Our IVF roller coaster was a long one with a lot of up, downs and waiting. Most of our journey is documented here. These post topics feelings an emotions that tie in with IVF, preparing for IVF in general, the IVF timeline, failed transfers, successful transfers, consults, injections, and much more. Its a long road IVF. Its a terrible predicament to have to rely on. Especially when, for most people, its their last resort to have a family of their own. This phase of life seems like the longest period of fear, desperation, hope, bouncing hormones, ups and downs and isolation. I know a lot of women who go through the process and keep it from those closest to them for different reasons. I believe that you should do what makes you most comfortable because sharing this journey with the world is a lot. Its hard to be so open and vulnerable during such a sensitive time. My personal scenario started out very public due to us losing our first born son due to a genetic condition that we didn't know we were carriers for. That is what started us on the IVF path, to have a child that did not have this condition.
My personal tips and advice -
Stress - Youll get so incredibly sick of hearing it "Don't stress out". As if you have any control over this. This life changing experience that may or may not work. Its the only thing you can think about but youre not supposed to obsess or stress. Do your best. Find MANY happy healthy (even silly) distractions. Mine included blogging, coloring, Nexflix, crafting, and reading. Stay healthy. Indulge but stay focused and eat well. If youre not into working out regularly, try to at least take daily walks to get your blood flowing and clear your mind.
Insurance - Insurance can make ALL the difference in the world. My employer offered different providers and insurance policies. My original plan did not cover anything for IVF even though it was due to a genetic condition they still considered it cosmetic and experimental. My insurance options change after my first round and I found that there was now an option for a carrier who would cover a $7500 life time maximum of coverage towards IVF. It sounds small, but the way things were billed, this was enough for another full round and two transfers. Do your research first.
I wish you all the best of luck on this journey or any similar one. Below are many raw and blunt posts documenting our IVF journey.
The Plain and Simple Unfortunate
The Big Fat False Negative
The "Announcement" I wish I never had to make...
Knowledge is Power, Unless that knowledge came from the internet, then its stress.
Red Rock Fertility Center Consult #1
Cycle Specifics, Genesis Consult and Insurance Challenges
Follow Up Consult - The Course of Action
Shots, Hormones & Turkey
Starting IVF Injections! First Day of Stims!
Our Stims Experience and Update!
Egg Retrieval and Embie Update
Embryo Update :: PGD/PGS Results
Preparing for FET!
Our FET Day!
IVF Timeline from Beginning to End (Round 1) <--- Most popular post. Most likely because everyone starting out with IVF wants to know how long it will take and its so hard to find a concrete answer. Ive shared all of my timelines in case it could help someone else know more of what they can expect. Of course however, this will be different for everyone.
The BFN.
The Plan...
IVF - Round Two Begins
IVF w/PGD Round Two Timeline <--- This timeline was also for a full round of stims, retrieval and transfer.
Round Two: Stimulation Injections
Some Truth About IVF
Round Two: Egg Retrieval and Embryo Update - EIGHT!
Round Two: Transfer Day
IVF Round 2 - Failed.
Approved for Round 3!
Round 3 Transfer Day!
IVF w/PGD Round 3 Timeline (FET Only)
Our (BFP) Big Fat Positive!
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