6/21/2010 5:24 PM
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Hey ladies
Praying - Congrats on the twins! Think of it as 2 for the price of one. Literally in our cases!
Mablackie - You are so close! Congrats you do give us hope that this can actually work. I love hearing all the positives, because it is so easy to get bogged down by the negative.
Agahope - congrats!!!!
IVF2 mom - I think that is really high for being so early. You may be having twins as well. Good luck!
Nurho & epilady - Good luck with your 2ww.
As for me I don't think I will be canceled this time!!!! I am at 848 for estrogen with 7 follicles. Have a few 14's and some more that are close. They are just waiting an extra day or 2 to get them to the 18 to 20 range before ER. Most likely will be Thursday or Friday! I am excited to have made it this far this time but also nervous.
Question does anyone remember the ER or did you feel it? I am having IV sedation and I really don't want to know whats going on!
Thanks ladies! Good luck to everyone!!!!
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6/21/2010 5:17 PM
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So great to hear all the wonderful news....twins and suprise early BFP!! congrats to everyone...it just goes to show that this process can work after all the hard work and emotions that go into it. I will definitely think about that today.
As for us, I did a beta today at work. I had such a strong feeling it didn't work and I couldn't take it anymore. I was right...it was negative..less than 2. Needless to say, we are numb and feeling very devastated. A million things are going through my head. We used a donor, my only issue is that I had my tubes tied and I'm 40, my DH's sperm are top notch, and it STILL didn't work. Just don't know what to say....love and prayers everyone!!
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6/21/2010 4:50 PM
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Wow, a lot of pregnancy on here. Congratulations ladies!!! All of the BETA numbers sound really good too, which I was told is a sign of a strong pregnancy.
I get on here every few days to read people's posts, but I have not posted in a while. I went through 3 failed IUI's and then got pregnant with twins on my first try at IVF (thankfully). This group was so supportive to me while I was going through this process.
Praying, congrats on the twins!!! I am 33 weeks pregnant with twins. So far, everything has been going well. Obivously when you are pregnant with twins you will be considered high risk, but I haven't seen too many differences. The only difference so far is that I see a high risk OB for a level 2 ultrasound every 4 weeks where they check the babies growth and my cervix. Starting this week I also get an ultrasound every week to make sure there is enough fluid around each baby and I start non-stress tests next week. So far I have really loved being pregnant and am still feeling pretty good. I feel blessed to have made it to the 33 week and I really hope to make it to my scheduled C-section at 38 weeks.
Congrats to you all! Getting positive news on here always gave me hope. To those of you who are still in the process, remember that it can happen. Look at all of the good news on here lately. Hang in there and believe!!!!
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6/21/2010 4:08 PM
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We are having twins!!! We are so excited!! We saw the babies heartbeats. The babies measure at 6w5d and 6w6d. YYIIPPEE!!
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6/21/2010 4:05 PM
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ivf2mom - Congratulations!!! That's sooo awesome!!!
Thank you to all of you ladies for the "congrats" and best wishes....it means a lot!!!! I just returned from my RE and she said that my beta numbers had more than quadrupled...so they are about 650!!!...I can't remember the exact number she said cause i had questions and she was giving a bunch of info.lol Anyway, I am so VERY excited and happy...it still feels a bit surreal though.
Prayers and good luck to all of you in your 2ww!!!!!
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6/21/2010 2:17 PM
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Ladies I am not in shock but I am in shock at the same time. Went in for regular E2 and Prog bloodwork today 8dp5dt and they checked my beta and just called to say it was 137! I wasn't expecting to hear anything until Wednesday at the earliest...God is so good!
I have to TRY to get back to work, I have a serious deadline on Thursday. How do I focus...geez!!!
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6/21/2010 12:11 PM
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Agahope....Congratulations on your BFP!!! Wonderful news and very happy for you. Pray you get great numbers today but I am confident you will. You had a nice, strong first beta so sounds very good! Keep us posted!
So many betas this week! Surely that must be a good sign as "whenever 2 or more of you come together, I am there" so I am sure you've got the man upstairs listening! Good luck to all of you: Cristeen, nurho, ivf2, and epilady!
(Hope I didn't forget anyone.)
To anyone else in cycle, good wishes to you. For the rest of us, hope you are staying strong and working out your next plan. Take care everyone!
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6/21/2010 11:26 AM
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Hey Buddies,
It's been a few days since I've posted but I've been reading. I have been trying to stay super busy for several reasons. (1) The 2ww is a little bit of torture and (2) Saturday was the 1 year anniversary of my mom's death. I needed to be out and about on the go so I was. Made it through the weekend without any nervous breakdowns.
@nurho - hang in there girl, I am right here with you. My official beta is schedule for Friday but my RE said they will test on Wed and should be able to tell me something by then. I'm not going to POAS but I am having some minor symptoms (some are related to the progesterone and estrogen but not sure about all of them). My DH has a 12 year old son and swears my symptoms have proven to him that I am PG. I have faith that I am but not just b/c of the symptoms.
@epilady - I thought about just waiting until Friday instead of Wednesday but as it gets closer I can't. I'm ready to know something official.
@Cristeen - don't give up yet. "Baby dust and sticky vibes"
@agahope - congrats...so exciting. Crossing my fingers for double numbers.
@lucky & Faith - I think this is your first time...stims, cramps, etc will seem like the easy part once you get on your 2ww and seem like NOTHING once you are on your 40 week journey. Hang in there!
@ WannaBe - again, I love your positive energy. Thank you for that!
@smiles - congrats...it's almost time to pop huh?
@ herehoping - sorry about your BFN, stay calm and if it's is something you want..don't give up.
I think I got everybody. Have a blessed day ladies.
Godspeed, Sticky Vibes, Baby Dust, Peace of Mind, Discernment & Understanding to all!!
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6/21/2010 7:26 AM
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@agahope -- Congratulations on your BFP!! Praying for your numbers to keep rising.
This has got to be the most nerve-wracking 2 weeks of my life and Thursday can't come fast enough -- @epilady -- not sure if I would be able to extend til Friday (smile).
Some days I wish I had a crystal ball to see what was happening and if everything was alright and that at least one of embies implanted. I have had absolutely no symptoms and those ones that I think I have, are listed as side effects to the progesterone suppositories and estrogen patches that I am taking/on. My husband has been so supportive during this entire experience and keeping me positive when I start forgetting my PUPO motto.
Good luck and baby dust to all....praying we get more BFP's as more of us test this week!
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6/21/2010 1:14 AM
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Lots of catching up to do!
Wannabe: I'm so sorry to hear of your BFN. I'd really hoped this would be "it" for you, especially given everything. Let us know what you RE says. I'm glad you have two snowbabies to try again. Yeah - it's so expensive. Sometimes when I think about how much it costs, I'm just aghast at our medical system. Wishing you a good conference.
Aga: Congrats!! Here's to some doubling numbers tomorrow!
Lucky: how are things progressing?
Cristeen: good luck on Wed. Congrats on your snowbabies!
Nurho: good luck on Thursday! My beta is also supposed to be on Thursday, but I might have to push it back a day. (what's another day of waiting on pins and needles, right?)
Smiles: congrats on 38 weeks! And for your thoughts on acupuncture. I think if this doesn't work, that's what I'm
going to try next.
Hereshoping: Sorry to hear of your BFN. I did 3 cycles of IUI, and got pregnant on the second two. IUI has a lower success rate than IVF, but is also much less expensive, as you know. If you are a good candidate for IUI, I think it's worth giving it a few shots. We went to IVF after the 2 pregnancies because both of them were genetically abnormal (both were tetraploid, meaning there were 2 full sets of chromosomes), and they thought IVF would be a good way to weed out the ones that had multiple pronuclei. But I didn't get pregnant on my first IVF, either, and I'm waiting to see what happens with this one. I told my husband if it didn't work out, maybe we should go back to the less invasive and expensive procedure that semi-worked twice.
possible: wow, what a big decision! Let us know how it's working out for you.
NWells: it's been crickets for you lately. You ok?
ivf2: 14 snowbabies is AWESOME. My clinic has not saved ours (they grew them all to day 6 and said they weren't of sufficient quality to freeze.) That's frustrating when I've produced over 20 eggs both times. But congrats!
faith: welcome!!
snowie: Oh, clomid. The rollercoaster. I remember washing the dishes one night and just wanting to smash the plate in a million pieces - and then I was fine. I was telling my husband how I was all over the map on Clomid. He said he didn't notice. I'm pretty sure he did the next night when I lost my temper at him for not putting napkins on the table!!! LOL!!! Hang in there!
Irish: it's also been crickets from you lately. You doing alright?
Ladybug: did you get your script for clomid?
For me, just waiting until Thursday, maybe Friday. I just realized tonight that I have an all-day meeting on Thursday that begins before the RE office opens (and I am required to be there). So it might be Friday before I know anything. Got my husband all packed off back to his job in SE Asia, which means I'm stabbing myself in the butt nightly again (it sure was nice to have someone do that.) It also was stress relief for my husband. I'd annoy him and I could say, Ok, come stab me in the ash and you will feel better now. I also have MAJOR bruising from the Heparin. My stomach is completely purple and I'm having to inject into my inner thighs. I said if we had a girl, we should name her Aubergine, after the color of my belly. And my coags are still too high - they actually upped my Heparin dose. I can't change clothes in the locker room because of it - so I have to go hide in the bathroom. It's a pretty color, if you ignore the fact it's a bruise.
Hope you ladies all had a nice weekend.
Love, hugs, and luck to those in the cycle and now just waiting.
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6/20/2010 10:36 PM
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Agahope....Congratulations!!!! So happy for you. I hope and pray that I can follow suit this coming week although I'm getting absolutely no signs of being pg or even of implantation. Urine test this morning that is sensitive for 25 HCG was negative . Beta scheduled for Wed. Hopefully your luck will rub off. It is nerve wracking, isn't it??? Best wishes for you!!!
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6/20/2010 6:25 PM
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It's been a wonderful, relaxing weekend!! My husband and I went to the beach for a couple days...we soooo needed it.
I'm sorry I didn't post on Friday after my beta test, but it was crazy here! My RE called on my long 3 hour drive home to tell me that we are PREGNANT!!!!!!!! My beta was 148 and I have an appt. tomorrow for another test to make sure it is progressing. I am so VERY HAPPY and praying my numbers at least double by tomorrow. This is exciting and nerve-wracking! I will let you all know after tomorrows test how things are going...right now, my fingers are crossed.
Good luck and baby dust to all those in their 2ww!
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6/19/2010 2:33 PM
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Wannabe - So sorry for your BFN, you are so strong and positive it is truly inspiring! Sorry to the others with BFN's as well.
faithnchrist - I have never experienced cramping while taking birth control. Right before my period is usually when it comes for me. Depending on what kind of bcp you are on some forms you don't ovulate anyway, because it keeps your egg from releasing. You may be extra sensitive because you are taking bcp. I have found while taking the stimulation drugs that I am looking for changes because I am on these hormones.
Good Luck to those on their 2ww.
So I have been on stimulation for a week now. This has been the most nerve racking time for me. Our last cycle was canceled due to lack of progress. My estrogen was not rising. Every day this week that I went for labs and US I was so scared. My numbers finally started doubling when they checked on Wed. Baseline was 26,then Mon 65, Wed 138, Fri 304. So I go pretty early tomorrow at 7:15 am weekend hours. And the clinic is 1hr 45min away. But what ever I need to do I am ready for. Each day feels like a battle and I hope that my numbers keep getting higher. So far they have found 6 follicles which scares me because I thought there would be more. I hear of you ladies having a lot more so it scares me. I just turned 30 so I thought age would be on my side with this. But I guess everyone is different. My nurse said that the number isn't as important if they are good eggs because quality is better than quantity. So I am continuing to pray and hope that i can make it all the way to retrieval. If I make it to ER I will most likely go Thursday or Friday.
I really wish everyone the best of luck in which ever stage you are in!
Thanks for listening.
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6/19/2010 2:02 AM
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THanks Wannabe so much for your words.... I think of you often and continue to admire your strength.
Smiles...I'm smiling reading your post. Best of luck with your bundle of joy. Keep us posted!
Nurho...My test is Wed. I decided to be PUPO as well. I had a crying, sobbing break down today thinking about it not working. Then I got the letter from the clinic saying we have 3 snowbabies!!! 2 were frozen at cleavage stage and 1 blastocyst. I cried some more because I felt so grateful. They were thinking one was iffy for some reason and they all made it. I really can't ask for more. I had a nice little Mcdonald's hot fudge sundae and some good conversation with my gorgeous 17 yr old son, some laughs with my 12 yr old son and got into a little tiff with my 14 yr daughter (at least we're communicating...lol!!) There is a Master plan even if it doesn't make sense at the time. I have been blessed with 3 gifts and a wonderful DH and have been lucky to even get a chance to do IVF. I realized I don't have anything to cry about for today. I love this forum as well...means alot to share with everyone. Best of luck nurho....we need some BFP's!!!!
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6/18/2010 8:37 PM
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Hi Ladies --
@hereshoping and wannabeamommy sorry to hear about your BFN's this week, but glad to know you are staying strong and positive and sending out the baby dust vibes to those of us still in the 2ww. This forum has truly been a godsend and wonderful support to me.
I am starting week 2 of my 2ww and starting to get nervous wondering if our 2 embies are sticking and growing. Can't believe it was just last Saturday that we saw our embies and then they were transferred home :-) My test is on Thursday, and I have adopted ivf2mom's slogan of pregnant until proven otherwise as I think it's such a powerful reinforcement that what is meant to be will be. This is our first cycle and we are praying for success as we both so desperately want to be parents. We don't have any frozen, so if this cycle doesn't work, we will have to start all over.
Good luck and baby dust to all still cycling........
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6/18/2010 5:18 PM
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Smiles.....WOW !! 38 weeks already! I truly cannot believe how quickly time has flown by. I am so happy for you and you are basically there now! Congrats to you. Please be sure and let us know when you deliver and how things go. We'll all be on pins & needles and it's wonderful to hear happy news.
I did acupuncture on several of my cycles and I really liked it as well. He also helped cure my chronic back pain which was great. There is a wonderful book out there called "The Tao Of Fertility" the talks in depth about acupuncture, yoga/mantra, herbs, etc. It's a really good book so everyone who's interested, please check it out.
Keep us posted! Hope you have a safe, smooth, and very happy delivery, Smiles.
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6/18/2010 4:56 PM
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I am sorry to read about the BFN's this week. Wannabe - I know you have always had lots of support on here because you really are there for everybody with your advice & positive attitude...nice to hear that you are ready to jump back in & try to achieve your goal!
I wanted to share my opinions on acupuncture because I am sure that I wouldn't be pregnant right now without it. The clinic I went to did offer acupuncture which I did a couple cycles however it did not help but when I decided to give all the stress & drugs a break - I started seeing a different acu that came highly recommended...started seeing him 2x/week in March 09...he explained the importance of your body's "chi" & how it can take time to be ready to try again. I was ready to try IVF (after 4 failed) in July & although that cycle failed to, we did get positive results for a week before levels dropped back down to zero. I was all ready to try cycle 6 when we got pregnant on our own which was silly after 2 1/2 years & 15 failed clomid, iui & ivf cycles! I am obviously a true believer in the power of acu & would recommend it to anyone - especially those with unexplained infertility. I am still at it 1x/wk & will be 38 weeks on Sunday!!
I am cheering you ladies on all the time - you are all such strong patient women who deserve to be mommies!!
Good Luck to all
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6/18/2010 11:52 AM
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Hi girls....just wanted to say thank you to everyone for your support and kind words after this last failed cycle. It definitely took the wind out of our sails a bit. Meeting with the RE next week and will discuss what's next. I've been at this since January 2008 (first OE then DE--5 cycles combined total thus far) so this is a long road that I am ready to have come to some type of happy ending. Not giving up though. Still have 2 frozens and just spoke with my IVF nurse (who's wonderful btw) and she thinks I'll be able to go right back in cycle once I start my period in the next week or so. That would be nice as the "downtime" waiting game part of this drives me crazy after 2 years! The expense is what is getting to my DH. We've already invested over 75K into IVF not counting any of the previous maternity costs, funeral costs, etc. Probably close to 100K overall so eventually, the well will run dry. Know you all understand since most of us are out of pocket. I discussed several options with my nurse this AM in case the next FET fails but we'll discuss those further with the RE on Wednesday. Told her I am positive and I am patient but at this point, I just need it to work and need to do whatever is going to make that happen..fresh, frozen, or otherwise. I think it is especially difficult because we already had the "grand prize" with our twin boys and then to lose them and not have this work is quite a challenge. OK, thanks for letting me vent a bit. Don't mean to be a downer to anyone....please don't give up hope as even after 2 years of Hell, I have not!
Hereshoping....I am really sorry that your IUI did not work and that you got a BFN. It stinks and it never gets any easier. You have a big decision to make about whether to continue IUI or move on to IVF. I have not done IUI and am sure it costs much less than IVF though I don't know for sure. I will say this though....I have several girlfriends who have done numerous IUI's unsuccessfully only to move on to IVF and be successful early on. One of my friends says she wishes she would have just gone straight there. Not saying that's what you should do, but I would have a sincere discussion with your RE and ask if they think your chances would be greatly improved. If he says yes, I would jump on it! I think overall we all spend so much time, energy, finances, etc. trying things before we move on to where we should be. I should have moved on to DE sooner and regret I didn't. The same may or may not be true to you when it comes to IVF.
Cristeen....have been thinking about you a lot and praying your embies are sticking and growing. Will be eager to hear your results...is your beta the 23rd? Don't let my failed cycle diminish your positive vibes. I have a good feeling for you. Think I was just on the wrong side of the coin this time. Hang in there and can't wait to hear how things go.
Snowie....I laughed a few days ago when I read that the Clomid was making you a B**ch this cycle. These hormones can really kick our rear ends! It certainly adds to the "rollercoaster" feeling of all of this. Hope this month brings you great things. Know you've been at this a while too so maybe our luck is about to change!
There are several of you gals who were expecting that we haven't heard from in a while (mablackie, hoping2, etc.) and we'd love to hear how things are going with you if you ever check it.
Take care ladies and keep believing!
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6/18/2010 2:35 AM
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I am on day 9 of birth control. Day 11 of my cycle. I am having some cramping that feels like ovulation cramping. Has anyone else experienced this? This is my first time taking birth control. (ugg) This is my first IVF. --Thanks =)
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6/17/2010 8:00 PM
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Wannabe and hereshoping...I'm sorry about your BFN. THinking about you both today and wishing I had some great words to make it all better...this process is so hard. Harder than I even was prepared for. I will say some prayers for you both for comfort and encouragement.
As for me...now I'm really nervous. There aren't the best vibes going on here...just going to hope for the best because it is all we can do!!
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6/17/2010 7:21 PM
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I had my beta today, it was negative. *sigh* I think of myself as a strong person, but I have to admit I feel pretty worn out with this process, but I will not give up. Thank you all for supporting me, I really do appreciate all of the well wishes and info. The RE will not do back to back cycles with injectibles, so I'm au natural for a month, and then we are going on a little trip the following month, so it will be two unmedicated months in a row. I'm debating on another IUI or trying IVF for August. I think we can only afford IVF once, maybe twice, so I am nervous. Too much to think about for today. I'm going to drink wine with my super supportive hubby and relax for now. Good luck to all of you in the 2ww! Baby dust.
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6/17/2010 12:10 PM
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Wannabe: I'm very sorry to hear about the BFN. I know how devastating that can be. you are always the one that provides comfort when we all hear bad news so i hope we can help you through this difficult time.
Faith: welcome to the group, I think you will find it is a great outlet for advice and support and a good place to vent when you just can't take it anymore.
Hereshoping; good luck on beta tomorrow! I have used acupuncture and found it to be very relaxing. my last cycle i was overwhlemed with the stress of my cycle and my grandmother's death and at times I just could not stop crying, but I felt a sense of calm after leaving the acupuncture. My RE offers it in the office after the retrieval and the transfer. The theory is that it increases lood flow to the uterus and can aid in implantation. I think it is good for stress relief, however I'm not sure I will do it again since now 2 IUIS and 2 IVFs with acupuncture and still no BFP. the acupuncturist will also tell you that a few months leading up to the cycle will improve egg quality but my RE said there is no evidence of that.
Good luck to everyone else in the 2ww!
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6/17/2010 7:18 AM
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Wannabe I am so sorry it didnt work out this time. Do you still have frosties? I understand how its hard to understand when you transfer 2 perfect looking blasts and then nothing. I did the same thing and my doctor didnt understand it either. I honestly think that the while the cycle itself is easier the getting pregnant part is harder with FET. Good luck in whatever you do.
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6/16/2010 7:07 PM
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Wannabe, I'm so sorry, I know no words make it any better.
ivf2, thank you so much for your detailed description. I've looked at this once before, but never moved forward with it. i am so impressed that it has impacted your patient so much, I know I could really use anything that helps with relaxation and de-stressing. I started a relaxation CD, I guess you would call it mediation, and I listen to it at lunch in my car on most days. The days that I do it, I notice that I am so much more....I guess I would call it "balanced." I know it sort of sounds corny, but I think it is helping me mentally. I like that accupuncture could also help with the physical tension. I think I will talk it over with husband. I'll let you know if I have anymore questions. Thanks again.
possible mom, congrats on your decision. sometimes, in this process deciding the next move can be the most difficult part. I totally understand the financial constraints, we are in the same boat. Have faith in your decision and best wished moving forward.
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6/16/2010 4:44 PM
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Wannabe soooo sorry to hear the news.
Well ladies I made my decision on the donor thing. I have decided to go for it now my next step is finding the extra money to do it. Sad it always comes down to the money. I wish all the ladies in this forum the best of luck in all that you do and I hope by this time this year we all have the babies we so badly want. Thank you ladies for all the great advise and support
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6/16/2010 3:39 PM
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Sorry to hear your news WannaBe. There is a master plan somewhere in all of this and one day it will reveal itself. Best of luck!
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6/16/2010 3:37 PM
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Ladies,
Found out today I have 14 snowbabies (frozen blastocyst). Althought I'm still PUPO, at least I know I don't have to go through stim meds again or at least for 7-14 more attempts. I think I already told you we transferred 2 blast that were apparently Grade A. RE gives me 60% chance of success and 40% chance of twins.
@Hereshoping re Acupuncture.
They recommend you start at least 3 months ahead of any treatments but also state anytime during the process is still helpful. I just decided to start at the last minute. I was so anxious before I started my meds it was ridiculous. My DH is one of those laid back, always relaxed people and it was DRIVING ME CRAZY THAT HE WAS SO CALM that we were starting to fight a lot or I found myself crying and didn't have any reason. I knew I had to do something. initially I was going to go see a psych therapist but the lady i picked from my work program was traveling, then i started to meet with the psych doc at my fertility clinic and while I was looking for her info I saw the acupunture link again and decided to try it.
The very next day AFTER I made my 1st appointment, the Celine Dion story came out. I knew that was my sign I was heading in the right direction.
My therapist is very laid back man and just talks to you, ironically a lot like my husband. At our first consult, I couldn't even sit back I was so intense, I think he noticed. He specializes in women health and has a special IVF program so he understood all the terminology and knew the right questions to ask.
1st session: 90 minutes. We went over my history extensively (completed forms previous to meeting and he studied them), then about 30 minute acupunture in key areas. The needles didn't hurt but you feel the little stick, he used about 10. After the needles are in, he basically puts soothing music on, leaves the room and tells me to take a nap.
2nd session: 2 days after retrieval. 45 minutes. gave him a 10-15 minute update, 30 minute session. I was SO bloated i could barely sit up..that's what happens with 27 eggs. He noticed right away and did some electricity through 2 of the needles on my legs that was supposed to send a signal to my nerves. Again, no paid but a slight tingle when he first turned the machine on. I didn't notice any less bloat right away but I did notice i could bend to put my shoe back on without discomfort.
3rd session: 24 before transfer to help relax the uterus. Again, he used the electric currents but this time to my tummy to relax the nerves. About 30 minute nap. The next day at transfer I asked my RE did my uterus look relaxed or whatever it needed to be. He said it was in the perfect position for what he needed to do. Is that due to acupuncture...can't be sure b/c I haven't had any uterus problems in the past but whatever works.
4th session: scheduled for Thursday, 4th day after Transfer. This is supposed to help with implantation and keep me relaxed.
I paid for 6 sessions up front which will get me past the first pregnancy test. He recommends to continue through the 1st 8 weeks of pregnancy. He says non of his patients have ever miscarried but I have no proof of that. I'm not sure if I will continue or not. The 6 sessions were $500+ and he does not take insurance. Afterwards, I may find another acupuncturist that may not specilize in fertility but does handle pregnant patients and take insurance and continue but I'm undecided.
The needles are all below my knees, below my elbows, abdomen (but i think they stop doing abs after transfer), one on my forehead and once there was one on my upper chest. I am fully dressed but always wear a shirt and bottom so i can just fold my bottoms down and pull my top up just enough rather than get undressed.
Not sure how it's affecting me mentally but I am suprisingly really cool. I have been reading a lot of message boards and I'm not obsessed with beta numbers (had 1st bloodwork today and they said they don't test hcg..i heard they do but don't like telling you this early...i didn't even bother to ask), I'm not even thinking about POAS (don't have any in the house), I'm just taking it easy and considering myself PUPO.
Sorry for the long post but I hope this helps. Let me know if you have any more questions. My clinic is www.axelradclinic.com if you want to read more on their website. I chose him because he came recommended by my fertility clinic.
Babydust
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6/16/2010 3:35 PM
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Hey girls, Thanks for all of the posts and good wishes. Just got the call and unfortunately, a BFN for us this time. We and the clinic are all baffled as we transferred 2 great looking blasts. Feeling a bit numb from it all. As you know, it's been quite a year thus far. Will likely have our RE meeting next week and go from there.
Good luck to everyone else in their 2ww!
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6/16/2010 9:49 AM
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Wannabe - best of luck today!!!
My beta is on Fri. morn. and I am having a hard time not testing. My husband does not want me to so I'm not going to. I feel great...not really bloated, just a few twinges mostly in the morning and evening. I am scared that I am not pregnant...I want to be a Mommy so much and to have a family!! I just found out on Facebook that another one of my friends is pregnant and I'm trying not to feel resentment, but until I know that I'm pregnant, its really hard to be happy. I feel like a horrible person and why would God give us children when I can't be happy for my friends that get pregnant on a whim. Uuuugghhhh!! Sorry to vent , ladies!
2 more days...I can make it! BFP for ALL of us I pray!
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6/16/2010 9:29 AM
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Wannabe- Good luck today!
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6/15/2010 11:06 PM
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@Hereshoping, I'm on my phone right now and will let you know when I get back on my PC tomorrow. I didn't start months early like they suggest so my experience is limited.
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6/15/2010 10:51 PM
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wannabe - lots of prayers for you tonight and tomorrow. Keep the faith!
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6/15/2010 10:50 PM
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welcome faith!
ivf2, i definately have the urge, but fighting it diligently. I do like the "pregnant until proven otherwise" I'm adopting that philosophy. can you tell me a little about what you have experienced with accupunture? I have been curious about it.
my beta is thursday, but this week is really dragging. I usually spot several days before I start my period, but they can't figure out why, which may be part of my problem. I haven't spotted yet this month, so I'm hoping that is a positive sign. Either way, I'm glad I'm having a completely normal cycle, I have to be thankful for even the smallest blessings.
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6/15/2010 10:39 PM
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Ladies, am I the only one that has no desire to POAS. I'm going to keep the attitude of POPU (pregnant until proven otherwise) by BW after the 2WW. There is nothing I can do to make it positive so I'm staying cool. Maybe it's the acupuncture because I'm extremely at peace even though my 2ww just started. Maybe I'll be eating my words next week but I pray I'm not. Hang in there ladies. Godspeed to you!
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6/15/2010 10:21 PM
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Wannabe...I too will be praying extra hard for you. I really hope it is your time!!!
I POAS today and it was negative...only 6 days out but I'm really starting to wonder. Today I don't feel too much!! Keeping my fingers crossed and my prayers flowing!! Baby Dust to all!!
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6/15/2010 8:37 PM
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Thanks, Snowie for the kind words and most especially, the prayers. I can certainly use every single voice asking for this blessing. Tomorrow's the day. I am very excited and also very nervous. I did an HPT a couple of days ago that came out negative. Hoping I just did it too early. I do feel pregnant though....very full, bloated, some twinges, but could also just be the hormones messing with me. Will let you all know tomorrow late in the day when I here something. Please God, let it be our time if it is your will!
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6/15/2010 11:01 AM
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Possible I think you were looking for a new clinic. Try www.sart.org and you can at least get success rates that were reported. It helps level the playing field.
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6/15/2010 9:20 AM
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Welcome Faith...we can all use a little faith. :-)
God speed and baby dust to all!
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6/15/2010 7:15 AM
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Hello ladies!
I am on day 5 of birth control. I go in on the 23rd of June for my hysteroscopy, mapping, and blood work. My husband and I have been ttc for 10 years. We have been together for 15 years this October 3rd. After 4 IUI's (1 of them ending in a miscarriage) we are finally going the IVF route. Our problem is male infertility. I am excited about being a member of this forum!!!!
=)
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6/14/2010 7:32 PM
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So last month was a bust for me. BFN! But this a new month and this month Clomid is kicking my a**!!! I am a raging B*TCH with a capital B for sure. What in the heck is wrong with me? UGH I just wanna be pregnant already. But Anyway I am done ranting.....
I hope all you 2WW get your BFPs this month. Wannabe I hold out an extra prayer for you for all you have endured. Stay strong. Good luck
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6/14/2010 7:22 PM
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My beta is Thursday, I'll never make it! I want to test soooo bad, but I'm going to fight it. I have never had a beta before, my AF always comes too soon, so I can't really imagine a doctor calling to tell me that I'm pregnant. But I really dread the call to say I'm not pregnant, for some reason I feel like that will almost make it worse.
Cristeen, I totally understand the financial burden of these treatments. Our insurance doesn't cover a dime, we still have a little left to move forward if this doesn't work, but it is seriously taking a toll. I'm a planner so I like to calculate exactly what we have to do the next step or steps. My husband doesn't want to talk about it because he doesn't think we will have to go any further and this will work. I love his positive attitude, but it doesn't always agree with my planning side.
As for what I'm feeling at 11dpiui, a little crampy and that's it. When I was pregant the first time, I guess I wasn't paying as close of attention. All I can remember was that I was spotting and certain I was going to start my period.
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6/14/2010 5:21 PM
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speaking of Wannabe...there she was posting to you the same time I was. My beta is 6-23. Feeling okay and counting my blessings. Will definitely pray for you on WED for that BFP!!! Baby dust!!!!!!!
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6/14/2010 5:14 PM
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agahope...I'm day 5 post ET and really up and down about what I'm feeling. Been fighting the urge to test like crazy! I know it's too early but this is so hard. Today I feel sick to my stomach off and on and been having headaches. I read that the nausea and vomiting usually doesn't start 5-6 wks pg. And the h/a could just be the hormones or anxiety....aaahhhh!!! I try so hard to stay busy and not obsess. I felt a weird pinchy feeling on Sunday off and on for an hour or so. Just sympathizing with you because I don't know what I'm feeling either!!! Aren't you tempted to test? I work at a hospital and am told the pee sticks the ER uses are pretty sensitive. I have been off work but go back tomorrow night. I told myself I won't spend $$ on HPT but I could get a couple from work??? And I think I could get one of the docs to order a blood draw....just not sure...my DH was so anxious yesterday...he had a little tearful meltdown and asked how he won't become a bitter, hateful man if this doesn't work. I told him because it's just not him. I told him we would get each other through. He has no kids and gave up hope after an 18 yr marriage. Now, with our relationship, he has new hope but he's scared. I always remind him that he's a stepfather and the kids are lucky to have him. He's nervous about Father's Day. It is always a hard day for him but this year he's really anxious. We talked about scraping the $ for the FET...we are tapped out like I'm sure many of us are. I am waiting for a letter from the clinic letting me the status of the other 3. 1 looked iffy for freezing but the other 2 hopefully made it!
Possible....I just turned 40 and my cycle was a DE cycle after having 2 cycles of my own cancel due to poor reserve. I was nervous at first about using a donor but Wannabe's posts really helped. She was right...after the ET and since I've been waiting to find out....these embies have been mine and my DH's. I am grateful to the anonymous donor but it's not my focus. My cycle wasn't difficult...we got synched up in only a month and I didn't have to do ER. I don't have the sore, bloated ovaries. And I don't worry that maybe the egg isn't high quality..it's 26 yrs old. I don't think it will be egg issues that would cause this cycle to fail. AND..no amnio or genetic worries should I get pg!! THat is a good feeling...it is so much about the egg. However, I may be at a little more peace with it because I have 3 children from a previous marriage before my tubal ligation. I have 2 sons that look so much like me and a daughter who reminds me of my mom. I may have had a harder time has this not been the case. Best of luck with your decision!!
Sorry to be so long winded!!! So wish we were all local so we could do lunch and share feelings!! Thank God for the forum!!
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6/14/2010 4:57 PM
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Possiblemom.....you are correct, many of us here have gone the route of donor and have had success. I remember the challenge of making the decision to move on to DE, mourning the loss of my own genetic connection, and wondering if I would love a DE child as much as a child of my own egg. The answer is a resounding YES! It is totally normal to wonder each & every one of those things and to feel some sense of loss initially. But, it truly all changes. I have not for one second had any regret about moving on to DE. My only regret was not having done so sooner so I could have had children even sooner. I was totally in love with my twin boys and never even thought about the DE factor once I started feeling them grow inside me. I am currently in the 2ww with a FET cycle from my donor. I don't know if I will be blessed to be pregnant again or not, but the thought of this even being a donor embryo has not even crossed my mind. They are MY babies! A couple of tips though: If possible, I would use an anonymous donor through your clinic. I have heard horror stories about various agencies and they tend to charge more. Don't worry too terribly much about making sure she is just like you. After you narrow down your selections, it'll become less & less important to you. Go for someone who touches your heart. My DE loves animals and volunteers at a shelter and her dad is a professional musician. I love my puppies to death and was in the music biz myself for years so that stuff struck a cord more than worrying about the same eye color, etc. There is a great blog that I am also on that is specifically for DE moms to be. If you want the link, let me know and I'll post it. Good luck with your decision!
Cristeen....how are you feeling? Any thing happening? When is your beta?
agahope....I've heard each pregnancy is completely different and you can feel completely different. Last time, I felt a lot of "pinching" type feelings in my tummy. Not so much this time. This time I feel more bloated & sore. Could be pregnancy or just all the hormones. When is your beta? Mine is Wednesday.
OK gals, talk with you all soon. XO
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6/14/2010 4:46 PM
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To those who are also cycling now good luck! Good luck to those in your 2ww!
Possiblemom - I am sure that is a really hard decision to make, good luck! Along the lines of what IVF2mom said, if you really want to be a mom and the child wasn't going to be biologically yours have you considered adoption? My niece is adopted and my brother and sister in law have two biological boys of there own. My niece is amazing and I will say we love her just the same as the boys. We weren't going to talk about adoption until we tried every last possibility to have a biological child. But that is not the best option for everyone. But there are many ways to be a parent.
So I am on day 3 of stimulation. Had my first ultrasound and labs today. My estrogen was at 65 and they like it to be at 100 by now. They are keeping me on the same dose for now. I am so scared that I might get canceled again. Why can't my body just do what it is supposed to do. My nurse said that I might be starting off slow but that my estrogen could be higher in a few days and that everything would be fine. I am doing better than last time but I thought with the amount of drugs I am on I would be well past 100. I am taking 1 menopur and 3 bravelles twice a day. So that's a lot of drugs. Sorry thanks for listening to me rant. Anyone else had there levels start off low but have a good cycle? My nurse told me at my clinic they had a meeting and they are at a 60% success rate for the year. So if my body would just cooperate then maybe I could get pregnant!!!!
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6/14/2010 2:51 PM
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@Possible, Do you want to be a mom or have a baby? There is a slight difference. I only ask because of a infertility seminar I attended last month and that came up. There are so many ways to be a mom that do not require you to get pregnant or have a baby. If you haven't already, read Kristen Magnacca's book Love and Infertility. I wish you the best and more importantly Peace of Mind in whatever you decide to do.
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6/14/2010 2:19 PM
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Well went to Dr appointment because of my age (39) she feels I would have better luck using a donor. I really don't know how I feel about that. You hear so many horror stories but from what I have read on here it seems like ya'll have pretty good luck . Any input? I want a baby more than life itself so I guess if that is what is needed I guess I will be looking into it.
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6/14/2010 2:02 PM
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Ladies, I have a question...
I am in my last week of my 2ww and I feel totally normal...no cramping or twinges. What have you experienced during this time and how did the 2ww differ between BFP or BFN??
Thanks for your input!!
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6/13/2010 10:34 PM
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I couldn't sleep so I figured I would check in and see how everyone was doing and wow, i had a lot to catch up on, guess I will make this general
to those starting IVF good luck and stay positive
to those in the 2WW rest, drink plenty of water, and find ways to keep your mind off of it all
To those of you who are Prego yeah!!! so exciting
To those meeting with your RE you are in the same boat i am right now waiting on answers, I go on Wed at 1:15, I have graduation that night so i will fill you all in on Thursday AM- I am praying for good news and the hopes to go into a cycle in July. AND i would love to hear more about fertility yoga!!! I bought the tape bend breath and conceive and I have done it once, probably should do it a little more HUH!!! Off to bed, hopefully now I can sleep!!
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6/13/2010 9:29 PM
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wow that Valium must have been good, just noticed how I spelled wannabe. sorry dear
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