and can't stop thanking god for him.
Hopefulx---I'm glad you posted, I missed you. My test was negative.....I don't have to tell you how I'm feeling. Our next cycles will be close if they let me do a fresh cycle this period....I'm not sure how long you have to wait after a frozen cycle. I'm glad you posted about your cramps. I had severe ones this morning and two nights ago. I thought it was a good sign. I also had no blood on the insert sticks, which made my hopes really high. Every other time I did this I had gotten my period before my blood test. This time NOT, so not only did this perfect cycle fail, I have to wait for my period. Anyway what your nurse told you about the cramps makes alot of sense. OK, keep me posted on your next cycle....Talk to you later Linda
LaLou67----I'm feeling like you are right now. What is next for you? I'm really sorry for your negative. Honestly I know what you must be feeling. I am so hurt and sad right now I can't stop crying.
Mb789----thanks for being there for me during the 2ww, it meant alot to me. Keep an eye out, I'll be back.
Mb789: Thanks so much for your kind words and advice. We've been TTC for 3 years and this is my first IVF cycle. Unfortunately, we did not manage to freeze any embryos so if it fails, we will have to start all over... :-( but i am trying so hard to stay positive and have managed to stay away from the hpt this morning. Thanks for keeping me in your prayers.
LaLou67 and DEVISTATED: I am so terribly sorry to hear both your sad news. I have been thinking of you alot as our tests are quite close... I know that there is not much that we can say that will easily relieve your pain but please try to stay positive, don't give up and keep praying. It will eventually HAPPEN for us, I believe this and will be praying for all of us.
DEVISTATED: I am so sorry to hear your news. I know you will be back and it is going to happen! I pray you have peace in the next few weeks and then strength to do it again.
LaLou67: I'm sorry. None of this makes any sense, but we have to keep trying. Do everything you can and then give it to God. I'll keep you in my prayers.
Faith79: Is your test tomorrow? How are you feeling? Stay positive and know that all of us are praying for you.
tjfrance: How are you? I have been thinking about you and hoping that you are doing well and that everything is ok. PLease let us know when you can. My prayers are going out for you.
I have had a few deaths in my family recently, so I have been trying to catch back up with everyone. I am so sorry to hear about the negative results. I will keep you all in my prayers. I did want to ask, and I hope this is not too personal. How are you all affording IVF so many times. It was almost $15000.00 this first time for us. I even tried to see if the military would pay for the procedure, but of course they said no. Am I missing some other form of payment, or am I just the only broke one? LOL!
I have been off the board for a while due to traveling and computer troubles. But I have am all caught up on everyones news.
I am so sorry to those of you who have had a negative. Even though I haven't been posting, I have been praying like hell for everyone of you and will continue to do so.
HPT: I totally understand the financial stress you must be under. It certainly is easy to say keep on trying, when we all have different bills. I am so fortunate that Fertility treatment is covered in Massachusetts. It is obviously covered differently depending on your insurance, but overall MA covers it. So although my husband and I have gone through IVF 5 times, we have paid very little. Probably only about 1,000 all in since the beginning. I feel very fortunate that we can base our decisions, regarding our journey, on factors other than money. We would have been out of the gam LONG ago if we had to pay the kind of bills you are talking about.
Just a little update on me. I had my first Ultrasound at 5.5 weeks and after transferring 3, we found out that we are having one baby. I have another ultrasound on the 27th to detect the heartbeat. So needless to say we are awaiting that appointment with bated breath. Please keep us in your prayers!
tjfrance: I think of you everyday and hop that all is well!
I just want to give you an update on my results! I AM PREGNANT !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Thank you so so so so much for your support and for the wonderful prayers. I never thought this day would come. Thank the LORD for this wonderful blessing!!!!!!!!!!! I will continue to pray for all of us!
Congratulations to you both!!!! What wonderful news. We also transfered 3 "perfect" embryos and had one stay with us. I am now 7 weeks 3 days. We saw the babies heartbeat last week, it was so amazing. We go again tomorrow and I can't wait. We are taking my Mom with us, my Dad wants to wait until its a belly ultra sound...understandable. Anyway, I am so happy for you both.
Hello everyone. Just to let you know what's been going on. Not sure what I told you last so I'll start from my positive test. My numbers have been fluctuating & it has been the hardest week of our lives together. We have been trying for 12 yrs & thought we had felt it all but this has been the worst week of it all & it just keeps going. Here is the break down:
10/11 Positive HCG-229
10/13 410
10/14 started bleeding
10/15 589
10/17 1280
10/19 1589
I have been spotting off & on since 10/15. On 10/17 in the evening had severe left side pain (felt like past cyst pain) called & Dr. sent me to ER, they did an ultrasound & saw NO evidence of an ectopic but did find 3 cysts on my left ovary. So that explained the pain. They also saw a sac in my uterus that measures 4w6d so that was right on track. They didn't see a fetal pole or yolk sac but it was very early. But of course then on 10/19 my numbers barely went up. They keep saying that it doesn't look good but not to give up hope. I just don't know what to think. I am so confused & depressed. My poor, sweet husband isn't doing so well either. We just feel dead inside. We don't even want to hope because it hurts too much.
I appreciate all of your concern & prayers. I never knew how much comfort I would get from a forum like this. You guys are GREAT!!!
stilltrying502: Thanks so much for your thoughts...God Bless you. Congrats on your baby. I know you are very happy to have finally seen your baby on screen. Wishing you a healthy & happy pregnancy & delivery. You & your baby are in my thoughts & prayers.
mb789: Thank you for all your prayers & thoughts also. And I am so happy for you on your beautiful baby & seeing the heartbeat...I know you are on cloud nine & wish you a VERY happy & healthy pregnancy & delivery. You & your baby are in my thoughts & prayers.
Faith79: Congratulations!!!! I know how you feel right now. On cloud 9!!! I hope that all goes very smooth for you & please keep us posted. I'm praying for you & your baby. God Bless!!!
Well, I hope everyone else is doing well. Please take care of yourselves.
Joy
I wish I could say something that would make your fears go away. There is some good news. Your numbers are still rising not declining, many women bleed during the first trimester and from what I have read both the yolk sac and the fetal pole are usually not visable until somewhere between 51/2 and 61/2 weeks. I don't want to give you false hope but there still is hope. Remember, you still have a baby inside you and you need to take care of him. I know nothing will stop you from worry and being afraid but you have to try to step back and do everything you can for the baby right now. Relax, take deep breaths, keep hydrated and PRAY. I will pray for all of you as well.
stilltrying502: Thank you - I am so happy for you too. My beta was 115 yesterday. I am feeling so blessed because this is our first cycle and we only had one little embie that had made it to blast. I was certain that this cycle was going to fail as I barely had any signs. My first ultrasound is in 3 weeks so I can't wait for this day to come. I am in Australia and here they don't do regular hcg tests to monitor the levels so I am a little nervous about what's going on inside. What's also hard right now is that I am away from home for work and I haven't even the chance to see my DH since the news. I flew out right after the news and had to tell him over the phone. I am so glad to be flying home in a couple of days. Take great care ok and tell us all about your baby's heart beat!
mb789: Congratulations to you too!!! It must be so exciting to hear your baby's heart beat! You know when the nurse told me yesterday, all I did was yell and cry. I was even insane enough to accuse her of lying to me. :) As soon as I get home, I am going to do a hpt so that I can see this positive line for myself! I have been waiting for this line to appear for the last 3 years! You also take care ok and we would love to hear your progression in this exciting journey.
tjfrance: Yes, indeed I am on cloud 9, I think cloud 10 if there's one :-) Thanks so much for remembering us in your prayers. Your strength and courage in the 12 years and then your wonderful news was such an inspiration for me when I read your post during my 2ww. I do not know of a stronger couple. I know that you both are going through an extremely emotional experience right now but like mb789 has said, you must remain calm for yourself and for your baby. Place all your trust in God dear friend and know that he is in total control. l like the rest of us will be deeply praying for your family tonight.
Hello,
I'm new here and very desparate :). I am in my 1st ivf cycle, 6 days after 5 day ET. Everything was going great (had 6 good embryos, transf. 2 on day 5), I felt fine until about 4th day when I started cramping a lot (especially while sitting), breast tenderness (which started prior to my egg retrieval) stopped, and cervical mucus got thicker. I called md and they said "a lot of women have cramping, it is nothing to worry about". My first pg test is on 10/27 and i seriously think i'm going to go crazy until then. Besides driving my husband (who is very supportive and positive) crazy, I really think I'm going to go insane. Did anybody have these symptoms and what did your md tell you? Please help.... and good luck to all.
I have been thinking about you a lot lately and I just checked to see if there was any news about your results. I can't imagine the emotional rollarcoster you and your husband have been on. I remember you saying it was the best day of your life when you saw the positive. My heart broke for you when the numbers started to change. All I can say is God is good and answers prayers. He put this desire on your heart and I believe it will happen for you. We failed at our first attempt and the thought of doing another scares me becuase before I couldn't imagine how painful it was to find out abou the failure. Now, I know how much it hurts and it's difficult to put yourself out there again. We are going to try again after Christmas and stuff. There is still some healing that needs to happen. I am positive about you and your current cycle. Your numbers are high and let's keep them that way! If only we were in control right:) I will support you and pray for you.
~Lindsey
Welcome! This is a great site and I am sure you will find comfort and friendship from all of the women here. We all understand how you are feeling right now, all too well in fact. I don't know if this will help you at all, but right around 3dpt I started having terrible cramping, really terrible, and even had some spotting on two different occasions. I was so sure the cycle had failed that I convinced my Dr. to let me take an early test, before I flew out for a family wedding. Low and behold, after 5 IVF attempts and countless IUI, I really was pregnant. So you really never know. And now I look at cramping as a very good sign. I will be 7 weeks pregnant on Tuesday and still have cramping. Also, I have a three year old daughter, and during that pregnancy I have killer cramps and a lot of spotting past the first trimester. So don't look too deeply into any one sign. I hope this helps give you some calm and hope. Also, I found that my cramps did improve with every glass of water I drank so try that when they get bad. I will be praying for a positive test!!!
Thank you soooo much for comfort and welcoming me. Thank you for telling me your story, and congratulations on your prognancy, I am very very happy for you. I started spotting this morning, and what scares me is that my previous cycles were like this, cramping for couple of days, then spotting and then bleeding. So this month is following the same pattern. I cried so hard this morning when I saw that I started spotting and then I went into angry mood and told my husband I'm going to call my md and I want them to do additional testing. I'm 28yo, ttc for 1.5yrs and had 2 failed IUI (with clomid) and diagnosis of "unknown" infertility. They said this cycle was going great, I had 6 great developed blastocysts on day 5... so what happened? I saw that one of the girls wrote that her md did blood test to see if her body is rejecting the embryo and also looked at her uterus, I'm going to ask him if he can do additional tests. Again thank you sooo much and I will be praying for you and your baby. Keep me posted on how things are going with your pregnancy.
Hello there. My name is Lindsey and I was more active on this site while going through my 2ww, but it had failed and we are waiting until after the holidays to try again. I have a similar situation (28yo and ttc for about 2 years). This was our first IVF cycle and they transferred 2 good ones 5 days past retreival. At our post-meeting with the doctor I had a list of questions. He is going to do some things differently next time. Reduce super ovulatory drugs to make less more mature eggs (quality vs quanity). I asked him to do a saline ultrasound to check for misshapen uterus, and a blood test to check for antibodies that are fighting pregnancy. He said they normally don't do those tests until after 2 failed IVF attempts. But every attempt is $15,000, so I don't want to wait! I learned about these tests from another woman on this board. I just thought I'd share that info with you. BUT, please hold on to hope for this cycle! It sounds like cramping can be a good thing. Keep your spirts up and I'll pray for strength for you.
Hello and thanks for replying. My name is Sara. I'm sorry your test was negative, I can only imagine how you feel. But it seems like you are very optimistic and stay that way (I wish I was :). Stay strong and keep fighting, hope for the best. What did the doctor say, did he have a possible reason for failure? Is your diagnosis "unexplained inferitlity" as well or something else? I called my md this morning and I really never get to talk to him but his nurse and she said we have to wait until Monday to do preg. test. I also asked her about blood test and saline ultrasound and she said they don't do that, bc anibodies would only damage embryo in early stages ( if I was ttc natural way), but she said I can talk to my md in case the test is negative on Monday (which I have a very good feeling it will be) and ask him if he would do those tests. Which state do you live in (if I may ask)? I just looked at another website for another doctor (here in Missouri) and they have a really detailed website (www.havaababy.com) you might want to check it out. And I know what you mean about the cost. I was lucky I could get all the injections from the place where I work so I did not end up paying a lot for injections, but it was still about $10,000, since insurance does not cover it in MO. Sorry for the long reply...:) Stay in touch... and keep fighting. I will pray for you and hope for a successful 2nd attempt.
I just want to say something to all of you on who are either about to or are going through IVF. PLEASE make sure you get tested for everything and anything BEFORE you go through the financial and emotional process of IVF. It is absolutely insane that any doctor would take your money and waste your time and emotions without doing everything possible to help get you pregnant. For instance, when they did the sonohystogram on me they found what they thought was a polyp ( it ended up being tissue but we had to know for sure). Had it actually been a polyp and I concieved without removing the polyp I had a very high chance of miscarriage. On its own, the polyp is no big deal but because polyps are so vicerous, as the blood supply increased to my uterus the polyp would start bleeding which can cause uterine contractions which can lead to misscarriage. The polyp can not be know to you without this test being done. And as far as the antibody test, it can and will attack sperm or a fertilized egg so you should be tested. I put a list of bloodwork and tests on a previous post awhile back. If it isn't there anymore let me know and I can find my paperwork again. All the tests can add up but insuraance should cover them partially. I think I paid about $3000 with insurance covering about $1000. It is a heck of a lot cheaper than multiple IVF attempts! If your doctor is unwilling to do all these tests before you proceed then you really need to change doctors. Their first priority should be you and not their pocket book!
Also, the meds you can get through www.ivfmeds.com all you need to do is fax your prescriptions to them and it is the exact same medicine. It is a company out of the UK. I would reccommend ( and so do they) if you are starting your meds within 2 weeks of ordering to do the 3 day shipping. Also there is usually a coupon for free shipping so you only pay a small amount more.
Welcome to all the new people and good luck!! To everyone else...I hope you are doing well!
I totally understand your frustration and sadness, and sure as hell get the anger. Interestingly enough, I was also diagnosed with unexplained infertility when I was 28 trying to conceive my daughter, which took 1.5 years. Also, I too, had cramping and spotting (usually after a BM - sorry if TMI) with EVERY cycle and that is why I pushed for the early test this last time. I don't want to give you any false hope, only hope. I will tell you the only difference this time from all the others, was that at times the cramps felt exactly like period cramps, but at others it was more like a pulling sensation, and extended into my legs. I think you are smart to request all the possible test that are out there. While trying to get pregnant this time I underwent more tests. Good luck and keep us posted.
You girls are so great! I'm so happy I found this site. My spotting is getting stronger as the day goes on, so I think my period will start in the next couple of days. I have had a chronic headache for the past 3 days and I just feel like I could start crying any second. I keep thinking if everything was going so great what happened. I don't know how it is with everybody else, but it just makes me mad that throughout this whole process I never got to see or talk to my doctor. When I'm reading everybody elses stories I wonder how come my md didn't do all these tests. My regular gyn did some things but the specialist did nothing but suggested IUI or IVF.
mb789: Thanks fo all the info. I tried to find your post from before with all the tests but I couldn't. If it is not too much to ask if you can try to find your paperwork and give me the info again I would really really appreciate it. I'm still trying to remember who is at what stage, but if I can remember well you are pregnant (correct me if I'm wrong).
Thanks again to all of you and wishing you all the best....
Don't give up hope yet. I never get headaches and I had one for three days before I found out I was pregnant. I also had cramping between days 5 and 7 after the transfer and then the rest of the time I felt weird pulling and non painful cramps. Everyone is different, this could be your bodies way of adjusting. It sounds to me like you need to start looking for a new doctor. I went to see 3 RE's before finding my current one. I just wasn't comfortable with any of them. When I met my current doctor, he sat with me for over an hour talking about my history and letting me cry and get to know him. He even called later that night to make sure I was doing OK. He has been there every step of the way and always available if I needed to talk to him or see him. His staff is also just as wonderful. You need to be with someone that you trust and that can guide you through this with a little hand holding, we've all been through too much not to be a priority ( or at least feel like one) to our doctor. Ok, that said... here is a list of all the bloodwork and tests. SOme of these may have been done by your OB/GYN and if they were done fairly recently your doctor shouldn't have to repeat them.
Bloodwork: APA Panel, Antisperm Antibodies, Chlamydia Antibodies, Prolactin, TSH, HIV I & II, Rubella, Hep B Core, Hep C, RPR, Varicella, FSH-cd3, E2
Procedures: Hysterosalpingogram (hysterscopy), Sonohystogram, Mycoplasma Culture
I am pregnant, 7 weeks 5 days today. We had our 2nd ultra sound yesterday and the baby has tripled in size (now a large blueberry) and the heartrate went from 124 for 170. Everything looks good, we are very happy.
Please keep us posted on what is going on with you. I've said this a thousand times already but to beat a dead horse, make sure you drink at least 8 glasses of water everyday. It is so important right now to keep hydrated ( really all the time and throughout this whole process). That was one major thing I did differently this time around, that and the baby asprin ( well and the IVF!).
I forgot to mention, if you are doing IVF you probably won't need to do the Hysterscopy because all that really does is look at the shape of the uterus and to see if the tubes are open. If you haven't done it I wouldn't waste the $500 on it because the sonohystogram will show the shape of the uterus and you won't need to use your tubes ( but if you are doing IUI then you will need to know if your tubes are open). There is also a test, not sure what its called, that will make sure your tubes are not only open but also they have to be able to move around. Sometimes scar tissue can stop it from being able to swing to pick up the egg. If you are doing IUI you may want to look into that too.
Wow! Thank you so much, this really really helps. I have talked to my husband and my parents last night about what to do as far as md. I have to wait til Monday anyway to get my blood test and I will schedule consultation with him just to see what he says might have gone wrong and ask him to do more tests (I guess I will finally get to talk to him one time during this process). I already started looking into a different doctor, just doing some research. I just wish I could stop crying, but it is so hard since I was so positive about this. My mom keeps telling me that there is still a chance that one embryo has implanted (even with spotting), but I'm not very optimistic. One thing that he told me is that my cervix and uterus are very high up, he had to get a longer catheter when he was doing trial embryo transfer, so I will need to talk to him and see if that is something we need to address further. As far as water, I'm trying to dring a lot of it and my husband makes me fresh squeezed orange juice every morning, I even gave up coffee (which was the hardest thing for me, but I did it)....
Again thanks so much for all this great info, it will really help a lot. And I'm very happy for your pregnancy, and that everything is going great. Keep me posted on how the little one is developing. Wishing you all the best and thanks again.
Today is 10dp on a Day 3 IVF Transfer. I had 2 Grade1 embys transferred. I am scheduled for my first BETA test tomorrow and these last 24 hours are just killing me. My biggest anxiety is that I am having no cramps and no symptoms whatsover!! Just had a mild white discharge yesterday.....no symptoms and a delayed cycle, I am not sure if that is anything good?
Even during the entire IVF procedure I had no symptoms even with all the injections! I am not sure what this means and has anyone of you felt like me? what does the discharge signify?
Also with my average cycle length being about 25-26 days, could it be that this time its just a delay in my cycle due to the progesterone shots and there is no pregnancy??
Welcome to the site! Don't stress about a lack of symptoms. Either people stress because they are cramping or because they have nothing going on. And both things can mean a successful transfer. It just depends on the person. I know it is easier said than done, but try to just wait until your test. In terms of your cycle you shouldn't get your period at all while on progesterone, although some people do have break though bleeding, but most don't get their period until they have stopped taking the progesterone. I hope this helps a little. Best of luck tomorrow and let us know how you make out!
Hello everyone. Sorry I haven't been on here in a few days. I wanted to wait until I had some definate news & then Thursday happened. On Thursday I had SEVERE left side pain AGAIN. It got VERY bad & I felt like something busted. I couldn't get the pain to go away so the doctor told me to go to the ER again. When we FINALLY got back (4 hrs after waiting in the ER waiting room), we had another ultrasound. The sac that they saw in my uterus last Friday was actually smaller, my left ovary looked very bad & I had a lot of fluid in my abdomen. So my fertility doctor here in VA was called in & he had to do an emergency surgery on me. I had an ectopic pregnancy that ruptured my left fallopian tube. It was a very scary time because I have been on aspirin & a bloodthinner shot for over 2 months. He was worried that I wouldn't make it through the surgery but didn't have a choice, he had to get the blood out of my abdomen. So I had laproscopy done & he removed my left fallopian tube, cleaned out the blood & also had to do a D&C to remove the other embryo that stopped growing. I'll tell you I was shocked & scared for my husband more than me. There is a 1 in 10,000 chance of having an embryo implant in your uterus and also have an ectopic at the same time.....leave it to me. Well, right now I am very sore & tender. My throat hurts where they had to intubate me in case they had to put me on life support. It's just been crazy. I cried so much & I just feel lost & empty. I didn't realize how much I had already started to bond & feel pregnant until it's totally taken away from me. We have a lot of healing & thinking to do. If we do anything else it will be FET sometime next year. But to be honest I'm very scared to do it. After what happened this time I don't know if I can go through that again. AND if I EVER have a chance of getting pregnant by the grace of GOD on my own I do need my fallopian tubes & now I only have 1 left. Anyhow, I probably won't be posting on here anymore for a while since I will have no news but I'll keep a watch on all you ladies & keep you in my prayers & thoughts. I know your stories will have happier endings than mine so please don't let this discourage any of you. Keep trying & keep the faith.
LJ2005: Thanks so much for your kind words & encouragement. It is nice to know that other people are thinking about you. Know that I'm always available if you want to talk. If you want my email address let me know. Take care of yourself & good luck after the first of the year. God Bless.....Joy
I don't even know what to say...I'm in shock that you had to go through such a traumatic event. What a blessing that you are alive and recovering! I can't imagine the physical pain on top of the empty feeling you have after losing your little ones. I would really like to keep in contact with you. My email address is ***@****. I pray you will feel God's Strength and Love with you. ~Lindsey
Hi, I am so sorry for what you have been through. After a while you will decide what the next step is for you. I will continue to pray for you and I hope you feel better soon.
LJ2005 for some reason this web site won't let you post personal e-mail addresses. A while back I met someone that I wanted to stay in contact with and we figured out how to do it. For example spell out your e-mail with spaces between each letter and instead of the symbol, spell out the word AT then continue to use spaces for the net or com part. Something like this S A L L Y S U E AT A O L C O M. Don't ask where I got that from I just made the name up. But try it, if you guys wanna exchange personal e-mails. Good Luck with your next attempt.
Hi Everyone,
I am new to this community and new to IVF. I had my transfer on 10/21 (Fresh transfer). Doc transfered two embryos that are excellent (AA) quality and froze 5. I have been doing progesterone shots every day.
I am suppose to go in to do my pregnancy test on Friday 10/31. I might have a happy halloween or very sad... Today i started to feel cramps, not bad and they come and go. Kind of feels like before my period on regular month... should I be worried? I read through many comments and it sounds like it is not a good thing that I am getting period like cramps. Did anyone have cramps and still came back with Positive Pregnancy test? I am also really antsy to do a home pregnancy test my self.. do you think it would show anything yet? I am only on my 6th day after transfer.
Lastly... I am so happy i found this community. Masha
Thanks to both of you ladies for your support & prayers. It means so much to have people that really KNOW what you are going through. God Bless & best wishes to you both.
OK so I will give MY address.
Hi, I just got off the phone with an acupuncturist. (is that the right way to say it?) Anyway he sounds wonderful, does anyone have any comments on this? Has anyone done this with IVF? I'm freaking out. He said stuff like he can take the STRESS out of this whole thing and he said that it would be like I was not thinking about it at all. (he also said he can't guarantee anything!!!!!!) I hope I'm doing the right thing, I would love not to stress over IVF. If it works I'm gonna see him forever. He is 120 for the first session then 70 for every other session and I have to see him 2 or 3 times a week, cause I'm figuring around the week of Thanksgiving for my transfer......Sorry for babbling, any advice...PLEASE.
babylove52----Hi welcome, you are almost there. Friday is your day. Unfortunately CRAMPS are normal or NOT normal. No right answer. You said you've read the other posts and you figured CRAMPS were not good. Please stay positive. Every time you start to doubt, just say to yourself , "Stay positive". You should also NOT do a HPT they are the devil.....I can tell you from my own experience that they s u c k. Did you do a day 5 or a day 3 transfer? Just curious. I did 2 fresh cycles on day three and both times I felt completely different. I did one frozen cycle and I felt completely different than the other two times. Now I'm going at it again. Good Luck and post if you need to talk.
tfrance and LJ2005-----see your email address came up. Good Luck to you guys and keep in touch. We all need each other..Linda
Just letting you girls know what is going on with me. I had my blood test this morning and after they took their sweet time to call me back, I still have to wait til Thursday. My beta is 23, and the nurse said they would like it to be around 100. So most likely this is a chemical pregnancy, but they will repeat the test on Thursday to make sure. I'm not looking very positive and I'm not sure how I'm going to survive this... it hurts so bad. I would appreciate any input from anybody who had similar issue.... I will let you know what happens.
tjfrance: I am so sorry that you have had such a difficult experience especially after such a long road, but I am so thankful that you are getting better and came out of the whole ordeal on the other side. I will keep you and your husband in my prayers, and hope that you will be able to try again with much success!
s2305 Thanks for the update. I have been thinking about you all day. I am sorry that you didn't get the result your were looking for. I had a chemical once too, and although it was so upsetting, because we felt like we were so close we could taste success, but were yet so far. I truly understand your pain. The one thing my Dr. said that made me feel better is that it proved that I was able to get pregnant but that we just needed the right embryo. And I had perfect looking ones at every transfer, but for some reason they weren't the "right" ones. Although, you and your husband are sad, and deserve to be, in the upcoming days, try to look at this as somewhat of a positive.
babylove52 I can only confirm what the others have said. I had major cramping after all of my transfers, including my 5th and most recent, which I am actually pregnant from. So for me cramping was both a bad sign and a good sign. I just think everyone's body is so different that for some of us that is just always going to be the way we react and others will never experience cramping, good or bad. So just keep thinking positively as hard as it may seem. I'll pray for you over the next 4 days, I know how long it feels. I would skip the HPT they are just a mind @#$%. You don't believe the results either way.
Devistated I have had a ton of success with my accupuncturist. I saw one in college for a running injury while I was competing on the track and field team, and continued to see her for things like cold, flu, bronchitis the list goes on... Well, after my third failed IVF attempt I started seeing a different accupuncturist who has a speciality in fertility. She was actually recommended by my RE. If nothing else, she helped me to manage the emotional roller coaster I was on, as well as some of the side effects I was having from the medication. I am planning on seeing her again to help me with my morning sickness now (believe me I am not complaining). So, I say go for it! And the price sound right in line with what I am paying too. I think accumpuncture is amazing. It helped my mother a ton last year when she was going through chemo from her breast cancer, and I know so many people who have and success. Besides, I feel so strongly that we have so little control over this whole difficult journey and any place where I could take control back made me feel just a little more normal again. So that is why I started seeing one and went to join a gym. I just needed to feel like I was doing something positive while I waited for success to come my way. Sorry for rambling... Let me know how you make out!
I am finally back from travelling and I have caught up with all postings. Welcome to all new ladies! For all ladies who are about to start the cycle again, good luck, you are in my prayers! For all expecting mums, I hope you are well. I have been praying for all of us.
tjfrance: I am so sorry to hear about what you and your dear husband had to go through. I FEEL your pain...I have been praying for you every night and can only hope that some comfort has come your way. I don't know what else to say other than to reassure you that our God is in control and He has a greater plan ahead for you both..continue to place your trust and faith in Him. Please take care!
babylove52: Welcome. Don't stress out too much about the cramps. I also had on and off period like cramps and was so sure my period would start but my test came back positive last Monday. I called my clinic many times and was assured that if no spotting occurred, then there's no need to worry. Everyone reacts differently on the cycle so don't analyse too much into the signs. Good luck on Friday and we'll all be thinking and praying for you.
s2305: I am sorry I can't give you any personal advice as I've not been in this situation. But my nurse did say to me on the day of my bt that a scenario can be that beta levels can sometimes take longer to climb in some wormen than others. I don't want to give you false hope but at the same time, stay possitive and don't lose hope yet...you never know. Keep us posted. Take care and God bless.
I looked into acupuncture too but decided against it. My RE actually had one on staff for a year to see if the numbers changed. There was no way to definitively say one way or the other because not everyone used her. He said that there is no evidence for it helping or hurting your chances and if anything it will help you relax. But make sure your RE knows and that they are in contact about your treatment. I decided to do reflexology, it felt amazing and was soooo relaxing! It is about the same cost and you don't need to go as often. BUT make sure you talk to your RE first because they don't want you to do it just before a transfer or anytime after. hey will give you their guidelines. Also tell your reflexologist wha you are going through and they can focus on your reproductive tract.
As far as the cramps go, I think they are pretty normal either way. If you are pregnant, then it is your uterus adjusting to the embryo and if you're not... I had cramping days 5-7 after a 3 day transfer. It wasn't painful but more like a dull ache ( which is what I feel when I am going to get my period). I also had a constant headache for a few days which was abnormal for me, it all turned out to be good signs for me. You can read every sign as something but unfortunately none of us no what something means.
I am so sorry for you and your husband. I can't imagine how scared you both were and I am so thankful that you are okay. I know how empty you feel inside and it feels like the pain will never go away. It doesn't ever fully but it will start to hurt less, I promise. I will keep you and your husband in my prayers and please let us kow how you are doing every once in a while. Remember we are all here for you if you ever need to talk.
HI Ladies,
Thank you for your support and feedback about cramps. It feels much better when I lay down and rest.. when I start walking again is when they start hurting again.
DEVISTATED: I did a 5 Day Live Trasfer... They transfered two live embryos. I have never done accupuncture, but my hubby has and he really liked it. I know it is definaltely relaxing and my fertility specialist actually has one in their office as a service. The cost seems right ... actually our girl charges 130 per session. Reflexology is really good... you just need to make sure to you a good therapist. There are couple of spots on your ankles and neck/shoulder that you do not want to push on .. since it can cause miscarriage. I know relexology is usually where they work on your feet and hands, but sometimes they will include shoulders/neck. I would always let them know you are pregnant and have someone who has taken pregnancy massage course work on you. I went to massage school for 6 months and learned all the basics .. just for my self.
Thanks for all of your advice. I am going on Saturday and It WAS recommended by my RE. They work together with IVF. I'm excited about it.
Marsha---Thanks for your advice, You might have me confused with someone else, I am Not pregnant. This will be my fourth attempt at IVF, 2 fresh, 1 frozen. This time I'm trying different things recommended by my RE......Massage school huh, that must have been cool. I'll bet your husband always asks for a massage!!!!! I wish I knew how to do that. Well Keep Positive and I will be praying for your test results on Friday....Linda
mb789----I'm gonna look up reflexology on the net. I'm pretty sure I'm gonna do acupuncture, I'm excited about it. I did a lot of reading on it and I understand that It may or may not affect the outcome of this IVF, but I'm gonna do everything I can. Don't worry I wouldn't do anything without talking to my RE first, He suggested this and I was told today by the therapist that he always works with my RE on IVF's. I'm a HUGE Nerd when it comes to following instructions by the RE. I won't even take tylenol in between cycles without asking first. I even asked him if I could use eye drops for allergies when I am on the SHOTS. I don't want anything to go wrong. If anything the acupuncturist will hopefully make me not so anxious and stressed out. I hope your feeling good. Thanks for checking in. I'll keep you posted. Linda
Thanks for thinking of me yesterday and thanks for the support. Well I survived what I think was the hardest day of my life, cried, cried and cried some more. But crying is not going to get me anywhere, so today I did a lot of research on different tests and things RE can do, so after Thursday I'm going to go see him for a consult and make sure I have a list of questions ready and he better have some answers. Can I ask you how old you are? And also what is you diagnosis? And have you ever gotten pregnant before or is this the first time (not counting chemical pregnancy)? If I'm being too personal or you don't want to answer that is fine (and I appologize). Also has your md done any testing? Again thanks for the support... talking to all of you girls here means a lot to me.
Well you certainly deserve some time to just cry and feel sad, but I think you are right to pick yourself back up again and be as proactive as you can. You are very brave to take that approach! I just turned 33 this month. I started trying to conceive when I was 27. I did conceive my daughter after 1.5 years of trying (we have spend 4 years of our 7 year marriage TTC). We went through IUI and clomid to have her. At the time that seemed like the hardest journey, and now we look back on it and say, if only it were that easy this time. Everything in perspective I guess. We started trying for this baby when our daughter was 10 months old. She turned 3 the end of July! I was diagnosed with unexplained infertility. Probably one of the most frustrating and fortunate diagnoses! My Dr. did the basic test, checking the shape of my uterus, making sure my tubes were open (I even had surgery to remove scar tissue they believe was left from the placenta - that didn't make any difference either), every blood test possible and everything came out perfect every time. I even had perfect embryos for every fresh transfer and ultimately the committee who met monthly on my case decided that although my embryos looked really good the majority genetically were not designed to become babies. So we just had to continue to be patient and wait for the truly perfect embryo to come along. What a frustrating answer. I think you should be really proud of yourself. It sounds like you are handling this difficult journey well, and their is no better thing we can do for ourselves than to become our best advocate. And if you don't like your REs answers or his manner, switch now, before you spend too much time and money wasted with someone you don't absolutely love and respect. Just my two cents. How old are you and what is your diagnosis?
Well thanks for all that info. I am 28, been married for 2 years (but I've been with my husband for 11 years), we tried to enjoy life and each other and waited on having babies until we were mentally ready. My diagnosis is unexplained. So we started trying 1.5 years ago, numerous cycles of Clomid (with my regular Gyn), tried Clomid and Progesterone pills (bc my Gyn thought I had luteal phase defect), he also did postcoital test and HSG, and some basic blood work, all normal. We saw RE for the first time in June and he didn't really do any testing, just recommended IUI or IVF. We tried 2 cycles of IUI and clomid, and nothing. Then we were either going to do injecables and IUI or IVF, and bc price is not much different and success rate is higher with IVF we decided to skip injectables and IUI and move straight to IVF. What really scares me is that I've never gotten pregnant before, so my biggest fear is that I am just one of those people who can't have kids, which I just can't accept, it scares me a lot. But people keep telling me that I haven't even been trying that long and that I have to be patient, but you know when you want something so bad it's kind of hard to be patient. As far as RE, I am definatelly looking into changing, bc I'm just not happy with the current RE's services. I'm not blaming him for the failed IVF cycle, but he could have been more informative and just there for me, considering I have not seen him or talked to him since late August, I think he should have found the time to check on me and just see how I'm doing and if I have any questions.... you know what I mean? Well I'm sorry for the long reply, but that is my infertility story lol. Nothing exciding, but no baby yet :) It is just crazy how even with you everything is ok and it just takes long time for it to happen... so I guess my time will come too and I will be a mommy soon.
Hey Guys--GUESS WHO??? I have missed all of you, but have been going through a lot lately. Both kids sick, daughter is having surgery 11/4 for her tonsils and adnoids (PLEASE PRAY FOR HER), she has had strep 5 times since last November and my little man had bronchitis that turned to pnenomonia (spelling??). I have not had anytime to chat. I was sad to read some of the posts and happy to read the good news that has been floating around...Lots of newbies!! WELCOME!!
DEVISTATED--Sorry about your news, but glad to see you are still going at it!! Acupuncture Hunh?? I have missed chatting and hope all is well with you!!
How are the rest of you guys?? I have been reading for the past 45 mins and WOW, there has been a lot going on. I have continued to send my prayers, even though I haven't been chatting, and want you all to know that you will always remain in my thoughts and prayers!!!
I myself will be having surgery on 11/21 with my new OB and my RE, they are going in to take a look at my uterus and see if there is any problems in there. I am so sick of surgery and being put to sleep, but also want to know what is going on!! Hopefully the will figure it out!!
I will try to chat more often, but keep me and my daughter in your prayers next week. I am scared to death for her to be put to sleep, and to any who don't know my whole life story, next week is also the anniversary of my 8 month old daughters death. I am a nervous wreck and don't know how to cope right now. I will keep in touch better in the days to come, I promise....and I really have missed all of you guys and your support!!!
Hello, my dear friend, I've really missed you. I'm sorry to hear about your children feeling sick. Your daughter will be fine next week. Just keep telling her about all of the ice cream she can eat after. Stay strong for her. Stay strong for yourself also for you daughters anniversary of her death. I don't know you personally, but I do know from talking to you for the last few months that you are a very incredibly strong woman, you will get through this.
OK sweetie, you are going in on 21-Nov, finally some answers. Looks like you'll be seeing a two week wait in the near future. You have all of those frozen embies to see again. I'm very glad you posted, I really missed you. (I already said that) So if you need to chat you know where to find me.
Acupuncture is a new journey for me, but because this may be my last chance with insurance coverage (not clear on that now, keep getting different answers) I begged the doc to give me something different to try and that is what he suggested. I'll do anything, I know I don't have to tell you that. But I'm excited and I'll let you know how it goes. Talk to ya later........Linda oooooooooooooo (sending you hugs)
I have spoken to a few fertility docs about acupuncture, and they have all been for it. I also had a friend that only retrieved two eggs, and she got pregnant(did acup.) I have also done acup. myself for different reasons(borderline high blood pressure) and saw it drop everytime immediately for days. I figure that if you are putting the money into ivf what is a few more bucks to increase your chances? We (hubby, myself and surrogate are also in the two week wait (NOv6). Not to say that I couldnt have children, but have been through so much, and miscarried once before many years ago - i didnt want to take a chance with my 36 year old uterus. (HAd two failed adoptions, one of which i had the little girl for 7 months, cycled with friends eggs which also had high fsh problems, had a surrogate to drop out, and now on the wait with most of you. I wish you all much luck and many baby kisses and giggles in the future. If it doesnt work out - a fur baby can be just as sweet and doesnt talk back (as much). Allie
Thank you for the advice, I will be doing acupuncture and I am very excited, I understand that it is NOT guaranteed, but I will be doing it anyway. You are right, at this point what is a couple of hundred dollars. (to better my chances) I have read and heard from many people that acupuncture is a very positive thing. NO bad reviews as of yet, Good Luck to you and your husband. I am also 36 and I've had two early detected tubal pregnancies. Nov 6 is almost here......When was the transfer and how many embies were placed back in your surrogate???? Sorry if I ask to many questions, I just enjoy reading all of the possibilities (along with the facts). Thanks again for the advice on acupuncture and I wish you the best, keep us posted. P.S. I have two fur babies and they are perfect little companions. (Not counting the husband. HAHA). Linda
My surrogate's first acupuncture appt is on Saturday. I actually enjoy it myself and did it years to help with my fsh. Long story of it was... the doctor gave me an at best chance of 3% to get pregnant, and a little girl fell into our lap (her grandparents asked us to adopt her), so we went the adoption route - only for it to fall thru 7 months later. Now after the second failed adoption and the problem with the friend's eggs we have decided to have a surrogate and another egg donor, I will ramble, so please excuse me.. Acupuncture .... i would suggest to ask your fertility doctor for a list of qualified acupuncturist that they use in their clinics. I would highly suggest for the acupuncturist to be there for your transfer, and to use him/her for a few weeks afterwards to increase the bloodflow to your uterus. I read all of your posts last night, and have obsessively been reading as much on the internet as i can. I do believe God has a reason for everything, and when it is the right time - it will happen. Ashley (the little girl that we tried to adopt) was a blessing. Like many of you, hearing that their wasnt a possibility for a biological child, absolutely crushed me. I was so worried that my parents wouldnt love Ashley the same as the other biological grandchildren - but they actually were closer to her in the 7 months than the other grandchildren that are 12 and 8. After that - i chose to use an egg donor, knowing that my family would love the baby the same. It was actually kind of fun picking out the donor. I tell everyone - that i know more about the egg donor than i do about my husband. If he didnt have great swimmers - I would have traded him out too. If you are interested in using an egg donor, please consider Conceptual options. They have been a wonderful agency to work with. AS for the transfer... i have been using a doctor from La Jolla California. Dr. Smotrich. He is wonderful, and so very caring and informative. I transfered 3 - 4 day embryos with assisted hatching. (Last Saturday I believe the 25th?) We also had 3 - 5 day blastocysts to freeze. We were going to do only 2 embies with using PGD, but had a problem with the donor not absorbing the shot to release the eggs, and had to wait two days later. Im not sure who it was that was questioning a 3 day or 5 day transfer. For the most part 5 days are the best, however, it depends on the clinic. The larger clinics have a harder time with keeping up with the embryos appropriately, and sometimes it is best to transfer on the 3rd day. I would ask each clinic their best stats, and do what they suggest. Like you Linda.. i have furbabies. I adore them. I have 3 maltese and a yorkie. When i feel lonely i look into their big brown eyes and kiss their little noses. oh yeh.. and the hubby isnt half bad either. LOL! When the last cycle with my gf's eggs didnt work out... i bought a horse, so now my parents and hubby are now scared what animal i will be getting next if this one doesnt work. I am already over my limit of animals for downtown charleston, SC. Horse is in a barn - not at home. I got my eye on a mini horse. LOL. Anyways... much luck to you. It will happen... God is always watching out for us, and has the best plan. When i look back at all the past unsuccessful attempts for pregnancy and adoptions - i see why it wasnt for the best.
Keep in touch.
Allie
Oh..not sure what the acupuncturist has suggested. I had two appts a week. They say that a month to a month and a half prior to fertility treatment is recommended to increase egg quality. It is great for anxiety. When you go in.. give them a list of your problems. Anxiety, blood pressure, knee pain, neck pain, fertlility were all the ones i had my acupuncturist to work on. Everything seemed to have gotten better. I need to go back for knee problems - old skiing accident, and the horse back riding is aggravating it again. Enjoy your treatments, and think happy thoughts... think about that beautiful baby you will be creating..
If it works.... you can always name him/her Allison. Wink!
(Allison use to be a boys name long time ago)
Hi, I enjoyed reading your journey. You sound like a very positive person. (with good advice) I also have a Yorkie and a silky terrier. My Yorkie is a boy and my silky is a girl. I also give them loads of kisses every day. They are very spoiled. In our house hold they rule completely. I thought it was funny when you said you bought a horse and now your family fears what animal is next......Cute. Ok, acupuncture, my RE did recommend him and they work together on IVF's. I am very excited for tomorrow. I go at 8 am. Since my transfer is going to be the week of thanksgiving I'm gonna see the acupuncturist 3xms a week. (due to the lack of time) I will also be seeing him after the transfer during the 2ww and if my other problems feel better, I'll see him forever (once a week) I have bad knees (don't know why) and I get headaches (migraines) about 3 to 4 times a week. (probably stress) I have a very stressful job and I also think I have some kind of disorder, maybe a perfectionist and or a type of OCD or what's it called when 20 thousand things are going through your mind and you try to do them at once. (I just asked my husband what that might be called and he said "I don't know,,,,,,,,CRAZY".) That's how I feel sometimes, so bottom line I'm excited and I'll let you know how it goes. Count down 6 days left for you....How is your surrogate feeling? Does she have any signs???Will she do a HPT???
Well keep me posted and I'll chat with you later, Trick or Treaters are coming up the driveway....HAPPY HALLOWEEN....Linda
Just coming in from Halloween - friends are in from Florida. This is usually our big party time, but put it off due to just returning from California (baby things). I love to people watch, and funny enough i bumped into two of my cousins. One, a new graduate from Clemson dressed as an Indian, and the other cousin, in the state legislature, dressed as Incredibles. Hmmm... maybe its a good thing that this baby coming doesnt have my half of the genes. I am sure you will enjoy the acupuncture, and the only spots i found a bit sensitive - were in my feet, and sometimes between my thumb and index finger. Depending on the time of the month, some weeks are a little more sensitive than others. I have used two different acupuncturist. One was doing something with a suction cup over my bellybutton and heat lamps on my stomach as well. The other used a candle to heat up the needles. They also like you to picture the colors yellow and blue. Stress can be so damaging in so many ways, so make sure to control your stress and anxiety. Like you,I have a stressful job, managing a family owned business. However, i am having someone to help me out for a little bit until i can get all of this under control. My surrogate has been feeling fine except for the pain in her back. She said she was tired at first, but ok now. We were talking about doing a home pregnancy test, but she spoke to friend that is also a surrogate, and she said that she didnt test positive until the day before the blood test. My sister in law has a hard time with migraines. She was telling me yesterday, that they are starting to use Botox for treatment. /You may want to look into that - get pretty and feel better. I will keep you posted on what is going on. Please let me know all about your treatments and your special thanksgiving time. Maybe there will be a bun in the oven. Happy Halloween to you too. Talk soon.
Allie
DEVISTATED--Hey lady, I have truly missed chatting with you also. Thank you so much for the vote of confidence for next week, I sure needed it. I know everything will be fine, but I just can't help but stress. So, looks like you will be doing another transfer over the Thanksgiving holiday. Do you know what day, or is just the week of Thanksgiving that is a possible?? I am so happy for you and sounds like this acupuncture may really work in our favors. What do you know about it so far?? I hope to be joining the 2ww again sometime in January. The doc says even after surgery i will still have to wait until after my next period to try another transfer. I am OK with the waiting as long as they find something. I don't know how I will feel if they don't find anything wrong with me. How was your Halloween?? Lots of trick or treaters??? I so love seeing all the little kids all dressed up!! I don't really like all the candy that is in the house now, but the kids love it!! SUGAR OVERLOAD!! Well, hope your weekend is going great, and I look forward to hearing from you again.
ALLIESWAY--WELCOME!! I really enjoyed reading your post. Sounds like you have been through a lot and have still come out on top!! Just goes to show that you can never lose your faith! So, you have a surrogate, I am just curious as to how you found her. I have thought about it, b/c I have some frozen embies, and they can't seem figure out why I can't implant. I have 3 failed cycles and 1 miscarriage at 9 wks. I have thought about surrogacy, but have read lots of horror stories, and have read about how difficult it is to find a trustworthy agency to handle the process. I am going to try one more time to concieve myself and then I think we will consider other options. Can you offer any advice?? Is your surrogate pregnant, or are you in the dreaded 2ww? I am wishing you lots of luck and baby dust!! Look forward to chatting again!!
ALL THE OTHER CHATTERS--How the heck are you guys doing??? Hoping all is well and sending lots of prayers out!!!
sassygirl, I'm not sure what day, but we are figuring the week of Thanksgiving, I start stims on Nov 7th, so about two weeks after that....Ya know after feeling so sad last time when it didn't work, I'm awfully excited this time around. I absolutely LOVED the acupuncturist today.....It was so cool. I felt warm and heavy and a few times I felt my whole body twitch. I was so relaxed after and extremely tired. I go again on Monday, Wednesday and Friday of next week. I did a lot of reading and asking about the whole process and all good reviews....Halloween was boring for me. This is the second year at my new home and we have 4 acres and a very long driveway and we are set back in the woods. No kids will ever walk the long *** driveway for a piece of candy. So I had not one trick or treater. No one in site. We'll just have to eat all the candy ourselves. I had a feeling so I just bought what I like. Last Halloween I had miscarried. (so sad) Did I tell you that my little sister lost her baby, she was about 9.5 weeks, and everything was great up until her last ultrasound and there was no more heart beat. They have no idea of what happened......When does your daughter have her tonsils out? Have a good weekend and I'll talk to you soon.
alliesway===LOOOOOOOVED Acupuncture. I am so excited about it. I'm gonna do it three times a week up until my transfer. I was also bothered when he put needles in my feet, it did not hurt me, I just think it was the fact that needles were going in my feet....FREAKY. None of them hurt, he did my ears, arms, legs, and feet. Oh and my hands. Just a general session today for the first time. I felt great, really warm and heavy and very relaxed when finished. Also very tired. He said next visit will be different, he needs to make a plan with the information I gave him today about myself. He asked very personal questions and I explained all of my stress "issues" So we will see.
I don't recommend the HPT before a blood test, it's only a MIND X%@#. A huge roller coaster ride. If she can stay away that would be a great thing. Does she live near you, how does that work. Is she married? Did you see the movie Babies Mama? It looks funny. Ok its about 12am and I'm watching Saturday Night Live, not sure what I'm still doing up, Never up this late......Maybe it was from the acupuncture???? Have a good weekend and I'll talk to you soon......Come on November 6th..
DEVISTATED--Hey girl...Acupuncture sounds like a lot of fun. What have you read about it??? How is it suppose to help with the IVF process. Maybe it is something I should also look into. I was so sad to hear about your sister. I had no idea. How is she doing?? I know how she feels, b/c that is what it was like for us. I did not realize that you also miscarried last Halloween. I am sorry to hear that, maybe you told me before, but I did not remember. Wow, what a roller coaster our lives have been since we started all this fertility stuff. So, you live on 4 acres, how awesome. I wish we had acrerage b/c we live in a subdivision, which is great for the kids, but not so great for me. Everyone in this place has their individual clicks and me and my husband don't fit in. For one, my husband and me are faithful to each other and most of the subdivision's wives, husbands have cheated on them or are still cheating. I am just not into the whole click thing. If you don't like me, I simply don't give a ****!!! Well enough babbling, my daughter is having surgery on Tuesday and I am doing fine now, but I know it will be a long night tomorrow night. Keep us in your prayers, I know you will, and let me know all about the acupuncture thing next chat. Talk at you soon!!
Hey girls! Sassy thanks for welcoming me. It has been so nice being here. I am pretty much an open book. So i will be happy to answer anything you want to know. I cant tell you how much i love my surrogate. She is a cute girl from San Diego, California. I am from Charleston, SC. I was using a fertility doctor here in Charleston. They use egg donors at my fertility clinic in charleston, but they dont even provide a picture of the girl. They match you themselves. I understand why they do this, but if i am going to have a child i want to know and see the donor for myself. That is why i went with a friend of mine. She looked very similar to me... fair skin, blonde hair and green eyes, but unfortunately she had high fsh as well. We were doing the transfer in June. It was cancelled. The fertility clinic then provided me with websites of other reputable donors. At these donor sites, they also provide surrogates. My husband and i went thru about 300 blonde girls to narrow our choices down to who we thought looked the most like me. Actually my entire family was involved (my parents and siblings). We are all very close and work together and live only minutes apart. The agency did the same with surrogates. They gave me a list of surrogates and all their information. They provide pictures of them, tell about their insurance, their type of work, etc. My first surrogate that backed out (never happens) was married with 4 kids and had a masters degree. My surrogate now is not married, but been dating the same guy for almost 2 years. He is in the military. She works part time as a waitress and has a 1.5 year old. It is very important that the surrogate and the donor are not the same to better protect yourself. Also, I decided on California due to them having better laws. I will automatically be put on the birth certificate. If you decided to do it in another state, make sure that you will be put on the birth certificate and not have to adopt. Thru this agency you are provided an attorney. The surrogate and her spouse/partner are tested for stds and they do all the medical neccessary to make sure they are good candidates. I used conceptual options for my agency. www.conceptualoptions.com. There are many others.. Thru this agency they provided the best ivf clinic in the area. they set up all the appts for me. To be honest, all i do is pay the bills, and sign paperwork. I think it has been a wonderful thing for us. I did see Baby's Mamma... omg.. for me.. its not like that.. LOL! Thank God!
You said you were having trouble with implanting your embies.... have you tried assisted hatching? They say sometimes that the implanting has to do with the blastocyst being able to break thru. I believe it is called the Zona? or something similar. With frozen embies it is highly recommeded to do assisted hatching. They also say that day three embies are usually in the tubes, and day 5 the embies are use to being in the uterus. Thats why day 5 is better, but as i said before.. go with what your clinic is known best for. I had a very successful, young, and healthy donor. She started out with 30+eggs, wouldnt release until two days later - lost down to 24. Out of 24, 21 were good. 20 fertilized, and 17 grew overnight. 3 were implanted on day 4 (due to the two day release we didnt wait to day 5 and werent able to do the PGD) with the 14 that were left only 3 made it to day 5 blastocysts. It is just that normally 3/4 of our eggs arent good. I decided to do a surrogate also because of miscarriages. With a young donor - miscarriage happens 10-20% and increases dramtically with age. I think ...dont quote me, but it is as high as 50% end in miscarriage for 38 and above. I will have to go back and look for the results or ask the doctor for the exact age. I am now currently in the 2ww.. with our results on Nov 6. I still wont feel easy until i get past the first trimester. I miscarried myself at 11+ weeks when i was 24 or 25? (first marriage) Then there are some women that have it easy... like my best friend. ( 37 not married ,but dating the same guy for over 4 years, and taking birth control on and off because she cant decide if she wants a baby or not) and gets pregnant. UGGGGG! But i love and adore her and am so happy for her. Sometimes it just doesnt seem fair, but i just look at the good in things, and try to laugh thru the pain. You have to make light of it... Jeff and i are usually in the waiting room laughing. Talking about each man going in to "Rub one Out". Timing them, timing ourselves,and looking how hot and flushed the men's faces are. The last time he went in.. I announced in front of everyone.. "TO make Momma proud!" Its going to happen - just dont know when. I was so upset with the failed adoptions, and the times i wasnt chosen, but now i look back and think.. Thank you God for looking after me. I was in the process of signing an agreement to adopt a child, that was going to be due several months later. I had known that the mother was on methadone, but did my research.Only short term withdrawls problems- not long term. Then, I got a call that another woman was in labor and to fly to florida immediately. This adoption was a scam (i think), but that extra time... I found out the child i was going to adopt (the previous one) the mother had come up with MRSA, and then hep c. This all being new to me - thought that all of this was tested before. NOPE! I had to request this additional information - and more test had to be made. Then i asked for some of the medical reports, and read that she had also 20+ puncture wounds (from drugs) when the mother came to them to place her child up for adoption. I dont want people to think that Im saying all adoptions arent good. There are many successful adoptions, and wonderful agencies out there. Be careful. I went with this one by suggestion of a friend. For each person there is a better path for them. This i believe is the best path for me.
Devestated, I am so sorry to hear about your sister losing her baby - that is awful, and i understand about the holiday thing and miscarriage. I lost mine the day after xmas. It is still hard for me sometimes.
My surrogate had her first appt on Saturday and loved it. She said she felt so relaxed. I am just jealous, because i need to do it myself, and havent found the time to have it done. I will write forever.. Please both of you.. Devestated and sassygirl.... keep me updated on what all you are doing. I wish you happiness and success with babies.
Allie
Sheeze, What a journey you've been through Allie. OMG I always say how strong the women are on this forum, you've just proved me right.....I'm sure you are crawling out of your skin with excitement for Thursday, I will be thinking of you all week. Hang in there....I never realized how the adoption process worked....Scary. I"ll check in on you soon. Linda
Erica-- Hey, acupuncture is supposed to relax your uterus and make your blood flow easier to where it needs to be. It was explained to me like this. (IVF) Your uterus is a muscle (like a neck muscle) and when you are tense or stressed so are your muscles. And your uterus should always be soft and relaxed. So when you are freaked out during and after a transfer your uterus is tense and that is not good to welcome a baby. The acupuncturist said that the only time your uterus should be in action is when you are in labor. Does that make sense to you? Acupuncture will relax you, (this S h i t is for real)
Another words If I am calm during this cycle I have a better chance, I read that without acupuncture the percentage is like 23% chance of getting pregnant and with Acupuncture it is like 43%. (don't quote me on the numbers, but I'm close) My acupuncturist also told me that I won't feel so obsessed after the transfer. (if that's true, I'll marry him) Could you imagine NOT being a basket case during the 2WW. You should check it out, I of course googled it and I read all good things about it......I swear if we lived in the same neighborhood we would be the best of friends. We are just like you and your husband, that is one of the reasons we moved on 4 acres. (so we didn't have to deal with any neighbors) We used to live in a neighborhood and my brother lived in phase one, we were in phase two, but I hated it, I loved my house (we had it built brand new) but hated the people. We didn't even talk to our next door neighbors. They were young like us and had a little girl, but we never talked, for 5 years......I will confess I did talk to the ones on the other side of me, they were also young and had two children, They are the only people I could stand. A lot of drama all around us. So we are definitely not neighborhood people. I absolutely love being by ourselves. (with all of the deer, ground hogs (hoochie mama's),crickets and daddy long leggers) I can't forget the stray cats, they are all so cute.....My dogs don't like any of them, they only like chickens. (they live across the street) Well I gotta go, I'm setting my hair in rollers. (how 80's) don't know why just in the mood. Talk to you soon. Linda P.S. I'll check in on you, write if you need to talk. Good Luck on Tuesday...
wow, I am a basket case and after reading your postings I feel so normal. And a bit at peace with my fate. You are all very brave and I want to believe that one day one of the many IVF cycles i have been through will work.
I had my last cycle 2WW ago and I missed my blood pregancy test on purpose because i am scared to death, not to mention stressed out of my mind. I know i cant avoid my doctor for ever I even stop taking the progesterone, in anticipation for the disapointment.
Ann
the surrogate went to the doctor for a blood test today, and it was positive; however, the levels are low. HE wanted 40 and it was only 10. She has to go back on Friday for another blood test. Im a bit bummed, but i guess the timing was just not right. Anne, dont stop taking your progesterone,,,, give that embryo every fighting chance you can. IF it didnt work out - just keep on trying. I know it is frustrating, but good things come to those that wait.
EWWWWW, sorry about the low number. I'm sure I don't have to tell you that there is still a chance!!!!!!! Right? I thought her appointment was Nov 6th, did she go a day early? I will keep my fingers crossed.
Erica, (sassygirl) I hope all is well at your home. The surgery should be over by now....Thinking about you. Linda
lotsoffaith----don't give up!!!! When are you gonna test? Don't stop your shots until you get a negative. Did you HPT???? Please keep us posted. (By the way Welcome : )
Hello everyone. Well we got our bad news on Friday. Her levels dropped from 10 to 2. She is no longer pregnant.. considered a chemical pregnancy. We are talking to the doctor this Friday to find out what is our next plan. I hope all of you are doing well. keep me posted.
Allie
HI strangers, I hope all is well around the way. I just wanted to check in and let you all know whats going on with me. I had an egg retrieval yesterday, they took 10 eggs. As of today 7 fertilized. I'm trying to stay positive. I'll know tomorrow if I'm gonna have a 3 or 5 day transfer. I think I'm gonna have a three day so it will be on Thursday. Let the 2ww begin.........Again, I hope everyone is well and keep in touch. Linda
Hello!
How did the transfer go? I know the 2ww is hard but take that time to take care of you! How many did you transfer? I am so excited for you. Remember, don't read into symptoms or lack of them, just keep having faith and stay positive! Make sure to stay hydrated and rest as often as you can. I am going to keep checking back for your update!
I have been checking in occasionally and it seems everyone is very busy! I hope you all are doing well and I still think about you and pray for you all the time.
Hi, Just thought I'd check in and let you all know whats going on in my world. I had my 3 day transfer on Thursday 20-Nov. I had 3 put back. (zero to freeze) I test on Dec 1st. I had a good transfer everything went perfect. I had acupuncture right before the transfer and right after. The one before was the hardest thing ever. I had a full bladder and I had to pee so bad, I stopped the treatment 11 minutes into it. (and I went a little before he put the needles in) My acupuncturist put the needles back in for 10 more minutes before my transfer because we had the time. I swear holding your pee with needles in you is to hard for me. I couldn't relax or concentrate. I think it defeated the whole purpose. But the most important thing was the transfer. After the transfer and after I went to the bathroom I did another acupuncture treatment and I could relax and concentrate. Well worth it. My acupuncturist says my RE asks to much with the amount of water to drink and the amount of time. (empty bladder 2 hr. before transfer and drink 1.5 liters and stop 1 hr. before transfer) Enough about me, I hope everyone is well. I think about all of you often. Keep in touch, Don't leave a girl alone on her 2ww.....Linda
That is great news. I will keep checking in on you. So, you had to have a full bladder before the transfer? Then do they cath you or something? For me, they had me fully empty my bladder and then after the transfer I couldn't move for an hour. They transferred me from the table to the recovery bed and told me I had to lay flat and not move. My husband laughed at me because I said to him, "now what am I going to do for an hour"...and then I was out cold for the whole time. After that they prescribe bed rest for the day and then pelvic rest until the blood test. Anyway, take care of yourself!!!!
YA! I am so excited for you! Only a week to go and you will hear great news I am sure. My RE had me keep a full bladder as well and I found that to be just awful, but you had a REALLY full bladder. Overkill maybe, but we will do what ever they say, huh?! Then I was only asked to sit for 15 minutes and then "take it easy" for three days, but no bed rest. Three transfered is exciting, it really increases the chances for success. I also had 3 transfered and long story, but at the last minute, literally, there was a miscommunication and only two eggs were hatched and I had to advocate for my situation and have the third hatched and now here I am pregnant with one and I cannot help but believe that I am pregnant with the one that was hatched at the last minute. Anyway, keep positive. I know how long the wait is.
As for me things are going well. I was 11 weeks on Thursday. I was in a minor car accident halloween and experienced bleeding the next day. They think it is unrelated, but they discovered that I have a very small hemitomia (20-30% of women get them in the 1st trimester). I have had two other stretches of bleeding since then and they said that I should expect it to continue for at least 14 weeks. Although I know that it is going to happen it is very unnerving when it does. But every ultrasound has shown a very strong heartbeat and a perfectly sized baby. We have the 12 week checkup and heartbeat on the 1st, so that is a big day for us too. If all is well on the 1st I will rest me head and start really enjoying the fact that I am pregnant. I will be thinking of you that day and hopefully it will be a wonderful day for us both!
Hello!
Only a few more days to go, how are feeling? I hope Thanksgiving is keeping you too busy to think about it. I got some exciting news today. We went in for the nuchal translucency test and everything looks great! All the measurements were well within the normal range and they told us we are having a boy!!! I wasn't expecting to find out until the end of December, an early Christmas present. I am still in shock a little bit.
I am sending you blessings on Thanksgiving and hope you are doing well.
You test on the first right?
Happy Holidays. I cant' sleep, so I'm up watching the pre-parade, Husband and dogs are still sleeping.
Stilltrying502- It was nice to hear from you. Congrats on your 11 weeks, I'm glad you are feeling good. The first is a big day for both of us, keep me posted.
mb789- HI, I didn't think I'd hear from anyone today, (Holiday), I was glad to hear from you. I am feeling OK, I did acupuncture last night and I feel calmer. I want to HPT so bad. I still have one in my closet from a few times ago. I had some period like cramps for about 5 minutes last night then nothing, weird. Today I woke up and my boobs hurt, not a constant hurt, just while I was laying there. Who knows? My progesterone levels were good, I don't remember the number she told me, but the doc said stick with my plan, I do 2 tablet inserts 3xms a day. (progesterone) That is the most I've ever done. That's probably why my boobs are starting to hurt. Monday is right around the corner, thanks for checking in on me. Have a great Holiday....Linda
CONGRATULATIONS on your baby BOY. So far all of my cyber friends are having boys. What a great early Christmas present. I'm sure you are relieved that your measurements are all normal......I'm very happy for you. I love hearing every one's journeys. Gives me a heads up for when I start mine. I know who to talk to when it's my turn. Again congrats on your little baby boy.....Now you have to think of names and a theme for a nursery.....Yea!!!!!!
HI ladies, I just wanted to give an update. On Friday day 8 past 3 day transfer, I did a HPT and it was negative. I was upset but oddly not too upset. I also saw a little brownish color in the discharge of my progesterone. Oddly still not that upset cause it only was one time, then clear progesterone discharge. No period cramping (which would be happening by now for sure) Now I will bring you to this very moment. I woke up this morning and the discharge was brownish/salmon color again. Also when I wiped. Now I'm starting to freak. I went pee several other times this morning (more than usual) and everything was clear, it is not 12:00 and I see pink on the tissue when I wipe. I have no cramps which is the only thing that I'm holding on to. I have been googling all morning, and I'm hoping the color is from irritation from the inserts. ( I do 2, 3xms a day) Any advice will be greatly appreciated, I have one day to get through. (I test tomorrow)
The salmon discharge is totally normal from the progesterone suppositories. Definitely tell your doctor tomorrow because you don't want to get an infection. Best thing to do ( this is going to sound gross) is to go up in there and take out any of the suspension gel that is in there. Your body can only absorb the progesterone, not the suspension that it is housed in. That is the gobules that come out periodically when you wipe. The clear discharge is your body trying to prevent the infection from happening by creating the discharge in hopes to get out the foreign bodies in your cervix.
On another note, I can't believe you broke down and tested, you know better than that! :)
Make sure you take it easy today, watch some of the cheesy Christmas movies and relax. Only one more day!! I will say extra prayers for you tonight.
mb789- Thank you for the comforting thoughts. I did my afternoon inserts and there is blood on the stick when I take them out. A lot more than earlier. I am praying hard that you are right. I feel hopeful still, I guess cause there is no cramps. (or other period symptoms) All of my previous attempts I saw blood on the insert sticks around the day of or the day before my test, so that is also on my mind but I always had bad period cramps with it. UGGGGGGG!!!! There is nothing I can do about it but just wait. Thanks again and I'll keep you posted.
Sorry you are experiencing such stress. This process really does suck. I also started spotting at 8dpt, 3dt, and called so that my Dr. would let me come for an early test, since I was sure I wasn't pregnant. But I also had killer cramps so I was sure all hope was gone. I wanted to test early so that I could start taking Aleive with a clear head. Anyway, as it turned out I was pregnant, so my point is don't give up hope! It is so strange how you body can react to this whole process. I will continue to pray for you and hope that tomorrow is a great day!
Good Morning, I am about to go off and vent, I need to do it here because I can't do it at work. I am really angry, I can't even cry. I don't know what I was thinking about when I kept the hope up. I realized that I probably don't have cramps this time because of the acupuncture. What a smack in the face. I woke up this morning with more blood/? in the discharge of my progesterone. MB I know you said it could be the start of an infection but right now I have zero hopes for that (only in a perfect world). I am still gonna go for my blood test, why not give the co-pay to find out that I have yet ANOTHER failure. I have been thinking to myself all night that I might take a break if the RE says it's ok. I can't do this again. It will be attempt no. 5 of IVF. I only have one shot left covered by insurance and I'm scared to death of that. I guess I'm just afraid it will become real after that. Well, I could go on for days and days if anyone will listen but I have to go to work and try and keep it together. Thanks for listening. Linda
I am so, so sorry! Don't blame yourself for staying positive. If we didn't have hope we wouldn't keep trying. We have to have hope. I totally understand your desire to take a break and you deserve one if that is going to help keep your head together. I wish I could think of something to say that would make you feel even a little better. Just know that I completely understand what you are going through and if you want to keep venting I am here to keep listening!
Hi, I just got home from work. I AM pregnant. I told the nurse today about the blood/? in the discharge and she said that was normal, it could mean irritation (mb you are so smart) or late implantation. Today is 11 dpt and my beta is 25. I was concerned on the 25 and the nurse said everything is OK they just need to double by Wed. She also said my progesterone levels were good. (don't remember the number) I am still in shock and I found a whole new thing to be scared about and that is called BETA NUMBERS. I want to say that I appreciate the positive thoughts. Please keep them going for me. (and I never stopped with all of you) I pray every night and ask God to answer all of our prayers and to keep us strong. Thanks again and I'll keep you posted. Linda
OMG!!!!!!!!!!! That is soooo wonderful!! You made my day, I have been afraid to look all day and I just can't tell you how happy I am for you and your family! WOW. This is just a huge reminder to never give up hope. 25 isn't a bad number at all. If its under 50 they want to check you after 48 hours just in case but more likely than not everything is just perfect! So, if you thought the 2ww was long, get ready for the period of now until your first ultrasound, and then the next.... Have you stopped crying yet? Congratulations sweetie, you deserve all the happiness in the world! I promise not to stop praying for you ( or any of you others) and please check back in on Wednesday. So happy for you.
AHHHHHH! CONGRATULATIONS! That is the best new I have heard in a while. I just read your post, and honestly my eyes filled up. I just feel so happy for you and your husband. I will pray really hard that your numbers double, although I am positive they will! I knew it was going to be a good day for you! You must be on cloud nine! Where were you when you got the call from the nurse? I want all the details.
HI, I just got my levels and they went from 25 to 31. Not good and I am bleeding heavier. I am so disappointed right now I could, I don't know what. I don't know what to do now. This is my third loss how do you get over something like this? I feel so sad beyond sad. Thanks for all of your thoughts and prayers. Linda
I am so sorry. I don't know what I could possibly say to make things better for you. Just know that you are in my thoughts and prayers. I know there are tests for women that have had multiple miscarriages. Sometimes it can be attributed to a clotting disorder or other reasons. I would have your doctor check into everything before you try again. And when you feel strong enough to do that we will all be right here for you. Take care of yourself and make sure you let others take care of you too. It is easy to want to take this on yourself right now but make sure you let those that love you in.
I couldn't be more sorry to hear your news. No one deserves to go through this, but especially someone who has already been down such a long road. Try the best you can to keep your head up and I will keep you in my prayers.
Dear all
I'm new to ths list and I'm new in the us. I thank you all for the help, information and suport you give in this web site.
I'm 41 years and I'm european. I tried 1st IVF in september. It failed.
I have no infertility problem except for the age which is really important.
I started in NY my second IVF in November and I did my transfer on friday. I feel good without cramps just really weak and I think it's consequence of progesterone injections. I had transfered 3 embryos (one BL).
What other side effects did you have other than cramps?
I'm always optmistic and I will never give up to our dream to have a baby and I trust in NY doctors.
Welcome! Congratulations on your successful transfer! I know the 2 week wait is really long, but you are in the right place for support. The progesterone made me feel very tired too. I was surprised at how much it effected me. I also felt sick once I moved from the shots to suppositories. With any luck that feeling of weakness will pass quickly for you. Best of luck and keep us posted.
I just wanted to wish each of you a Merry Christmas and Happy Holiday season. I pray that you all have your prayers answered in the new year. I keep checking back to see how everyone is and it seems no one has been writing much lately. Please know I still keep you all in my prayers.
To ddddd67 : Any news yet? I just saw your post and it seems your 2ww is up or almost up. I have my fingers crossed for you!
Hi, I would also like to wish all of you a wonderful Holiday and I will be posting again soon.
MB--you are a beautiful person. Thank you for being there for me through my tough times. Enjoy your Christmas...Talk to you later.
(I go to my Re on Friday to see what is next for me. I'm trying to stay positive and strong.)
You are so sweet, you made me cry. Unfortunately I do, to some extent, know what you are going through and I promise I will be here for you if you need me.
How are you feeling? I know there are good days and bad, I hope you are having more good days than bad now.
Please let me know what your RE says on Friday, I really hope he has some answers for you.
Hi, I posted yesterday but I guess it didn't take. Friday, Friday, FRIDAY. It was like talking to a Politician. To make a long story short. He is sticking with there is nothing wrong with me and he is confident that I will have a successful pregnancy. He says that I got pregnant all three was you can. Naturally, IUI and IVF. I asked him if we needed to go back inside me and take a look around to see if Something could be wrong and he said he did all of the tests on me he could do and all are fine. He is going to do a FHS blood test on me monthly now and he said he would run some more blood tests on me. We are going to start when my numbers drop to zero and I get a regular period. (MY numbers went from 25 two days later 31 two days later 28 five days later 19 seven days later 14) He says its a little slow but he is not worried. I go back New Years Eve, so I hope my numbers are zero... I just want this to be over with. I think my RE is just a frustrated with me as I am with him, meaning he has no answers and I want to know why. He also suggested I lose weight. I was floored. If weight was an issue why is it a big deal now, why didn't he tell me this BS in the beginning. I know I could drop a few lbs in the trunk and other places but I'm no cow......My husband thinks he is out of things to tell me so he played the weight card.......Don't get me wrong, I know weight plays a part of infertility but I find it weird that now all of the sudden he brings it up, I've been with him for 2.5 years.....Never have we discussed weight. I was feeling some kind of way. Oh yea, he FINALLY put me on prenatal vitamins...YEAAAAAA, I was very happy with that. He was fine with me taking a multi-vitamin all of this time. I am very pleased with the prenatal. So there it is. Sorry so long. Bottom line I will fight like hell to have a baby, so I'm not giving up. This will be my last IVF (insurance) and then back to IUI's.
I've been feeling weird lately. one day fine, one day out of the blue not fine. I cry a lot and I've been a major B. Thanks for checking in on me, I'll be back after the Holidays. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year....Next year has to be better that 2008...Linda
Merry Christmas!
Well, it is frustrating that are aren't any solid answers but it is also reassuring that your RE still wants to try again. I am glad you are finally on prenatals, a little surprised that you weren't before too. My doc prescribed PreNate prenatals, they are great because they also have the omega that you need along with a hint of vanilla to make sure none of the nasty fishy taste comes back up to haunt you and a light stool softener so you don't get constipated, very nice! Does he have you taking baby asprin? If not, talk to him about that and find out why not. It is so good for your lining!
How irritating about the weight thing. It makes you feel like he is grasping at straws. I decided to loose weight a few months before we started the IVF process. I was about 150 ( a little pudgy but by no means huge) and I lost 20 pounds in no time. It seriously was the easiest thing I have ever done and the best! I deiced to just eat healthy and right although my one rule was not to deprive myself of chocolate! I went on the LOW GI diet (glycemic index), which is just a way of eating to control your blood sugar and letting your body work for you instead of against you. I have a bunch of books I can get out and give you the names if you're interested. Basically you eat anything you want as long as it falls in the the low to medium range. I stuck with all low so I could add in my chocolate once a day. Anyway, something to think about. While pregnant, I haven't been as good at sticking to it, but not too far off because otherwise I just don't feel good.
I remember hating the good days because you almost felt guilty for not being too sad that day. Although it doesn't make sense and it hurts like hell, this roller coaster ride has a purpose and at the end we will see what it was. I am sorry you are still having bad days and don't beat yourself up for them or for being a B, you have earned the right to those feelings!
I keep you in my prayers and I look forward to hearing about your appointment on new years eve. We also have an appointment on the same day. We haven't seen our guy since Dec 2nd and it feels like an eternity has passed!
Hello.
I was just wondering how your appointment went.
Ours went well. We heard his heartbeat and everything is right on track. We didn't get an ultrasound which I was kind of bummed about. I have to make an appointment on Monday for a 20 week one. The place that does them ( same place as the nuchal translucency test) is really cool, they give you a CD of the whole thing and it is way more advanced than the ones at the doctors office. So I guess I wait 2 more weeks.
Hope everything went well with you, I'm here if you want to talk!
Hi, Heartbeat wow That has to be the coolest thing in the world. Before you know it you will be holding your baby in your arms. What is your due date?
As for me, I got AF this morning, so let the games begin. I've been exercising the best I can and trying to eat better. I was kind of off track with the holidays. I went New Years Eve for blood work and my levels were zero. (I was secretly hoping I was pregnant because I was late and I thought I felt when I ovulated two weeks ago and we had sex every other day during that time period) Believe it or not, I cried because my numbers were zero. It was definite that I wasn't pregnant and the whole Bio was over. Don't get me wrong I wanted the Bio to be over and prayed for a zero number. I can't explain why I cried. I just did.
Thank's for checking in on me and we'll keep in touch.
OH yea if it's not to much trouble, I would love the names of the books your were talking about in your earlier post.
It has been a rather long time since I posted I know. I have really been trying to enjoy the holidays and detox from the frustration of not being pregnant for the new year. I know that some of you have been going through a lot lately and I am very sorry to have not been blogging and supporting all of you. I hope you all know that you have never been far from my thoughts and prayers. I see that some have had great news and some are still battling the fertility war. I hope that I have not offended anyone and I hope that you all understand why I have been absent. I did some counseling in the hopes that I could better handle the process in the future, we will see how it helps.....I also had my surgery and everything that could have went wrong did. I had a bad, bad reaction to the anethesia and was admitted overnight, but good news is they found scar tissue (which they burned out) and some infection which was treated by antibiotics, my RE thinks these could have played a role in my unsuccess at IVF. I have also looked into acupuncture and will be starting this week on that rode.
Devistated--Wow what a lot you have been through lately. How are you holding up my friend?? I was sorry to hear of your news, but tickled to see that you are not giving up. You are one tough cookie and I just know that you will end up wining this battle sooner rather then later. I am sorry that I was not around to offer support, I just hit rock bottom and had to take a break. I thought I was stronger then it was, but in the end it beat me up pretty bad. I am feeling stronger and more confident and hope to be battling on the battle grounds with you soon. I will chat soon and hope your new year will be a year of new beginnings and blessings.
How is everyone else doing these days???
Happy New Year to all and look forward to chatting soon!!!
I went back home for Christmas so I couldn't update you about my results and today I read every your message.
After my IVF the test was positive with 113 hcg and a week later 900 hcg. We are very happy. Then we left and we came back just yesterday.
yesterday I went for my ultrasound and we saw the heartbeat. The doctor said the level was little bit slow and he will do another ultrasound next week. The level is 103. yesterday I was really concerned about that news. I do not know what should be the exact level in my situation.I had the retrival on November the 30th so today I should be to 5w and 4 days. Is it right the count of my weeks? What should be the correct heart rate in my situation? What was your experience?
About all of you I thank you for all advices you give day by day. You are my best counselor and your experience are really important for all of us.
God bless all of you and I hope the new year will realize our dreams
DEVISTATED:
HI!!!!
I am glad that your numbers went to zero and now you can try again. Of coarse you are going to cry though! It was closure to yet another cycle and if you didn't cry you wouldn't have been being real with yourself.
We just got back from a short, yet needed vacation so I will look into finding those books right away. In the mean time you can find a ton of info online. One site I really thought was good as far as giving you the foods you can eat ( green being good, yellow being OK and red being bad for you) was...
http://www.gilisting.com/low-gi-food-list/2006/07/gi-of-snacks.html
This one has recipes on it although I can't say I ever made anything from it, it may give you ideas...http://www.the-gi-diet.org/recipes/
We go for our ultrasound a week from today, I can not wait! I am due June 6th, very happy about the timing. We live in Phoenix so the what a perfect time of year to be locked in the house with a newborn! I will look for the books in the next few days and send you the titles.
ddddd67: First of all, congratulations! That is wonderful news. I'm not sure what you mean about your level being 103. Is that the Hcg level or the heartbeat? There are so many different things about the heartrate at 7 weeks, I have read anywhere from 90-110 and also 120-180 with 143 being the average ( ours was 170 at 7 weeks). I would call your doctor and clarify this with him and see if he can have you come in later this week for your peace of mind. He should definitely understand and let you. The last thing you need right now is to have any added stress, it is so important to relax and take care of that baby. Also, if you had your retrieval on Nov. 30th, that would make you 7 weeks, 3 days. There is a website that you can just plug in your retrieval date and it will tell you how far along you are and other important mile stones...http://www.ivf.ca/duedate.php . I hope this helps and I will keep you in my prayers that everything is healthy and wonderful with you and your little one.
sasygirl: Welcome back! I am glad to hear you are alright from the surgery. That must have been scary. Hopefully the scar tissue being removed will be the trick. Isn't that something he should have checked for/seen before the IVF treatments started? What was the reaon for your surgery?
I think it is great that you are seeing a counselor. I think that is a very healthy way to deal with this whole thing. I have heard the acupunture is a great stress reliever, if for no other reason to do it. I did a lot of reading on it and found a lot of information on reflexology as well. I opted for the reflexology because in my opinion one can never have enough massages! I loved it, I only went once before the retrieval and had to cancel my other appointments. Unlike acupuncture your RE doesn't want you to have any kind of massage too close to retrieval or after becuase of the latic acid it can release. But I really found it to be so relaxing and amazing how the reflexologist can pinpoint your points of stress by your hands and feet. She focused a lot on my reproductive tract and improving the flow. I wish you all the best when you start trying again and just know that we are all here whenever you need us, and no matter how long you need away!
Hi ladies,
ddddd67 Congrats, I hope all works out with your babies heart beat, unfortunately I don't know much about that but I'm sure there is loads of info out there on the net. MB also gives great info and advice......Good luck
MB---Thanks for the websites that should help me out, I start my stims on Jan 23 and I am on the pill until Jan17. We'll see, I'm still doing acupuncture twice a week and that really helps with everything even the depression. I hope you enjoyed your mini vacation. I've been trying to get the husband to do something like that but there is always something going on. I would love for once to do nothing. June is a beautiful month in NJ but I understand why you want to be locked inside with a newborn HOT HOT HOT huh. I hope you are feeling well and I'll check back with you later. Linda
oh yea, I thought you should know I think Acupunture Rocks, LOOOOOOVE it. I swear It really does increase your chances........Really.
Sassygirl----Oh my, I've missed you. It was so nice to hear from you. I've been thinking about you. I'm glad you had the surgery and now you can start over again. Are you doing a Feb cycle? If so we can do it together. I'll probably be around the first week of Feb for the transfer....I could write for hours about what I'm feeling, but I know you get the picture. right now I'm trying to find some excitement inside of me to start a new cycle. I usually do get excited but after the last Bio chemical pregnancy, I'm all out of feelings. Who knows maybe I'll get excited closer to Feb...I'm sure glad you are back. Can't wait to hear from you again. Linda
Mb sorry for the acupuncture comment, that is for Sassygirl, it was supposed to be at the end of her paragraph. My computer sometimes jumps when I'm typing.....UGGG.
You are so funny. I only chose reflexology because I massages and am not fond of needles ( at least i wasn't, now they don't phase me at all!) I am so glad that you love acupuncture. I know people who swear by it. I am so excited for you to start the next cycle, please keep me posted with how you are doing and I will keep you in my prayers!
Good luck for all your steps and I had the same your experience so I can understand how you felt. You are really strong and your dream will became true.
MB789--Thank you for the welcome back. I have really missed chatting up the emotions with you gals. How are you doing these days??? I think that the doc should have ordered me to have this test done after three tries. He did all the blood work ups and sonihystergrams (2 of those), everything showed normal, and after the last failed cycle he said the only test I had not had was the one where they go in with a camera to take a look in the uterus. That's when he and my new OB found scar tissue and a small inflammation. They also did another D/C to make sure they cleaned me out. I then had to do some strong, horrible tasting antibiotics. I am hopeful to get pregnant this round. The counseling has been wonderful and mainly it is just a big pity party, but it is always a good one...the acupuncture is new, since devistated mentioned it I did some research and said what the heck, can't hurt. It was the most relaxing thing I have done for myself in a very long time. Reflexology sounds awesome to, who doesn't love a good massage??? Well chat again soon and let me know how you are!!!
Devistated---What up girly!!! I have missed chatting with you also. I don't know if this will help excite you, but pending on when the lupron kicks in, I should be doing a Feb cycle, sometime possibly around the first week. I am so excited to hear that for you and hopefully we can stress together and get pregnant together. I took your insight on acupuncture to heart and gave it my first shot today....LOVED IT!! I was so freaking relaxed, even though he said I was way stressed out. I know you did it right before your last transfer, but did you also go right after your transfer?? He said I should to make sure everything sticks?? Kinda makes sense since it is so relaxing, what do you think?? Well, how is the family?? How was your Christmas and New Year?? I have so missed chatting so I am trying to play catch up. Can't wait to hear from you
Have missed all you guys, keep in touch, and prayers your way!!!
First of all CONGRAGULATIONS!! I use to post back in Nov some, but took a much need break to gather myself after 4 failed cycles. I am so happy for you and whatever you do don't stress over anything right now. I have heard and read about women who thought b/c they did not have a heatbeat at 5 weeks they had miscarried, but in reality it was just to early for the little one to be rocking. I don't think you have a thing to worry about, your baby it just fine and wow how excited you must be right now. Is this your first?? I am so happy for you and hopefully in time I can be in the same boat you are. The only thing you need to worry about now is absolutely nothing!! I don't know if this helps any, but don't worry, you have the fertility battle won, you are healthy and pregnant!! Good luck and lots of prayers your way!!!!
Sassygirl, Yea first week, I figure me too. (for transfer) I'm so happy you came back. How are your children? Are you doing a frozen cycle? I know you have lots of frosties....I did acupuncture right before my transfer (it was the hardest thing ever to do it with a full bladder) and right after my transfer. (after I went pee of course) I did it 3xms a week leading up to the transfer week and I don't have to tell you how wonderful it is. I did not stop doing it when I had my Bio chemical and now I moved it to twice a week before this transfer. I believe with all my heart that it helped me last time (get a positive). I'm glad you are doing it. So me and you have plans for the first week of Feb and the 2ww after that......Sounds great. I'm glad we are doing this together. Talk to you later, Linda
MB---Hello lady. Just checking in on you.
ddddd67--What day next week to you go for an ultrasound? I hope it's early in the week. Do you travel to NY for your appointments? Where do you live? (just tell me to mind my own business if to many questions)
Talk to you soon, Linda
Had IVF-ICSI (1 good, 5day blastocyte) on a Thursay at 4pm. Then, period-like cramping at 4pm on Sunday. Continued bloating, sensitive nipples, rash on skin and face, tired until Wednesday really felt like "this was happening", very positive!. Thursday, everything "went down". Saturday bloating, rash gone. Sunday, dark-brown spotting. Took pregnancy test in afternoon. Negative. Went to clinic next day, very Negative. All I can say is I do not understand how my clinic did not explain AT ALL what I might go through. Horrible realizing that something was going on with all kinds of signals both positive and negative and I had no idea what they meant (although I think deep down we do!). Have changed clinics and begin with new one on 19th. I'm an info person and (project manager professionally) and I need info about scenarios otherwise I SUFFER! It is a crime for these centers not to spend 10 additional minutes to give you scenario info and have a hot-line for questions. I was TERRIFIED of my cramps on Sunday and found out through internet that they were probably the "implantation". Also people have low progesterone ... I ask myself how my clinic didn't check this every couple of days ... my clinic, by the way was IVI Barcelona (Spain) and all this took place last Nov-Dec. 2008. My husband and I are now going to the US for the next "cycle".
Hi, I'm very sorry you went through that kind of hell. Was it your first time? I can only speak for myself and I can only tell you that everyone responds different to all of the crazy *** medication we take. The s h i t t y thing about all of your symptoms is that they could be the same with a positive outcome. The medication you take makes you feel pregnant even when you not. So it's a terrible thing to go through. Sometimes there is a positive outcome, you just can't lose faith. Your clinic should have checked your progesterone at least 5 days after your transfer. That's most common in my part of the world. But good progesterone doesn't mean you are pregnant!!!!!!! You still have to wait. I've been pregnant 3 times and every time was different. (I lost all three pregnancies) The last time in Dec I started to bleed the day before my blood test and I swore It was my period, but I was in fact pregnant, so you never know. It is a horrible thing to go through and if you do it repeatedly like some of us on this page,,,,,you learn to have hope all over again month after month. I hope I helped you in some way. If you have any questions just ask. Linda
Hey lady, what is going on with you today?? I am detoxing from a long weekend. My little girl turned 7 on Sunday and we had a bowling party for her. I invited around 18 kids thinking, it's Sunday, and usually only half show up.....well shame on me for thinking that, b/c 15 kids showed and then some of their little brothers and sisters stuck around. My daughter had a blast, but me I was wound up like a screw. I was trying to keep track of all those kids plus my own, what a day. Saturday night was our yearly outing to the Monster Jam Truck Show, I so love being in my own element, with all the other Rednecks in Georgia. It was so much fun!! How was your weekend? Are you feeling better now?? I was worried about you this weekend, but excited to be going through a cycle same or almost same as you. I have been on Lupron for a week now and no period yet, but I know it is coming, I am so bloated and god I feel like I have gained 10lbs. How about you, are you having to start over or are you doing a frozen cycle like me?? I am doing twice a week acupuncture until my transfer and I am loving it so much...I have fallen asleep and I am not worth a **** for the rest of the day following it. Thank you so much for lending your knowledge about it. I am hopeful since you had good results. Well, How is your sister doing these days?? I was wondering about that. How bout your husband, how is he doing with the whole idea of another cycle? Well, have a great one and I will chat at you soon!!
I agree with Linda. This process is so hard on us women and there is not really a lot of help except the internet. That is where I found this website. We have all been through it and know exactly how you are feeling and have felt (I have done 4 cycles). Every place does things so different and it is hard for me to offer any advice, b/c you did things in Spain. I am really sorry that you had so many questions and did not have anyone to talk to. Please keep in touch with us in the future and we will be more then happy to talk from our experiences and offer insight on some of the side effects of the whole crappy process. How are you doing now and where in the USA are you going to do your next cycle?? I think you will find things are done a whole lot different here. I wish you the best of luck and look forward to hearing from you in the future.
Hi my friends
I'm waiting tha cal from the nurse to know when I have to do the utrasound and it will be this week.
Devistated
Hi I'm happy to answer to your questions. I live in NY since 6 months and I moved form Europe. We live here because my husband moved in NY for job and I came with him. My fertility clinic is in NY. I'm so happy to share info and friends with all of you because the IVF cycle is so stressed and only who have already done it can undestand the feeling. How are you now? When ou are going to start again the cycle? Where do you live?
Sasygirl
Hi thank you for your info. I do not like to surf a lot on web because your stress increases more and more. Thank you for your optimism and positivity because it is so impartant in this moment.
Astrocat88
Hi Astrocat I live in NY and I find that doctors are really professional and specialized in IVF. I've never tried it in Europe. However I belive that also in US doctors do not tell you everything but they suggest you some other options or cycles. For my experience everywhere doctors do not tell you a lot of info. Probably it is also right. I think this website is the best option to know a lt of info and experiences about fertility treatment.
Hi I went to the clinic and the pregnancy was not good.
It stopped.
I'm really sad and the most difficult thing was to communicate it to my partner. He is so sensible and he was so optimistic. I'm very sad and I do not not what to think.
If in this week I will not miscarriage alone I wil go there next week.
The fact is that the egg probably was not good so I lost. And that the second time.
What to think?
I do not know what to do because I do not know people here and I do not know if it is good to continue with ivf, to continue in this clinic.
What do you think?
thank you for your help
ddddd67
Hi devistated no it wasn't.
I'm really sad and confused and I do not know if I have to try again. Now I have to wait if I miscarriage by myself otherwise I will go there next week.
The doctor told me he wants to analyze the embryo to understand the reason and to suggest what to do.
I do not know if I will really have other chances or if I have to change the doctor or I don't know
What do you think? Do you have more experiences than I have?
Hi,
I think that it is excellent that your doctor wants to examine the embryo. You need an answer. Most people don't get answers and that really s u c k s. You should probably see what the doctor has to say before you go to another one. See if there is anything wrong with the embryo. If there isn't any answers then maybe you should look around for another doctor. Why do you think you might not be able to do this again? I re-read your post above, is it because of your age? I understand if it is. I am scared of my age (37) Everyone says "OH that's not old, you have plenty of time" and I just want to punch them in their faces. I'm a believer in the age thing. I've had three miscarriages. My first one, I got pregnant on my own and it ended early (tubal) My second was by IUI and it also ended early (tubal) My third was a chemical, ended really early and I have no answers. My Re says he's done all tests on me and there is nothing wrong with me. (or hubby) He says I've gotten pregnant all ways you can get pregnant so that's a good thing. We'll see. I have one shot left (covered by Insurance) and I'm gonna fight like hell for this.
How long have you been trying? I'm really sorry you are sad right now. Hope I answered your question. If you wanna chat more, I'm here. Linda
Hi Linda you are so optimistic and so strong that it is a pleasure to speak with you and listen your suggestions.
Yes, I'm scared of my age (41). I know that I have everything good and no one analysis was wrong. So m infertilit is just due to my age. We started in a natural way 1,5 year ago but nothing happened. Then we moved to US in NY for job and we decided to go to a Specialized Clinic for Ferility and the Doctor suggest us to start with IVF. So we are tring since july. I know that probably it is not a long time but I've 41 so it's better if I do quickly.
We did the first IVF in August and it was a chamical pregnanc and then yhis is the second.
When yesterday I asked to the doctor what he suggested he just said "I want to test and understand what happend" so he didn't tell me he was sure we could try again.
I should have the D&C procedure next week on Thursday except if I will have a natural miscarriage before.
So after 3 miscarriage you changed the doctor? What are you doing now? When are you going to try again the IVF? How long do we have to wait after a miscarriage?
Thank you really so much for your fantastic words. You are right. We have to fight like hell
Hi,
I did not change doctors. I am sticking it out to the end with my doctor. I like him. He is a one man practice and that is my favorite thing about him. He has the best staff, I've ever dealt with as far as doctors offices go. I don't want to start all over again with another doctor. It is too much to handle. I am comfortable where I'm at. I am trying my last attempt on Jan 23rd. (this Friday) When I say last, I mean last one covered by insurance. I will go back to IUI's after this last attempt. I won't stop trying. After all of my miscarriages I"ve waited one regular period before I started another cycle. Approximately two or three months. My last was chemical (Dec) so I had to wait until I got a regular period. Here we are one month later and I'm ready again..........
When do you see your doctor again? You should look into acupuncture....I swear by it. It relaxes your uterus and it increases your blood flow. It helps your body accept a baby. If your interested, I'll give you more info on it. I Loooooove it. (it also helps with the stress of this entire mess) I hope you are feeling better, Linda
ddddd67-Hi there, first of all I am so sorry to hear of your news also. I have been reading over your conversations with Linda, and believe me we have all been where you are right now and it is no fun. So many questions and very little answers. I have to agree with Linda about switching docs, it is always good to stay with the one who knows what treatments you have already done and starting over with someone new you take the risk of just that STARTING ALL OVER!! I have had 4 cycles with one 9 week miscarriage and I too had to wait for one regular cycle before trying again. I believe that you should let the doc test the embryo and has he run all the tests possible on you? I am only asking b/c I had 4 cycles before my doc decided to run all the tests to see what was wrong. They went in with a camera to look at my uterus and found old scar tissue and a inflammation from an old pelvic infection, that could have been causing my embryos not to implant, I too was very discouraged that they had not found the problem already and solved it before now. I am currently on my 5th cycle and also doing acupuncture, which has helped with the stress so much and I have read promising studies on the internet about it increasing your odds of getting pregnant. I am also on a high dose of folic acid, prenatals and baby aspirin and have been since my last cycle. Are you one any of these?? I have read that they can all help during the ivf process. I am wishing you well and age is only a state of mind, I believe it disables us in some ways, but I am 32 had 4 prior pregnancies with 4 babies born (before a tubal in 2002 1st marriage) and I can't seem to get pregnant either, so your age isn't always the contributing factor. It is different for everyone! I don't know if my rambling helps, but it does help to know other peoples journeys and that you are not alone in the process, we have all been where you are today and we are all here to support each other on our future battles!! Good luck and I look forward to a future journey with you on my side!!!
devistated--Hey lady....how are you doing today! You are so inspiring to me. I love having you as a friend to chat with, b/c no matter what you are uplifting to anyone who chats with you and I hope you know how wonderful you are!! How is your current progress going?? Mine, well I finally started today, so I will call in tomorrow to get my protocal, but I am thinking around Feb 7th for a transfer give or take a few days. I was reading the protocal and noticed for a frozen blast transfer that I have to start the progestrone shots earlier then normal??? Have you ever had to do this? They start a week before transfer?? I am wondering why?? I am not looking forward to those, but hoping that the anxiety will be eased with the acupuncture. Will you be doing a new cycle or do your have frozen left?? What is your protocal any transfer date set yet?? I am so happy to be doing this with you, I think it will help cope with all the anxiety of the 2ww! Are you still doing acupuncture? Well, I know you have lots of better things to do then listen to me ramble, so I will say goodbye until next time my friend.....Prayers your way!!!
Hi
you are absolutely right. It's good I will do che D&C next week to check what happened. I trust my doctor and I belive I just need to have trust in me and remain always optimistic.
sasygirl
Yes I take PruEt DHA which are both folic acid and vitamines.
Regarding what they found about you (the infection) I can give you a positive news. One of my best friend in Europe discovered the same problem after havig tried for two years to became mum. She took for 15 days anthibiotics and the next month she was pregnant. So it's good your doctor discovered the infection.
I cross my finger for you.
About Progesterone I started to take it after the transfer (1cc per day).
I will do D&C next week and then I hope doctor will tell us what happend and what he things about it. You are right probably the age is just a problem we immagine but I know a lot of women also older than I'm that had a baby.
Hi Linda yes I feel a little bit better and I'm doing things to think forward.
Yes if you could give me more info about the acupunture because I woul like to try it. Is is suggested also before starting a cycle again? I mean that probably I will try again in some months because I need to wait for a natural cycle.
To both of you I wanat to say I will have you in my heart for the next cycle and I will be here when you will need to chat. I cross also my fingers for both of you
Sassygirl (Erica)
Hello, We are almost exactly the same cycle, I'm figuring my transfer around the 7th also, give or take a few day. I am doing a fresh cycle, I have no frosties......I'm hoping to get frosties from this fresh cycle due to it being the last one insurance will cover. I did one frozen cycle during this horror movie we live in and I can't remember if I started progesterone one week before.....It doesn't sound too crazy...I'm sure it is for the best. Yes I'm still doing acupuncture 2xms a week until transfer. I never stopped. I don't ever want to stop. Oh yea once again you said things that made me tear up.....I feel the same about you, there is a special bond between us, we are originals. And we will be friends till the end. (and longer, I hope) You are just as strong if not stronger than me. I admire you and I will always treasure our friendship....Talk to you soon. Linda...P.S. I start shots on Friday...EWWW
ddddd67
Hi, About acupuncture you should google it. Acupuncture and pregnancy or acupuncture and fertility. It will tell you all about it. It does increase your chances of getting pregnant. I believe with all my heart that it helps. You should start A.S.A.P. For example my acupuncturist likes to get 10 sessions in before transfer. So I went 3xms a week when I first started, cause I started late. Now I've been going since November 1st so I'm well into it for this transfer. I go 2xms a week now until the transfer. They ask you a lot of questions and then they put together a plan for you (where to put the needles) For fertility and stress and anxiety and angry feelings my guy puts them in my ears, arms, legs, hands, feet, abdomen, ribs, and pelvic bone area. The day of transfer he will do a session before transfer and one right after transfer. That day a needle goes in the middle of your head...Freaky I know but well worth it and it does NOT hurt at all. Some of the needles are like a little pinch here and there but it's more freaky than painful. I hope I helped you some. Check it out and call someone so you can start for your next cycle. I promise it relaxes you.
MB---How are you???? Friday is almost here. I've been exercising and eating better....I'm feeling good. I'm ready for this...Talk to you soon Linda
ddddd67--Hi, how are you doing these days?? I hope this finds you in better spirits. You have been in my thoughts and prayers. I noticed you asking Linda about acupuncture, I myself learned about it from Linda and WOW, what a difference I have noticed since I started this cycle 2 wks ago. I have had a lot less stress. I am still hormonal but not quite like I have been in the past. I have googled it and talked with my acupuncturist about it and while it is all based on clinical studies, I feel confident that it plays a role in assisting women to get pregnant who have been trying for a while. My thoughts are that if you think about all the stress we go through imagine what our reproductive systems feel like, and if we can get them to relax then maybe we gain an inch up on this whole battle....acupuncture relaxes your soooo much and I have been able to catch a nap while doing it, so I know I am relaxed and I am hoping that my whole reproductive system will relax enough to take this cycle. If it does not work, I will not be disappointed b/c it has really helped me deal with the stress of this whole thing and that is half the battle to me. I really think it would help you in the future, if for just a good relaxing break....think about it and watch out for that Linda chick, she is very persuasive and before you know it she will have you hooked to....ha ha!! I hope you are well and will continue to keep you in my prayers.......Prayers your way!!!!
devistated---Hey, hey lady!! I would have had a Feb 7th transfer, but my clinic does not do weekend transfers, can you believe that ****!! I have to wait until Feb 9th for my next transfer, but I think that mama always said, "good things come to those who wait", so I will wait. Shots for you start Friday, YUCK!! I have been on them crappy things for two weeks and tomorrow the estrogen starts and in a week and a half the bad, bad shots start in the good old thighster......OUCH! So, you are going to be doing a new fresh cycle, that is awesome, cause combined with acupuncture I am knowing we will have a winning cycle!!!! How could you not!! I know that you will have frosties to, b/c you body is so relaxed now that it is just going to spit them out. I feel like this will be such a different cycle for both of us, and I am so excited to be going through it neck and neck with you. WOW, who would have thunk it!! Me and you and nothing but good news to come!!! So, how are you doing other then all this other stuff!! How is the family??? How is work these days??? Most importantly, how is the weather up there??? I just love to think about all the people who get to have snow and then there is me down here in Georgia, where the last blizzard I saw was in 1993..and it screwed up everything for days and it was awesome....mostly we just get ice, which *****. Well, good luck with the shots and let me know how you are coming along as soon as you can and I as usual I have you in my thoughts and prayers girl!!! Fingers and toes crossed!!!!! Prayers!!
ddddd67: I am so sorry to hear your news. My heart goes out to you and your husband. It sounds like your doctor is doing the right thing and as long as you trust him you should stay with him. I agree with Sassygirl, you need to make sure that he has done every test known to man on you before you continue further. You don't want to go into this again with any hidden factors that can hurt your chances for the next time.
I will keep you in my prayers.
DEVISTATED and SASSYGIRL:
How exciting, you are on almost the same cycle! I love your positive attitudes and hope, and know that I am right there with you both! So February 7th and 9th I will send extra prayers for you both. Good luck with the shots, (that was the hardest part I think). You all are in my thoughts and prayers constantly and I can't wait to hear the good news. I promise to be here for your 2ww if you need me.
Hi my dear
thank you for your support. I will inform about acupunture as soon as I will do my D&C.
I update you both.
Yesterday I woke up and I had strond nausea and vomiting. At 10 I received the call from the nurse that I will do D&C tomorrow at 915. I asked about my pain and the saied that sometimes homones can rise even if bad pregnancy. So I have some symptoms even if I'm not pregnant now. So I hope to go there tomorrow to do the D&C because I feel very bad and knowing that I'm not pregnant is too bad.
I will take a break since the doctor will suggest us what to do. In the meantime I will inform about acupunture. I hope the doctor will find the cause of the bad pregnancy and he culd tell us something to do.
About both of you I pray for you and I cross my fingres. Let me know when you want m help
Hello Ladies!
Anyone else having trouble with this site the last few days?
I am just checking in to see how you both are doing with your shots and how you are feeling. Just know I'm thinking about you and am so excited for Feb7th and 9th to come!
mb789--hello lady how ya doing??? I thank you for checking in with us. I am doing ok with the shots so far, but the real painful ones start next week and I can't say that I am looking forward to them. So far so good on my end, I have an ultrasound Friday to check the lining of my uterus to make sure it is plumping up and I have to say this round has been a lot less stressful the previous ones. I am doing acupuncture and it has really helped me control the emotions and relieve some of the stress. I hope it helps with the outcome of this cycle also, but only time will tell. I figure I should know if it worked around the 22nd of Feb, so send lots of prayers our way!!! How are you feeling??? Have you picked out a name or names yet?? I am so very happy for you and I hope to be following in your footsteps soon!!! Prayers and love your way!!!!
ddddd67--How are you doing?? I am praying for you and believe me I know how you are feeling right now. Please keep in touch and know that we all care so much for you and are here for you if and when you need to sound off!!!
devistated--what's up girl?? Where you at, you have been awfully quiet, you ok. Is everything alright with the cycle?? How are the shots going, mine suck as usual and the nasty ones start next week. I have my ultrasound lining check Friday and then just one more week until d-day!! Yeah!! OMG, guess what I started today??? I started volunteering at one of the hospitals in the area in the Women and Childrens center. I figured I might as well work around the newborns and maybe some good luck will rub off. I really needed something to occupy my time and hopefully it won't backfire if the results of this cycle are not good. I am very hopeful and if I can't get pregnant at least I can work around babies!!! My husband worries it might not be good, but I think it is really what I needed to fill the void. Hows work?? Chat back at me soon...wondering where my partner in this ivf cycle is and how things are going on her end!!!!! Hugs and kisses and prayers!!!
I've been really busy, my dad is in the hospital and I am trying to stay positive at the same time. I'm not really sure what's wrong with him but he's been in and out (more in) since the week before Christmas. There is a lot wrong with him, nothing life threatening as of yet........
As for my cycle, I don't know I went this Mon, Wed. and Friday for ultra sounds and blood work. Everything looks good. I have about 10 follies. I'm not happy with the amount of follies. I wanted more. I go back tomorrow to talk about what we are gonna do with this cycle. If my doc suggests an IUI, I'm down with that. We discussed after my last "chemical' that if we weren't happy with a cycle we would cancel IVF and do IUI. I think I can get more follies so as of this minute I'm not sure what I'm doing. Talk about frustrating........I don't feel good about anything right now. (there is too much going on right now) I have a lot of negative thoughts running around my head. The upside is I'm losing weight. I am still exercising every other day. My uniform at work is getting looser. (my belt has moved back a few notches) I still am doing acupuncture two times a week. I'll keep you's posted this weekend how my appointment goes tomorrow.
Thanks for listening. (sorry if I sounded down in the dumps)
Erica------COOOOOL about the volunteer work. I see where your husband would think that. I'm not sure I could work around babies while going thru this. I'm glad your cycle is going well. What is your lining? What day is your transfer and how many are you putting back? I'm excited for you. If all goes well with me I'm figuring maybe Tue or Wed next week for Retrieval and then you know three or five days later transfer.....We'll see. I'm swinging by my nuts over here. (back and forth/ up and down) I'm trying to get it together......LOL. I'll talk to you later, Hugs, Kisses and prayers back at ya.....
MB===Hi, I'm glad you checked in. I hope you are feeling good. I'm looking forward to your advice on my dumpy attitude..... :) I hope to hear from you soon and I also wanna know if you have names yet.....and maybe a theme for the room??????
devistated---Hey my partner in crime....sorry to hear about your dad, how is he doing? Do they know what is wrong? Wow, what a **** load of stuff to be going through right now. AS IF the hormones are not enough. I knew you were one tough cookie, and thanks for the laugh....hanging by the nuts!!!! OMG, I had to laugh out loud on that. I have a feeling if we lived closer you and I would get along so good. Well, while your dad is in the hospital, my dad has decided to leave my mom after 39 years of marriage, so I know different then your situation, but **** what else could get thrown at us. I have been dealing with that and trying to stay positive for my momma. Thank god for acupuncture, b/c I don't know if mentally I would have been able to deal with all of this. This cycle has been so different then previous ones with the acupuncture, how about you?? Ten follies, that is GREAT and there will always be more by the time they take you in. My uterus was 7.4 thickness on Friday and my ovaries were in good shape. My dosage of estrogen just increased to 2 tabs 3 times daily, so they say everything is right on track for a Monday Feb 9th transfer, they are putting in 3 blasts (if they all survive the thaw). So looks like we will probably only be a day or so off from each other. The 2ww better watch out, b/c we are both going to fight through this one. Whew, who would have thought it!!! I am so excited for us, couldn't think of a better friend to go through this with. I was wondering what is the difference in IUI vs. IVF? So, do they know what they are doing for you yet, or is everything still up in the air?? Well, so happy to have heard from you and I will check in soon, and please keep in touch when you go to the doctor and let me know what they say. I will continue to keep you in my prayers and your father in my prayers.......Good luck and baby dust, kisses, and hugs your way!!!
LADIES--Where is everyone else and how is everyone doing???
Hey,
We both have the same idea. It's late and I'm on the computer....We should exchange e-mails. There is a tricky way to do it on here, cause this site will block it out like it does curse words. You have to space out your letters and spell out the word AT. Let me know if you are interested and I'll give you my e-mail. Are you on "AIM" If you are we could instant message each other. (in real time) It's cool. I stayed in touch with two other girls that I met on MedHelp blogs....
Ok, here we are, I had a doctors appointment yesterday and today. I am doing IVF. I will trigger shot tomorrow and have a retrieval on Tuesday. So I'm figuring Friday for transfer....You are on Monday, so two days apart....Yea..
I agree that if we lived close we would be great friends. We have a lot in common....
I'll check in on you later. Linda
Hello Ladies.
Wow the day is almost here! Both of you have such amazing strength and I couldn't be more excited for you!
We are doing great, thanks for asking. I am feeling him bounce around daily now, it is such a blessing and I can't wait for you both to have that in, oh say, about 5 months! We are throwing around a few names, Nicholas and Jacob are the top two right now. I just don't think I can name him before I meet him. Any name suggestions are always welcome. The nursery is almost done, we aren't big on the theme. It is absolutely adorable though. My walls are green and we have a brazilian walnut floor with huge white baseboards and wood shutters. The crib and changer are walnut and I put a big overstuffed chair and ottoman in the corner. Its a big room, 12X15. I am sewing the bedding, stripes and polka dots, its sophisticated yet very calm and baby. Once it is done I will post pictures for you to see it. We are heading to San Diego for a few days so I will get to finishing as soon as we get back.
I am so sorry to hear about both of your families. Although different situations, both are enough to increase stress. God has a funny way of loading our plates when we don't think we can eat another bite. As I mentioned before, you are both stronger than you even know and no matter what happens you can handle it. I am so glad you are both doing the acupuncture, it will definitely help you control the stress. Sometimes being selfish is OK and you need to remember that. This is a very important time for you both to focus on you and your goals and let others help you where they can.
If I can offer just a piece of advise for you both during your 2ww, take what, if anything, you want from it.... I am a giver and it sounds to me that both of you are too. It is next to impossible for me to "put anybody out" or ask them to go out of their way to do something for me. During this 2 ww, put that aside. Let your husband or your Mom or your friends run some errands for you or do your laundry and clean your house. Put yourself on total pelvic rest even if the doctor says you don't have to. My husband wouldn't let me lift a finger and he asked my Mom and sister to help me as much as I would let them. My parents even took my dog for the first week ( then I insisted on him coming home) so I didn't have to walk him and play with him and let him out to go potty. Looking back at that, it means so much to me. They all wanted this pregnancy as much as I. There is no better way to take care of yourself right now than to let others take care of you for once. Also, drink as much water as you possibly can!!!
DEVISTATED: I am so excited for you about loosing weight. It will make you feel that much better during your pregnancy! I have been doing prenatal yoga and it makes a world of difference, I love it!! Even if you've never done yoga, you can start it with your docs permission. The stretching is fabulous!
10 follies is great, remember it is all about QUALITY not quantity! It only takes one! I had 12 follies ( which I too was disappointed with at first), 10 were mature, 5 fertilized, and 4 perfect little ones made it to day 3, we implanted 3 and got one perfect little boy. We will put number 4 in when this little guy is about a year or so!
You are both in my prayers and I will be waiting to hear how the transfers go and how you are doing. Remember NO HPT's! No second guessing your symptoms, because you probably already have them, and no negitive thoughts!!! Its so easy isn't it!!!
Take care, I'll check back in when I get home!
BE SELFISH!!!! ;)
MB
MB---Hi, your nursery sounds beautiful I look forward to your pictures. I'm going to take all of your advice, you are the best by far with your advice. I went for retrieval yesterday (Tuesday) and we got 11 eggs.....YEA, I was so happy with my 11. As of today 9 fertilized. (Better than I imagined) I find out tomorrow when my transfer is going to be. (Friday or Sunday) Have a great trip to San Diego and I'll look for you during my 2WW....
Erica-- What's new? We have to get ready for "The fight". Talk to you soon. Linda
I woke up today with some cramping (like period cramps) and some brownish spotting. Today is 6dp a 5dt. I need your help because I don't know what to do! I feel like my period is going to start. I do a suppository of my progesterone and I noticed a little brownish on the stick. I feel like I can't concentrate on anything but this right now. Did anyone experience this?
Thanks.
This is sounding too familiar. On Thursday I starded spotting, and on Friday It turned from light & brown to heavy & red. I called the doctor's office and they told it was normal and very impotant that i continue my progesterone and show up for my bloodwork on monday. I know that it is close to impossible that this will turn out ok, so i have already braced my self for another cycle.
I turned into a couch potato this entire weekend taking it easy, but the blood is like a heavy period now. Best of luck to everyone, I will keep you up to date about the results tomorrow.
To all the Ladies, I apologize, I can't keep up with who is who and who is due for a test this week, I want to wish all of you LUCK.
Erica--WHAAAAAAATS UUUUUUP? 3 MORE DAYS FOR ME.....YEA
Sounds like I have missed out on alot this weekend. I took the weekend to spend some much needed time with the family. I went roller skating for the first time in 20+ years and I had so much fun, just not worrying about anything. Don't get me wrong I am so SORE, I used butt muscles that I didn't know existed, but I did not fall down, so that was a plus. I had a water balloon fight, and laughed so hard, I peed myself (not that you needed to know that). So now, lets get serious.........
I have spent so much time worrying about getting pregnant that I have forgotten that there is a big world out there to enjoy, and most of all who I am. I also know that it is hard to focus on our lives. let alone ourselves, when we are trying so hard to make a life. But ladies we have to try and not forget who we are. We are stronger then this beast, look at what we have endured so far. This weekend I realized that whatever is meant to be will be and I cannot change that, but this battle I have been fighting will not change who I am anymore, and ladies you cannot let it change you anymore. If you do, it will continue to play tricks on your minds, make you think your cycle has failed, and that all is lost, and then it has won!!!
I want to say to all the ladies who are hurting tonight, I will be here for you whenever you need to vent, or cry, or ask advice. I will always be your friend, and I will always hold your hand when you need outside comfort, I am no God, but I have been there so many times. I needed to hear those words many times before, but did not, at least until I found all of you, and right now that is what I can offer those who need to hear it. You are not alone, God is always here, and so are we, and you cannot lose your hope!!
To all who have a big week coming up, You are in my prayers daily, and I will be thinking about each of you on your big day!! I hope that some of you understand what I have been trying to say this entire chat!! Have faith and prayers are on there way to you now! xo xo!
Erica
Anxious334: I'll be thinking of you this morning and anxious to hear what they say about your bloodtest results today. I feel like my period is full on right now. I usually have to take 800mg of Ibprophen for my cramps, but they haven't been bad enough and I'm taking nothing. I just don't understand how they could say it's "normal" to have such bleeding? I'm hoping for the best for you. Keep us posted.
Bonnicsc: How are you feeling today? Have your cramps subsided at all?
HPTfanatic and sasygirl: Your words on trusting in God and knowing that he is in complete control and so encouraging. Thank you so much for sharing your stories yesterday. The truth in them brought tears to my eyes.
Best wishes to everyone today!
Lindsey
Just as I thought, it was my period, one week early in spite of all these meds. I went in for my HCG this morning, and they just called it was negative. I am strangely allright with the results. I am going in next week for a consult of what next. Good luck everyone, I'll keep you posted.
Bonniesc, I had a chemical on my first IVF cycle and they had me keep going in for blood work until the number was 0, but never did an ultrasound. Although it is so upsetting, it is a good sign that your cycles are headed in the right direction and you will get pregnant. Keep your head up!]
HPTFANATIC I am sorry that you don't feel positive about your cycle this time. Good luck Friday you will be in my prayers.
I am currently 10pt from a 5dt. They implanted 3 strong embryos & were able to freeze 2. I am UNpatiently waiting for Saturday to arrive to get my first preg. test. Oct. 11, 2008
I know this was a LONG one but I want all you ladies to know that there are answers out there. Never stop asking questions, researching for yourself & change Dr.'s if you need to. It's YOUR life NOT theirs & you need to feel that you are getting the best care possible!!! After all it's emotionally draining, not to mention financially. Why not have the best chances possible?! After all had we went through with IVF with our last fertilty specialist we would have had nothing to show for it & still no answers!!!
Good Luck to all!! Remember God is great & does everything in HIS time!! He does have a plan for us all.
tjfrance - can I ask you where this new doctor is located? Any other suggestions would be so much appreciated. I will pray for you in your results on Saturday. Hang in there!
The saline ultrasound opens up your uterus so they can look at it & make sure that the shape is good & that there are no obstructions...like scar tissue.
The fertility clinic I go to has one of the highest success rates in the country. It is in North Carolina. It's called NNCRM (North Carolina Center for Reproductive Medicine). They have a great website...www.nccrm.com.... the doctors & staff are wonderful!!! They will answer ANY question that you have & I DO PERSONALLY know SEVERAL people who have had success with them. They will NOT procede with ANY procedure without first doing a workup on you. I thought that was GREAT!!! Again knowing the answers after all this time is great!! My husband & I both are very happy & content with whatever the results are simply because...now we know why!! That is SO important to your peace of mind. This year has been the best year for us because we feel like a weight has been lifted with the answers.
I wish you luck!! I am so sorry about your results & know how devistating that is. It makes you feel empty & useless. BUT...we're not...our husbands didn't marry us for the children we would give them, they married us for US & we need to remember that. God is absolutely in control!!!!
God Bless & good luck. I hope you find the answers you're looking for & most important I wish for you your own little bundle of JOY!!
BONNIESC & ANXIOUS334--How are you both doing?? I am so sorry to hear of your news. I know how truly disappointed you must be. I hope you will find some peace over the next couple of days, and the strength to endure another journey. I just know that all of us will be blessed in the end with our hearts desire. Have you guys thought about your next step? I am sending lots of prayers your way.
HOPEFULX--ARE YOU OUT THERE?? ARE YOU OK??
DEVISTATED--Where you at girly?? How are you doing. Is everything going as planned?? I have been thinking about you a lot the past couple of days. I had an unexpected death in the family and had to go out of town. I have been suffering withdrawl from my chatting. I have missed chatting and hope you have good news to send back my way, I could use some. Prayers your way!!
LJ2005--How are you feeling? Sorry to hear of your news!! I was excited to see that you are ready to get a game plan. I have found that if I think ahead about the new cycle my mind stays off the disappointing past cycle. I feel like that with each cycle comes new hope of a happy ending. I am anxious to hear your new game plan. Good luck and prayers your way!!
MB789--How are you doing. I hope all is well with you and you are feeling good!!
STILLTRYING502--How are you doing??
TJFRANCE--Welcome...I was truly inspired by your story. I have family that concieved through that facility and had 2 boys!! I have had 4 failed cycles and since I found this forum have discovered that an antibodies test could be beneficial to me. I have had 2 sonohystergrams, 2 months of antibiotics treatments with one miscarriage. I love my doc, but come on, what is the hold up here. Some of the ladies have suggested new tests for me to ask my doc about and since I have questioned him, we have come up with a new game plan and I am hopefully on my way to a resolution to my so called UNEXPLAINED INFERTILITY!! He is a family friend and it is so hard to switch docs, b/c he has 9 of my frozen embies..but it is also frustrating to not be pregnant yet!! I will be having a hysteroscopy and antibodies testing over the next several weeks and am hopeful they will find the problem and solve it. When you said you had your uterus cleaned out, what did they do and what is misshapen?? I am just trying to gain more knowledge for my journey. I admire your determination to concieve and hope I can continue to have the strength you have shown over the years!! Sounds like you have a lot of positives in your favor. Good embies and your doc solved all your fertility issues. Good luck on Saturday and I am anxious to see your results.
PS--I am the nosey one, where are you from??? North Carolina??
Sasygirl
Sasygirl
Well I'm glad to hear that you are going to be getting some answers. I wouldn't be able to leave my doctor either if he had my embies.
The surgery I had was to cut out all the scar tissue & adhesions from all the miscarriages I had in the past. When he did my saline ultrasound he found that my uterus would not open up at all because of all the scar tissue. So he went in & cut it out. When he got in there he found that my uterus wasn't shaped right (probably since birth). The uterus when open is naturally shaped like a balloon, the bottom part (by the cervix) was fine & the top part (like the top of a balloon) is where an embryo implants. Instead of my uterus being shaped that way it was like the top fell in. So therefor when an embryo implanted & started growing it could only grow so much before it aborted due to lack of room. So he reshaped the uterus & inserted a balloon into my uterus to keep it open while it healed. I had to have that in for 1 month (WOW, did I figure out where my uterus was). It was VERY uncomfortable. When they took the balloon out I had to wait until I started my cycle again & then they rechecked my uterus through saline ultrasound again. All was well, so here I am. The anti-bodies problem was no big deal....well it is BUT there is an answer for that. I have to take Lovenox shots everyday until I am 4 months along. This is a blood thinner so I won't clot.
I hope this helps. I am praying for you & please keep me informed. I'm about to go nuts waiting for Saturday!!!
By the way I don't think that's nosy, I like straight & direct people...after all that's why we get on these sites...direct answers...right?
Oh yeah... I'm from Virginia!!
God Bless
I went for my transfer today, and it was PERFECT. My bladder was full the fullest a bladder could be. I thought I was gonna pee on the doctor. (Thank God I didn't) The procedure went well and he went right in, no trouble, I didn't even know he was in there. We put back two. They thawed all three embies, one did not make it. We had planned on only putting two back anyway. I watched the embies float in my uterus, it was so cool. The doctor showed me while we were waiting for an "all clear" from the catheter. So we all know what is next. THE TWO WEEK WAIT. Actually I only have to wait 9 days, I go next Friday the 17th. Woo Hoo.
Did I read right. You talked to your doctor about the next step? When do you start all the new tests? When you first started this whole thing, did your RE do a complete work-up on you and your husband?
I am off until Monday and I have Jury Duty on Tuesday and I have to qualify at the shooting range on Thursday then before you know it, it will be Friday........I feel good.
I'll talk to you later, Linda
New here and hoping for some comfort , got the bad news yesterday that i had a biochemical pregnancy . I am devasted and don't know what to do for next cycle . I now wonder if the 3 day transfer was a mistake and maybe i should have waited for the 5 th day but who knows if they would have made it right ? very confused and sad .
Don't be sad, start thinking of what's next. Linda
Well I am 33. My husband & I decided to wait until Saturday, that way if it's good news I know for CERTAIN it's good news & if it's bad news then I only have to hear it once...plus I don't think I could make it through work tomorrow if I found out something negative. I'm VERY positive thinking though. I haven't had any spotting ...knock on wood :) & I have had a few cramps last week but they were minor & went away when I laid down. I have clasic symptoms but I'm trying not read anything into those since the hormones could be doing that. I don't know, we'll see. This is my 1st IVF. I did 5dt...3 embryos & froze 2. I hope this works because that's it for us. We have been doing this for 12 yrs. & we are ready to either be parents or live our life without them. We can't afford another round so it's either this or the frozens.
I really appreciate all the people on this site. I wish you the best. I'll be praying for you this week & especially next Friday!!!
God Bless.
Take care,
Lindsey
thank you again !!!!
Thanks again , very happy to have some great women who get how i feel and what i am going through .
Welcome to all the new ladies!! I can't keep up with everyone now ;).
Sassygirl: I am feeling great, thanks for asking! I kind of feel like a truck hit me at different times throughout the day, but other than that doing well. I go for my ultrasound on Tuesday morning, and I thought the last 2ww was bad! How are you doing? I am sorry to hear about the death in your family, that is never easy. My prayers go out to you and your family.
Some of you were talking about the 3 day transfer vs. the 5 day. I'll just throw out what my doctor said to me for another point of view. He isn't convinced that the 5 days are better or have more success. He has a higher success rate with the 3 days. If you want to do the 5 he has a very strict policy that you must meet: (1.) must be younger than 37 (2.) 7-8 perfect or near perfect embryos on the morning of day 3 (3.) Normal FSH levels (4.) no failed attempts at IVF.
Growing embryos in the lab is a difficult process and the longer they stay in that environment the less chance they have in making it. Unfortunately it is not possible to know how many and which ones will make it or could have made it if they were implanted in the uterus at day 3. Research is saying that of the embryos that actually make it to blast stage, they are believed to have a greater chance of implanting.
Also, approximately only 40% of the embryos in younger women and as few as 8% from older women usually make it to blast stage.
Your best bet is to look at your particular doctors stats on 3 day vs. 5 day transfers and see what his success rate is.
I don't know if that helps you out any, but with everything that my husband and I have been through we trusted in our doctors advice and transfered 3, 3 day embryos. Ask your doctors opinion and do what you feel is right for you.
Anxious334, Bonniesc and LJ2005: How are you doing? I've been thinking about each of you.
HPTFANATIC: Tomorrow is the big day? How are you? I know I was scared to death and wanted to go back in time to before the transfer. Praying for good news for you!!!
HPTFANATIC--GOOD LUCK TOMORROW!!1 Let us know..
TJFRANCE--Wow, you are full of great info. Thank you so much for your insight. I am going to an OBGYN on Monday to start all the testing. My RE recommended him, they share hospital priveledges and my RE wants to be there for everything. I think he finds me a challenging patient...he seems to be just as desperate to get me pregnant, as I want to be pregnant...Sounds like you have come a long way to get where you are today, and I am sending lots of prayers and baby dust your way!! I will be praying for good news on Saturday, you are so close. Good Luck and keep me posted on your news!!!
MB789--Thank you for the kind words..Glad to hear you are doing good. I can only imagine how you are feeling going through the wait to see the first sight of your new addition. Have you dared to think about what you might find in there??? I am so happy for you!! I will continue to keep you in my prayers and you continue to stay well!!!
Hey lady, how are you doing? I have been thinkin bout you and was happy to see a post from you tonight. You were so encouraging and very positive and you should not sell yourself short. What day are you going to the doc? I go Monday to start the long process again, although I will be doing a lot of testing before an actual cycle. How bout you, will you get to start again in Nov?? I will continue to send lots of prayers your way, and look forward to sharing good news with you in the future!!!
Erica
~Lindsey
I know there are a lot of us out there struggling right now. A friend recenly reminded me of this passage. It brings me comfort and I hope it does the same for you.
Galatians 6:9-10
So let's not allow ourselves to get fatigued doing good. At the right time we will harvest a good crop if we don't give up, or quit. Right now, therefore, everytime we get the chance, let us work for the benefit of all, starting with the people closest to us in the community of faith.
Take care,
Lindsey
I wanted to let you guys know that I went for my 1st pregnancy test this morning & got my results about 1 hr ago!!!! I AM PREGNANT!!!!!!! my numbers were 229!!! They said that was great. I of course go for the other two on Monday & Wednesday. Ultrasound in 1 month!!!
I just wanted to spread the good news!!! I have NEVER been so happy in my whole life!!! GOD IS GOOD!!!!
God Bless to all & you are all in my heart, thoughts & prayers!!!!
Joy
hptfanatic---I am so sorry.
sasygirl----Hi, I'm trying not to go crazy, so far so good. Feeling slightly crampy, not quite cramps. Not sure. Trying not to read into anyghing. Talk to you soon. Linda
Thanks for your prayers
Sassygirl
Well the 6th of October I found out my HCG number had dropped to 12 which was not good. I had been spotting since Saturday. Tues october 7th around 9:45pm I did have a micariage. I have never experienced anything so painful. I am full of emotions. I know if god wanted me to have a baby he would of helped me keep this one. I do not believe I will do another cycle. One cycle of IVF is enough on my body I could not handle it again. I find myself upset, sad and just not understanding. I also find myself not able to look at any baby things in the store. I use to love seeing babies and now when I see them I hurry as fast as I can to get away.
My husband just left today to go on a TDY and I am in a new place, no friends, and still looking for a job. God will pull me through this. I wish all of you continued success on your journey. Take care Bonnie
LaLou
Well, today I had my first ultra sound, one beautiful baby with a perfect heart beat! It was amazing. I get to go back every week to see the progress and will stay with them through my first trimester. Then we will gradutate to an OB. Still feeling pretty good, tired and neuseas a few more times troughout the day, but absolutely tolerable!
I will keep you posted!
Welcome to all the new ladies!!!!
TJFRANCE: it sounds like some congratulations are in order. I am so happy for you and your husband, now the wait for the first ultra sound. That was hell!! Make sure you drink TONS of water and rest as much as you can.
Bonniesc and HPTFANATIC: How are you doing? I've been thinking a lot about you both and hoping you are starting to heal. You're in my prayers.
Sassygirl: Did you start your testing this week?
DEVISTATED: Looking forward to a name change for you!!! How are you feeling? When is your blood test?
Sasygirl----where are you my friend? Hope you are OK.
LaLou67----Hi, You came to the right place. Our tests are one day apart. I had a frozen transfer on the 8th. Technically it is a day 5 transfer. This is an exciting time for you, your first time. How are you coping with the 2ww. It ***** don't it? Today is hard for me. I was fine until today, I think cause it's almost here and every little thing I feel, I think its over until I say to myself "think positive" then I'm OK for about a minute. I am 36 and my husband is 38, I'll be 37 next month. But we have been trying for about 3 years. I've gotten pregnant on my own and it ended very early (tubal) I also got pregnant with an Insemination (IUI) that also ended early (tubal) I am what is called "unexplained" in this world. I fear my age has something to do with it, but that's another story. So I'm glad I have a buddy waiting to test along with me. I wish you the best of luck and keep us posted.
Devistated: I'm having the same question as you on the whole age thing. I am 38 and have never been pregnant. I've only had this one IVF cycle and it didn't work. I will think positive thoughts for you and all others awaiting your pregnancy test.
Did anyone have a hard time, physically, with the retrieval and/or transfer? Also, does anyone have input/info on using the Endometrin suppository vs the progestrone shots?
Take care, Lindsey
I hope everyone is OK, I will be praying for you all.
God Bless.
Joy
LaLou67: Welcome! It sounds like you have a great outlook and so far so good! All I can say is stay positive and just take it as easy as you can. My husband wouldn't ( and still won't) even let me mop or vaccum. He doesn't want me even driving around in case someone were to hit me, but I drew the line there! The shots were killing me too, it looked like I grew two extra hips and it was soooo painful! They took me off of them and put me on the crinone cream suppository. It had to be approved by my insurance company and finally it was. It was $215 for 9 days, now $35. I do one in the morning and one in the evening. The only down side i can see is that the suspension that the progesterone is in doesn't get absorbed by your body, I'll leave the gory details out for now!, but I will take that over the shots anyday!!
Cecilianna: I am so sorry to hear about your news. It is so hard to understand why and you will drive yourself insane if you ask it because no one has the answer. We put in 3 "perfect" 3 day embryos and only one attached. I was so happy today when I saw one heartbeat there but I had to wonder about the other two. Why didn't they make it too?
I had no trouble with the retieval or transfer, both went very smooth. As I told LaLou67 the progesterone shots were so painful they had to put me on the crinone. Best thing I could have asked for. I didn't even care if insurance wouldn't pay for them at that point! I had a hard time giving myself the shots because I knew that it was going hurt after the fact. My best advice to you is to keep trying. Make sure that you trust your doctor 100%, do as much research as you can and ask questions. Has your doctor done a full work up on you? Blood tests making sure you aren't attacking the sperm or fertilized egg, thyroid, etc? Also the sonohystogram and the like? That should all be done prior to IVF. Did he have you on baby asprin for your lining? All of this is worth it if it brings you the baby you have always wanted. The shots suck and so do the emotional ups and downs and living your life in 2 week sections!!! It is more than I ever thought I could take. But looking back now, I'd do it all again to get us to where we are today. Have faith in God and know that he is listening. We're all here for you as long as you need us!
tjfrance: I will be praying for you and your baby tonight.
LaLou67---- Hi, I took a blood test 5 days after my transfer, every time I did a transfer and it was for your progesterone levels, it's only to see if the doctor needs to adjust your dosage on any of your meds. AS far as the pimples, I got them from the medication Lupron before I did my transfer, You could have played connect the dots with my face. But that's the only time I got them. Remember everyone reacts different to all types of medications. The crappy thing about it is you also get pimples when you are pregnant. Friday will be here before we know it. Hang in there.
tifrance---You are probably scared ******** right now. I don't know what to say. I hope everything is OK> Think positive and tomorrow will be here before you know it.
mb789----HI, thanks for the advice. (hpt) I'm gonna try my hardest not to do it. If I can get through tomorrow morning, I'll be good to go, cause I am a firm believer in 1st morning urine....Thanks for telling me about your signs, this is gonna sound weird, but I was relieved to hear that my boobs weren't the only ones acting up. (LOL) Do you all see what this does to a girl. You explained exactly what I'm feeling. I'm glad you saw your babies heart beat today. Thanks again. Linda
Cecilianna----I'm sorry you had a negative result, Your first IVF huh? I would like to say (without sounding to forward) that you should give it another try. I can only tell you how I feel and for me after a failed cycle (approx. 3yrs of TTC) it gets better, cause I get excited all over again and prepare for the next cycle and I always say to myself what if this time works. I feel if I was to stop I would be missing the chance. Does that make sense? Just how I feel. One of the girls said it the best earlier, Who would have ever thought we would be living our lives in two week sessions. That is the Gods honest truth and you will get used to it. Best of luck to you, Linda
I go back Friday & Sunday for more HCG levels. I am trying to be hopeful but it's so hard.
mb789: Thanks so much for your prayers. They really help!!!
DEVISTATED: Thanks for the kind words & positive attitude. How are you? Aren't you going tomorrow for bloodwork? Let me know, I'll be thinking about you.
I am praying for you all!!!!! God Bless!!!
Joy
LaLou67: HI! Your shots really shouldn't hurt that bad. Have you talked with your doctor about it? Are your hips swollen and warm/hot to the touch? If they are that is not OK and you need to call your doctor. I always put a hot patch on my hips ( the kind you stick on for 8-12 hours) and that seemed to help some. WHen the massaging got too painful they switched me to the crinone.
Faith79: Welcome! Don't stress out about symptoms and no symptoms. With all the hormones and progesterone we are on it is next to impossible to distinguish what is real or not. I know, easier said than done! Try to keep your mind off Monday and relax and drink lots of water. We'll all be thinking of you!
I have been so frustrated because my home PC wasn't working and my work PC would not let me post anything so I could read but not post.. I have no idea why. Anyway we got the PC doctor and now its working. Firstly I have been thinking about you both everyday, devastated I am hoping and praying and doing more hoping and praying for you. Its today right that you get your news. I had cramping on my first IVF and although I kept thinking my period is coming a little voice kept saying but it not the same type of cramp so I am so hopeful for you right now. The second time as you know the cramps were awful. Please please let us know as soon as you can. I will be ecstatic if you get the GOOD news.. xxxxx
Sassygirl, I read you post and I totally understand your impatience but as you say it will be worth it if everything is covered off before you start again. I am also sorry to hear of your sad news.
I went for my review app and I can start again at my next period which is due on the 31st Oct. I am being very realistic I have three embryo's frozen which may not survive thaw and may not make it to blast. I asked what grade my last transfer was and they said 3, not sure if its the same over there but basically 1 is the best and they wouldn't use anything graded 4 or 5. I also asked about my cramps which were so severe and she said once it didn't implant my body was trying to expel it and the medication was fighting against it hence the pain. She also said your mind probably knew this which made me feel better in a sense because at least I wasn't being negative i just knew it wasn't right. We have to do a council session which is mandatory and she asked me how I coped and In told her about these two fantastic ladies I talked to through it who kept me sane. Its so true, you both did. Its funny I have never met you but regard you with such a fondness and can talk to you with such openness and honestly. I got an awful flu afterward which I'm still trying to shake and my little boy was also sick so it hasn't been a great few weeks for me.
Hope to talk to you both very soon
x
I just wanted to say I am so sorry for anyone who has had a negative. I had one at the beginning of the month so I know exactly how you are feeling. I am starting again at the end of the month when I get my next period. I have 3 frozen left but am very realistic about the chances of even getting as far as a transfer so really I am already think about the following cycle which will be a fresh one, a lot more invasive!! The way I see it you just have to keep trying to have a chance and its gotta work sooner or later. I am going to say a prayer for us ladies that the next one will be a positive one.
To the ladies who got a positive a huge congratulations, I am delighted for you all, its a battle but so worth it. I had my little miracle through my first IVF attempt and can't stop thanking god for him.
LaLou67----I'm feeling like you are right now. What is next for you? I'm really sorry for your negative. Honestly I know what you must be feeling. I am so hurt and sad right now I can't stop crying.
Mb789----thanks for being there for me during the 2ww, it meant alot to me. Keep an eye out, I'll be back.
Mb789: Thanks so much for your kind words and advice. We've been TTC for 3 years and this is my first IVF cycle. Unfortunately, we did not manage to freeze any embryos so if it fails, we will have to start all over... :-( but i am trying so hard to stay positive and have managed to stay away from the hpt this morning. Thanks for keeping me in your prayers.
LaLou67 and DEVISTATED: I am so terribly sorry to hear both your sad news. I have been thinking of you alot as our tests are quite close... I know that there is not much that we can say that will easily relieve your pain but please try to stay positive, don't give up and keep praying. It will eventually HAPPEN for us, I believe this and will be praying for all of us.
LaLou67: I'm sorry. None of this makes any sense, but we have to keep trying. Do everything you can and then give it to God. I'll keep you in my prayers.
Faith79: Is your test tomorrow? How are you feeling? Stay positive and know that all of us are praying for you.
tjfrance: How are you? I have been thinking about you and hoping that you are doing well and that everything is ok. PLease let us know when you can. My prayers are going out for you.
I am so sorry to those of you who have had a negative. Even though I haven't been posting, I have been praying like hell for everyone of you and will continue to do so.
HPT: I totally understand the financial stress you must be under. It certainly is easy to say keep on trying, when we all have different bills. I am so fortunate that Fertility treatment is covered in Massachusetts. It is obviously covered differently depending on your insurance, but overall MA covers it. So although my husband and I have gone through IVF 5 times, we have paid very little. Probably only about 1,000 all in since the beginning. I feel very fortunate that we can base our decisions, regarding our journey, on factors other than money. We would have been out of the gam LONG ago if we had to pay the kind of bills you are talking about.
Just a little update on me. I had my first Ultrasound at 5.5 weeks and after transferring 3, we found out that we are having one baby. I have another ultrasound on the 27th to detect the heartbeat. So needless to say we are awaiting that appointment with bated breath. Please keep us in your prayers!
tjfrance: I think of you everyday and hop that all is well!
10/11 Positive HCG-229
10/13 410
10/14 started bleeding
10/15 589
10/17 1280
10/19 1589
I have been spotting off & on since 10/15. On 10/17 in the evening had severe left side pain (felt like past cyst pain) called & Dr. sent me to ER, they did an ultrasound & saw NO evidence of an ectopic but did find 3 cysts on my left ovary. So that explained the pain. They also saw a sac in my uterus that measures 4w6d so that was right on track. They didn't see a fetal pole or yolk sac but it was very early. But of course then on 10/19 my numbers barely went up. They keep saying that it doesn't look good but not to give up hope. I just don't know what to think. I am so confused & depressed. My poor, sweet husband isn't doing so well either. We just feel dead inside. We don't even want to hope because it hurts too much.
I appreciate all of your concern & prayers. I never knew how much comfort I would get from a forum like this. You guys are GREAT!!!
stilltrying502: Thanks so much for your thoughts...God Bless you. Congrats on your baby. I know you are very happy to have finally seen your baby on screen. Wishing you a healthy & happy pregnancy & delivery. You & your baby are in my thoughts & prayers.
mb789: Thank you for all your prayers & thoughts also. And I am so happy for you on your beautiful baby & seeing the heartbeat...I know you are on cloud nine & wish you a VERY happy & healthy pregnancy & delivery. You & your baby are in my thoughts & prayers.
Faith79: Congratulations!!!! I know how you feel right now. On cloud 9!!! I hope that all goes very smooth for you & please keep us posted. I'm praying for you & your baby. God Bless!!!
Well, I hope everyone else is doing well. Please take care of yourselves.
Joy
mb789: Congratulations to you too!!! It must be so exciting to hear your baby's heart beat! You know when the nurse told me yesterday, all I did was yell and cry. I was even insane enough to accuse her of lying to me. :) As soon as I get home, I am going to do a hpt so that I can see this positive line for myself! I have been waiting for this line to appear for the last 3 years! You also take care ok and we would love to hear your progression in this exciting journey.
tjfrance: Yes, indeed I am on cloud 9, I think cloud 10 if there's one :-) Thanks so much for remembering us in your prayers. Your strength and courage in the 12 years and then your wonderful news was such an inspiration for me when I read your post during my 2ww. I do not know of a stronger couple. I know that you both are going through an extremely emotional experience right now but like mb789 has said, you must remain calm for yourself and for your baby. Place all your trust in God dear friend and know that he is in total control. l like the rest of us will be deeply praying for your family tonight.
I'm new here and very desparate :). I am in my 1st ivf cycle, 6 days after 5 day ET. Everything was going great (had 6 good embryos, transf. 2 on day 5), I felt fine until about 4th day when I started cramping a lot (especially while sitting), breast tenderness (which started prior to my egg retrieval) stopped, and cervical mucus got thicker. I called md and they said "a lot of women have cramping, it is nothing to worry about". My first pg test is on 10/27 and i seriously think i'm going to go crazy until then. Besides driving my husband (who is very supportive and positive) crazy, I really think I'm going to go insane. Did anybody have these symptoms and what did your md tell you? Please help.... and good luck to all.
~Lindsey
Also, the meds you can get through www.ivfmeds.com all you need to do is fax your prescriptions to them and it is the exact same medicine. It is a company out of the UK. I would reccommend ( and so do they) if you are starting your meds within 2 weeks of ordering to do the 3 day shipping. Also there is usually a coupon for free shipping so you only pay a small amount more.
Welcome to all the new people and good luck!! To everyone else...I hope you are doing well!
mb789: Thanks fo all the info. I tried to find your post from before with all the tests but I couldn't. If it is not too much to ask if you can try to find your paperwork and give me the info again I would really really appreciate it. I'm still trying to remember who is at what stage, but if I can remember well you are pregnant (correct me if I'm wrong).
Thanks again to all of you and wishing you all the best....
Bloodwork: APA Panel, Antisperm Antibodies, Chlamydia Antibodies, Prolactin, TSH, HIV I & II, Rubella, Hep B Core, Hep C, RPR, Varicella, FSH-cd3, E2
Procedures: Hysterosalpingogram (hysterscopy), Sonohystogram, Mycoplasma Culture
I am pregnant, 7 weeks 5 days today. We had our 2nd ultra sound yesterday and the baby has tripled in size (now a large blueberry) and the heartrate went from 124 for 170. Everything looks good, we are very happy.
Please keep us posted on what is going on with you. I've said this a thousand times already but to beat a dead horse, make sure you drink at least 8 glasses of water everyday. It is so important right now to keep hydrated ( really all the time and throughout this whole process). That was one major thing I did differently this time around, that and the baby asprin ( well and the IVF!).
I'll add you to the nightly prayers!
Again thanks so much for all this great info, it will really help a lot. And I'm very happy for your pregnancy, and that everything is going great. Keep me posted on how the little one is developing. Wishing you all the best and thanks again.
Today is 10dp on a Day 3 IVF Transfer. I had 2 Grade1 embys transferred. I am scheduled for my first BETA test tomorrow and these last 24 hours are just killing me. My biggest anxiety is that I am having no cramps and no symptoms whatsover!! Just had a mild white discharge yesterday.....no symptoms and a delayed cycle, I am not sure if that is anything good?
Even during the entire IVF procedure I had no symptoms even with all the injections! I am not sure what this means and has anyone of you felt like me? what does the discharge signify?
Also with my average cycle length being about 25-26 days, could it be that this time its just a delay in my cycle due to the progesterone shots and there is no pregnancy??
Awaiting your replies!
AM338
LJ2005: Thanks so much for your kind words & encouragement. It is nice to know that other people are thinking about you. Know that I'm always available if you want to talk. If you want my email address let me know. Take care of yourself & good luck after the first of the year. God Bless.....Joy
LJ2005 for some reason this web site won't let you post personal e-mail addresses. A while back I met someone that I wanted to stay in contact with and we figured out how to do it. For example spell out your e-mail with spaces between each letter and instead of the symbol, spell out the word AT then continue to use spaces for the net or com part. Something like this S A L L Y S U E AT A O L C O M. Don't ask where I got that from I just made the name up. But try it, if you guys wanna exchange personal e-mails. Good Luck with your next attempt.
I am new to this community and new to IVF. I had my transfer on 10/21 (Fresh transfer). Doc transfered two embryos that are excellent (AA) quality and froze 5. I have been doing progesterone shots every day.
I am suppose to go in to do my pregnancy test on Friday 10/31. I might have a happy halloween or very sad... Today i started to feel cramps, not bad and they come and go. Kind of feels like before my period on regular month... should I be worried? I read through many comments and it sounds like it is not a good thing that I am getting period like cramps. Did anyone have cramps and still came back with Positive Pregnancy test? I am also really antsy to do a home pregnancy test my self.. do you think it would show anything yet? I am only on my 6th day after transfer.
Lastly... I am so happy i found this community. Masha
OK so I will give MY address.
t j f r a n c e at s w v a . n e t
Hope this works...thanks for the info!!!
Joy
babylove52----Hi welcome, you are almost there. Friday is your day. Unfortunately CRAMPS are normal or NOT normal. No right answer. You said you've read the other posts and you figured CRAMPS were not good. Please stay positive. Every time you start to doubt, just say to yourself , "Stay positive". You should also NOT do a HPT they are the devil.....I can tell you from my own experience that they s u c k. Did you do a day 5 or a day 3 transfer? Just curious. I did 2 fresh cycles on day three and both times I felt completely different. I did one frozen cycle and I felt completely different than the other two times. Now I'm going at it again. Good Luck and post if you need to talk.
tfrance and LJ2005-----see your email address came up. Good Luck to you guys and keep in touch. We all need each other..Linda
s2305 Thanks for the update. I have been thinking about you all day. I am sorry that you didn't get the result your were looking for. I had a chemical once too, and although it was so upsetting, because we felt like we were so close we could taste success, but were yet so far. I truly understand your pain. The one thing my Dr. said that made me feel better is that it proved that I was able to get pregnant but that we just needed the right embryo. And I had perfect looking ones at every transfer, but for some reason they weren't the "right" ones. Although, you and your husband are sad, and deserve to be, in the upcoming days, try to look at this as somewhat of a positive.
babylove52 I can only confirm what the others have said. I had major cramping after all of my transfers, including my 5th and most recent, which I am actually pregnant from. So for me cramping was both a bad sign and a good sign. I just think everyone's body is so different that for some of us that is just always going to be the way we react and others will never experience cramping, good or bad. So just keep thinking positively as hard as it may seem. I'll pray for you over the next 4 days, I know how long it feels. I would skip the HPT they are just a mind @#$%. You don't believe the results either way.
Devistated I have had a ton of success with my accupuncturist. I saw one in college for a running injury while I was competing on the track and field team, and continued to see her for things like cold, flu, bronchitis the list goes on... Well, after my third failed IVF attempt I started seeing a different accupuncturist who has a speciality in fertility. She was actually recommended by my RE. If nothing else, she helped me to manage the emotional roller coaster I was on, as well as some of the side effects I was having from the medication. I am planning on seeing her again to help me with my morning sickness now (believe me I am not complaining). So, I say go for it! And the price sound right in line with what I am paying too. I think accumpuncture is amazing. It helped my mother a ton last year when she was going through chemo from her breast cancer, and I know so many people who have and success. Besides, I feel so strongly that we have so little control over this whole difficult journey and any place where I could take control back made me feel just a little more normal again. So that is why I started seeing one and went to join a gym. I just needed to feel like I was doing something positive while I waited for success to come my way. Sorry for rambling... Let me know how you make out!
tjfrance: I am so sorry to hear about what you and your dear husband had to go through. I FEEL your pain...I have been praying for you every night and can only hope that some comfort has come your way. I don't know what else to say other than to reassure you that our God is in control and He has a greater plan ahead for you both..continue to place your trust and faith in Him. Please take care!
babylove52: Welcome. Don't stress out too much about the cramps. I also had on and off period like cramps and was so sure my period would start but my test came back positive last Monday. I called my clinic many times and was assured that if no spotting occurred, then there's no need to worry. Everyone reacts differently on the cycle so don't analyse too much into the signs. Good luck on Friday and we'll all be thinking and praying for you.
s2305: I am sorry I can't give you any personal advice as I've not been in this situation. But my nurse did say to me on the day of my bt that a scenario can be that beta levels can sometimes take longer to climb in some wormen than others. I don't want to give you false hope but at the same time, stay possitive and don't lose hope yet...you never know. Keep us posted. Take care and God bless.
I looked into acupuncture too but decided against it. My RE actually had one on staff for a year to see if the numbers changed. There was no way to definitively say one way or the other because not everyone used her. He said that there is no evidence for it helping or hurting your chances and if anything it will help you relax. But make sure your RE knows and that they are in contact about your treatment. I decided to do reflexology, it felt amazing and was soooo relaxing! It is about the same cost and you don't need to go as often. BUT make sure you talk to your RE first because they don't want you to do it just before a transfer or anytime after. hey will give you their guidelines. Also tell your reflexologist wha you are going through and they can focus on your reproductive tract.
As far as the cramps go, I think they are pretty normal either way. If you are pregnant, then it is your uterus adjusting to the embryo and if you're not... I had cramping days 5-7 after a 3 day transfer. It wasn't painful but more like a dull ache ( which is what I feel when I am going to get my period). I also had a constant headache for a few days which was abnormal for me, it all turned out to be good signs for me. You can read every sign as something but unfortunately none of us no what something means.
Thank you for your support and feedback about cramps. It feels much better when I lay down and rest.. when I start walking again is when they start hurting again.
DEVISTATED: I did a 5 Day Live Trasfer... They transfered two live embryos. I have never done accupuncture, but my hubby has and he really liked it. I know it is definaltely relaxing and my fertility specialist actually has one in their office as a service. The cost seems right ... actually our girl charges 130 per session. Reflexology is really good... you just need to make sure to you a good therapist. There are couple of spots on your ankles and neck/shoulder that you do not want to push on .. since it can cause miscarriage. I know relexology is usually where they work on your feet and hands, but sometimes they will include shoulders/neck. I would always let them know you are pregnant and have someone who has taken pregnancy massage course work on you. I went to massage school for 6 months and learned all the basics .. just for my self.
Masha
Marsha---Thanks for your advice, You might have me confused with someone else, I am Not pregnant. This will be my fourth attempt at IVF, 2 fresh, 1 frozen. This time I'm trying different things recommended by my RE......Massage school huh, that must have been cool. I'll bet your husband always asks for a massage!!!!! I wish I knew how to do that. Well Keep Positive and I will be praying for your test results on Friday....Linda
mb789----I'm gonna look up reflexology on the net. I'm pretty sure I'm gonna do acupuncture, I'm excited about it. I did a lot of reading on it and I understand that It may or may not affect the outcome of this IVF, but I'm gonna do everything I can. Don't worry I wouldn't do anything without talking to my RE first, He suggested this and I was told today by the therapist that he always works with my RE on IVF's. I'm a HUGE Nerd when it comes to following instructions by the RE. I won't even take tylenol in between cycles without asking first. I even asked him if I could use eye drops for allergies when I am on the SHOTS. I don't want anything to go wrong. If anything the acupuncturist will hopefully make me not so anxious and stressed out. I hope your feeling good. Thanks for checking in. I'll keep you posted. Linda
DEVISTATED--Sorry about your news, but glad to see you are still going at it!! Acupuncture Hunh?? I have missed chatting and hope all is well with you!!
How are the rest of you guys?? I have been reading for the past 45 mins and WOW, there has been a lot going on. I have continued to send my prayers, even though I haven't been chatting, and want you all to know that you will always remain in my thoughts and prayers!!!
I myself will be having surgery on 11/21 with my new OB and my RE, they are going in to take a look at my uterus and see if there is any problems in there. I am so sick of surgery and being put to sleep, but also want to know what is going on!! Hopefully the will figure it out!!
I will try to chat more often, but keep me and my daughter in your prayers next week. I am scared to death for her to be put to sleep, and to any who don't know my whole life story, next week is also the anniversary of my 8 month old daughters death. I am a nervous wreck and don't know how to cope right now. I will keep in touch better in the days to come, I promise....and I really have missed all of you guys and your support!!!
Sasygirl
OK sweetie, you are going in on 21-Nov, finally some answers. Looks like you'll be seeing a two week wait in the near future. You have all of those frozen embies to see again. I'm very glad you posted, I really missed you. (I already said that) So if you need to chat you know where to find me.
Acupuncture is a new journey for me, but because this may be my last chance with insurance coverage (not clear on that now, keep getting different answers) I begged the doc to give me something different to try and that is what he suggested. I'll do anything, I know I don't have to tell you that. But I'm excited and I'll let you know how it goes. Talk to ya later........Linda oooooooooooooo (sending you hugs)
Keep in touch.
Allie
If it works.... you can always name him/her Allison. Wink!
(Allison use to be a boys name long time ago)
Well keep me posted and I'll chat with you later, Trick or Treaters are coming up the driveway....HAPPY HALLOWEEN....Linda
Allie
ALLIESWAY--WELCOME!! I really enjoyed reading your post. Sounds like you have been through a lot and have still come out on top!! Just goes to show that you can never lose your faith! So, you have a surrogate, I am just curious as to how you found her. I have thought about it, b/c I have some frozen embies, and they can't seem figure out why I can't implant. I have 3 failed cycles and 1 miscarriage at 9 wks. I have thought about surrogacy, but have read lots of horror stories, and have read about how difficult it is to find a trustworthy agency to handle the process. I am going to try one more time to concieve myself and then I think we will consider other options. Can you offer any advice?? Is your surrogate pregnant, or are you in the dreaded 2ww? I am wishing you lots of luck and baby dust!! Look forward to chatting again!!
ALL THE OTHER CHATTERS--How the heck are you guys doing??? Hoping all is well and sending lots of prayers out!!!
sasygirl
alliesway===LOOOOOOOVED Acupuncture. I am so excited about it. I'm gonna do it three times a week up until my transfer. I was also bothered when he put needles in my feet, it did not hurt me, I just think it was the fact that needles were going in my feet....FREAKY. None of them hurt, he did my ears, arms, legs, and feet. Oh and my hands. Just a general session today for the first time. I felt great, really warm and heavy and very relaxed when finished. Also very tired. He said next visit will be different, he needs to make a plan with the information I gave him today about myself. He asked very personal questions and I explained all of my stress "issues" So we will see.
I don't recommend the HPT before a blood test, it's only a MIND X%@#. A huge roller coaster ride. If she can stay away that would be a great thing. Does she live near you, how does that work. Is she married? Did you see the movie Babies Mama? It looks funny. Ok its about 12am and I'm watching Saturday Night Live, not sure what I'm still doing up, Never up this late......Maybe it was from the acupuncture???? Have a good weekend and I'll talk to you soon......Come on November 6th..
You said you were having trouble with implanting your embies.... have you tried assisted hatching? They say sometimes that the implanting has to do with the blastocyst being able to break thru. I believe it is called the Zona? or something similar. With frozen embies it is highly recommeded to do assisted hatching. They also say that day three embies are usually in the tubes, and day 5 the embies are use to being in the uterus. Thats why day 5 is better, but as i said before.. go with what your clinic is known best for. I had a very successful, young, and healthy donor. She started out with 30+eggs, wouldnt release until two days later - lost down to 24. Out of 24, 21 were good. 20 fertilized, and 17 grew overnight. 3 were implanted on day 4 (due to the two day release we didnt wait to day 5 and werent able to do the PGD) with the 14 that were left only 3 made it to day 5 blastocysts. It is just that normally 3/4 of our eggs arent good. I decided to do a surrogate also because of miscarriages. With a young donor - miscarriage happens 10-20% and increases dramtically with age. I think ...dont quote me, but it is as high as 50% end in miscarriage for 38 and above. I will have to go back and look for the results or ask the doctor for the exact age. I am now currently in the 2ww.. with our results on Nov 6. I still wont feel easy until i get past the first trimester. I miscarried myself at 11+ weeks when i was 24 or 25? (first marriage) Then there are some women that have it easy... like my best friend. ( 37 not married ,but dating the same guy for over 4 years, and taking birth control on and off because she cant decide if she wants a baby or not) and gets pregnant. UGGGGG! But i love and adore her and am so happy for her. Sometimes it just doesnt seem fair, but i just look at the good in things, and try to laugh thru the pain. You have to make light of it... Jeff and i are usually in the waiting room laughing. Talking about each man going in to "Rub one Out". Timing them, timing ourselves,and looking how hot and flushed the men's faces are. The last time he went in.. I announced in front of everyone.. "TO make Momma proud!" Its going to happen - just dont know when. I was so upset with the failed adoptions, and the times i wasnt chosen, but now i look back and think.. Thank you God for looking after me. I was in the process of signing an agreement to adopt a child, that was going to be due several months later. I had known that the mother was on methadone, but did my research.Only short term withdrawls problems- not long term. Then, I got a call that another woman was in labor and to fly to florida immediately. This adoption was a scam (i think), but that extra time... I found out the child i was going to adopt (the previous one) the mother had come up with MRSA, and then hep c. This all being new to me - thought that all of this was tested before. NOPE! I had to request this additional information - and more test had to be made. Then i asked for some of the medical reports, and read that she had also 20+ puncture wounds (from drugs) when the mother came to them to place her child up for adoption. I dont want people to think that Im saying all adoptions arent good. There are many successful adoptions, and wonderful agencies out there. Be careful. I went with this one by suggestion of a friend. For each person there is a better path for them. This i believe is the best path for me.
Devestated, I am so sorry to hear about your sister losing her baby - that is awful, and i understand about the holiday thing and miscarriage. I lost mine the day after xmas. It is still hard for me sometimes.
My surrogate had her first appt on Saturday and loved it. She said she felt so relaxed. I am just jealous, because i need to do it myself, and havent found the time to have it done. I will write forever.. Please both of you.. Devestated and sassygirl.... keep me updated on what all you are doing. I wish you happiness and success with babies.
Allie
Erica-- Hey, acupuncture is supposed to relax your uterus and make your blood flow easier to where it needs to be. It was explained to me like this. (IVF) Your uterus is a muscle (like a neck muscle) and when you are tense or stressed so are your muscles. And your uterus should always be soft and relaxed. So when you are freaked out during and after a transfer your uterus is tense and that is not good to welcome a baby. The acupuncturist said that the only time your uterus should be in action is when you are in labor. Does that make sense to you? Acupuncture will relax you, (this S h i t is for real)
Another words If I am calm during this cycle I have a better chance, I read that without acupuncture the percentage is like 23% chance of getting pregnant and with Acupuncture it is like 43%. (don't quote me on the numbers, but I'm close) My acupuncturist also told me that I won't feel so obsessed after the transfer. (if that's true, I'll marry him) Could you imagine NOT being a basket case during the 2WW. You should check it out, I of course googled it and I read all good things about it......I swear if we lived in the same neighborhood we would be the best of friends. We are just like you and your husband, that is one of the reasons we moved on 4 acres. (so we didn't have to deal with any neighbors) We used to live in a neighborhood and my brother lived in phase one, we were in phase two, but I hated it, I loved my house (we had it built brand new) but hated the people. We didn't even talk to our next door neighbors. They were young like us and had a little girl, but we never talked, for 5 years......I will confess I did talk to the ones on the other side of me, they were also young and had two children, They are the only people I could stand. A lot of drama all around us. So we are definitely not neighborhood people. I absolutely love being by ourselves. (with all of the deer, ground hogs (hoochie mama's),crickets and daddy long leggers) I can't forget the stray cats, they are all so cute.....My dogs don't like any of them, they only like chickens. (they live across the street) Well I gotta go, I'm setting my hair in rollers. (how 80's) don't know why just in the mood. Talk to you soon. Linda P.S. I'll check in on you, write if you need to talk. Good Luck on Tuesday...
I had my last cycle 2WW ago and I missed my blood pregancy test on purpose because i am scared to death, not to mention stressed out of my mind. I know i cant avoid my doctor for ever I even stop taking the progesterone, in anticipation for the disapointment.
Ann
Allie
Erica, (sassygirl) I hope all is well at your home. The surgery should be over by now....Thinking about you. Linda
lotsoffaith----don't give up!!!! When are you gonna test? Don't stop your shots until you get a negative. Did you HPT???? Please keep us posted. (By the way Welcome : )
Allie
How did the transfer go? I know the 2ww is hard but take that time to take care of you! How many did you transfer? I am so excited for you. Remember, don't read into symptoms or lack of them, just keep having faith and stay positive! Make sure to stay hydrated and rest as often as you can. I am going to keep checking back for your update!
I have been checking in occasionally and it seems everyone is very busy! I hope you all are doing well and I still think about you and pray for you all the time.
Happy Holidays!!!
As for me things are going well. I was 11 weeks on Thursday. I was in a minor car accident halloween and experienced bleeding the next day. They think it is unrelated, but they discovered that I have a very small hemitomia (20-30% of women get them in the 1st trimester). I have had two other stretches of bleeding since then and they said that I should expect it to continue for at least 14 weeks. Although I know that it is going to happen it is very unnerving when it does. But every ultrasound has shown a very strong heartbeat and a perfectly sized baby. We have the 12 week checkup and heartbeat on the 1st, so that is a big day for us too. If all is well on the 1st I will rest me head and start really enjoying the fact that I am pregnant. I will be thinking of you that day and hopefully it will be a wonderful day for us both!
How are all you other ladies doing?????????
Only a few more days to go, how are feeling? I hope Thanksgiving is keeping you too busy to think about it. I got some exciting news today. We went in for the nuchal translucency test and everything looks great! All the measurements were well within the normal range and they told us we are having a boy!!! I wasn't expecting to find out until the end of December, an early Christmas present. I am still in shock a little bit.
I am sending you blessings on Thanksgiving and hope you are doing well.
You test on the first right?
Stilltrying502- It was nice to hear from you. Congrats on your 11 weeks, I'm glad you are feeling good. The first is a big day for both of us, keep me posted.
mb789- HI, I didn't think I'd hear from anyone today, (Holiday), I was glad to hear from you. I am feeling OK, I did acupuncture last night and I feel calmer. I want to HPT so bad. I still have one in my closet from a few times ago. I had some period like cramps for about 5 minutes last night then nothing, weird. Today I woke up and my boobs hurt, not a constant hurt, just while I was laying there. Who knows? My progesterone levels were good, I don't remember the number she told me, but the doc said stick with my plan, I do 2 tablet inserts 3xms a day. (progesterone) That is the most I've ever done. That's probably why my boobs are starting to hurt. Monday is right around the corner, thanks for checking in on me. Have a great Holiday....Linda
On another note, I can't believe you broke down and tested, you know better than that! :)
Make sure you take it easy today, watch some of the cheesy Christmas movies and relax. Only one more day!! I will say extra prayers for you tonight.
I'm new to ths list and I'm new in the us. I thank you all for the help, information and suport you give in this web site.
I'm 41 years and I'm european. I tried 1st IVF in september. It failed.
I have no infertility problem except for the age which is really important.
I started in NY my second IVF in November and I did my transfer on friday. I feel good without cramps just really weak and I think it's consequence of progesterone injections. I had transfered 3 embryos (one BL).
What other side effects did you have other than cramps?
I'm always optmistic and I will never give up to our dream to have a baby and I trust in NY doctors.
thank you for you advise
To ddddd67 : Any news yet? I just saw your post and it seems your 2ww is up or almost up. I have my fingers crossed for you!
Take care!
MB--you are a beautiful person. Thank you for being there for me through my tough times. Enjoy your Christmas...Talk to you later.
(I go to my Re on Friday to see what is next for me. I'm trying to stay positive and strong.)
You are so sweet, you made me cry. Unfortunately I do, to some extent, know what you are going through and I promise I will be here for you if you need me.
How are you feeling? I know there are good days and bad, I hope you are having more good days than bad now.
Please let me know what your RE says on Friday, I really hope he has some answers for you.
I'll be thinking of you!
I've been feeling weird lately. one day fine, one day out of the blue not fine. I cry a lot and I've been a major B. Thanks for checking in on me, I'll be back after the Holidays. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year....Next year has to be better that 2008...Linda
Well, it is frustrating that are aren't any solid answers but it is also reassuring that your RE still wants to try again. I am glad you are finally on prenatals, a little surprised that you weren't before too. My doc prescribed PreNate prenatals, they are great because they also have the omega that you need along with a hint of vanilla to make sure none of the nasty fishy taste comes back up to haunt you and a light stool softener so you don't get constipated, very nice! Does he have you taking baby asprin? If not, talk to him about that and find out why not. It is so good for your lining!
How irritating about the weight thing. It makes you feel like he is grasping at straws. I decided to loose weight a few months before we started the IVF process. I was about 150 ( a little pudgy but by no means huge) and I lost 20 pounds in no time. It seriously was the easiest thing I have ever done and the best! I deiced to just eat healthy and right although my one rule was not to deprive myself of chocolate! I went on the LOW GI diet (glycemic index), which is just a way of eating to control your blood sugar and letting your body work for you instead of against you. I have a bunch of books I can get out and give you the names if you're interested. Basically you eat anything you want as long as it falls in the the low to medium range. I stuck with all low so I could add in my chocolate once a day. Anyway, something to think about. While pregnant, I haven't been as good at sticking to it, but not too far off because otherwise I just don't feel good.
I remember hating the good days because you almost felt guilty for not being too sad that day. Although it doesn't make sense and it hurts like hell, this roller coaster ride has a purpose and at the end we will see what it was. I am sorry you are still having bad days and don't beat yourself up for them or for being a B, you have earned the right to those feelings!
I keep you in my prayers and I look forward to hearing about your appointment on new years eve. We also have an appointment on the same day. We haven't seen our guy since Dec 2nd and it feels like an eternity has passed!
Let me know what happens when you get the time!
Happy Holidays!!!!
I was just wondering how your appointment went.
Ours went well. We heard his heartbeat and everything is right on track. We didn't get an ultrasound which I was kind of bummed about. I have to make an appointment on Monday for a 20 week one. The place that does them ( same place as the nuchal translucency test) is really cool, they give you a CD of the whole thing and it is way more advanced than the ones at the doctors office. So I guess I wait 2 more weeks.
Hope everything went well with you, I'm here if you want to talk!
As for me, I got AF this morning, so let the games begin. I've been exercising the best I can and trying to eat better. I was kind of off track with the holidays. I went New Years Eve for blood work and my levels were zero. (I was secretly hoping I was pregnant because I was late and I thought I felt when I ovulated two weeks ago and we had sex every other day during that time period) Believe it or not, I cried because my numbers were zero. It was definite that I wasn't pregnant and the whole Bio was over. Don't get me wrong I wanted the Bio to be over and prayed for a zero number. I can't explain why I cried. I just did.
Thank's for checking in on me and we'll keep in touch.
OH yea if it's not to much trouble, I would love the names of the books your were talking about in your earlier post.
It has been a rather long time since I posted I know. I have really been trying to enjoy the holidays and detox from the frustration of not being pregnant for the new year. I know that some of you have been going through a lot lately and I am very sorry to have not been blogging and supporting all of you. I hope you all know that you have never been far from my thoughts and prayers. I see that some have had great news and some are still battling the fertility war. I hope that I have not offended anyone and I hope that you all understand why I have been absent. I did some counseling in the hopes that I could better handle the process in the future, we will see how it helps.....I also had my surgery and everything that could have went wrong did. I had a bad, bad reaction to the anethesia and was admitted overnight, but good news is they found scar tissue (which they burned out) and some infection which was treated by antibiotics, my RE thinks these could have played a role in my unsuccess at IVF. I have also looked into acupuncture and will be starting this week on that rode.
Devistated--Wow what a lot you have been through lately. How are you holding up my friend?? I was sorry to hear of your news, but tickled to see that you are not giving up. You are one tough cookie and I just know that you will end up wining this battle sooner rather then later. I am sorry that I was not around to offer support, I just hit rock bottom and had to take a break. I thought I was stronger then it was, but in the end it beat me up pretty bad. I am feeling stronger and more confident and hope to be battling on the battle grounds with you soon. I will chat soon and hope your new year will be a year of new beginnings and blessings.
How is everyone else doing these days???
Happy New Year to all and look forward to chatting soon!!!
Sasygirl
I went back home for Christmas so I couldn't update you about my results and today I read every your message.
After my IVF the test was positive with 113 hcg and a week later 900 hcg. We are very happy. Then we left and we came back just yesterday.
yesterday I went for my ultrasound and we saw the heartbeat. The doctor said the level was little bit slow and he will do another ultrasound next week. The level is 103. yesterday I was really concerned about that news. I do not know what should be the exact level in my situation.I had the retrival on November the 30th so today I should be to 5w and 4 days. Is it right the count of my weeks? What should be the correct heart rate in my situation? What was your experience?
About all of you I thank you for all advices you give day by day. You are my best counselor and your experience are really important for all of us.
God bless all of you and I hope the new year will realize our dreams
Thank you for your help
ddddd67
DEVISTATED:
HI!!!!
I am glad that your numbers went to zero and now you can try again. Of coarse you are going to cry though! It was closure to yet another cycle and if you didn't cry you wouldn't have been being real with yourself.
We just got back from a short, yet needed vacation so I will look into finding those books right away. In the mean time you can find a ton of info online. One site I really thought was good as far as giving you the foods you can eat ( green being good, yellow being OK and red being bad for you) was...
http://www.gilisting.com/low-gi-food-list/2006/07/gi-of-snacks.html
This one has recipes on it although I can't say I ever made anything from it, it may give you ideas...http://www.the-gi-diet.org/recipes/
We go for our ultrasound a week from today, I can not wait! I am due June 6th, very happy about the timing. We live in Phoenix so the what a perfect time of year to be locked in the house with a newborn! I will look for the books in the next few days and send you the titles.
ddddd67: First of all, congratulations! That is wonderful news. I'm not sure what you mean about your level being 103. Is that the Hcg level or the heartbeat? There are so many different things about the heartrate at 7 weeks, I have read anywhere from 90-110 and also 120-180 with 143 being the average ( ours was 170 at 7 weeks). I would call your doctor and clarify this with him and see if he can have you come in later this week for your peace of mind. He should definitely understand and let you. The last thing you need right now is to have any added stress, it is so important to relax and take care of that baby. Also, if you had your retrieval on Nov. 30th, that would make you 7 weeks, 3 days. There is a website that you can just plug in your retrieval date and it will tell you how far along you are and other important mile stones...http://www.ivf.ca/duedate.php . I hope this helps and I will keep you in my prayers that everything is healthy and wonderful with you and your little one.
sasygirl: Welcome back! I am glad to hear you are alright from the surgery. That must have been scary. Hopefully the scar tissue being removed will be the trick. Isn't that something he should have checked for/seen before the IVF treatments started? What was the reaon for your surgery?
I think it is great that you are seeing a counselor. I think that is a very healthy way to deal with this whole thing. I have heard the acupunture is a great stress reliever, if for no other reason to do it. I did a lot of reading on it and found a lot of information on reflexology as well. I opted for the reflexology because in my opinion one can never have enough massages! I loved it, I only went once before the retrieval and had to cancel my other appointments. Unlike acupuncture your RE doesn't want you to have any kind of massage too close to retrieval or after becuase of the latic acid it can release. But I really found it to be so relaxing and amazing how the reflexologist can pinpoint your points of stress by your hands and feet. She focused a lot on my reproductive tract and improving the flow. I wish you all the best when you start trying again and just know that we are all here whenever you need us, and no matter how long you need away!
Take care!
Thank you again for the info
ddddd67
ddddd67 Congrats, I hope all works out with your babies heart beat, unfortunately I don't know much about that but I'm sure there is loads of info out there on the net. MB also gives great info and advice......Good luck
MB---Thanks for the websites that should help me out, I start my stims on Jan 23 and I am on the pill until Jan17. We'll see, I'm still doing acupuncture twice a week and that really helps with everything even the depression. I hope you enjoyed your mini vacation. I've been trying to get the husband to do something like that but there is always something going on. I would love for once to do nothing. June is a beautiful month in NJ but I understand why you want to be locked inside with a newborn HOT HOT HOT huh. I hope you are feeling well and I'll check back with you later. Linda
oh yea, I thought you should know I think Acupunture Rocks, LOOOOOOVE it. I swear It really does increase your chances........Really.
Sassygirl----Oh my, I've missed you. It was so nice to hear from you. I've been thinking about you. I'm glad you had the surgery and now you can start over again. Are you doing a Feb cycle? If so we can do it together. I'll probably be around the first week of Feb for the transfer....I could write for hours about what I'm feeling, but I know you get the picture. right now I'm trying to find some excitement inside of me to start a new cycle. I usually do get excited but after the last Bio chemical pregnancy, I'm all out of feelings. Who knows maybe I'll get excited closer to Feb...I'm sure glad you are back. Can't wait to hear from you again. Linda
Good luck for all your steps and I had the same your experience so I can understand how you felt. You are really strong and your dream will became true.
good luck
ddddd67
Devistated---What up girly!!! I have missed chatting with you also. I don't know if this will help excite you, but pending on when the lupron kicks in, I should be doing a Feb cycle, sometime possibly around the first week. I am so excited to hear that for you and hopefully we can stress together and get pregnant together. I took your insight on acupuncture to heart and gave it my first shot today....LOVED IT!! I was so freaking relaxed, even though he said I was way stressed out. I know you did it right before your last transfer, but did you also go right after your transfer?? He said I should to make sure everything sticks?? Kinda makes sense since it is so relaxing, what do you think?? Well, how is the family?? How was your Christmas and New Year?? I have so missed chatting so I am trying to play catch up. Can't wait to hear from you
Have missed all you guys, keep in touch, and prayers your way!!!
P.S. when do you get rechecked???
Sasygirl
MB---Hello lady. Just checking in on you.
ddddd67--What day next week to you go for an ultrasound? I hope it's early in the week. Do you travel to NY for your appointments? Where do you live? (just tell me to mind my own business if to many questions)
Talk to you soon, Linda
Erica
I agree with Linda. This process is so hard on us women and there is not really a lot of help except the internet. That is where I found this website. We have all been through it and know exactly how you are feeling and have felt (I have done 4 cycles). Every place does things so different and it is hard for me to offer any advice, b/c you did things in Spain. I am really sorry that you had so many questions and did not have anyone to talk to. Please keep in touch with us in the future and we will be more then happy to talk from our experiences and offer insight on some of the side effects of the whole crappy process. How are you doing now and where in the USA are you going to do your next cycle?? I think you will find things are done a whole lot different here. I wish you the best of luck and look forward to hearing from you in the future.
Erica (Sasygirl)
I'm waiting tha cal from the nurse to know when I have to do the utrasound and it will be this week.
Devistated
Hi I'm happy to answer to your questions. I live in NY since 6 months and I moved form Europe. We live here because my husband moved in NY for job and I came with him. My fertility clinic is in NY. I'm so happy to share info and friends with all of you because the IVF cycle is so stressed and only who have already done it can undestand the feeling. How are you now? When ou are going to start again the cycle? Where do you live?
Sasygirl
Hi thank you for your info. I do not like to surf a lot on web because your stress increases more and more. Thank you for your optimism and positivity because it is so impartant in this moment.
Astrocat88
Hi Astrocat I live in NY and I find that doctors are really professional and specialized in IVF. I've never tried it in Europe. However I belive that also in US doctors do not tell you everything but they suggest you some other options or cycles. For my experience everywhere doctors do not tell you a lot of info. Probably it is also right. I think this website is the best option to know a lt of info and experiences about fertility treatment.
Where are you going to do IVF in US?
It stopped.
I'm really sad and the most difficult thing was to communicate it to my partner. He is so sensible and he was so optimistic. I'm very sad and I do not not what to think.
If in this week I will not miscarriage alone I wil go there next week.
The fact is that the egg probably was not good so I lost. And that the second time.
What to think?
I do not know what to do because I do not know people here and I do not know if it is good to continue with ivf, to continue in this clinic.
What do you think?
thank you for your help
ddddd67
I'm really sad and confused and I do not know if I have to try again. Now I have to wait if I miscarriage by myself otherwise I will go there next week.
The doctor told me he wants to analyze the embryo to understand the reason and to suggest what to do.
I do not know if I will really have other chances or if I have to change the doctor or I don't know
What do you think? Do you have more experiences than I have?
I think that it is excellent that your doctor wants to examine the embryo. You need an answer. Most people don't get answers and that really s u c k s. You should probably see what the doctor has to say before you go to another one. See if there is anything wrong with the embryo. If there isn't any answers then maybe you should look around for another doctor. Why do you think you might not be able to do this again? I re-read your post above, is it because of your age? I understand if it is. I am scared of my age (37) Everyone says "OH that's not old, you have plenty of time" and I just want to punch them in their faces. I'm a believer in the age thing. I've had three miscarriages. My first one, I got pregnant on my own and it ended early (tubal) My second was by IUI and it also ended early (tubal) My third was a chemical, ended really early and I have no answers. My Re says he's done all tests on me and there is nothing wrong with me. (or hubby) He says I've gotten pregnant all ways you can get pregnant so that's a good thing. We'll see. I have one shot left (covered by Insurance) and I'm gonna fight like hell for this.
How long have you been trying? I'm really sorry you are sad right now. Hope I answered your question. If you wanna chat more, I'm here. Linda
Yes, I'm scared of my age (41). I know that I have everything good and no one analysis was wrong. So m infertilit is just due to my age. We started in a natural way 1,5 year ago but nothing happened. Then we moved to US in NY for job and we decided to go to a Specialized Clinic for Ferility and the Doctor suggest us to start with IVF. So we are tring since july. I know that probably it is not a long time but I've 41 so it's better if I do quickly.
We did the first IVF in August and it was a chamical pregnanc and then yhis is the second.
When yesterday I asked to the doctor what he suggested he just said "I want to test and understand what happend" so he didn't tell me he was sure we could try again.
I should have the D&C procedure next week on Thursday except if I will have a natural miscarriage before.
So after 3 miscarriage you changed the doctor? What are you doing now? When are you going to try again the IVF? How long do we have to wait after a miscarriage?
Thank you really so much for your fantastic words. You are right. We have to fight like hell
I did not change doctors. I am sticking it out to the end with my doctor. I like him. He is a one man practice and that is my favorite thing about him. He has the best staff, I've ever dealt with as far as doctors offices go. I don't want to start all over again with another doctor. It is too much to handle. I am comfortable where I'm at. I am trying my last attempt on Jan 23rd. (this Friday) When I say last, I mean last one covered by insurance. I will go back to IUI's after this last attempt. I won't stop trying. After all of my miscarriages I"ve waited one regular period before I started another cycle. Approximately two or three months. My last was chemical (Dec) so I had to wait until I got a regular period. Here we are one month later and I'm ready again..........
When do you see your doctor again? You should look into acupuncture....I swear by it. It relaxes your uterus and it increases your blood flow. It helps your body accept a baby. If your interested, I'll give you more info on it. I Loooooove it. (it also helps with the stress of this entire mess) I hope you are feeling better, Linda
Sasygirl
Erica
you are absolutely right. It's good I will do che D&C next week to check what happened. I trust my doctor and I belive I just need to have trust in me and remain always optimistic.
sasygirl
Yes I take PruEt DHA which are both folic acid and vitamines.
Regarding what they found about you (the infection) I can give you a positive news. One of my best friend in Europe discovered the same problem after havig tried for two years to became mum. She took for 15 days anthibiotics and the next month she was pregnant. So it's good your doctor discovered the infection.
I cross my finger for you.
About Progesterone I started to take it after the transfer (1cc per day).
I will do D&C next week and then I hope doctor will tell us what happend and what he things about it. You are right probably the age is just a problem we immagine but I know a lot of women also older than I'm that had a baby.
Hi Linda yes I feel a little bit better and I'm doing things to think forward.
Yes if you could give me more info about the acupunture because I woul like to try it. Is is suggested also before starting a cycle again? I mean that probably I will try again in some months because I need to wait for a natural cycle.
To both of you I wanat to say I will have you in my heart for the next cycle and I will be here when you will need to chat. I cross also my fingers for both of you
big kiss
Hello, We are almost exactly the same cycle, I'm figuring my transfer around the 7th also, give or take a few day. I am doing a fresh cycle, I have no frosties......I'm hoping to get frosties from this fresh cycle due to it being the last one insurance will cover. I did one frozen cycle during this horror movie we live in and I can't remember if I started progesterone one week before.....It doesn't sound too crazy...I'm sure it is for the best. Yes I'm still doing acupuncture 2xms a week until transfer. I never stopped. I don't ever want to stop. Oh yea once again you said things that made me tear up.....I feel the same about you, there is a special bond between us, we are originals. And we will be friends till the end. (and longer, I hope) You are just as strong if not stronger than me. I admire you and I will always treasure our friendship....Talk to you soon. Linda...P.S. I start shots on Friday...EWWW
ddddd67
Hi, About acupuncture you should google it. Acupuncture and pregnancy or acupuncture and fertility. It will tell you all about it. It does increase your chances of getting pregnant. I believe with all my heart that it helps. You should start A.S.A.P. For example my acupuncturist likes to get 10 sessions in before transfer. So I went 3xms a week when I first started, cause I started late. Now I've been going since November 1st so I'm well into it for this transfer. I go 2xms a week now until the transfer. They ask you a lot of questions and then they put together a plan for you (where to put the needles) For fertility and stress and anxiety and angry feelings my guy puts them in my ears, arms, legs, hands, feet, abdomen, ribs, and pelvic bone area. The day of transfer he will do a session before transfer and one right after transfer. That day a needle goes in the middle of your head...Freaky I know but well worth it and it does NOT hurt at all. Some of the needles are like a little pinch here and there but it's more freaky than painful. I hope I helped you some. Check it out and call someone so you can start for your next cycle. I promise it relaxes you.
MB---How are you???? Friday is almost here. I've been exercising and eating better....I'm feeling good. I'm ready for this...Talk to you soon Linda
sasygirl (Erica)
Erica
ddddd67: I am so sorry to hear your news. My heart goes out to you and your husband. It sounds like your doctor is doing the right thing and as long as you trust him you should stay with him. I agree with Sassygirl, you need to make sure that he has done every test known to man on you before you continue further. You don't want to go into this again with any hidden factors that can hurt your chances for the next time.
I will keep you in my prayers.
DEVISTATED and SASSYGIRL:
How exciting, you are on almost the same cycle! I love your positive attitudes and hope, and know that I am right there with you both! So February 7th and 9th I will send extra prayers for you both. Good luck with the shots, (that was the hardest part I think). You all are in my thoughts and prayers constantly and I can't wait to hear the good news. I promise to be here for your 2ww if you need me.
thank you for your support. I will inform about acupunture as soon as I will do my D&C.
I update you both.
Yesterday I woke up and I had strond nausea and vomiting. At 10 I received the call from the nurse that I will do D&C tomorrow at 915. I asked about my pain and the saied that sometimes homones can rise even if bad pregnancy. So I have some symptoms even if I'm not pregnant now. So I hope to go there tomorrow to do the D&C because I feel very bad and knowing that I'm not pregnant is too bad.
I will take a break since the doctor will suggest us what to do. In the meantime I will inform about acupunture. I hope the doctor will find the cause of the bad pregnancy and he culd tell us something to do.
About both of you I pray for you and I cross my fingres. Let me know when you want m help
Really you will be in my heart in the next weeks
ddddd67
Anyone else having trouble with this site the last few days?
I am just checking in to see how you both are doing with your shots and how you are feeling. Just know I'm thinking about you and am so excited for Feb7th and 9th to come!
mb789--hello lady how ya doing??? I thank you for checking in with us. I am doing ok with the shots so far, but the real painful ones start next week and I can't say that I am looking forward to them. So far so good on my end, I have an ultrasound Friday to check the lining of my uterus to make sure it is plumping up and I have to say this round has been a lot less stressful the previous ones. I am doing acupuncture and it has really helped me control the emotions and relieve some of the stress. I hope it helps with the outcome of this cycle also, but only time will tell. I figure I should know if it worked around the 22nd of Feb, so send lots of prayers our way!!! How are you feeling??? Have you picked out a name or names yet?? I am so very happy for you and I hope to be following in your footsteps soon!!! Prayers and love your way!!!!
ddddd67--How are you doing?? I am praying for you and believe me I know how you are feeling right now. Please keep in touch and know that we all care so much for you and are here for you if and when you need to sound off!!!
devistated--what's up girl?? Where you at, you have been awfully quiet, you ok. Is everything alright with the cycle?? How are the shots going, mine suck as usual and the nasty ones start next week. I have my ultrasound lining check Friday and then just one more week until d-day!! Yeah!! OMG, guess what I started today??? I started volunteering at one of the hospitals in the area in the Women and Childrens center. I figured I might as well work around the newborns and maybe some good luck will rub off. I really needed something to occupy my time and hopefully it won't backfire if the results of this cycle are not good. I am very hopeful and if I can't get pregnant at least I can work around babies!!! My husband worries it might not be good, but I think it is really what I needed to fill the void. Hows work?? Chat back at me soon...wondering where my partner in this ivf cycle is and how things are going on her end!!!!! Hugs and kisses and prayers!!!
sasygirl
I've been really busy, my dad is in the hospital and I am trying to stay positive at the same time. I'm not really sure what's wrong with him but he's been in and out (more in) since the week before Christmas. There is a lot wrong with him, nothing life threatening as of yet........
As for my cycle, I don't know I went this Mon, Wed. and Friday for ultra sounds and blood work. Everything looks good. I have about 10 follies. I'm not happy with the amount of follies. I wanted more. I go back tomorrow to talk about what we are gonna do with this cycle. If my doc suggests an IUI, I'm down with that. We discussed after my last "chemical' that if we weren't happy with a cycle we would cancel IVF and do IUI. I think I can get more follies so as of this minute I'm not sure what I'm doing. Talk about frustrating........I don't feel good about anything right now. (there is too much going on right now) I have a lot of negative thoughts running around my head. The upside is I'm losing weight. I am still exercising every other day. My uniform at work is getting looser. (my belt has moved back a few notches) I still am doing acupuncture two times a week. I'll keep you's posted this weekend how my appointment goes tomorrow.
Thanks for listening. (sorry if I sounded down in the dumps)
Erica------COOOOOL about the volunteer work. I see where your husband would think that. I'm not sure I could work around babies while going thru this. I'm glad your cycle is going well. What is your lining? What day is your transfer and how many are you putting back? I'm excited for you. If all goes well with me I'm figuring maybe Tue or Wed next week for Retrieval and then you know three or five days later transfer.....We'll see. I'm swinging by my nuts over here. (back and forth/ up and down) I'm trying to get it together......LOL. I'll talk to you later, Hugs, Kisses and prayers back at ya.....
MB===Hi, I'm glad you checked in. I hope you are feeling good. I'm looking forward to your advice on my dumpy attitude..... :) I hope to hear from you soon and I also wanna know if you have names yet.....and maybe a theme for the room??????
LADIES--Where is everyone else and how is everyone doing???
Erica
We both have the same idea. It's late and I'm on the computer....We should exchange e-mails. There is a tricky way to do it on here, cause this site will block it out like it does curse words. You have to space out your letters and spell out the word AT. Let me know if you are interested and I'll give you my e-mail. Are you on "AIM" If you are we could instant message each other. (in real time) It's cool. I stayed in touch with two other girls that I met on MedHelp blogs....
Ok, here we are, I had a doctors appointment yesterday and today. I am doing IVF. I will trigger shot tomorrow and have a retrieval on Tuesday. So I'm figuring Friday for transfer....You are on Monday, so two days apart....Yea..
I agree that if we lived close we would be great friends. We have a lot in common....
I'll check in on you later. Linda
Wow the day is almost here! Both of you have such amazing strength and I couldn't be more excited for you!
We are doing great, thanks for asking. I am feeling him bounce around daily now, it is such a blessing and I can't wait for you both to have that in, oh say, about 5 months! We are throwing around a few names, Nicholas and Jacob are the top two right now. I just don't think I can name him before I meet him. Any name suggestions are always welcome. The nursery is almost done, we aren't big on the theme. It is absolutely adorable though. My walls are green and we have a brazilian walnut floor with huge white baseboards and wood shutters. The crib and changer are walnut and I put a big overstuffed chair and ottoman in the corner. Its a big room, 12X15. I am sewing the bedding, stripes and polka dots, its sophisticated yet very calm and baby. Once it is done I will post pictures for you to see it. We are heading to San Diego for a few days so I will get to finishing as soon as we get back.
I am so sorry to hear about both of your families. Although different situations, both are enough to increase stress. God has a funny way of loading our plates when we don't think we can eat another bite. As I mentioned before, you are both stronger than you even know and no matter what happens you can handle it. I am so glad you are both doing the acupuncture, it will definitely help you control the stress. Sometimes being selfish is OK and you need to remember that. This is a very important time for you both to focus on you and your goals and let others help you where they can.
If I can offer just a piece of advise for you both during your 2ww, take what, if anything, you want from it.... I am a giver and it sounds to me that both of you are too. It is next to impossible for me to "put anybody out" or ask them to go out of their way to do something for me. During this 2 ww, put that aside. Let your husband or your Mom or your friends run some errands for you or do your laundry and clean your house. Put yourself on total pelvic rest even if the doctor says you don't have to. My husband wouldn't let me lift a finger and he asked my Mom and sister to help me as much as I would let them. My parents even took my dog for the first week ( then I insisted on him coming home) so I didn't have to walk him and play with him and let him out to go potty. Looking back at that, it means so much to me. They all wanted this pregnancy as much as I. There is no better way to take care of yourself right now than to let others take care of you for once. Also, drink as much water as you possibly can!!!
DEVISTATED: I am so excited for you about loosing weight. It will make you feel that much better during your pregnancy! I have been doing prenatal yoga and it makes a world of difference, I love it!! Even if you've never done yoga, you can start it with your docs permission. The stretching is fabulous!
10 follies is great, remember it is all about QUALITY not quantity! It only takes one! I had 12 follies ( which I too was disappointed with at first), 10 were mature, 5 fertilized, and 4 perfect little ones made it to day 3, we implanted 3 and got one perfect little boy. We will put number 4 in when this little guy is about a year or so!
You are both in my prayers and I will be waiting to hear how the transfers go and how you are doing. Remember NO HPT's! No second guessing your symptoms, because you probably already have them, and no negitive thoughts!!! Its so easy isn't it!!!
Take care, I'll check back in when I get home!
BE SELFISH!!!! ;)
MB
Erica-- What's new? We have to get ready for "The fight". Talk to you soon. Linda