IVF-My experiences shared--Xpost

I already posted this and I thought that I started a new thread but I didn't..So here it is..

The IVF generally consists of 3 phases:Suppression,retrieval& fertilization and Transfer followed by the 2ww.

Suppression lasts for about 5-6 weeks.This period is needed for the RE to regulate our cycle and to make sure that the IVF cycle would be as planned.They usually start with the birth control pills(BCP's) for about 21 days to make the periods start on the stipulated day.Usually the periods start after the dosage of the BCP's but in my case I didn't bleed at all.Meanwhile the lupron injections start before a week of the periods.My RE cleared my doubt saying that what they are interested are the E2 levels(blood work) on the supposed date of start of the periods,which in my case was good.Lupron is prescribed for production of more mature follicles in the IVF cycle.

After the start of periods the regular scans will get started.vaginal Ultra sound (US)on day1 and day 3 are done to see the progress of the follicles and to prescribe the dosage of the stimulation injections.The normal dosage of the injections start on day 1 and they are adjusted after the blood work and US results.The stimulation protocol in my case was Follistim and low dose HCG injections.Both were sub cutaneous injections as lupron and are very easy to administer at home.DH did a good job.The stimulation phase will be for 9-10 days.US and blood work is done with an interval of every 3 or 4 days to study the growth of the follicles.The drs relate the US and the E2 levels from the blood work to know the approx size of the eggs inside the follicles. Once the follicles reach 29-30 mm,ovidrel (injection)is administered to make the eggs mature and to be ready for retrieval.

Egg Retrieval (ER)

usually done after 36 hrs of ovidrel shot.The eggs are retrieved by inserting a catheter through the vagina into the ovaries.This is done after anesthesia is given and so we wouldn't experience any pain.Little bit of spotting is seen after the process.I felt very bloated and some abdominal pains for 2 days.The sample from DH is taken the day of retrieval and the eggs are fertilized in the IVF lab.Rest is needed on the day of retrieval as we feel dizzy after the anesthesia.The hospital visits are not so frequent after this and we need to visit them for the transfer followed by a pregnancy test confirmation.The stimulation injections stop the day when ovidrel shot is taken.The progesterone shots(Intra muscular and big needles!) start the day after retrieval.This is given to prepare the lining suitable for implantation and to sustain a healthy pregnancy.

Fertilization and Embryo Transfer(ET)

The lab called us every other day to give us the report of fertilization.The transfer day is decided on the way the embryos are progressing.Higher success rates are recorded on day5 transfer than day3.I think they generally do a day 5 transfer when they feel that the embryos are dividing good and can make up till day5.Day3 transfers also yield positive results.ET is very simple and it's the same as IUI/papsmear test which is done by insertion of a catheter.It takes just 5 -10 mins and no anesthesia is required.Bed rest is recommended for 36-48 hrs after ET and the restrictions are same as in a 2ww for the rest of the days. Then they call in after 12 days past transfer to do a blood test to confirm pregnancy.They repeat the test after 48 hrs to make sure that the HCG levels are doubling.

Only good thing about our IVF process is that I gained a lot of knowledge about the whole infertility discussing with the doctors ,browsing the internet and some live chats and seminars with my RE.We would have been happy if we were blessed with a positive result.All these infertility processes have made Dh and I closer and Our love has withstood all and grown stronger through all of this. Some day we will be blessed with a child, but until then, we are blessed with each other and WILL continue this journey TOGETHER.

Still Hopeful
Priyanka

p.s Hope my post is not too long and It made some sense to the TTC friends.

 

Hemadurga,

Baby boom cleared your doubts with what I had to say.Good luck.

Baby Boom,

Where are you in your cycle?Good luck.Keep us posted.

Luv
Priyanka