Unless you’ve been through IVF (in-vitro fertilization) or known someone who has, you may not realize how involved it is. Everyone’s protocol is different, some more complicated than others. I do 3 to 5 injections a day to prepare my body. I spent 5 hours today receiving intravenous immunoglobulin therapy from a nurse who came to my house. I will remain on two injections and the immunoglobulin therapy if pregnancy occurs.
I now live by a calendar that micromanages my life with medications, blood draws, doctor appointments, and ultrasounds. I’m not complaining; I wouldn’t have it any other way. I love knowing I'll be able to look back in 5 years and believe we did everything possible.
It’s hard for me to understand not understanding fertility issues. It's my nature to become well informed and my tenacity put us in the hands of some exceptional physicians. For those who want to offer support to a friend or loved one going through something similar, my advice is to realize how important and consuming it is. Validate that, even if you can’t relate. A huge amount of resources is devoted to an IVF cycle (emotions, health, finances, time), all indicators of its importance. Perhaps it's uncomfortable talking about something so “personal” but remember it’s a medical issue. Treat the person as you would someone going through any type of surgery or treatment.
Next week is our egg retrieval in St Louis! I plan to take care of myself with activities that foster relaxation, and join with those who are sending prayers and good thoughts our way. Other than that, I have done all I can. The rest is out of our hands….
The view from my bed for 5 hours today.
This is an evil Lovenox needle. I think the marketing team deliberately made the syringe clunky to reinforce that these injections hurt like hell.
Follistim did a much better job at packaging their dial-a-dose injection pen. The needles are tiny and sharp and slide right in.
Morning injection is also a tiny little needle.
No comments:
Post a Comment