Thursday, August 9, 2012

8/9/12 - LAST Ultrasound and Blood Work

This morning I had my LAST fertility center appointment.  I can't believe I'm done there.  I'm sooo grateful for all that they have done to get me to this point. 

Corey is working in China for the next few weeks so of course he missed out on the ultrasound today which he was really sad about.  My mom decided to drive here from Utah so she could go with me because she wanted to see the babies :) 

A couple of nights ago in Utah I was telling my mom that I was really nervous about the ultrasound and I was worried they would say "Huh... it looks like there are no babies in there" or that their heartbeats have stopped.  :(

She suggested I get a blessing from my dad and brother so I did and it was wonderful and I didn't stress about it anymore.

At the ultrasound this morning they showed me their heart flutters and the babies were moving so much.  The nurses said they were both dancing.  I filmed a little bit of it so I could show Corey later. 



The Dr said their heart rates and sizes looked great and they've grown a lot since the last appointment.  My mom kept crying while watching the babies.  I kept telling them how weird it is that I'm pregnant and that I don't feel pregnant.  I can't believe there are TWO wiggly little babies inside me!  What a blessing!

Tuesday I took my last progesterone pill and now I'm only taking pre-natals.  They'll call me this afternoon with my blood work results which I expect to be normal with no med change instructions.

Dr D knows my OBGYN very well and told me he will contact him about my case before my appointment tomorrow morning.  Tomorrow at 9:10am is my first OBGYN appointment.  I wrote out a list of questions for him. 

After Dr D told me some last minute instructions he gave me a big hug and told me I have graduated.  He told me to keep him updated and send him pictures of the babies when they're born.

Wow.  This fertility journey is coming to a close.  For anyone starting or thinking about starting IVF I would say DO IT and enjoy it and relax.  Everything will be alright and it's not as bad as you think.  And of course it's ALL WORTH IT. 

Hopefully everything goes well in the next few months.  If anything comes up related to fertility I will post here.  Otherwise... you can keep updated on the pregnancy and babies through my family blog.  www.CoreyAndKimberly.BlogSpot.com

I'll warn you now that I hadn't been keeping it updated but I will try to be better!  Now that I've gotten used to posting so often I think I will be on track for keeping it updated.

Sunday, August 5, 2012

8/5/12 - Hey I Just Met You, And This Is Crazy, But Here's My Needle, Inject Me Maybe?

I had an interesting experience a couple of nights ago. I was on my way up to Utah to visit my family and my alarm went off reminding me to take progesterone pill.

Whoops! I forgot the pills at home! I texted a nurse from the fertility center and explained that I could have my brother bring up the pills in a couple days when he comes. I told her I had an emergency needle with 2mL of progesterone in oil (which I was told to always carry with me in case I start bleeding). She suggested that I use 1mL that night and 1mL the next. My husband didn't go to Utah with me and the only people in town were my younger sisters that I just didn't feel comfortable with them doing the injection. So... I called my mom and she called a lady in town that goes to church with her, she's a nurse and agreed to do my injections each night. So I went over to her house and she did my injection while I laid on her bed :). Weird, but I was so grateful that she was willing to do it.

Thursday, August 2, 2012

8/2/12 - Blood Work

I had blood work yesterday morning.  They called and said to continue on one progesterone pill per day until Tuesday next week, then come on Thursday (8/9) for my last blood work and ultrasound before being transferred to the OBGYN.  Unfortunately Corey will be working in CHINA for the next couple of weeks so he will miss the last fertility center appointment AND the first OBGYN appointment.

I have been feeling very tired.  Especially at night.  I get home from work and I don't want to do ANYTHING.  :)

My tummy has a very small bump but isn't getting too crazy.  I have lost weight in all other areas.  I can't believe that I will probably have these babies in about 6 months!!  That's crazy!

We're so happy and grateful for each day that we can countdown with NO complications.  Please continue to pray that these little ones will be STRONG and HEALTHY.  :)

Thanks!!

Monday, July 30, 2012

7/30/12 - Blood Work

I had blood work this morning. The nurse called this afternoon and said the Dr wants me to decrease my progesterone to one per day, which I think is good because I must be producing enough on my own.

Next blood work is in two days.

Monday, July 23, 2012

7/23/12 - 2nd Ultrasound

This morning was our 2nd ultrasound.  At first when the image showed up on the screen there was just one big black blob and the ultrasound tech said "here's you're baby" and we both immediately said "There's only one!?" then she said "NO, here's the other..." as she moved the angle of the ultrasound wand and showed us both babies.  :)  For a second there we thought we lost one.

They took a bunch of measurements and monitored the heart rates.  144 and 147.  I asked if that was normal and they said yes.

Then we saw the heart flutters :)  It's too early to hear the heart beats but we could see them on the screen!  It was so neat. 



The Dr. called this afternoon and said my blood work showed that everything looked good and I can stop the Estrace (estrogen) pills AND the Vivelle Dot (estrogen patches).  Yay!

Oh and I decided to jump on the scale this morning and much to my surprise I have lost 6lbs since getting pregnant.  No throwing up, just lots of food aversions and I can't eat as big of portions as I used to.

This is still real!!  Corey and I are loving every moment.  Anytime I tell him I feel naseous he says "GOOD Kim GOOD!".  :)

Friday, July 20, 2012

7/20/12 - Blood Work, Is This Real?

I missed the call from the nurse this afternoon.  Her voicemail said that my blood work was fine and to continue on all meds and next blood work will be Monday 7/23.  I'll also have an ultrasound that day!!!  :)

I'm in my 7th week and I have a tiny bump/bulge on my lower abdomen.  It's definitely not my normal tummy.  It's all firm.  This is cool.  :)  I know it's SUPER early, but this is the life of a twinner mommy. :)  I'm definitely not "SHOWING" by any means, but Corey and I can feel a small difference. 

It's so weird because I still sometimes feel like it's not real.  I'm sure other IVF-er moms understand.  I sometimes think... "well, I haven't started my period yet, so the Dr. MUST know what he's talking about... and there was that ultrasound that we saw... so I guess they're really in there and this is really happening"

We are SO grateful :))))

We can't wait till Monday.  I hope everything looks good.

Wednesday, July 18, 2012

7/18/12 - HAPPY HAPPY!!

What a great day!

I'm sooo happy, for TWO reasons:

1st:  My blood work looked good today and they're having me STOP the progesterone in oil injections! YAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAY!  (They're also having me decrease my estrace patches to 2, switched out every 3 days instead of 4 switched out every 3 days.)

2nd:  I'm SICK!!!!  I'm sooo happy to FINALLY have morning sickness!! :)  I remember hearing women complain about their morning sickness to me or reading it on their infertility blog and I always thought "Really!?  I would LOVE to have morning sickness!  That means you have a baby on the way!"  :)  I've just always felt that an infertility blog was no place to complain about that kind of thing.  SO YAY!!!  I'M SICK!!

Anyways, they also said to come in on the 20th (Friday) for more blood work and then my next ultrasound is the 23rd (Monday).  I think we'll hear the heartbeats that day!

BTW, I've decided to keep this blog updated while I'm still being seen by the fertility center - before they transfer me to my regular OBGYN.  I just want to keep everyone updated on what to expect from the fertility/IVF experience if it's something they're going to do or are currently going through.  I don't want to turn "My In Vitro Blog" into a Pregnancy blog or Toddler blog.  I have a family blog for that.  I will just update it with major milestones or if there are any IVF related issues.

Thursday, July 12, 2012

7/12/12 - High Beta Numbers

I got a call from the nurse today with my blood results from yesterday. She said everything looks good and to stay on all meds, only stopping Estrace suppositories on Monday the 16th. They want me back for more blood work on Wednesday the 18th with next ultrasound still on Monday the 23rd.

I asked her what my HCG level was today and she said 38,847! For everyone in IVF land that's 20dp5dt.That's REALLY high!

I had consulted the google and wrote down what my level MIGHT be on day 20 based off of what other girls had. The number was 13,000 (and that's for twins). Mine was 38,847!

Here are my numbers so far:
11dp5dt 762
15dp5dt 5,127
20dp5dt 38,847

Average numbers for twins according to betabase.info:
11dp5dt 401
15dp5dt 1,691
20dp5dt 8,938

I've been pretty concerned about the numbers being so high. I've read that it can be a sign of molar pregnancy or down syndrome. I mean, it's HIGHLY unlikely that there's a secret triplet in there.

Then I came across this comment on a message board, which helped me chillax. "My doctor told me that with those high numbers he suspected a twin pregnancy and a healthy one". I'm going to go with that scenario.

Wednesday, July 11, 2012

7/11/12 - TWINS!!

This morning was our FIRST pregnancy ultrasound!  I was having such a hard time sleeping.  I couldn't stop thinking about the appointment.  I was just HOPING we'd see twinners in the morning :)

Clear as day - they showed us the two sacs.  Officially TWINS!!!

Here's the video when we found out:


This is a picture of the monitor:


Our next appointment is an ultrasound on 7/23. 

I continue on all my meds:
2mg of Estrace 3x/day
Pre-Natal Vitamins nightly
Progesterone In Oil Injection (1ml) at 7pm every night
Progesterone (vaginal suppository) AM and PM
1mg of Estrace nightly (vaginal suppository)
4 Vivelle Dot estrogen patches switched out every 3 days

They also mentioned that I had a blood pocket (that's the dark spot above the sacs on the monitor) and I may experience some bleeding but not to worry unless it become bright red or heavy.  (I have had spotting since yesterday).  They said to always carry 2ml of Progesterone In Oil with me so that if I start bleeding heavily I can take an injection right away - then call them.

They gave me an official due date of MARCH 9th!  That's if I go full term - 40 weeks... which is unlikely.

I am officially 5 weeks and 4 days pregnant :)

After the appointment Corey and I went to breakfast together.  The first thing he said when we sat down was "Two dependants on next year's tax return!".  Hahaha... he's such an accountant.

I have been googling non-stop since last Monday: "Preparing for Twins", "Twin belly pictures", "Twin nurseries", etc... Now I'm going to be even worse!!  I'll sit on my couch with one google search on the I-Pad and another on my I-Phone.  Technology and information overload :)

I'm sooo excited to plan this pregnancy adventure!

Tuesday, July 10, 2012

7/10/12 - Second Beta Results

Great News! 

I got a call from a nurse this morning at 7:30am (which made me a lot happier with the clinic, for being on top of things and calling me so early). 

She said "I have your blood results and I entered them into your chart but I need the Dr. to review them before I tell you how to adjust your meds. He'll probably call you around 1pm".

I asked her if she could just tell me my HCG number...

She said it's 5,147!!! (15dp5dt)

That's really high! YAY! I think there's still a chance for twins!

Just to give you an idea of how high that is - I have been consulting The Google over the past week in order to get an idea of what my number might be (for twins) on 15dp5dt. I wrote down other ladies twin numbers at 15dp5dt transfer: 2,200, 3,097, 3,675, 3,860. Mine was 5,147. :)

Yesterday I called the office and scheduled my Ultrasound for Thursday at 8am but when the nurse called this morning she said I need to schedule my untrasound now. I told her it was already scheduled for Thursday BUT I asked if she would have had me schedule for a different day. She said she was going to suggest tomorrow (Wed). So I said "Let's move it to Wed!"! The sooner I can see these little guys, the better. It will be the official determination of a singleton or twins.

I moved it to Wednesday 7/11 at 7:00AM.

Oooh I can't wait to see!!!

Monday, July 9, 2012

7/9/12 - On a Happy Note

Yesterday I decided to take a home pregnancy test for funsies. I had realized that after taking maybe 100 tests over the past 6 years... hoping a line would appear if I just stared hard enough... I should just take one now and take a pic.


Before I could even set it down to read the results A BIG THICK LINE APPEARED! Wow! So thaaat's what a positive line looks like!?? :)


I was so excited!

7/9/12 - STILL No Results

I'm so frustrated right now.  I just got a call from the fertility center.  They informed me that they won't have my results until TOMORROW.  I did the blood work Friday at 7:45am and I won't get a result until Tuesday!?

I feel like the office doesn't care and they don't think it's important.  It's important to me, because we've been trying to get pregnant for almost 6 years, spent $20,000 and we've had an early miscarriage before.  I got one positive test Monday but we're suppose to monitor the levels and make sure the #'s are duplicating how they're suppose to.  My meds are suppose to be adjusted according to my blood results.  UGH...  I'm just venting.  Thanks for listening.

I'll post as soon as I have an answer.

Friday, July 6, 2012

7/6/12 - No Results Today

I went in for blood work this morning at 7:45am and waited all day for my results.  They were suppose to tell me my HCG number and basically check if everything's progressing how it should.  We would have also had a better idea of whether or not it was one or two babies.  I was also told that depending on my results today, I might be stopping my Progesterone In Oil injections tonight. 

I usually get a call with results from 1pm - 4pm.  They have told me in the past that if I don't hear from them by 4pm to call their office.  I was interviewing someone at work until 4:30pm so I called as soon as I was done.  Whoever answered the phone said she would transfer me to the front desk but she thought everyone had left for the day so I might have to leave a voicemail which would be returned on Monday. 

Ugh. 

So I left a voicemail and then emailed the Dr.  Hopefully they decide to call me tonight.

Monday, July 2, 2012

7/2/12 - OFFICIAL RESULTS!

The Dr. just called.  He said in a happy voice "HI KIM, It's Dr. D!...  CONGRATULATIONS!!"

...

...

(I'm in shock)

...

...

I answer with "Oh my gosh... oh my gosh... Wow... Oh Wow..."

Then I asked him what HCG level I was (I think I'm 11dp5dt (days past 5 day transfer - IVF lingo)), he said 762!

I asked when we'll know if it's ONE or TWO and he said "It's most probably TWO!!!"

Wow...

He said at this point most women have an HCG level of 300 or 400 but I'm at 762... TWINS!!!!!!!!!

I'm SOOOO HAPPY!  I was worried that it wouldn't feel real or I wouldn't feel like I could celebrate because I'd still be so nervous about complications... BUT I'M CELEBRATING!!!!  I know we still have a long road ahead of us and we'll just take it a day at a time and ultrasound at a time, but today, right now, I'm just so grateful.

Thank you so much for all your love and support!  I'll keep you all posted on my follow up appointments.  I have bloodwork on Friday 7/6 and an ultrasound sometime next week.

Tentative Due Date: February 14th, 2013!

Saturday, June 30, 2012

6/30/12 - Dinner To Go and NERVES

Tonight Corey and I took my brother to Petland to see a pug puppy that we've been looking at. We've pretty much decided that if Monday we find out we're NOT pregnant, we'll go buy the pug :)

Then we went to dinner at Grimaldi's. We ordered our food and got our appetizer... Then my ALARM on my phone went off reminding me to do my Progesterone in Oil shot! Whoops! We forgot about the 7pm shot we do EVERY night. So... We let the waitress know we needed it To Go and we headed out for the 20 minute drive home. :)

I've been feeling very nervous lately and I can't stop thinking about the test in 2 days! I haven't felt anything close to a symptom... Which I know is probably normal because I would only be about 3 1/2 weeks pregnant. But your mind just goes through these things and analyzes everything.

I also keep thinking about the scenario of if I AM pregnant. I feel like it will be hard to really celebrate until I'm through my first trimester. I'm just so worried about early miscarriage. I will be happy of course but just very nervous.

I wish I wasn't working Monday. It will be hard to think about anything else, PLUS they'll be calling me with the results when I've still got a couple more hours on the clock. I know that last time I had an emotional meltdown... So that gets awkward at the office ;)

Hopefully everything goes well. Thank you for all the positive messages and prayers!!

Tuesday, June 26, 2012

6/26/12 - First Blood Test

So far so good!  Dr. D says the blood test today "shows early signs of implantation".  :) Official test was moved to Monday 7/2 because they're closed Sunday. 

I hope it sticks!!

I'm HAPPY about the news but still very nervous.  Please keep us in your prayers for Monday!

Friday, June 22, 2012

6/22/12 - Med Change

A nurse called today and said to continue on my current meds and ADD progesterone pills (not my favorite if you know what I mean) morning and night.

Uuuuugh...

The nurse also told me a different blood test schedule than was written on my discharge paperwork yesterday. I guess I just go in Tues the 26th and Sunday the 1st. Less needles the better.

Bed rest today. My brother was here in the morning and made me a delicious omelet but he had to go out of town and left around noon. Corey will be home from work in a few hours. I'm super bored.

Thursday, June 21, 2012

6/21/12. - Meet The Twins :)

This is a pictures of the two embryos they transferred today...

(and by the way, first blood test is Mon 6/25 next one is Tues 6/26 and they might know by then if I'm pregnant. Then another test 6/28 and OFFICIAL pregnancy test on Sunday 7/1)

6/21/12 - TRANSFER!

Today we had 5, Grade 1 embryos.

We transferred 2 and froze 3!

Now it's time for bed rest :)



6/21/12 - On Track for Transfer TODAY

I just got a call from the fertility center CONFIRMING my transfer today at 2:30pm! 

That is great news because with the last transfer they called me in the morning and told me they needed to reschedule the transfer for the next day because the embryos needed more time to develop.

So I'm thinking they're better qaulity this time!!  I'll post again when I know the exact grade... probably after transfer this afternoon. :)

Tuesday, June 19, 2012

6/19/12 - Thaw Report

I just got my FIRST embryo thaw update from the Dr!!! They're looking better than last time!! They think I'll be on track for transfer Thurs and not have to push it to Friday! I'm so excited :)

1 is "compacting", it's at the 30 - 40 cell stage and ahead of schedule

9 are at the 8 cell stage

He thinks they'll be at blast by Thursday

Monday, June 18, 2012

6/18/12 - Thaw Confusion

SORRY!  I was totally confused about my thaw.  I guess the embryos were thawed YESTERDAY and I don't get my first update from the Dr. until TOMORROW afternoon/evening.  Boo.  I don't know why I thought it would be sooner.  O'well.

I had blood work done this morning and the nurse just called me and said everything looks good and to continue on all the same medications... 2 estace pills 3x/day, 1 estrace pill (vaginal suppository) at night, 2 vivelle estrogen patches switched out every 3 days, pre-natal pill nightly and 2cc of Progesterone In Oil (injection) at 7:00pm nightly.

I think my next appointment is the TRANSFER on Thursday!  Hot diggity dog!!!

A friend of mine at work (a drug and alcohol rehab) is a Life Coach and she is the most POSITIVE and encouraging little cheerleader EVER.  She came into my office this morning and said "This is the week!!!".  She pulled me into her office (with another co-worker/close friend) and she lit some candles and turned off the lights and had us all hold hands while she said a prayer type blessing/encouraging words/positive energy thingy... it was actually really neat and very sweet of her.  She told me to wake up on Thursday morning and visualize the embryo attaching to my uterine wall and to only put positive energy out into the world :)

I suppose I will :)  It couldn't hurt :)

Saturday, June 16, 2012

6/16/12 - First POI Injection of Round 2

I had such a great day! I got up and went running then laid out at the pool with my friend and had a lovely poolside lunch at The Sand Bar. Then I picked up my nephew and I took him to the Circus! The legit Ringling Brothers Circus! Corey met us there. Corey and I loved spoiling him for the day.

Then... We did a Progesterone In Oil shot. It really wasn't too bad!! Hopefully they're all like this :)

Corey was sure to spend a good amount of time massaging the area to get the oil to distribute well and we used a heat pad. We're going to stay on top of it this round and not let any pumps build up under the skin :)

They took my embryos out of the freezer today and we'll get an update from the dr tomorrow. I hope all is well.

6/15/12 - Ultrasound and Blood Work

Today was an ultrasound and blood work and it all went well. I had them draw circles in permanent marker on my love handles so Corey knows where to start the injections tomorrow night. Progesterone in Oil!!!! Here we go!! They take my embryos out of the freezer tomorrow 6/15. Say a little prayer for them. I hope they're good quality :)

Wednesday, June 13, 2012

6/12/12 - Ultrasound and Blood Work

Tuesday ultrasound and blood work went well.  The Dr said "Let's make this your LAST transfer".  I said "OK!"

I'm continuing the 2 estrace pills 3x/day and ADDING 2 vivelle estrogen patches - switching them every 3 days.  They're also having me add 1 estrace pill per night (vaginal suppository)  :/

I had a great workout at CrossFit tonight and made some delicious grilled chicken and asparagus with mushrooms :)

One more week of working out before my transfer and 3 days of bed rest!!

6/9/12 - Blood Work

I had blood work on this wonderful Saturday morning.  They said everything looked good and to continue on 2 pills of estrace 3x/day.

I laid out with a friend at a resort pool and then worked out with her at the park.  I used a work out schedule from www.ToneItUp.com <-- I love those girls.

Oh BTW - I lost 4 lbs last week!  Eating clean and back at Crossfit :)  IVF sure does put on some extra weight - between the meds and times when you're not aloud to work out.

At night Corey asked if we could head up to the mountains for a last minute camping trip.  SO WE DID!  :)  It was so peaceful and beautiful.  Here's my view waking up in the tent...



Wednesday, June 6, 2012

6/6/12 - Ultrasound and Blood Work

This morning I had an ultrasound and blood work. They said everything looked great and to start taking 2 Estrace pills 3x/day... Starting tomorrow.

Oh and I starting my cycle yesterday... Again. Which is what they wanted. So I guess we're right on track. :)

Monday, June 4, 2012

6/2/12 - Blood Work

Saturday I had blood work in the morning.  They called with the results in the afternoon and said to continue Aygestin till Sunday and to come back for ultrasound and blood work on Wednesday.  I think that's also when I start Estrace again.
After blood work I went into work for a little while then I met up with my friend and we worked out at the park.  It was a beautiful day.  Then we had a lovely breakfast on the patio of a yummy restaurant.  Then did a little shopping and went to a hotel pool for the day :)  Later that night Corey and I met up with some friends for sushi.  YUM.  It was a nice weekend!

Thursday, May 31, 2012

5/31/12 - Don't Look at Me

Today at work an employee came in with her new baby.  I had never met her before and she of course doesn't know my situation.  I love babies and I'm so happy for everyone that receives that blessing but this girl would not stop complaining... and she kept looking at me!  She was in my office - which I share with Kristin.  Kristin was holding the baby and I was just typing away and looking busy.  But this girl kept complaining about doctors appointments and she would look at me and laugh like "isn't it crazy!  Babies are so hard and I'm so funny".  Well lady, I don't feel bad for you.  I go to the dr almost every other day.  You can handle 1 a week for your little blessing.

Sorry that sounds very mean. I'm not usually too negative or bitter. I just wanted to vent for a moment. :) Thanks for listening.

5/30/12 - Blood Work

I did blood work this morning and they called me this afternoon to tell me that because of something they saw in the blood test they're moving my next blood test appt up one day, so next one is Sat not Sun.  They said this doesn't effect the rest of my schedule.

5/29/12 - Day 1 of Cycle

Today I started my cycle and called the fertility center to get this FET (Frozen Embryo Transfer) on the road.  I started earlier than they thought, which I'm happy about because I'm not very patient.  (says the girls that has been trying to get pregnant for 5 1/2 year - HA)

They emailed me the appointment and med schedule which looks something like this:

5/30/12 - Blood Work and start Aygestin pills 2x/day
6/3/12 - Blood Work and stop Aygestin (which will start my cycle AGAIN)
6/6/12 - Baseline Ultrasound and Blood Work
6/7/12 - Begin 2 Estrace pills 3x/day
6/9/12 - Blood Work
6/12/12 - Ultrasound and Blood Work
6/15/12 - Ultrasound and Blood Work
6/16/12 - Begin Progesteron in Oil injections at 7pm every day
6/17/12 - EMBRYOS WILL BE THAWED
6/18/12 - Blood Work
6/21/12 @ 2:00pm Embryo Transfer!
6/21/12 - 6/23/12 Best Rest

They said I DON'T need to take LUPRON injections this time!!!!!!!!!!!!!!  I'm SOOOOO happy about that!  That's the only injection that really effected me emotionally.  I was so irratable on it last time.  So COREY and I are VERY happy about not doing them this time :)

Tonight I went to CrossFit again.  I am sooo sore.  The no exercise part of IVF is definitely taking a toll on my body.

5/28/12 - A Day Off

Today is Monday - Memorial Day and I have the day off!!

Today is also day 1 of being cleared to work out again!!  This morning I ran 3 miles, then went to CrossFit and tonight we played STREET HOCKEY in our culdesac with some friends.  It was another great day and I am still happy to report no bloating.  Maybe last retrieval was just an anomaly.  Thank goodness.  Still waiting for Aunt Flow - so I can get my transfer schedule.  Might be getting it by the end of the week.

5/27/12 - Emotional Sunday

Today is Sunday and we went to church.  I've been feeling pretty good and haven't been too sad BUT something weird/embarrassing happened in Relief Society (last class of the day). 

The teacher talked A LOT about motherhood and raising children.  I teared up a little a few times, but wasn't too emotional UNTIL the teacher went into a little shpeal about women wanting to be mothers and struggles with infertility.  Wow.  I lost it. 

I was LUCKILY sitting in the back corner next to a friend.  I turned my head to the corner and tried to block my ugly crying face with my long hair.  I was very careful to be SILENT, so I don't think too many people could tell I was crying - except for the presidency which was facing the group.  I was bawling.  My whole body was trembling and my face was dripping... eyes and nose.  Thank goodness my friend had a tissue.  She just put her arm around me as I tried to breathe slowly and get myself under control.  What a weirdo.  I couldn't control it.

After the lesson the bishop's wife came back to me and she was crying too.  She said "I came back here to cry with you and share this message".  She handed me her phone which had a paragraph from a talk that focused on infertility.  It was sweet of her to share that with me.

I apologized to her and my friend and I explained that it was just a bad time for me to hear that message because our 1st IVF and FET cycle just failed and we're in the middle of the 2nd.  They understood... but it was still embarrassing.  I walked out to the truck and just laid back in the seat and cried all the way home. 

I think it was just one of those weird emotional days.  I'm fine.  I had a great afternoon with Corey and I went to a beatiful wedding that night with my brother.

5/26/12 - Blood Work & Relaxing

Today is Saturday and this morning I had blood work.  It was quick and easy.  Afterwards I met up with my friend, her son and my boss at a wonderful cafe.  Then my friend and I did a little shopping.  Later in the day Corey and I went to his parent's house and laid out by the pool.  It was a lovely relaxing day.  I am so happy that I am NOT as bloated as I was last time.  I have felt pretty good since retrieval.

Friday, May 25, 2012

5/25/12 - Fertilization Report

Dr. D just called and said out of 30 retrieved 24 fertilized and are now in the freezer!  He said that was EXCELLENT!  Last time only 10 out of 20 fertilized.

I also asked him what happened yesterday.  He said that I had some coughing spells and it must have caused pressure on my cervix and the clamp that closed off the needle insertion site must have opened up so they took me in and re-clamped it.  He said it was not a big problem they just had to re-do the clamp.  He also said this was the first time in 15 years that this happened!  Lucky me :)  I'm not too worried about it because I feel fine today and I trust everyone at the fertility center.

Next step is blood work tomorrow morning then call them with the 1st day of my cycle in 9 - 11 days.  Then we start a 2 week prep for transfer.

So far so good!!

Thursday, May 24, 2012

5/24/12 - Retrieval and "Scare"

I got up at 5am and we were at the fertility center at 6:15am.  They gave me my little hospital bracelet and took me straight back.  I changed into the special hospital outfit with the open gown in the back, the hair cap and booties - so cute.  ;)

The nurse had a hard time finding a good vein for the iv.  It was weird because I usually have easy veins. 

The anesthesiologist sat with me for a while and asked me a bunch of medical history questions.  She asked me how anxious I was feeling on a scale from 1 to 10.  I told her 1 and that last time I felt like I was a 0.  She was suprised by the low numbers and happy I was so relaxed :)

Then she walked me into the operating room with the iv stand and baggie in tow and she filled my iv with some lovely medicine and I don't remember anything else.  (Corey told me to TRY to remember - haha, like if I think hard enough I could remember the procedure).

I woke up in the recovery room and the nurse was checking my pulse and monitoring my vital when I started to feel like maybe I was involuntarily peeing my pants.  I could feel a lot of cold wetness... so I told the nurse that I thought maybe I was bleeding.  She lifted the blanket and took a peek and things got chaotic from there.  She immediately got the Dr and he took a peek and all these nurses were around me right away and they quickly wheeled me right into the operating room again.  I could hear them say words like "a lot of blood", "cotorize", and "clamp off".  (I was still very groggy).  The Dr placed the speculum and starting working and it hurt a lot.  The anesthesioligist was figiting with my iv and I remember saying "please knock me out".  She put a syringe in the iv and I was out.

When I woke up AGAIN in the recovery room the Dr came in and said "You gave us quite a scare".  He said they had to clamp off something (again, I was very groggy).  Maybe it was because I was knocked out twice but I defintely felt a lot more groggy this time than last.  The nurse told me to call if I started bleeding a lot again but that everything should be fine.  She also said that if I didn't feel well tomorrow that they'll write me a work note to stay home - but I had last week off for vacation so I need to work, so I'm definitely going in tomorrow, I'll just take it easy and sit in my office all day.

She walked me out and asked my brother to help me to the car.  He ended up having to wait 2 hours past my planned pick up time because of the "scare".

We picked up my prescription for Doxycicline (antibiotic) on the way home and I took a LONG nap. 

I feel so tired still.  I'll just relax the rest of the day and I'll be going to work tomorrow.

I go in for blood work in 2 days (Saturday morning) and I'm suppose to start my cycle in 10-12 days and call them.  I think that's when I start Lupron injections then progesterone to get prepped for transfer.Oh AND they got 30 eggs!!! Hopefully this batch is a better quality :). Dr D will call me tomorrow night with a fertilization report so we know how many sperms hooked up with eggs and made embryos.

Wednesday, May 23, 2012

5/23/12 - Pre-Op Exam and Cool Experience

This morning I had blood work and pre-op exam.  They took me back for blood draw and when I went back into the lobby to wait for the pre-op I saw my junior prom date there with his wife!  I went over and said hi and we talked for a while about the wonderful Dr and about the fertility tx process.  They're doing IUI now so it was good for me to be able to share a little bit with them about my experiences.

Then they called me back for the pre-op which is basically just weighing me, taking my blood pressure and listening to my lung... and a lot of paperwork - medical history and stuff for the anesthesiologist tomorrow.  I was actually happy about my weight today.  I feel so bloated and I know I have gained weight throughout this process but I was surprisingly happy with the number today :)

When I walked out in the lobby a man was looking at me like he knew me and he got up to shake my hand.  I was very confused, then he asked if I was Kim.  I said yes and he said "Kim the blogger?"... I realized he must know about my blog somehow.  Then he explained that his wife had found my blog and has been following it and loves to read my posts.  He must have recognized me from my pictures and heard my name when they called me back for the exam.  He said they are a few days behind me in the cycle - which is pretty neat.  I was SO happy he said hello and I'm so glad that others that are going through IVF are enjoying my blog and getting something out of it.  I'm surprised that someone from my very own clinic found the blog.  It's pretty cool :)  So if you're reading this Tammy... HELLO and good luck!! :)

We're going out to dinner now with friends then we're going to try to get a good night sleep because we have to be at the clinic at 6:15AM!  :)  I hope everything goes well and they get oodles and oodles of eggs! 

Tuesday, May 22, 2012

5/22/12 - Ultrasound and Blood Work AGAIN

This morning I went in for another untrasound and blood work.  Dr. D said we're on track for retrieval on Thursday and we'll do a pre-op exam tomorrow morning at 8:50am. 

I had my day planner out and ready to take notes about my follicle count today and the nurse said "No need to take notes, we'll just print out the report for you".  So... here it is...  (33 Eggs!)


Tonight we do a Lupron trigger shot.   Tomorrow morning I go in for my Pre-Op Exam.  Thursday I am scheduled for retrieval at 6:15AM!

Monday, May 21, 2012

5/21/12 - Ultrasound and Blood Work

Ultrasound and blood work went well today. At first glance at the ultrasound Dr D thought I'd be ready for retrieval Wed instead of Thurs but after measuring the follicles he said to give it one more day, so we're back to Thurs for retrieval. Today we had 33 follicles!!

They want me back tomorrow for ANOTHER ultrasound and blood works. :) More updates then.

Sunday, May 20, 2012

5/20/12 - Back from Vacay Update

The meds made it to the condo in CA just fine. The front desk kept them in the fridge for us. Vacation was great!

We rode beach cruisers around Coronado. We had family beach olympics. Went to Disneyland. Shopped with my sisters. And kayaked and snorkeled (ok I couldn't do that because of the up and down motion and I was already a week into my stimulation meds, Dr's orders)

Disneyland was great. They have a nurse station were we stored my meds and used a private room at injection time. I couldn't ride any roller coasters but hung out in the lines with everyone anyway :)

My sisters and mom watched injections and they really hated it. But it was kinda cool to have them experience it with me.

Tuesday morning we found a Quest Lab for blood work. Saturday through Wednesday we did 1 vial of Menopur and 150 iu of Gonal F. Thursday we added Cetrotide (it's cheaper than Ganarelix, which we used last time).

We got back home Saturday night and went in today, Sunday for blood work and an ultrasound. They counted 26 good sized follicles (eggs) and 11 small ones that may develop into follicles. Last time we had 23 total at the last ultrasound and 20 retrieved. So this means we have better numbers than last time. Yay!!

After blood work results came in they called and said the Dr wants me to come in tomorrow for ultrasound and blood work again. I'll write more updates then.

Friday, May 11, 2012

5/11/12 - IVF #2

Last night I had my follow up consult with Dr. D.  Corey couldn't make it so I went alone.  At first when he started showing me pictures of my bad embryos and what good quality embryos should look like I started tearing up and he kept checking if I was ok.  Here's the recap:

He said my uterus looked perfect.

He said my hormone levels were always good.

He said my body was absorbing all the meds very well.

He said I'm the PERFECT PATIENT :)  Because I follow everything they tell me and I take great notes and I'm very attentive.

My embryos just aren't developing how they should.  It could be an egg quality issue but it's not an OBVIOUS egg problem.

He said it's just a statistical issue.  He wants to increase my QUANTITY with round 2 so we can have a better chance of getting at least one good quality embryo.

Dr. D spent a good 40 minutes with me and I could tell that he really cared and he really know my chart inside and out.  He remembered how my ultrasounds looked, he remembered my treatments from last year.  It was so nice to visit with him and ask him ALL the questions I could think of.

This round he's having me take Coenzyme Q-10 vitamins and he's increasing my Gonal F in order to increase my egg quantity.

I felt SO GOOD by the time I left.  I just felt so good about the Dr. being commited to getting me to a healthy delivery. 
__________________________________________________________

TODAY I went in for baseline ultrasound and bloodwork because I started my period yesterday and I'm going to California tomorrow morning.  I met with the IVF Coordinator and she gave me my apopintment schedule and we reviewed my current med inventory so we only order what's necessary.  They're shipping my meds to the condo in California that we're staying at, and I'll pick them up tomorrow when we check in.  We'll be doing injections every night while we're there, even at Disneyland.  I'll go to a Quest Lab in CA on Tuesday for blood work and then an ultrasound and blood work at Dr. D's when we get back on Sunday next week.  Egg retrieval scheduled for May 24th.

IVF #2 payment is made.  Here we go again...


Thursday, May 10, 2012

5/10/12 - Good Ole Uchtdorf

"Wherever you are, whatever your circumstances may be, you are not forgotten. No matter how dark your days may seem, no matter how insignificant you may feel, no matter how overshadowed you think you may be, your Heavenly Father has not forgotten you. In fact, He loves you with an infinite love."
--Dieter F. Uchtdorf, "Forget me not", November 2011 Ensign

Monday, May 7, 2012

5/7/12 - Official Results

It's officially a negative.

He said my HCG level was 1, which is pretty much equal to 0.

We're scheduled for a consultation on 5/10 and hope to start the next cycle asap... while I'm on COBRA insurance with a partial fertility benefit.

Dr. D said my uterus looked perfect so he's thinking my embryos had cromozomal abnormalities.  He wants me to stop all meds and start taking Co-Q 10, 400mg a day.  This is suppose to improve the quality and quantity of my eggs.  I told him that IVF sucks and his patients go through a lot.  I was kind of laughing as I said it... it wasn't meant to be or come across as offensive.  He said he knows, he feels it from his patients and that's why they do everything they can to have the great success rates that they have.

The emotions of it:  I'm really sad.  There are no words for how I feel.  I can't stop crying.  To be honest, I almost passed out because I couldn't catch my breath.  This just isn't fair.  This was suppose to be it.  "Unexplained Infertiility"... I'm suppose to be the easy case.  IVF sucks.  I don't want to do it again... but I will.  Mothers Day next week will suck. 

I just want to allow myself today to be sad and feel sorry for myself (and Corey).  I can pick myself up and be positive another day.

Friday, May 4, 2012

5/4/12 - Initial Results

I just got a call from Dr D. He said they're not seeing any sign of pregnancy and they'll do another test Monday to be sure but he is "concerned" with my levels and if it's negative Monday we'll have a consult and discuss what to change for next time.

Monday, April 30, 2012

4/30/12 - Oh PIO

These progesterone in oil injections are a pain in the butt! Literally!

Yesterday I had a big tennis ball size knot under my skin on my right side injection site. Corey started the injection last night about an inch above the knot... But I immediately felt an odd sharp pain when the needle went a certain depth and Corey didn't feel comfortable injection the oil there in case he hit a nerve. So he removed it, switched the needle, and injected the left side. We made sure to give it a good massage after to get the oil distributed and then applied a heat pack.

Our friends Tracy, Chris and their little boy brought us lunch yesterday and it was nice to visit with them. Then my brother came over in the evening and we watched Tv for a while.

I know it's too early to actually feel any pregnancy symptoms but it's so weird that I have embryos in me right now. It just doesn't even feel real - that there's even a possibility. O'well, we'll know soon enough :)

Saturday, April 28, 2012

4/28/12 - Day 1, Bed Rest

Today I just laid on the couch and watched Netflix and Hulu. I only got up to use the bathroom and in the afternoon I took a quick shower. I got a headache from laying on a pillow for so long. It's so weird that when your at work sometimes it feels like all you want is to be home on the couch or in bed all day, but then when you are you get stir crazy and all you want is to be outside.

A nurse called today and said to continue on 2 Estrace pills 3x per day, Doxycycline 2x per day, pre-natal daily, PIO injection daily, and ADD the lovely progesterone pills (vaginal suppositories) 2x per day.

Then the Dr called and officially said no more embryos developed, so we'll have none for the freezer. I was expecting this from what he said yesterday.

Corey's parents and sister came over tonight and brought dinner and the most wonderful little care package for me. It had all things needed for bed rest :). A movie, candy, gossip magazine, nail polish... And other great things. It was so nice to visit with them.

On a sad note, I found out today that my friend's embryos didn't make it through the thaw. We were on the same cycle with the same Dr and the same transfer day. (this was her 2nd ivf) She won't be able to transfer and plans to take a break over the summer before doing another cycle. I immediately broke down crying when I found out. My heart just breaks for her. We do so much for the chance of pregnancy and I can imagine the heart ache she's feeling. I wish it had worked out for her and it makes it hard for me to be happy about my own situation. I know it's always hard to see the positive when a cycle doesn't work out but I do feel confident that with the wonderful procedures we have available, it's only a matter of time for her. She's in my prayers.

Friday, April 27, 2012

4/27/12 - My Transfer Day, Recap

This morning Corey and I stopped for smoothies on our way to acupuncture. I got a PINEAPPLE smoothie because I've read that pineapple helps with implantation. :)

Acupuncture was nice. Corey went back with me and watched her put all the needles in but he left the room later because he was talking to me too much while I was suppose to relax. He took that picture.

I was very relaxed after sitting under the heat lamp for about 30 minutes. I didn't want to get up. Hopefully it helped :)

We had about an hour and a half to spare before our transfer appointment so we went to Whole Foods and I got some fresh pineapple slices, pineapple juice and brazil nuts (I also read they're good for transfer). Then we had lunch at Cafe Rio.

When we got to the fertility center they had me get into scrubs and wait in the recovery room next to a lady that I chatted with for a while. She was there for a transfer too and this was her 3rd try... 1st with this clinic and she said it was already soo much better than the other places she went.

They took me back to the op room and Corey came in with a scrub cap on. Dr. D came in and explained that we only had 2 embies left and they were both grade 1 (best grade). He recommended we transfer both. Corey and I talked about it and didn't like the idea of only transferring 1 and then refreezing 1 with a possibility of it not making it out of thaw if we had to do another frozen transfer. So we chose 2. Corey filmed the ultrasound monitor while they did the transfer and then the embryologist checked the container to make sure they were both out.

If you're interested in a good article about transfers... http://www.ivf-infertility.com/ivf/standard/procedure/replacement.php

Then they wheeled me into the recovery room while I laid on the gurney with my knees up for 20 minutes. It was so sad, a girl next to me was coming out of anesthesia from having a d&c :(

On the way home Corey made me put my feet on the dash and scoot down in the seat so my pelvis was more flat. :)

I'm home and on bed rest now. I'm so grateful for modern science and that we have the opportunity to do this. I'm so happy to know that there are 2 little embies trying to hang in there and make us a little family.

4/27/12 - Transfer Day!!!

2 Grade 1 embryos transferred. Grade 1 is the best grade :). None for the freezer. Blood pregnancy test next Friday. Time for 3 days bed rest :)

I'll more later about how the day went.

Thursday, April 26, 2012

4/26/12 - Explanation

Dr. D just called me and said my embryos are at early blossom stage and he just wants to give them one more day to develop.  He seemed nervous.  I was a little bold and said "I know I'm not suppose to compare myself to other patients but my friend is doing this cycle too and last time she had to wait an extra day and then didn't have any embryos to transfer so I'm really concerned.  Just tell me honestly, should I not get my hopes up?"  He said NO everything looks fine they just want to give one more day to develop and the MAJORITY of patients need the extra day anyway and go to day 6 (which is tomorrow for me).  He said this is not unusual.  I asked him if he has actually looked at my embryos and if he could tell if they're bad quality.  He said they're not bad quality.  I asked if he could tell how many were GREAT and how many were Good.  He said "we have 3 in the running and hopefully by tomorrow we'll have 1 or 2".  <--- that wasn't very encouraging to me!  Oh well... it is what it is.  I can't do anything to change it at this point so I will try to relax and wait to see what tomorrow brings. 

On a BRIGHT note - I received this message through Facebook just now and it was very encouraging.

"Hi Kim,

I am a friend of Tracy Giffords. When she found out my daughter was conceived through IVF she told me about your story and your blog. Just wanted to give you some encouragement to hang in there. We had 12eggs retrieved, 7 fertilized and by day 5 only one had made it and it was an A/B. I was worried and disappointed on transfer day because the odds were not in our favor but it worked!!! This was only one cycle,also. Anyway, hope you don't mind me messaging you-I know the difficult journey and emotions of IVF. I am hoping your cycle is successful! If you have any questions I would be happy to answer them as best I can."

All it takes is ONE!

4/26/12 - Rescheduled Transfer

Dr just cancelled for today. He wants to give the embies 1 more day to develop. Transfer is tentatively scheduled for tomorrow. He's going to call me this afternoon to discuss why. I'm so worried and confused. I hope he calls soon. I'm going to head into work now. No need to sit at home.

Wednesday, April 25, 2012

4/25/12 - Night Before Transfer

Today felt like Christmas Eve. I don't know if I'll be able to sleep.

Corey and I are seriously considering transferring 2 again... Because I don't want to go through this again and I'd rather increase my odds. We'll discuss it with Dr D tomorrow and make an educated decision.

At work today I did a test to see how long it took for my bladder to feel full after drinking 16oz of water. My bladder has to be full for the transfer tomorrow and I've heard horror stories about women drinking too much and peeing on the dr! I think if I drink it at 12:45, I will be ok. :)

Tonight I went to CrossFit then Corey brought home Olive Garden, then we went to the store and bought our very first baby gift. A teddy bear. Corey picked it out and loved it. It's sitting on our table next to all the needles :).

I was trying to distract myself from the PIO shot tonight so I turned on TMZ. That wasn't too smart because I was laughing and shaking while Corey had the needle in. No movement is best :). Corey says it always leaks oil and blood when he takes out the needle. Yuck.

Dr D should call tomorrow morning with a final say on how the embies are doing and to confirm if transfer is a go. 10:30am I have an acupuncture appointment and I have to be at the fertility clinic at 1pm to prep for 1:30 transfer. I'll keep you posted :)

Tuesday, April 24, 2012

4/24/12 - Thaw Report

The embryos were taken out of the freezer Sunday. Dr. D called me tonight.  (Tuesday)

Out of the 10, 4 are at the 8 cell stage, 4 at 6 cell stage, 1 at 3 cell stage. He said "so far so good". I wish I understood these #'s better.

He also told me he'd call Thursday morning (4/26) to say if it's a go. I'm scheduled for transfer at 1:30pm.

If any of you know more about those cell stages, will you please share your info?

4/24/12 - The EMOTIONS of IVF

Wow - yesterday was really rough.  I WAS EMOTIONAL. 

I'd like to think it had a lot to do with all the medication I'm on but I think it also has a lot to do with the stress and natural emotions that come with having to do injections every night, having your alarm go off all day to remind you to take different pills or injections, MANY Dr. appointments and phone calls with updates, AND the financial burden.

At my blood draw appointment in the morning I just had a bad attitude.  I didn’t want to be there.  I’m sick of Dr. appointments and I’m sick of needles.  I’ve been poked every day since March 7th.  It’s a lot.  It sucks.

I felt sick to my stomach and bloated most of the day.  This is a side effect of the Progesterone in Oil (PIO).  My hips HURT from the injections.  These PIO shots are NO FUN.

For the first time I actually thought about the possibility of NOT doing another cycle of IVF if this doesn’t work.  It’s just too much.  I’m worn out and emotionally drained.

It didn’t help that yesterday I found out that my ’07 Nissan Altima needs new brakes, new air compressor and other fun things like belts and stuff… $2,000!  We just paid $2,000 in taxes last week and I will be paying $1,000 to cobra this week (which makes a grand total of $10,000 so far for this IVF cycle).

I called my sister on my way home from work, put her on speaker phone, and just cried it out.  I couldn’t help it.  I was just bawling.  Sort of throwing a fit.  Saying “I’m sick of it!  I’m sick of SHOTS!  I’m sick of Dr. appointments!  I’m sick of PAYING so much for something that might not work!  I’m sick of taking time off work for appointments!  I’m sick of waiting for a call from the Dr.!  I’m sick of ALARMS going off all day!  I’m sick of bruises from shots!”  There was really no point in me throwing this fit.  It just felt good to let it out. 

She has 3 beautiful kids that I love to spoil.  I miss them a lot (they moved to Connecticut a few years ago).  She put her son on the phone (he’s 4 years old).  He said “What’s UP!?”  I told him that I was just telling his mom how much I want a baby.  He said “Oh Kimmy, I pray for you every day to have a baby!  What do you want to name your baby?”  Then we discussed baby names.  He suggested ZOOM as a baby name.  It was nice to talk to him.  My sister tells me all the time that EVERY prayer he HAS to pray that Aunt Kimmy will have a baby soon.  Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Bed Time.  If someone forgets, he makes them re-do the prayer.  He’s such a sweetheart.

I just kept busy at home with chores until Corey got home, then I broke down again.  It was bad.

I don’t mean to be negative or scare anyone reading my blog that’s considering IVF.  I’ve just decided that this is a very real part of the process and I should share this so you don’t think you’re crazy if you have the same experience.

I do feel that I am MOSTLY happy and positive throughout this process.  It’s just been a rough few days.

4/24/12 - Blood Work, Vivelle Patches

I had blood work yesterday morning before work.  I didn't like being there.  I'm getting sick of Dr. appointments.  I think I just woke up with a bad attitude yesterday.  (More about that in next post)

Dr. D called in the afternoon and said the blood work looked good and to continue on 2 estrogen pills 3x per day and 2 units of Progesterone In Oil at 7pm every night.  He also said to ADD 2 Vivelle Patches.  They're small clear patches that stick to my abdomen and release estrogen.  I switch them out every 3 days.

Sunday, April 22, 2012

4/22/12 - Progesterone In Oil Injections

After I posted on Friday night I got a call from Dr. D.  He left a voice message explaining that my ultrasound and blood work looked good and to start progesterone in oil injections Sat night (just like the nurse told me).  He also said that they will be taking my 10 embryos out of the freezer on Sunday 4/22 and he will call me with an update on Tuesday 4/24 around 6:00pm!  That seems like a long wait to hear how many survived.  I know multiple girls who's embryos didn't make it to a stage that was transferable and they didn't end up transferring any.  Soooo I'm nervous.

I can't believe transfer day is almost here!  I am very excited and very anxious to get it over with and find out if all these injections and blood draws and ultrasounds since Feb were worth it.

I started Progesterone In Oil injections last night.  Wow.  I'm really not looking forward to doing these every night until the beginning of June (if i DO get pregnant, that's how long I'll be on them).  The needle is thick and long and goes in the love handle area, alternating left and right side each night.  I lay on my stomach on the couch and try to distract myself with a movie.  It hurts going in but not too much DURING.  It just takes sooo long to get all the oil in.  Corey does it really slow because we were told that if you do it fast you can get a big ball of oil under the skin.  Yikes.  Corey wipes it up for a minute as it leaks blood and oil.  Ugh.  Then he massages the area (which the nurse said to do).  Today my right hip hurt from yesterdays injection.  It feels like a bad bruise under the skin.


Other than that I had a great weekend.  Went shopping with a friend, we met up with friends for dinner, I ran a 5k, watched the UFC fights at a friends house and we volunteered at an aid station for a 100 mile ultra marathon.

Blood work in the morning, so more updates tomorrow :). Goodnight.

Friday, April 20, 2012

4/20/12 - Ultrasound and Blood Work

This morning Corey went with me to the Dr.'s office.  We brought everyone bagels.  I had my blood drawn and an ultrasound.  Then they showed Corey how to give a Progesterone In Oil injection and drew targets on my love handles so he knows where to do it.  And they called me in a prescription for pre-natals.

I also asked for more information about how the embryo thaw works.  They said they will thaw all 10 on Sunday and keep me updated over the next 5 days on how they're developing.  I might transfer on Thursday (4/26) OR Friday (4/27).  They CAN re-freeze any good quality embryos I don't transfer.

The nurse called this afternoon and said the ultrasound and blood work looked good and to take my last Lupron injection tonight and start the Progesterone In Oil injection tomorrow night.  I could potentially be on this injection until the beginning of June.

WISH ME LUCK! :)

I have my next blood draw on Monday (4/23).

Tuesday, April 17, 2012

4/17/12 - Ultrasound and Blood Work

"It is only the farmer who faithfully plants seeds in the Spring, who reaps a harvest in the Autumn" - BC Forbes

Hopefully we reap some harvest in 2013!! :)

I had blood work and an ultrasound this morning before work, 7:00am.  Everything went well.  I like that everyone knows me by name.  They are a VERY busy office and people can easily get lost in the shuffle.  I think I'll bring them donuts and bagels on Friday morning when I'm there for more blood work and another ultrasound :)  I like kissing up to the people that have my future and sanity in their hands.  The smoother this process is, the better.

The nurse just called me and said the blood work and ultrasound looked good and to continue on 2 Estradiol pills, 3 times per day and 10 units of Lupron injections every night.  Friday morning Corey and I will get instructions on how to do the progesterone in oil injections. 

Oh, and yesterday I emailed my Dr and asked if I can run a 1/2 marathon on June 23rd... if this does work and I'm pregnant.  He said I could walk it briskly.  Darn it!!

OH AND... in order to think positively and have good energy for this transfer Corey and I are going shopping sometime this week for the baby!  I know... I know... it may sound weird.  We're not pregnant yet, but I think it's important to stay positive and I think it will be a fun little date night.  Maybe we'll pick out an outfit or something :)

Monday, April 16, 2012

4/16/12 - Blood Work, Throwing Knives

It's Monday and I haven't posted in a few days, but I'll fill you in on what you've missed.

So last Wednesday night is when Corey accidentally hurt me during my Lupron injections and he felt really bad about it.  So Thursday I picked up a little gift for him.  He had recently pointed out some throwing knives that he liked from Sportsman's Warehouse.  I gave them to him when he got home and told him thanks for stabbing me even though it's hard to do.  (of course throwing knives are an appropriate "thank you for stabbing me" gift. :))

Blood work on Thursday morning came back fine and I'm continuing with 10 units of Lupron and 2 Estrace pills 3 times per day.

This weekend we went to Utah to visit family.  We had to do my injections in the car at a gas station on the way home :)

This pic was taken this weekend while visiting family.

Thursday, April 12, 2012

4/12/12 - Lupron Injection - OUCH!

Last night Corey was doing the Lupron injection in my abdomen (which is my favorite injection so far because the needle is so small and the medicine doesn’t sting) with the LOWER dosage of 10 units instead of 20. 

Corey doesn’t like giving me injections because sometimes they hurt a little and he doesn’t like to hurt me.  He always tries to talk to me to distract me and then he’ll sneak in the stab… or he’ll start counting to 3, but he’ll actually stab when he gets to 2… so it’s sneaky and quick. 

WELL, last night he stabbed really fast and a little harder than usual, which was just an accident of course, but IT HURT!!  The whole area was in pain immediately and I burst into tears.  I felt like something was wrong and I started saying “Take it out!  Take it out!  Stop!”.  Poor Corey had the most concerned look on his face and he took the needle out right away.  The area started to bleed a lot as soon as he took out the needle… which isn’t normal. 

Corey was wiping up the blood and I was just sitting there crying because the area still hurt.  By the way… I’ve never cried because of pain during an injection before.  I blame my meds.  And there wasn’t a TON of blood, it was just more than usual… being that usual is 0 – 1 drops.

After a minute we decided to just try the other side.  That side only hurt a little – the normal amount. 

Corey felt sooo bad and he just hugged me while I whimpered for a minute.  The area was sore for the rest of the night and still is a little today, but I think I’ll survive ;)

Ah the joys of infertility J

Wednesday, April 11, 2012

4/11/12 - Ultrasound and Blood Work

This morning I had blood work and an ultrasound at 7am.  They found some cysts during the u/s which the nurse sounded concerned about.  She said that if my blood work comes back with normal hormone levels there’s no worry.  But I’ve had IUI cycles cancelled due to cysts and hormone levels – so yeah, I was worried.

I got a call from Dr. D around 3pm and he said my uterus lining looked PERFECT and that I’m ready to start the Estradiol (estrogen) pills tonight.  I will be taking TWO pills THREE times a day.  Yikes!  Tonight I also have to reduce my Lupron dose from 20 units to 10… which I LOVE… because I have been very emotional and irritable on Lupron.

After I sent Corey an email explaining what Dr. D said and that the cysts are not a concern he wrote me back this email: "Yayyy!!!!!!!  Kimmy Bird, you did it!!  I’m so the proud of you!"

He's just being silly... and I love it.

Let’s get this show on the road!!!  J

Monday, April 9, 2012

4/9/12 - Too Much Aygestin

WHOOPS! 

On Friday I checked out my friend's blog (the friend that's on the SAME exact transfer schedule as me).  She listed out her schedule and I noticed that hers said to take her last Aygestin pill on Thursday 4/5/12.  I thought, "that's weird, I took an Aygestin pill this morning."... then it clicked... WHOOPS... I wasn't SUPPOSE to take one.  I forgot to delete it from my calendar in my phone and it reminded me to take one that morning.  I called my IVF Coordinator and she said IT'S OK.  I started my cycle today and I have an ultrasound and blood work on Wednesday 4/11, so hopefully everything still looks good :)

Easter weekend was lovely.  I ran 5 miles on Saturday and it was a beautiful day! 

Thursday, April 5, 2012

4/5/12 - Giving MYSELF an injection!

Yep, a couple of nights ago I prepared the needle because Corey was playing a game on his phone and taking too long.  I acted like I was going to do it myself if he didn't hurry and then I thought... WHY NOT?  I WILL do it myself!  So, I pinched up my tummy and stabbed it right in.  It was no big deal.  It didn't hurt, it wasn't hard to get the needle through the skin... but keep in mind, this is the EASIEST of the 5 different needles and medications that I've taken so far :)  At least I tried it out on the easiest one, so that if I ever HAVE TO give myself an injection, I'm not totally freaked out by it :)

Tuesday, April 3, 2012

4/3/12 - Keep Calm and Stab On (New Injections and Blood Work)


Injections started again a couple of days ago (4/1).  They’re really easy little needles.  It's a new medicine called Lupron. 

I’m having some trouble with Keeping Calm lately.  Well, not that I get upset or crazy, but when I started this process on March 7th I felt so much peace and felt so relaxed.  Those feelings carried throughout the whole process including egg retrieval. 

I would go to work and nothing really ever bothered me.  I would come home and just relax and not worry about anything.  I mean, I WORKED at it.  I meditated, did acupuncture, facials… whatever I could to be relaxed.  It’s suppose to help get a positive outcome.  I’ve read and heard that being stressed really effects this process. 

Well… ever since the retrieval I’ve felt very anxious and some people in my life have been stressing me out.  I try to keep myself away from those people but it’s been very difficult lately.  Tonight I’m going to do a RELAX REBOOT.  I’m not going to the gym, I’m just going to meet a friend at the book store, pick out a lovely book and head over to a fun little coffee shop and read, then I'll go to dinner with Corey – who doesn’t stress me out and always makes me laugh.  I’m going to start meditating again and just get back to that pleasant place I was at last month J

This morning I had blood drawn.  They just called me with the results and they said "I just want to confirm what medications you're taking" which was a little weird.  So, I listed them off and she said "OK, your bloodwork looks good, but since you started Lupron on the 1st, we're going to move your next ultrasound and the start of Estrace to the 11th (which was originally scheduled for the 8th) and we're going to have you stay on Aygestin through Thursday (I was suppose to stop today)"  She said it's FINE that I started on the 1st and I did exactly what I was told to do.
They sent me a new FET transfer schedule which is basically just check up appointments pushed back a few days but my transfer day is STILL APRIL 26th. 

Wednesday, March 28, 2012

3/28/12 - Blood Work, Updated Schedule

This morning I had blood work done.  I don't know what for, I just know that they called me this afternoon and said I'm ok to do my transfer on 4/26 and I need to start taking Aygestin 2x/day.  I take this until 4/3 when I get another blood test.

I also start 20 units of Lupron injections on Sunday 4/1 and I'll probably continue with those injections every day until 4/20 then I'll switch to Progesterone Oil injections and continue with those until around 5/5 (That's right!  May 5th!  That's a lot of injections!).  The Lupron "suppresses the pituitary to prevent ovulation".  I actually don't know what the progestrone oil does... besides get me PREGO!! ;)  I just do as I'm told.

There are about 5 blood tests and a few ultrasounds between now and transfer day 4/26.  I'll keep you posted.  Oh, and I also start taking Estrace (Estradiol) 3x/day on 4/8.

I'm in good spirits and very excited about all of this :)  Thanks for all of your support!

Wednesday, March 21, 2012

3/21/12 - Blood Work, Bloated, & FET Schedule

WOAH!  I'm sooo bloated today!  Two days ago I had my egg retrieval.  I felt pretty good my first day, but the second day I started having abdomen pain/discomfort in the evening and felt sort of bloated, but I thought "maybe it's because I haven't been able to work out"... um... TODAY I know that it DEFINITELY wasn't that.  I am HUGE.  It's uncomfortable how bloated I am.  I asked my friend that has done this before and she said it's normal.  I also have cramping/discomfort - NON STOP.  I hardly slept last night.  Hopefully it goes away soon.

Ever since the fertilization update I have felt very confused about what happens next.  I had sent an email to the IVF Coordinator and the Dr and neither answered my questions.

The IVF Coordinator called me on my way home from work today to review my blood work from this morning.  She said everything looks normal and we can schedule for the Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET) now.  We chose April 26th which is a Friday, so I'll have Fri, Sat, Sun for bed rest.  She is emailing me my appointment and meds schedule. 

This means I should get my results the week before a big family vacation in California.  So if it's positive, YAY we all celebrate!  If it's negative, YAY my family is there to support me and keep me distracted!  :)  OH AND my sister's 3 beautiful children will be there to give me kisses and make me smile :)  I love, love, LOVE them!

I also asked the IVF Coordinator about my bloating.  She said to only be concerned if I start vomiting or get shortness of breathe.  So far, so good. 

Did I ever mention that my childhood BFF happens to be doing the SAME IVF cycle as me with the SAME Dr?  We started our injections the same day and everything!  She's also doing an FET like me.  It has been SOO nice to be able to text each other to vent or get advice.  I'm so greatful that I have her to go through this with me.

I'll post my FET schedule as soon as I get the email.  :)

Tuesday, March 20, 2012

3/20/12 - 10 Frozen!

I JUST got a call from Dr. D.  (which is much earlier than I expected, YAY!).  He said that out of the 20 eggs retrieved, 16 were mature and 10 FERTILIZED.  This means we have 10 embryos in the freezer for us :)

He said that after I start my period (estimated 10 - 12 days from retrieval) it takes 2 1/2 weeks to prepare the uterus, with Estrogen PATCHES and Leupron and Progesterone Oil INJECTIONS.  5 Days before the transfer they will remove my embryos and give me updates on how they're developing.  So Dr. D. is estimating a transfer in the 3rd or 4th week in April.

I asked him about working out and he said I can start again in about 3 - 4 days and can continue until the day before transfer. :)  YAY!!!

Good news all the way around :) 

I'll update the blog again once I start my cycle or I have any news.  Thanks for all your support!!!

Monday, March 19, 2012

3/19/12 - Egg Retrieval

I took it easy this morning and was at the Dr's office by 11am. They took me back and hooked up the IV. The nurse and anesthesiologist were really great. I'm so surprised I stayed calm. Last time I had surgery (laparoscopy for possible endometriosis) I started crying as I was being wheeled to the surgery room and I tried to rip out the IV when I woke up. Yikes. I was so relaxed and such a good patient today :).

The Dr came over and told me everything went well and he got 20 eggs and that we need to do a frozen transfer because my progesterone levels were high and there's that pesky risk of getting OHSS because I produced so many eggs. This means I will start my cycle in the next 10 - 12 days then call their office when I start and they'll give me instructions for Progesterone Oil injections and a transfer schedule.

My brother took me home at about 2pm. I took my doxyciclin (antibiotic). This is to prevent infection. And I read in my "Getting Pregnant" book that it helps improve the chance of success with IVF :) I'm on bed rest for the rest of the day.

Dr D will call me TOMORROW night with an update of my fertilization (how the embryos are doing). That seems like FOREVER to wait. Overall, it was a great day and pretty relaxing. I'll post again as soon as I have an update from the Dr.