Follow Up Fun September 15, 2005
I had my follow up over the phone this afternoon. I’ve learned not to expect answers from these things. I mean, there really aren’t any to be had.
I talked to my RE about how to proceed should we choose to do another cycle. I really don’t need to do much additional testing, because I’ve had it all. I would need to have another hysteroscopy done because of the miscarriage factor, though.
We discussed protocol options. He suggested using a microdose Lupron protocol in hopes of getting a better response than last time. I asked about doing a pure FSH stim since I had a better response during my first cycle in which I stimmed with only Gonal-F. I also think the additional LH could be affecting my lining. I don’t know if that could actually be the case, but on the cycle where I stimmed with only FSH my lining got to a nice plush 12mm. On both of the cycles where Repronex was used, my lining actually shrunk towards the end of stimming and ended up being not as thick as I would have liked. I don’t know if it would make a difference, but if we do decide to do another cycle I think going back to an FSH stim might not be a bad idea. My RE did point out that my lining thickness this cycle obviously wasn’t a factor since I did get pregnant. Good point, but I still think eliminating the Repronex is worth considering.
We also discussed how much of a break I should take. He wants me to have two or three rest cycles, so it looks like ER/ET would be in January if we decide to take the plunge again. I’m not big on waiting, but my body probably does need a break. Plus, I’m not about to do another cycle where beta ends up being a week or two before Christmas. No siree. That sucked. The truth of the matter is that we need time to be able to decide what comes next anyway.
I did appreciate the fact that my RE didn’t make me feel like this was our fault. My previous RE had a knack for doing that. I didn’t get the donor sperm speech or the donor egg speech. Not that those aren’t options worth considering, but my former RE used the donor sperm speech as a way to deflect any responsibility for our failed cycles. I hated that. I also wasn’t told that it wasn’t worth trying again. Although, I did get the “silver lining” talk. You know, the “well, you did get pregnant, blah, blah, blah” stuff. I was fully expecting that, though.
So now comes the hard part. Do we or don’t we? I really do think we’ll be able to answer that question in the weeks to come. Obviously there’s no rush. We’ll have to search our hearts to see if we can take another cycle emotionally, break out the checkbook and calculator to see if our finances can stand yet another bigillion dollars going to the RE’s office, figure out the logistics of cycling out of town, a new one for us, and most importantly just decide if this is what feels right in terms of what comes next. It won’t be easy, but is this crap ever easy?
- Posted in : Limboland: the aftermath of IVF Part 5
- Author : amanda
Comments»
My thoughts are with you trying to navigate all these decisions. I really hope it works out for you!
It’s so hard to wait, isn’t it? I mean, even when you aren’t sure if you want to try again, its hard to add those extra months in, when you’d rather just plunge ahead. I really hope that whatever you and your RE chose to do that it works quickly and you finally get the baby you deserve!
I know that answering all those questions isn’t going to be easy or quick. I just hope that you can come to a decision you’re happy with. I’m glad the RE didn’t place any blame.
No, this crap is never easy. I’m glad you got some encouragement, though. I hope it aids in coming to a decision you feel 100% about.
Good luck, Amanda! As you already noted, I’m with you, looking out at the next steps. It’s a big adjustment. Whatever you decide, I’ll be rooting for you!
It is never easy. A break (though we know how I feel about waiting) might do you some good. Also might bring the finances back into focus so maybe another cycle would be possible.
I know that no matter what you choose to do, we’ll be here supporting you.
I know how hard waiting can be. I had to take 8 mos off. I did relish though not having the emotional ups & downs every cycle - new what was coming. So sorry you have to do all this soul searching. I hope you find answers that make you both happy.
Such a tough decision. ACK! I’m also waiting till after the first of the year because the thought of getting bad news right before Christmas did NOT sound like fun. I’ll be here for you not matter what you decide.
I hate waiting. But as you say, it sounds as if it would do your body good. For good or bad, no clinic in the UK would have let you cycle back to back all year the way you have, so giving yourself a break does sound like a good option. I’m struggling right now how to get through three weeks before starting suppression, though, so I have no cheery thoughts about how to help you through the next few months.
I’m sorry sweetie, I wish this was easier.
I don’t think I’ve commented here before…but I wish I could give you the answers and that you didn’t have to wait.