Is there an IVF Value Menu?!?!

I was texting back and forth with a fellow IVFer the other day and we were discussing the different protocols for IVF. She seemed a bit frustrated about her protocol and jokingly stated that she wished there was a menu to pick from for IVF. We are both Micro IVFers and with that comment I began thinking to myself how I wish there was a Value Menu for IVF. A little of this, a bit more of that and all with the full blown IVF results. Fairytaleitis right? I mean when you are a SELF PAY IVF patient...the cost is VERY real! Why can't there be a Dollar Menu at least for the meds?

Seriously though, it is amazing the wide array of protocols for infertile women undergoing IVF. The different Stimulation meds, steroids, shots, pills are very overwhelming. Not only are there different types of meds but there is a huge different in the dosage amounts ranging from large to small doses. I am fortunate to be "good responder" and small doses work just swell for me! Since I did Micro I was on the Micro dose of Gonal F for my stims. My HCG Trigger Shot was pretty painful in the arm but obviously it did its job producing 15 eggs.

The Sher Institute has their protocols down to an art and they know what you need. Hence the extensive blood work you must undergo before starting your cycle. I love that they keep you on meds following your Egg Retrieval. Progesterone in Oil shots in the hip are torturous and the vaginal suppositories also no fun but each of these help with egg implantation and that's what we want in the end! So Bring It On!

Although our next cycle is 7 months away I am already looking forward to getting down to business with the shots and meds and making this baby! I always like to hear about others' protocols if you feel like sharing feel free to comment below or email me at ashleybwrites@gmail.com. Or if you just want to vent about how sick you are of your meds and shots- I am always an open ear and heart to my fellow IVF Heroes.

Cycle Buddies

In the world of IVF there is a certain lingo and online community that exists among fellow IVFers one of my favorites is Cycle Buddies!

Sure there are women I know who are getting pregnant or having babies left and right- like it's easy! Come on- I know I have been one of those women before but that is a certain past time. I feel connected more so to women who are like me- dealing with infertility, trying to conceive and going to great financial and time constraints to do so.

That is why I am so thankful for Cycle Buddies! These women are going through IVF at the same time as me and some of them have already been this road several times before and have a lot of wisdom to share. I have found tons of support, information and encouragement from these women and I am so thankful for modern technology that has allowed me to connect with them and share our journeys.

IVF can be a lonely journey because let's face itnot very many people from my neck of the woods are flying to Vegas to try to have a baby! I am a total loner in that department. The more I share my journey the more I found out that people are oblivious as to how IVF even works. I will have to write a blog soon on all the silly questions I've been asked. Oh the laughs you will have!

But for now, in this moment, I am entirely 150% thankful for online discussions boards and communities so I can share my story, listen to everyone elses stories and swap wisdoms and strengths! It has been a blessings and I wish all my Cycle Buddies many baby blessings to come!