The Embryo Transfer Process
The embryo transfer process was probably the most difficult stage of our journey for me. I think it takes the most out of you emotionally. Our journey was successful on the second transfer. Transfer number 1 was at the end of April 2024. We did all of the things that everyone does- listen to the doctors, did the superstitions (McDonalds Fries and pineapples), but it just didn’t take and we had negative pregnancy tests. Although it did not work, looking back, I learned some tricks for the second transfer. When I was doing the progesterone injections, I was extremely sore
The One With the Embryo Transfer
After legal was complete, we waited for my cycle to start again before preparing for the embryo transfer process. I then had an appointment at the IVF Clinic to run labs and an ultrasound for baseline levels. I started most of my medications the same day. I returned a week later for repeat labs and ultrasound and started the progesterone suppository and progesterone in oil (PIO) injections two days later. At this point I only having slight side effects from the medications. Each day was different, though; a couple days I felt VERY hungry as if I was already eating
Transfer Process
Getting my body ready to have the embryo transfer was a little frustrating at times. It felt like it was taking forever. Initially, I was put on birth control to be able to track my cycle. Unfortunately, when I went for labs and an ultrasound, they found out that I had ovulated through my birth control, meaning that the entire month was useless and we would have to track things differently. Once I was at the correct point, we started IVF meds. At first I was nervous about having daily injections in my stomach, but then I realized it wasn’t
Reflections of my 2nd Transfer!
As the days passed by, marked by sore intramuscular gluteus injections and routine two-hour round trips, I found myself immersed in the familiar rhythm of another embryo transfer journey. The anticipation culminated on the day of the HCG blood work, a pivotal moment tinged with both hope and apprehension. Having previously worked in women's health, I had been monitoring my progress at home with urine tests. The positive result initially brought relief, but my heart sank as I noticed the line wasn't darkening as expected. Despite my growing unease, I kept this concern private, respecting the intended parents' desire for
Embryo Transfer – Part 1 of 2
After weeks of medications, messages, and countless emails, the day of our embryo transfer was finally scheduled: Cinco de Mayo (5/5/2023). Of course, no margaritas for me this year! The anticipation was palpable as I boarded yet another flight to Connecticut, a state whose sights I was becoming familiar with through these visits. Arriving on the evening of May 4th, I enjoyed a peaceful night's sleep, knowing that the next day held a significant milestone on my fertility journey. The morning of May 5th dawned with a mix of nerves and excitement. Scheduled for bloodwork and the embryo transfer, I
The IVF Process & Our Cancelled Cycle
Towards the end of June, legal clearance was just around the corner so I messaged the fertility clinic to ask when I should take my placebo birth control pills. They responded with an overview of their current transfer protocol, but told me not to trigger my period just yet. Once legal clearance was "issued" by NYSC and reviewed by a supervisor at the clinic, we were full steam ahead. I was to call them on Day 1 of my cycle to schedule a "baseline" appt which could be on cycle day 2, 3, or 4. A few days later,
Embryo Transfer Process
Prior to an embryo transfer, your uterine lining needs to be a certain thickness. The clinic wanted my lining to be at 7mm a week prior to the transfer. When I flew in and was seen at the clinic, I was at 6.7mm. The clinic was confident that I could get to a 7 with a little more time and meds. They asked me to stay in town for a couple additional days to get there or we would need to cancel the cycle and try again. I contacted my employer and asked them if they would allow me to
Embryo Transfer Process
After all clearances were issued, we were then good to go to start the embryo transfer process. This started off with tracking my period and communicating with the clinic to determine when to start the injections and wean off birth control. I took an injection teaching class offered by the fertility clinic that gave clear instructions as I self-administered the injections. I was nervous to self-administer but after a couple times it became easier. It started with 3 weeks of Lupron injections in the lower abdomen along with rotating estrogen patches By the end of this I was wearing
The Embryo Transfer!!
After all the clearances leading up to this point, it felt like a dream. This is the part that we all waited for. I got the legal clearance, and the next step was starting the medicine. I tracked my period and talked to the clinic. Next thing I knew I was getting this box in the mail. It had everything I was going to need for this next step. It seemed overwhelming at first but the nurse I was working with had everything broken down with such detail. The injections scared me some, but after the first one was done
CNY Fertility & NYSC Facebook Live Video
https://youtu.be/JOxoXOdqXaU
