It's a...

Sorry it's taken a week to update but I wanted to be sure all the Christmas cards made it out and I'm pretty sure they have!  If you can't tell already we are having a girl and will be naming her Madalyn.  When we found out last week I thought it would be fun to announce to everyone in our Christmas card, so that's what we did.

The appointment went well on Friday.  Heart rate 154 and everything looked perfect!  I was told that the elevated number could be a sign of issues later on in pregnancy such as preeclampsia and poor growth.  Since I had an abnormal level I will be going in for ultrasounds every 4-6 weeks!  When I decided to do this screening I was only expecting an extra ultrasound or two and now I'll be going back every month.  I'm hoping that my parents will be able to make the one in January.

My friend talked to a coworker who does the screening at their company and was told that the elevated AFP does not mean there's a higher chance of preeclampsia.  Plus my normal range might be slightly higher than "normal".  It's interesting to hear another person's knowledge.

I also had an appointment with my regular doctor on Monday.  Heart rate was 159 (I MAY have gotten the two heart rates switched, but oh well!).  My doctor is not worried about the elevated number and even told me that artificial reproductive assistance, sometimes those numbers are elevated.  Like I said, it's interesting to hear other opinions and knowledge!  I go to see her again in January too.

I started feeling M move around every once in a while.  Every time I try to feel her from the outside she stops!  Hopefully hubby will be able to feel her soon too.

Elevated screening numbers

This morning I got a message from the Genetics Counselor for me to call her back.  I knew right then something was up because the last time when all my numbers came back great the nurse just left a message saying that everything checked out okay.

Finally, when she called me back the Down's Syndrome and Trisomy 18 went down to a 1:5,000 chance but my AFP numbers were slightly elevated.  The AFP is looking at open neural tube defects, i.e. spina bifida.  My number was 2.87 and the cut off is 2.5.  I was told not to worry because it's slightly elevated and I already have an ultrasound scheduled for Friday.

Today I was told I'm crazy because I'm more excited about seeing my friend on Thursday and getting to eat some BTT for breakfast with her on Friday.  Dont get me wrong...I'm excited about seeing the baby on Friday but I dont care if it's a boy or girl so I'm not on pins and needles waiting to find out.  My friend also gets to see the baby with us!  I cant wait till I can feel the baby moving because then I would know it's still there.

We're slowly working on rearranging the house.  Instead of moving around one room for the nursery we have to rearrange three rooms!  The office is going to become the girls' room, the girls' room is going to become the nursery, and the office is being moved to the dining room.  I also added a small bookcase to our bedroom for my books.  What a pain!

First piece of nursery furniture

Today I was amazed at how quickly I got in for my blood draw.  I signed in and not even 10 minutes later I was called back.  Needless to say I was getting daggers stared into my back!  LOL, or at least that's what the nurse said.  I dont even want to know how long the other ladies had been sitting out there but obviously they needed an ultrasound down or were there to see the doctor.  I've learned in my many visits to the doctor's office, if someone doesn't have to wait very long to be called back it usually means blood work or something like that.  It always takes longer if you have to see the doctor.  It's frustrating but I'm glad it was my turn today to be called back immediately.  The next appointment is at 7:40am so hopefully it wont be a long wait to be called back either!

We bough our first piece of nursery furniture last weekend!  We bought a used short/long dresser and I plan to refinish it.  I have several ideas but first we need to find out if baby is boy or girl.  I have also found the crib online and plan to order it in the next week.  I believe I have found the ONLY crib that does not convert to a full size bed.  It is still a convertable crib but only converts to a toddler bed.  Do you know how hard it is to find a non-convertable crib?!  Nearly impossible!  I am okay with one that converts to only a toddler crib.

So far we only have a girl name picked out.  We've had names picked out for a few years but I no longer like the boy name.  I'm not going to worry about a boy name until after we find out if baby is a boy or girl.  Shawn is hoping for a boy and I dont care either way.  I do hope Shawn can have his son but all the girl things are so cute!  Either way I'm okay.

2nd trimester

I cant believe I'm already to to second trimester!  Actually I'm on my second week in it!  Everyone says it gets better with this trimester but I have to brag and say the first trimester was a breeze!  I only get sick when I'm needing to eat.  I do like my naps but I've always liked my naps, so that's nothing new.

I had an appointment on Monday.  It was a quick listen to the baby and on my way.  Heartrate was 156.  I go back to the specialist for more bloodwork on the 26th and again for an ultrasound on December 7th.  I go to my regular doctor again on December 4th. 

I also found our ornament for this year at the mall!  I like to get an ornament every year and this year was no different.

12w 2d

Today was the First Trimester Screen.  And I even got a see a girl I went to nursing school with because she worked at the clinic!  It's always a nice surprise to see someone you know.

As the Genetics Couseler was talking to me about the screening, she noticed I was referred there bc "I wanted the screening".  I'm low risk for everything since I'm 30 years old but I thought it was stupid that they had that writtin in my chart.  It was offered to me and I thought why not do the screening.  We get more ultrasounds and if something may be wrong we'll be prepared in advance.  Nothing is wrong with that.

Today we did bloodwork and ultrasounds (I even got 3d ultrasounds).  I go back in 4 weeks for more bloodwork and then again 2 weeks after that for another ultrasound.  And we should be able to find out if it's a boy or girl at that appointment.

Today the baby's heart rate was 169 and it was moving all around.  It was kicking it's legs above the body, moving it's arms in front of it's face and would jump up every once in a while.  This is the first time we've been able to see baby move!

Now on to my pictures!  There are two 2d pics and two 3d pics and Sarg's Facebook announcement from Tuesday.  Enjoy!

11 weeks 1 day

I finally had an appointment with my doctor.  We did the normal exam thing, some blood work, and some paperwork.  I learned what to expect during my appointments at what not.  I have to say that I still love my doctor!

During the exam, the doctor wasnt able to hear the heartbeat with the doppler because of my backwards uterus, so I got another ultrasound!  Honestly, I think she really wanted to do an ultrasound so she didnt try to hard to find the heartbeat.  We hoped the baby would move for us but Diamond decided to sleep, the doctor even pushed on my stomach some and it didnt even phase Diamond!  We were able to see the heart beating away at 160 bpm.   We even looked at Diamond from a different direction and it looked like Diamond was just sitting in there.  It was really neat to see because you can see the legs and arms and I swear I can see a face on my picture!

This week is the First Trimester Screen.  I'm not too sure what to expect.  It's bright and early on Friday morning because I'm hoping Shawn can make it to the appointment.

My last shot!!!

Today is the day!  I'm 10 weeks, so that means my last shot is tonight at 9:30!  I'm so excited that I wont have to do anymore after today.  And I'm sure Shawn will be glad he doesnt have to give me anymore.  I started taking Progesterone right after the egg retrieval and my sore bottom will be glad that this is the last dose!

Anyone who goes through IVF has to take Progesterone until 10-12 weeks (depending on the doctor) because all the hormones pumped into the body to make all the eggs messes up the Progesterone production during the beginning of pregancy.  AFfter a certian point the placenta should start taking over the Progesterone production, which is around 8 weeks or so from my understanding.

My next appointment will be with my regular doctor next Thursday.  I hope she does an ultrasound but they werent sure if they would since I had one done two weeks prior.  I will have one done the next week for sure because I am going to have the First Trimester Screening done.

8 weeks 5 days

I should update this more frequently but I havent really had exciting baby news.  I havent really had morning sickness unless I'm hungry and can usually fix that with a few bites of something.  I really dont have much to post unless it's a doctor appointment day, like today!

Today was my last appointment with the fertility specialist.  My next appointment is in two weeks with my regular OBGYN and the week after that I have my first trimester screen.  I'm not sure if my appointment in two weeks will involve an ultrasound or not and the receptionist wasnt sure either so I am booked in the ultrasound room.  The first trimester screen will involve an ultrasound and some bloodwork testing for Down's syndrome and a couple other things.  It's optional and another ultrasound so I decided to have it done.

Today the heart rate was 179 so it might be a girl after all.  Cant wait till we find out!  I dont care either way!  I already have nurseries and names picked out for both.  The gestational sac was still measuring small but that's not unusual with the ultrasound machine.  The crown rump length was measuring 8 weeks and 4 days, only one day off, so I think that's pretty good.  I could also hear the heart beat this week and it was pretty cool.  Disappointed Shawn couldnt make it but he's missed quite a bit of work lately.  I did schedule the screening appointment for first thing in the morning so he can go if he would like. 

I got confirmation today that I will continue my shots until I'm 10 weeks, so the countdown in on!  1 week and 2 days left of the shots!  Yay!  I also have enough to make it through, so I dont have to worry about ordering more and wasting a lot of progesterone.

Here's this week's picture!

We saw the heartbeat!

We got to see the heartbeat!  The key word being heartbeat as in one baby.  It would have been nice to have two babies but one is ok too!  As one of the nurses said it will be a healthier and more comfortable pregnancy for me.  The heartrate was in the 130s.  The doctor said the baby was measuring a little small but he's not worried.  I have another appointment on October 1 and then I start going to my OBGYN.  I need to call and schedule an appointment with her but first I need to find out what days I work in October.  Here's our baby!  The circle is the yolk sac and the blob is the baby.

The doctor did say there could have been another gestational sac but he doubts it.  There didnt seem to be anything in it.

I havent had any morning sickness yet.  Hopefully I can be like my mom and not get any!

Pharmacy

The specialty pharmacy I'm going through is going to be one of my big stressors during this whole experience!  I couple weeks ago it was my fault because I ordered a little late.  This time I called in plenty of time and STILL had issues!

I called yesterday morning for a refill since I only have enough to get me through Sunday.  I was told I didnt have a refill until the 16th but since my dose was increased, so they called my doctor for my new script.  I told them to ship it regardless but I would like a call to know how much it would cost.  I get a call after their business hours and they left a message to call them back.  It made me worry last night because I was thinking they might not be able to ship it to me on time, even though I called in PLENTY of time!  I called back this morning and was told it will be shipped on time and will be here tomorrow!  I am so relieved!  I am so ready to not have to worry about taking this medicine anymore!

Monday is the ultrasound.  It's getting closer and closer!  I think there will be one healthy baby but I really want two!  The goal is one, so I will be happy either way!

It's here

I feel much better today!  My meds are here and I can go up on my dose tonight!  It's such a relief!  I had called FedEx again early in the day to make sure it will be arriving  today.

My numbers yesterday were good.  HCG is up to 195 and progesterone is 26.7.  Glad to know the progesterone relatively stayed the same and did not go down.

The first ultrasound is scheduled for September 17th.  As of right now I don't work that day but the schedule wasnt finalized Friday.  I'm hoping the schedule doesnt change because it was supposed to be final last Friday.

Progesterone

Had my blood work redrawn yesterday. HCG doubled from 42 to 84. However, progesterone went down from 29.9 to 27. The plan was to increase my progesterone IM dose but my new vials won't be in until Tuesday, so we'll be upping it that night. I'm not too worried because my levels are high enough just not as high as other patients. I have more blood work in the morning to see what it's doing.

My meds are a whole other issue. I didn't want to jinx anything and order the progesterone too early. Well, I forgot it was Labor Day tomorrow and I had enough to get me through tomorrow but not the increased dose. Luckily, I was able to get it shipped and will have more in time because I was worried it wouldn't get here until Wednesday. Then, I got a message saying it would be here yesterday but that didn't happen. Such a mess! And I have no one to blame but me. Don't worry I will be ordering more in plenty of time next time!

Confirmed!

It was confirmed today!  I am pregnant!  That is so crazy to say or even think!  We've been trying to three years, THREE YEARS!  And it's finally happening.

I got back on Saturday to make sure my levels are rising as they should.  Dont ask...I forgot to ask what mine was today but I will ask on Saturday!

It's real!

All day yesterday I was worried that I wasn't really pregnant and the line I saw on Monday was an evaporation line, aka false positive since I saw after the ten minute mark. This all started because I took another test yesterday morning and did not really see a line.

Yesterday afternoon I did some research on pregnancy tests and their sensitivities. Most tests detect 25mIU/ml, which is what the cheapies I was using detected. There is one test, however, which detected 12.5mIU/ml and that was the First Response Early Result test. Once I get to the store I want to make sure what I found was true but NONE of the boxes had the sensitivity written on it! I think it's crazy that the dollar store brand will tell you sensitivity but the namebrand tests don't!

Anyways...enough of this rambling. I ended up with the First Response test. I took it this morning and a faint line started to show within a minute and by the time Shawn got in the bathroom a couple of minutes later is was obviously positive.

I think it worked!

So I tested bright and early this morning. I didn't see a line but Shawn swears he saw a really faint one. A couple hours later I looked at the test again and saw a faint line. It's definitely been longer than the box said to read but if it was an evaporation line it would be gray and not pink. One of my friends who went through the same thing last year says that it is definitely a positive so I'm going to go with it! Plus we have a few others signs that's not just an evaporation line. I know the progesterone can do some it but I really think it's because I'm pregnant!

I may have jumped the gun and already told my mom. I don't plan to tell the rest of our families until after the six week ultrasound. I did tell the few people who knew I was testing today and work will know later this week. I'm only telling work because I can't take care of certain patients while I'm pregnant. I can't wait until I can announce it to the world!

I do plan on taking another one tomorrow morning so stay tuned for the results!

It's been a better day

Early this week I decided that check my BBT (basal body temperature) every morning.  You have to do it first thing before getting out of bed and at the same time, so I've been checking it at 5:30am since I'll be going back to work on Sunday.  I dont know why I decided to do this other than to have a heads up if the IVF didnt work and AF would be coming. 

During your cycle your BBT will be lower in the first part before ovulation and there will be an obvious increase in temp after ovulation.  So, if AF is about to visit there will be a drop in your temp the day or so before.  I've been checking my BBT on and off over the last three years.

Yesterday morning my BBT dropped by 0.33 degrees.  I was paranoid all day because my temp dropped and I usually have short cycles, lasting about 26 days or so.  Yesterday evening I started cramping some and my back hurt, which is a good sign because it could mean implantation is occuring.  I was still crampy this morning and my BBT is back up!  It went up 0.45 degrees!  Amazing!  I have been feeling so much better about this today!

No frozen embryo

I finally heard back today from the clinic.  The embryo stopped growing on Day 4 so it did not make it to freezing.  I'm ready for the 2ww to be over!  I want to know if I'm pregnant or not!

On a side note...Happy 4th Anniversary to my wonderful hubby!

Pray for sticky embryos!

The transfer went well this morning.  I was beyond miserable because my bladder was about to explode since my bladder was so full!  My friend said she would be afraid of being on them and I was definitely at that point!

The transfer was one of the easiest the doctor has had, which was a relief since the practice transfer didnt go as well.  The doctor had a great view and didnt have to go by feel.  She even got the embryos right in the middle of where she wanted!

We transfered two embryos.  One was a B/B+ quality and the other was B quality.  The third embryo wasnt as great quality and may or may not make it to freezing.  We will find out if it made it on Tuesday.

In case you were wondering, embryos are graded depending on how many cells and fragments they have in a certain time period.  The more fragments, the lower the grade.

The next time I go back in on the 30th for my pregnancy test.  Of course it has to be a day I work but I'm hoping it will be a quick in and out.  I can test at home 2-3 days before the blood test.  Let's see how long I hold out before making a Dollar Tree run for a pregnancy test!

Here's our potential babies!

Still growing

All three are still developing.  I'll get the final grades tomorrow before the transfer.  Right now our plan is to put two back and freeze the other one.  Hopefully everything will fall into place.

There's three growing

Out of the eight eggs we had, four were mature.  There were two they tried a little longer to get mature but it was a no go.  So, out of the four mature eggs, three fertilized, which that means we have three embryos in the lab.  The plan is to transfer on Saturday but I will know more for sure tomorrow afternoon when I get my update.  So exciting!

Egg retrieval

Egg retrieval went well.  The doctor was able to get eight eggs, which is more than he had planned.  We wont know until tomorrow how many were mature, but hoping for five to be mature.  Friday we'll find out if the embryo transfer will be happening on Saturday or Monday.  I dont really have a preference, I just want the embryos to be at the point where they are ready to go back in me.

I liked today's anesthesia better then a couple of weeks ago because I dont feel as groggy.  Last time I felt groggy all day and into the next day.  Today I feel awake and dont feel the need to sleep all day.  I'm also not in much pain.  Right afterwards I felt a little pressure around the ovaries but it's not too bad right now.  I am very thankful for that!

Shawn did his first shot.  He drew it up and everything!  I'm sure I'll be the one to draw it up most days, but I'm glad he knows how to.  I'm so happy to be down to one shot a day!

Egg retrieval is set!

Had my appointment this morning.  It looks like the doctor made a good decision and there will be two more eggs joining the three for a total of five mature eggs!  I really hope that's the case! 

Tonight I will give myself the daily shots at the normal time.  Later tonight I will do my HCG shot (so glad it's subcutaneous this time!), I already have an alarm set since timing is so important.

Wednesday we go to the office at 8:30a and the procedure will be at 9:30a.  Hopefully it doesnt take longer than a couple of hours, Shawn is already worried about work.  It's almost time!

Tomorrow I dont have to do anything but take my antibiotic.  No doctor appointment and no shots.  It's going to be weird!

Decision made

Estrogen level went up again to 1525 (I believe that's what I heard). I'm going to continue on the same dose tonight and have an appointment in the morning. I think this means egg retrieval will be on Wednesday.

On the fence

Looks like I'll have only three eggs mature enough. There might be three more that may mature but they may not get any bigger.

The doctor is on the fence about the plans. I'll get a call later today with the plan. The decision is to either increase my dose and hope they get bigger or go ahead with the HCG tonight and go do egg retrieval on Tuesday. I'm already on a high dose of meds so increasing may not help. Guess I'll find out later today.

Almost forgot to update

Appointment went well on Friday.  The clinic was very busy!  Everything is on track and progressing as it should.  I was told the retrieval could possibly be Tuesday but will most likely be Wednesday.  I have enough meds to get through Tuesday.

I did have to get one refill and I'm glad I decided to order only one.  I found out that there's about an extra 150 iu's in each vial!  I was only thinking that there was only about 75 iu's extra in each vial.  I feel so much better about my meds now!  I also found out that I can get it all out by using the pen!

The best part of the day was that my babycation started as soon as I clocked out from work!  I officially have two weeks off!  Granted I will be busy doing other stuff.

Six Follicles

I had an appointment this morning and of course one of my patients decided not to behave while I was gone.  I got a call in the middle of my appointment but luckily the previous nurse was still there because she knew a more than I did!  I felt so bad but very thankful for all my coworkers!

Anyways...the ultrasound showed that I'm growing six follicles.  Four on my right and two on my left.  There were also three antral follicles on the my right ovary.  He said I could have more than six follicles but they need to join in the game ASAP or else they are out of the race. 

I got the call this afternoon that my blood levels are where they want and to continue my meds as is.  I asked the doctor and he said I will stay on the same dose the entire time, so I order another cartridge of the follistim today.  I really hope and pray that I dont need another one.  He told me to ask his partner on Friday to see what she thought.  He said they try to make it so we dont have to order refills since it's so expensive!

My tummy is so pitiful looking and is starting to get tender.  I have many bruises and pin marks but it will be worth it in the end!

I have another appointment on Friday and after that it'll be scheduled as needed.  I hope I dont have to have one on Saturday because I really dont want to leave work again!

It's my start date!

I just got done doing all my shots!  Yes, the Menopur still burns and so does the Follistim.  I've been doing great with the Lupron for the last several days but I'm sure it's because it's a much smaller amount than the other two meds. 

I'm on a Microdose Lupron.  I get 10 units in the morning and 10 units in the evening.  Lupron makes it so I dont ovulate early.  I'm on the microdose because of my low numbers (AMH level and antral follicle count).

I'm doing one ampule of the Menopur.  If I remember right, I did responded well to one ampule last year during the study. 

For the Follistim, I'm on 375 units.  I really hope I respond well with my Follistim and Menopur dosing.  I dont think we'll know for sure until Wednesday at my ultrasound.  I have an appointment on Monday but it's just for bloodwork. 

I also have an appointment on Friday and after that they'll be scheduled as needed.  Some have needed appointments every day during this and others have not, so I might even end up with appointments on Tuesday and Thursday.  For my appointments during work I've decided to just pay to park at work, since it's already hot outside at 7am.  There is no way I'm going to walk, get sweaty, and be stinky all day!

I have been a little worried about how we would cover the costs of more meds if needed but I got my answer today, so I am a happy girl tonight.  But I'm still hoping we dont need to order more!

Baseline ultrasound done

This morning I had a baseline ultrasound and blood. The ultrasound showed nine antral follicles and my Estrogen level was low, which is where it's supposed to be. Shawn also got his blood done today at the OBI and I'll get mine done tomorrow.

Monday Shawn had his IVF SA done. I'm not too sure of the results of that, I probably should have asked this morning. I'll try to remember to ask at one of my many appointments.

My pathology report was not back this morning during my appointment. I'm hoping it's good news since I haven't heard anything. No news is usually good news!

I start the Lupron tomorrow morning. I already have a couple coworkers in line to give me my shots when I'm working. Have I mentioned I don't like shots? Well, it's still true and this time I have to give myself FOUR a day! So if anyone wants to give me a shot I'm willing to let them!

Saturday I start the Follistim and Menopur. I'm starting at 375 units of the Follistim. I hope I'm a good responder so my dose can be lowered, otherwise I'll have to be ordering more of that expensive medicine.

I try not to stress over all the money stuff but it's so hard! I just have to keep in mind this is all extra money we didn't have and we're NOT having to take out a huge loan for all of this! That's another reason why I hope it works because we only get one chance at this. Scary!

Surgery went well

Surgery is done. I guess it went well. He found two polyps or at least that's what Shawn told me. I'm not bleeding as much as I had expected but I'm definitely exhausted. I really wanted to go back to sleep at the surgery center but I was ready to get home. We got home, ate, and I took a long nap!

We have also been thankful to have a couple of visitors today. My parents were here during the surgery. And our wonderful Sunday School teachers stopped by this evening. We are very happy to have great families and friends around here.

We have our baseline ultrasound appointment on Wednesday. The doctor said my path report should be back by then so I'll know more that day. I hope the appointment doesn't take too long since I work that day.

It's here!

The meds came today! This is really happening. I'll start giving myself shots starting next week. Eek! I hate this part and it's going to last longer than last year and involve more IM shots. Shawn better be ready to start giving me those. There's no way I can give myself IM!

Tomorrow is the surgery. It got moved to 1p so I need to be there by 11:30a. I'm not so sure I'll be able to work this weekend anymore. I need to get in the kitchen and get some jello made...yes I still like to make jello the old fashion way.

The money is due next week at my baseline US appointment. Yikes! But it's going towards a good thing. Keep praying that this will work!

It's on the schedule

The surgery on the schedule for Friday morning...9:30 to be exact.  They said I should be home the same morning.  It should take 30-45 minutes, and I will be under a light anesthesia because of the amount of time he has to have fluid in my uterus.  He'll go in with a camera, take out the polyp, and send it to pathology.  He said that he has never had a polyp that wasnt benign. 

We are still on track to start IVF August 4.  That means I need to get on the ball and order my meds!  I plan to do that this weekend.  Only one is covered my insurance and the clinic doesnt have any donated so the dollar amount for these meds is outrageous!

Wish me luck on Friday!  I'm hoping to get back to work this weekend since I'm scheduled.

Not the news I wanted

I made it to my appointment this afternoon only a few minutes late and that might have been the only good thing.

The nurse went over the paperwork and my calendars.  Scheduled some appointments and told me what to expect and what not.

The doctor came in and did a "practice" transfer, so they could see how far the catheter would need to go in on the actual transfer date.  My uterus is retrograde (tilted), so that made the catheter a little harder to see.  He finally got what he needed and I was able to empty my bladder.

The next test he did was a vaginal ultrasound to check out the ovaries.  Then he injected dye and looked at the uterus with the vaginal ultrasound.  During this test he found a polyp in my uterus.  Now the plan is for me to have surgery on the 27th to check out and remove this polyp.  I'll be getting a call back in the next couple of days to schedule this and it shouldnt change the IVF start date.

After this test I went to his office to talk about what he saw and my IVF plan.  My AMH level came back 0.58 and that is low according to the reference ranges I found online.  (Normal is 1, Low Normal is 0.7-0.9, Low 0.3-0.6)  Now that he's seen my AMH level and today's antral follicle count, he's decided that the route for me is to have a more aggressive approach with the stimulation medications.  In other words, the calendar I have is no longer good and I'm not too sure what's going on with my meds.

I'm not too sure what to think anymore.   I was very hopeful that IVF will work and now I'm not too sure if it will.  I guess we'll know how successful it is at the end of August.

There goes a vein

Had my first appointment bright and early this morning.  I decided to be a part of the research study because it only involves a few extra tubes of blood and may help improve IVF in the future.
After that I walked over to work and talked my boss.  I am so glad she is willing to help me out, so I can make it to my appointment on time on Wednesday.  I'm also glad that Shawn doesn't have to be at the appointment either.  It is strongly recommended that he be there since we go over lots of stuff but it will all be on paper so it's ok for him to miss it.  Shawn has class next week and that's more important right now because we want him to graduate in December!

Before leaving the campus I stopped by the lab to have more blood drawn.  I must say that I prefer getting my blood drawn in the clinic than the lab because my vein is now blown...I'm glad I didn't show the phlebotomist the good one!  I had to get Anti-Mullerian Hormone (AMH) drawn and it couldn't be drawn in the clinic.
I did a little research to find out about AMH and why it would be drawn.  My understanding is that it reflects the remaining egg supply and helps give an idea of how successful the IVF cycle may be.  The higher the number, the more eggs, therefore a better chance at a successful cycle.  However, it's it's extremely high it could be because of PCOS.

Later on in the afternoon I went to pick up the birth control and what a hassel that was.  First, it was called in to the wrong CVS but that was fine because they were able to find it for me.  I was told it was currently being filled, so I stopped at the back and Hobby Lobby.  I get there an hour later and they were still working on filling it...it was called in yesterday afternoon, so it should have already been done but whatever.  I finally get my meds and it was only $10!  I was excited because it's going to be the cheapest med I have.  I now have my phone alarm set to remind me to take them the same time every day. 

Getting the ball rolling

Today is CD 1, so I called the clinic and I got my call back this afternoon.  I have an appointment for blood work and to go over a research study the doctor is doing to see if I'm interested.  The nurse called in birth control for me to start taking on Saturday.  Next Wednesday I have a 1.5 hour long appointment with the doctor.  The only problem is that I work 7-3 that day and the only time avaliable for the appointment was at 3.  I'm hoping they will work with me and I can leave a few minutes early.  I really only need to leave by 2:45, so it's not asking for much.  I hope to know more tomorrow but if not definitely on Wednesday!

One month tomorrow!

Tomorrow will be one month from when we start the injectables.  I cant believe it's almost here!  I was really hoping that this last natural cycle would have worked, but I started spotting today (it wouldnt be a fertility blog without some TMI).  It probably doesnt help that I am no longer as aggressive with the baby making as I used to be.  I no longer check my BBT or CM or use the OPKs.  Lately I just tell Shawn I should ovulate on such and such day about 5 days or so before that day.  I'm so tired of all this baby making business and ready to move on!

Today one of the ladies at work told me she had a dream about me last night.  And in this dream I was pregnant.  I told her to give me about two months and hopefully it will be true!  I am just hoping and praying that her dream will become true soon!

That's about it for this post.  I just realized that we are one month away and had to shout it out!

Last cycle for nature to do it's thing

Today is Day 1.  I gave the clinic a call because they wanted to know when AF came in June, but since it's so early in the month I will be giving them a call on my next Day 1. This means we have another cycle for it to happen naturally.  If it doesn't happen I will be getting some bloodwork done and started on birth control in July.  It's getting closer and closer!

Three years and counting

As of today we have been TTC for THREE YEARS! (Actually, yesterday since it's past midnight).  Can you believe that?!  That is just crazy to think we have been trying for that long!  I honestly had planned to have a kid or two by now. 

We have two months and two days until we start the IVF drugs.  I'm finally to the month where I will give the clinic a call when AF starts.  I talked to someone about financial stuff and found out we have enough money!  Super excited that we dont have to take out a loan!  I also found out that insurance will only cover one drug...boo.  But we should have enough to cover that too.  I'll update later on when I give them a call in a couple of weeks.

We have a start date!

We have kinda been talking about when to start IVF because I would like to give the Chiropractor a chance to do his thing.  I've been thinking that I need to call for the last week or so but kept putting it off.  I tried to call yesterday but I was at work and ended up calling too late, so I called again this morning and left a message.  I just received my call back and scheduled our start date for August 4!

I had been thinking I would like to start in August and Shawn kept saying he wanted to start in July.  I did try to schedule in July but the first available wasnt until August 4.  I may receive a call if there's an earlier opening though.

What this means is that I will start my stimulation drugs on August 4, so the whole process will actually start earlier than that.  In June I will call with my period and hope that there is still a place for me on August 4.  I also requested to talk to someone about financial stuff and I think that will happen in June too. 

I'm super excited to have a countdown!  98 days to go!

Long over due update

I am very pleased to announce that we now have the funds for IVF!  I'm excited to not have to take out a huge loan for it!  I'm trying to decide when to start the process.  I'm thinking July/August, so we can give the chiropractor a chance.

The chiropractor thing is still on going.  We're going weekly for our adjustments.  We've had seven adjustments so far (if I'm adding up right!).  We're not quit halfway through those, plus it takes about 3 months for the changes to happen to the sperm.  I would love for the chiropractor thing to work and be able to spend more money of baby stuff!

That's really all the exciting stuff going on in the world of baby making.  I'm still working the overtime.  I ordered my fridge with the overtime points yesterday and still plan to work towards the washer and dryer.  The overtime hasnt been too bad because it's worth it once the paycheck comes!

Chiropractor Update

We got into the Chiropractor a few days early on Thursday morning.  The results were what we wanted because that means he may be able to help us.  We both had the same issue, which is a not so common issue.  We both have pinched nerves to our lower backs caused by alignment issues, but Shawn's is worse than mine (i.e. it's been there longer).  Treatment will be weekly over the next three months or so.  We're hopeful that this is what's causing his low sperm count.  For me it could cause tilting issues, I wonder if it causes tilted uterus since we already know that's tilted.

Shawn has said his back is already feeling better.  I havent really noticed a different with mine, but everyone is different.

We're hoping this will be our cure!  We go back Monday evening for another treatment.

The Chiropractor

Our Chiropractor appointment was this evening and it was nothing like we expected.  We had expected to start treatment today but that wont be until the next appointment in a week and a half.

Today we met with the doctor and discussed why we came.  We also had two xrays done of our backs.  That's stuff I expected to happen.  But we had also expected him to look at the xrays today and discuss what he saw/could do for us.  We also expected to start treatment today. 

On the way out we scheduled our appointment to discuss what he can do for us.  The lady frustrated me because she kept asking if I could come in on my lunch hour and I had to repeat each time that I cant come during my work day.  I have off next Thursday but he's only there in the morning, so it doesnt work for Shawn.  The doctor is not there on Fridays, so the next time I could go in is on the 19th.  I really dont want to wait a week and a half but that's what we have to do.

I'm hoping at the next appointment he will discuss what he thinks he can do for us and start treatment that day.  I really dont want to just talk again.  I really want to get this show on the road!

Chiropractor and infertility

Recently a friend, who is also having trouble conceiving, told me her and her husband have started going to a chiropractor as a part of treatment.  This sounded interesting and mentioned it to Shawn in passing and forgot about it.  Appearently, Shawn did not forget about it.  He called up the insurance company to see what would be covered (it's just a co-pay) and called a chiropractor to set up an appointment for next Wednesday.  He also mentioned why we wanted to be seen and we arent the first couple to be seen there for fertility issues.  I dont know if this will be a one-time visit or if the treatment will be over multiple visits.  We shall see next week!

I've never been to a chiropractor before so I'm a little nervous.  I know this will be easy compared to what we were doing last summer and may have to go through in the future.  I dont know what to expect, so I think that's what's making me a little nervous.

I've gotten bad about taking my vitamins on days I dont work, so the B6 hasnt been working as well as before.  So far I'm doing good this cycle!

Oklahoma SB 1433 "Personhood" Bill

I discovered how this bill may effect IVF a few months ago through the Resolve website.  I even used the link on the website to send a letter to my Representative when I first saw it.  And I sent another one just now.

This bill will states that "human life starts at conception" and gives them full rights starting at conception.  This bill is "intended" to make abortion "illegal" but it is extremely vague.  There are no provisions for if the mother had been raped or if it's incest, if the mother's life is endangered because of the pregnancy), and will also make certian forms of birth control illegal (i.e. the morning after pill).

IVF may also be effected by this so called "Personhood" Bill because it will give the embryo's full rights.  What if an embryo doesnt implant when placed back in the uterus?  Of if the couple ends up with many embryos and dont want to use all of them or freeze them for a later time?  Implanting an embryo or freezing an embryo is also "dangerous" because there is a chance it may not survive and end up being "murdered" in the process. 

This bill is the most rediculous thing I have heard of and has not passed in any of the previous states. The Oklahoma State Senate has recently passed the bill with an overwhelming vote and now it's on to the House, where it will most likely pass, and then on the the Governer who has already said she will sign it. 

I really hope this post makes sense and is not just a of rambling from me.

Here are some links on this bill:
SB 1433
"Personhood" bill info on Resolve website
 Article on bill
Another article
Final article

It's in the mail!

I filled out the grant application this weekend.  I also had to write a one page paper on our fertility story.  I hope we actually have a chance for being chosen.  Especially since Shawn already has two daughters and we were in the study and didnt have to pay for the IUIs.  The grant application said they preferred childless couples and we are childless as a couple.  I guess it's a waiting game now.  I wonder when they will choose the recipient(s).

Insurance and Grants/Scholarships

Today I was told of some girls who had the same insurance company as me who had one IVF cycle covered up to $10,000.  At lunch I decided to do some investigating only to find out no infertility treatments are covered on our plan.  I also call the the prescription people but I had to have medication names and dosages to find out if they would be covered. 

My work also has adoption assistance (which I completely forgot about) up to $10,000 but nothing for infertility assisstance.  I hate how infertility treatments are rarely covered.  It's a real medical issue and not everyone can afford it!  I know there are some people out there trying to get some legislation to get all that changed.  I'm sure there are many couples out there who are forced into Child-Free Living because they can't afford any infertility treatments because it's not covered by their insurance.  That completely sucks and is not right!

I also decided to check out the Resolve website (www.resolve.org) again and check out the Grants/Scholarships section.  I found one grant/scholarship that is currently accepting applications that I would be willing to apply to.  The others either had no info for the 2012 program or needed a letter from the doctor (I am outgoing enough of a person to ask for this letter).  I think I will work on filling out this application over the weekend and get it sent in ASAP.  You never know...we may get it but I'm a glass half empty girl now when it comes to our fertility stuff, so I doubt it.

Week one of overtime

I hope week one is not what my overtime will be like.  Tuesday morning (my OT day), just a little after 5am I got the dreaded call.  I was being cancelled.  How am I supposed to make any money if I can't work?  Shawn has mentioned selling my "arts and crafts things", i.e. hair accessories and wreaths.  I could do that but I wouldn't make very much from these items, maybe $10-15 per wreath and only a few dollars on each hair accessory.  That won't even pay for the time I spent making the thing!  For now it will be my own hobby so I can have pretty things in my house that didn't cost an arm or leg or baby to buy.

The next day my director stopped me in the hall and mentioned she saw that I had signed up for more OT on the next schedule.  I took that time to mention that it would be nice to not get cancelled because technically I can work eight hours before I'm OT but show up as OT on the schedule because I signed up for a 12 hour shift.  She and the manager were going to see what they could do about that.

Tomorrow is another OT day, so let's hope I don't get a call at 5am.  I'm doing laundry and cleaning today in hopes that I will not be home tomorrow! 

I also wouldn't mind getting called in on Thursday on my OC day because it would be awesome to OC pay + OT pay all in one day!  The only down side to that is that would be my fourth day in a row!  Eek!

There's absolutely nothing going on in the world of baby.  I found out many people at work are including me in their prayers and I am beyond grateful for that!  One even told me she thinks I will end up getting pregnant naturally, which is what I would love to happen!  The whole IVF process is still a little scary to me, and I dont want to waste any money on IUIs because the first four didnt take and the success rates only decrease with the more IUIs you have.

Happy New Year!

I am hoping for big things to come this year!  We now know what we need to do to get pregnant, so we're going to start saving for IVF.  Next week starts my first week of 44 hours!  And hopefully by the end of the year we'll be pregnant!

Shawn should be finishing school this summer.  Then he'll need to look for a job.  We found out he needs to find a police job within six months to keep his CLEET certification.  Eek!!

We still want to move but it looks like it will be put off again for a while longer.  We already have so many big things happening this year!  But we will be getting one step closer with putting new carpet in this house.  We should be getting it this month, then we just need to find someone to install it.