I am relieved to have this first phase over with. The consultant asked ALOT of questions as to why I was doing IVF, and why I was going abroard. Slightly difficult to answer, especially with my son sitting on my lap. However, I was honest and straight forward and I managed to dodge any further interrogation when it became very apparent my baby had a dirty diaper 
Oh dear, good timing!
I have my Clomid and will start the CCT next cycle. I will then have the bloods done, the sono and we are then good to go!
DH and I going to do the 3 cycle package (if all my testing is ok) and I am feeling much better about the whole process. Reading the stories here on IG make the whole thing sound more 'real' than some crazy 'out there' procedure.
In other news, I have now started my vitamins and RJ/BP. Our plan on using all-organic foods and increasing fruit and veggies is working well and I have lost some weight already! Woo hoo!
Now all I have to do is wait. Bring on AF so I can get on with the next stage.....
x L
Just a quick update: We have booked our Consultation for Pre-Cycle testing! It was fairly straight forward to book as they see a lot of women who then go on to do IVF abroard. My DH can't make it so it will be me and my baby!
The Consultant will also re-write the prescriptions I have from my clinic (Clomid & BCP) which I can then go and fill at any chemist (this will save the huge cost of having them shipped from the US.) I am planning on starting the CCT at the end of the month.
We are also on a 'health kick' - eating mostly organic vegetable and trying new recipes. I will also be starting supplements this month: a pre-conception multi-vitamin (My DH will also take one esp. for men), Bee Pollen & Royal Jelly. I am also reseaching DHEA - although I do not know much about this one yet!
x L
Well, not sure it went well. DH was called first and was in and out straight away. No problems. I was next and started getting that 'icky' needle/blood faint feeling (I have a history of needle phobia and fainting after blood draws).
It was all going ok, the nurse found a vien... but .... could of course she could not get any blood out! Seriously? No blood? She was poking and proding and I was feeling very faint and had to sit back on the recliner - I knew I was going to faint. She called for her 'superior' and tried again on the back of my hand (other arm). After 5 minutes she announced that she 'had not yet got enough blood' and she wanted to try the back of my wrist (ouch). I was running a cold sweat by now but thankfully she got 'more than enough' blood and that I should remember that 'sweet spot' for next time!
I just don't know what I am going to do about my issue with needles. I don't think I have a problem with injections - it's just the drawing of blood that makes me squirm. You would think that after childbirth (and my traumatic delivery with DS) I would be fine - but sadly,I'm not.
Anyway, I only have 3 more blood test required for the PCT - so I can be brave!
We have decided on a clinic that will perform all the 'pre-cycle' tests that our doctor has requested. It will not be cheap and will probably cost around £1000. This includes the 'consultation' fee needed for the Sono. However, I fee comfortable with our choice. The Receptionist at the clinic sounded very professional and was able to answer all my questions about prices and procedures straight away.
I also have some good news! Three of the blood tests needed (x 2 for my husband and I) can be performed for free, at our local hospital! I am so excited about this as it will save us about £100. We are going tomorrow afternoon. I don't think I have ever been so excited about having blood drawn but it means we have really started the journey...
I was inspired to create this Blog by Green Zelda's own, very detailed, recount of her IVF experience. I hope that by detailing some of my thoughts and experiences, I too, can help someone follow their dreams.
I live in England and I am Mummy to one beautiful, beautiful bonnie baby boy. We are hoping to complete our family with a much longed for baby girl and will be cycling in the US, March/April 2010.
The Telephone Consulation:
Earlier this month I spoke to Dr Potter. Leading up to the call I was extremely nervous. I don't really know why, but I guess I had built the whole thing up. He was very polite and answered all my questions.
My main concern was finding somewhere to monitor me here in the UK. Dr Potter did not see this as a problem and mentioned that he had worked with several clinics here before. I was also worried about making travelling such a great distance and having to book flights 'last minute'. However; it seems that this is not a problem either as we can book flights etc for our 'IVF window' in advance.
After the consultation, I felt positive, that everything was 'do-able' and that we had 'officially' started the journey. Although I am extremely excited about this process, my husband and I are realistic, and will probably opt for the 2 cycle package.
Pre-Cycle Testing:
Yesterday (28th October), I received my packet of information and prescriptions via FedEx. I waited until DS was napping before opening the packet and digesting all the information. Inside were orders for a number blood tests (for both DH and I), a prescription for Clomid and BCP's. There was also an order for a Sonohystergram.
What is a Sonohystergram?
A Sonohystergram is diagnostic test used to discover abnormalities in the uterine cavity. A very thin catheter is inserted through the vagina and cervix into the lower part of the
uterine cavity. An ultrasound probe is then e placed into the vagina.Through the catheter, a small amount of saline (sterile
salt water) is injected into the uterine cavity to separate the walls.
I have been assured by many IG ladies that this proceedure will not hurt (!) although may be uncomfortable. I may also experience cramping afterwards. I will be sure to let you all know how it goes.
Investigations:
I have been in contact with three clinics that seem to offer all/some of the pre-cycle tests which DH and I require. Although I am delighted that I can have the tests I need, whilst only needing to travel about 2 hours from where we live, the cost is far greater than I expected. Oh well. Looks like I will be adding a Sonohystergram to my Christmas Wish List....