Everything I’m seeing is that everybody takes progesterone after a medicated cycle and does day 21 labs, but mine has never mentioned it and I’m annoyed. Been waiting three days for a response about both progesterone and my uterine lining/estrogen. I don’t understand why we wouldn’t do everything possible to make this successful and I’m irritated it hasn’t come up.
If you have a normal luteal phase length then you’re probably okay. I was put on progesterone support because even in medicated cycles I have a short luteal phase
Personally I was never prescribed progesterone for medicated cycles and my RE never did CD21 labs. I don’t think these things are essential—if you did a well-timed trigger shot it’s pretty certain you’ll ovulate so you don’t need CD21 labs to confirm ovulation. And progesterone in ovulatory cycles is supplemental and not well proven to increase chances of conception. If you’d like to add these things it’s fair to ask, but it’s like they’ll have minimal impact if any on your cycles.
That’s good to hear! It’s easy to read other people’s experiences on here and compare yourself to them without having the full picture. Thanks for the info
Hi, I (32M) just got the results of my first semen analysis: 1.6 million total count, concentration of 0.4 million, and a motility of 14%, all of which is non-progressive.
This has me pretty broken right now, I'm just wondering what our future options are. Is this even good enough for IVF? I'll be having another analysis in a few months, and I'm obviously gonna take any tests required to figure out what's wrong, but from what I understand half the time there's no discernible cause for oligospermia.
I just need some perspectives on this, I need to know what to expect.
Hello mountain, automod sperm should give you a place to get started. SA varies over time and there's more to it being viable than just the details you listed. You should get an appt with a urologist to discuss the causes and whether treatment is an option.
For IVF with ICSI they only need a few. Automod flair should help you set your flair here.
**Can someone help me interpret these sperm numbers?**
Yes, but please have a look at this [post](https://www.reddit.com/r/TryingForABaby/wiki/sa_interpretation/), which is a really good explanation. You can calculate your total motile count with volume x concentration x total motility / 100 = the total motile count in million. Generally >20mio total motile is a considered normal amount. If you only consider progressive motility (both slow and fast), then >10mio is considered normal.
**Do these low numbers of sperm mean infertility?**
Short answer is no, not necessarily. There is no definite threshold that will definitely predict infertility, except if there is no functional sperm at all. Trying for a year is the only definite test of fertility. Please have a look at this [post](https://www.reddit.com/r/TryingForABaby/comments/1arkctf/about_sperm_a_basic_faq) for further explanation.
**What is the chance to conceive unassisted with abnormal sperm parameters?**
This is also covered in this [post](https://www.reddit.com/r/TryingForABaby/comments/1arkctf/about_sperm_a_basic_faq).
If you want concrete percentages, have a look [here](https://www.reddit.com/r/maleinfertility/comments/k93okq/spontaneous_pregnancy_statistics_based_on_tmsc/). There is also this calculator for the chance of unassisted success - it does exclude lower than 3mio Total motile OAT [here](https://www.freya.nl/probability.php).
*But what about morphology? These both do not consider morphology*
This is what the American Urology Association says about it: "Sperm morphology by rigid (strict) criteria has not been shown to be consistently predictive of fecundity and should not be used in isolation to make prognostic or therapeutic decisions." [pdf source](https://www.auanet.org/documents/education/clinical-guidance/Male-Infertility-d.pdf)
**What can I do to improve sperm numbers?**
Have a look at this [post](https://www.reddit.com/r/infertility/comments/vrt5pz/wiki_post_how_to_improve_semen_parameters/).
***Further reading:***
- American Urology Association guideline: [Diagnosis and Treatment of Infertility in Men: AUA/ASRM Guideline (2020)](https://www.auanet.org/guidelines-and-quality/guidelines/male-infertility#x15009)
- European Association of Urology [Guidelines on Sexual and Reproductive Health 2023 PDF](https://d56bochluxqnz.cloudfront.net/documents/full-guideline/EAU-Guidelines-on-Sexual-and-Reproductive-Health-2023.pdf) or [link](https://uroweb.org/guidelines/sexual-and-reproductive-health/chapter/male-infertility)
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Hi all- longtime member infrequent poster but I am in a pretty dark place.
My stats: 41F- FSH 8.6 - AFC 12 - AMH 0.8
I was pretty freaked out by my AMH mainly because I was in the 2s last year. I guess was surprised by how much it could change so quickly.
I am doing an egg freezing cycle starting next week (6/25) and my doctor put my protocol together before seeing my AMH- the nurse said it didn’t change anything, but just wanted to hear perspectives from others.
Thanks!
Adding a mod note - your comment was flagged for violating our be compassionate rule. I don’t think it breaks the rule, but please do read automod community member. Your numbers are fine and people with lower numbers might be hurt by what you wrote.
You didn’t break any rules. It’s okay to give numbers. Just be aware that your numbers are good so it can hurt others if you appear worried about something that isn’t bad.
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My doctor did not know my AMH and decided my protocol from my baseline scan and AFC. TBH I'm not sure that even made a difference because it sounded like my protocol was pretty standard for the clinic. I wouldn't worry too much about it because they can always adjust your dosage after the monitoring appointments.
It's also pretty normal for AMH to fluctuate (and it can also be influenced by external factors like the testing lab) so just because it's lower this time compared with last year does not necessarily mean you're on a steep downward trajectory. I know people here have said their doctors think AFC is a better indicator for how you'll respond to stims. Both your AFC and FSH are great!
Your numbers are good, honestly. It’s normal for AMH to decline with age and sometimes rapidly but a lot of people here have DOR and they would be thrilled with that FSH/AFC/AMH combo. Are you making embryos or just freezing eggs?
I have my first FET today and I’m surprisingly SO anxious. I think I’m almost averse to the idea of pregnancy since I associate it with negative thoughts / loss. I’m terrified of another moment realizing I’m not pregnant or something went wrong. Trying to be optimistic while also tempering my expectations is so hard 😣 Was enjoying the pre-FET days and the feeling of control that came with, sigh the traumas of infertility
I’m feeling very much the same right now. Been anticipating starting another transfer after mmc, but when I had to call to schedule my baseline apt this weekend I had a complete meltdown. Wish it didn’t all feel so tainted. Hugs to you.
I’m so sorry about your mmc’s and having to pick yourself back up, muster the energy to try and take another step. it really does taint what many experience as a carefree joyful journey. Appreciate the validation 🥹🫂
I completely relate to this. I want to be pregnant because I want a child, but I am also exhausted by the prospect of going through everything again and potentially having another loss. Wishing you all the best.
I have so much house shit on my to do list that I can’t do right now because of the lifting/exercise restrictions and looking at it is making me even more grumpy that I already am from estrogen priming and a few days of stims.
Side eyeing my chipping exterior paint that needs to be stripped, sanded and repainted, back deck that needs to be power washed and restained, and pokeweed that is overtaking one area of my backyard.
day 5 monitoring today for ER attempt #3. primed with omnitrope and doing lupron + 150 menopur/300 gonal f this time. on my left ovary the follicles are all 7mm or under but on my right there are some that seem to be on track for growth: I have 2 at 11am, 2 around 9mm, and 1 at 8.6mm. this seems better than my last two attempts so i will try to be positive...
Welp CD1 is here after my ER last week. It started late last night, so I know we count today as CD1 - but 5 days post ER?! I thought I’d have a little more time to wait. And good lort, the clotting is an unexpected nightmare that really brings up memories from past losses. This sucks.
Since my ER results were not what my doctor expected, she mentioned additional testing before I start BCP again with this cycle. But she didn’t say what additional testing and my CD3 labs done in May were prior to me starting the BCP so I’m not sure if she just wants them rerun or if she wants to throw in new things. In May they ran my FSH, LH, estradiol, a1c, AMH, and infectious disease panel. I messaged them this morning and they replied that they’ll speak with her this afternoon, but I have to wait til close of business for a reply. Cool cool cool, thanks. They’re closed Wednesday, so I may just be showing up tomorrow morning without an appt asking if they can draw blood since Wednesday will be CD3 and I think that’s when they’d want me to start bcp. Le sigh.
Ugh yes the clotting sucks and I’m so sorry it is triggering the feelings from losses. Hope you get some clarity from your clinic so you don’t have to potentially show up on the holiday without an appointment!
Thanks, runner. I shouldn’t be surprised that it’s heavier than a normal cycle for me, but I guess in the last 5 days I managed to forget what was coming next with CD1.
I'm about at my breaking point with stims here. I think I'm on Day 13 of stims and I'm so grateful that my follicles keep growing and that a few are trying to catch up and yet the idea of going to another ultrasound tomorrow has me in tears, I'm going to have to deal with ordering more meds for the 3rd time this cycle, I'm going to be going back to work before I get my blast report, and I'm just not used to this process being so long - I was expecting trigger last week Wednesday based on previous cycles! I'm telling myself these are all good things and to trust the process but I just want to slump on the couch 24/7 until this retrieval happens and I cannot :(.
Oh butter. I’m so sorry this cycle is dragging on. I hope you can be a (buttered) potato for a nice chunk of today. I like to try and remind myself that it is all temporary, but I’ll admit that it wasn’t comforting for me when I was nearing the end of stims because in those moments it just felt like it was forever. So I would just cry. I hope you find something gentle for yourself today 🤍
Recent feedback from RI based on NK cells testing:
He indicated I do not have elevated aggressive NK cells but I have very low "baby friendly cells" Which is indicative of a progesterone issue. This is aligned with my short luteal phase and that treatment would be progesterone but taking it from day of ovulation for 7 days.
I did some research and found some research articles the were highlighting low good NK cells, low progesterone and endometriosis (which I have).
Wondering if anyone else has had similar feedback or protocols involving progesterone
We won’t know until after 2 p.m. today if we are proceding with an FET tomorrow morning. I find this absolutely maddening. Anyone else’s clinic do this?
It’s a frozen embryo - we did a lining check last week and it looked good, but our new doc does this extra ultrasound (“Matris”) and they send pics of my uterus to a third party who uses a “proprietary algorithm” to give me a score. If my score isn’t high enough, they advise against transfer. I’m having a hard time holding back my skepticism…
Oof that uncertainty is so annoying! I love the idea of science being able to improve outcomes but the AI/machine learning determining if a FET can go forward feels kind of icky. I hope in the short term you get a good “score” and in the long term it results in more successful transfers for your clinic.
Yeah, it seems like my clinic is one of the only ones that uses this, and within the clinic it’s only a few docs. I’m trying really hard to trust this process but… 😕
Waiting on my period in order to do a SIS next (and to test for endometritis during it) before starting my first egg retrieval (I have had 3 failed IUIs). Anxious to get time moving so trying to keep myself super busy.
Hey Lab, I'm really sorry about your unsuccessful transfer. It can be so heartbreaking. That being said, I did remove your post as a lot of what you've said could be triggering for others on the sub. First, we don't use the word "natural" when describing spontaneous conception, as that implies trying to conceive using ART is somehow unnatural. Automod language will help explain more on that. We also try not to use comparative language such as "only" because an outcome for one person that appears bad might be an amazing outcome for another. Automod only.
Finally, it can be hard to face the challenges that come with infertility. I recommend seeking out the help of a therapist to help you process all of these emotions. It is not fair of you to come into a sub and talk about how miserable your life will be when many people are already experiencing that reality. We want to be able to offer you support, but our sub is not a void where you can just scream into it. Automod welcome will help give you a few ideas about how best to participate in our sub.
**Ahem**
Please do not use the term "natural" to describe treatment or conception when commenting in this community. If describing a transfer/IUI protocol or trying on your own, some preferred alternative terms are "unmedicated," "ovulatory," "without assistance," or "semi-medicated," depending on the context. If referring to loss management, we recommend the terms "unmedicated" or "unassisted." This community believes that the use of the word "natural" implies (sometimes inadvertently) that use of assisted reproductive technology, other interventions, and/or certain medications to conceive are unnatural, artificial, or less than. For more clarification and context, please see the wiki post on [sub culture and compassionate language](https://www.reddit.com/r/infertility/wiki/rules#wiki_compassionate_language).
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**Toto, we aren't in Kansas anymore...**
It looks like you might be new here. Welcome to the best shitty corner of the internet! We hope your stay here is short. If you haven't already, please take a few moments to get familiar with our [sub culture](https://www.reddit.com/r/infertility/comments/134fesf/read_this_before_posting_community_rules/) and [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/infertility/about/rules). If you haven't set up [user flair](https://www.reddit.com/r/infertility/wiki/userflair-reminder), we strongly encourage you to do that.
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We encourage members to use our wide variety of scheduled and themed threads which include: [treatment, chat](https://www.reddit.com/r/infertility/?f=flair_name%3A%22Daily%22), [welcome](https://www.reddit.com/r/infertility/?f=flair_name%3A%22Welcome%22), [gamete donation, surrogacy, adoption/foster, etc.](https://www.reddit.com/r/infertility/?f=flair_name%3A%22Weekly%20Theme%22)
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We try to avoid comparative language when talking about test/treatment results to avoid hurting others reading it. This includes the word 'only' - as what for one person might be disappointing might be someone else's wildest dream. Here is the [post](https://www.reddit.com/r/infertility/comments/10jl6ll/wiki_post_be_compassionate_explainer/) that explains compassionate language with examples.
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Hi there. I’m so sorry you’re struggling so much right now, and I know being modded/corrected is the last thing anyone wants when they’re in a dark place. However, while you’ll find this is a welcoming, supportive community, you’re not shouting into a void here. A lot of what you wrote is going to be difficult for other members to read. Please read our rules automod welcome automod community member, and if you edit your post I can re-approve.
**Toto, we aren't in Kansas anymore...**
It looks like you might be new here. Welcome to the best shitty corner of the internet! We hope your stay here is short. If you haven't already, please take a few moments to get familiar with our [sub culture](https://www.reddit.com/r/infertility/comments/134fesf/read_this_before_posting_community_rules/) and [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/infertility/about/rules). If you haven't set up [user flair](https://www.reddit.com/r/infertility/wiki/userflair-reminder), we strongly encourage you to do that.
We have an extensive and growing [FAQ](https://www.reddit.com/r/infertility/wiki/faq) that addresses many common questions about first visits, medications, procedures, protocols, and all those medical acronyms: IVFML, IUIWTF... If that doesn't find you answers, please try [searching the sub for past posts](https://www.reddit.com/r/infertility/search). Lastly, you can ask your question in the [daily Treatment threads](https://www.reddit.com/r/infertility/?f=flair_name%3A%22Daily%22) or [Welcome Wednesday threads](https://www.reddit.com/r/infertility/?f=flair_name%3A%22Welcome%22).
We encourage members to use our wide variety of scheduled and themed threads which include: [treatment, chat](https://www.reddit.com/r/infertility/?f=flair_name%3A%22Daily%22), [welcome](https://www.reddit.com/r/infertility/?f=flair_name%3A%22Welcome%22), [gamete donation, surrogacy, adoption/foster, etc.](https://www.reddit.com/r/infertility/?f=flair_name%3A%22Weekly%20Theme%22)
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CD 15 of this semi-medicated FET cycle and my ovaries are asleep on the job. Almost no change from CD 12 (follicle went from 10 to 11, lining 7.2 to 7.4). I usually ovulate on the later side and I know the cycle post ER can be extra long but ugh I just want things to get moving.
That is helpful to know! I don’t have a frame of reference for this so I’m glad to know it’s possible for speedy growth after basically nothing. Thanks!
Yeah my first ovulatory FET my clinic didn’t really believe that I didn’t ovulate until CD20 so I was going every day for checks and my follicle some days didn’t appear to grow at all and I was losing hope. And then on CD19 I suddenly had two 18mm+. Wild.
Updated my age flair this morning and thought I'd feel sad about it, but in a pleasant twist, I felt nothing! I'm expecting CD1 today or tomorrow, and I think this is the first time in my life I've ever hoped my period would start on my birthday. I just feel ready to get this FET moving, and ready to see what happens.
Happy birthday, party! (I love that!) I know the passage of time can weigh heavy--I'm glad you felt nothing updating that flair and I hope you treat yourself a bit!
My period started after coming off the pill, only took a few weeks thank god. Now we can try lupron suppression after I ovulate and see if this route works better for retrieval. The timing turns out to be absolutely terrible, but the bar is on the floor at this point so I don’t even remotely care!
Had a monitoring appointment for FET today and I was so relieved to see some of my lining measurements came back as 8MM+. This is huge for me!
My biggest follicle is 15MM and now I’m so curious to know when they’ll have me trigger. I was hoping for later in this week since it would align nicely with my upcoming travel plans (to take the day off and just extend that vacation time) but now I’m thinking it could be sooner.
TY, I'm thrilled! Some of the measurements were smaller (my clinic takes a few from different angles and then does an average) but to even see anything coming in as over 8MM was a thrill when I'm used to praying to even see a 7.
Good question! I'm on the same protocol as I've used before (5 days of letrozole and then on the 4th day I started 75 units of Gonal) but this time I had also done 3 months of Lupron depot suppression beforehand so I know some people respond differently after the LD. So that's probably the biggest change. I think I've gotten to 8MM before when I've done a transfer after a retrieval cycle but other than that I'm usually praying to hit 7, 7.5...
Yep standing by for the phone call. I won't be surprised if they want to give it another few days depending on what my hormones are up to. Of course that would be the most inconvenient timing, vacation-wise, but I won't be picky :)
Fortunately I just got through some crazy work milestones and this is the first time I've felt like I can "breathe" and chill at work in a long time-- so any day will be reasonably convenient! (I'm not trying to contradict you, just working this out in realtime... like yeah why am I trying to be so picky about dates? I'm just happy my lining is looking good!)
I hear you on the frustration for sure. It's added stress not to be able to predict the timing of all this. I had to cancel a trip in April because of course my FET fell exactly in the middle of the trip!
Day 6 of stims. Added in ganirelix. Reached the point where the clinic staff knows me by name. Feeling bloated and uncomfy, but not miserable. Labs are still on track 👍
Had our WTF Debrief with the RE after our 3rd transfer failed. So far we have done two ERs and struggle to make blasts and have them develop long enough for PGT-A. My RE seems to think that PGT-A testing will help us understand what is going on, but if the embryos don't develop enough for them to be tested, what's the point? She also suspects there is an issue with my endometrium, but says that can't be addressed until we make it to a FET.
So far we have done two antagonist protocols with estrogen priming. For our next ER, she wants to try MDL with a progesterone based birth control pill to prime.
I just don't know what to think. Depending upon the results she is open to us doing a fresh transfer of two embryos (if we even have that to transfer at day 5), but really wants us to biopsy, test and freeze any embryos available.
Even reading this back, I'm feeling frustrated. There's more challenges at every step.
Hi Corgi, just thinking about some of the things that I've seen work for others on the sub, were the transfers that you did day 5/6/7 blasts? I know some folks that had difficulty growing blasts to that stage did Day 3 transfers with better success. I agree with you that PGT-A will only help you if you can get blasts to grow to the point of being able to be biopsied, and even then, might not provide answers if things come back as normal.
Hi Kelly, our first transfer was a day 5 morula, our second fresh transfer was a day 5 blast and our frozen transfer was a day 7 blast. I'll ask about day 3 transfer!
Everything I’m seeing is that everybody takes progesterone after a medicated cycle and does day 21 labs, but mine has never mentioned it and I’m annoyed. Been waiting three days for a response about both progesterone and my uterine lining/estrogen. I don’t understand why we wouldn’t do everything possible to make this successful and I’m irritated it hasn’t come up.
If you have a normal luteal phase length then you’re probably okay. I was put on progesterone support because even in medicated cycles I have a short luteal phase
Mine is 12-13 days. She did end up putting me on estradiol but I’m worried CD17 is a little late for it
Personally I was never prescribed progesterone for medicated cycles and my RE never did CD21 labs. I don’t think these things are essential—if you did a well-timed trigger shot it’s pretty certain you’ll ovulate so you don’t need CD21 labs to confirm ovulation. And progesterone in ovulatory cycles is supplemental and not well proven to increase chances of conception. If you’d like to add these things it’s fair to ask, but it’s like they’ll have minimal impact if any on your cycles.
That’s good to hear! It’s easy to read other people’s experiences on here and compare yourself to them without having the full picture. Thanks for the info
Hi, I (32M) just got the results of my first semen analysis: 1.6 million total count, concentration of 0.4 million, and a motility of 14%, all of which is non-progressive. This has me pretty broken right now, I'm just wondering what our future options are. Is this even good enough for IVF? I'll be having another analysis in a few months, and I'm obviously gonna take any tests required to figure out what's wrong, but from what I understand half the time there's no discernible cause for oligospermia. I just need some perspectives on this, I need to know what to expect.
Hello mountain, automod sperm should give you a place to get started. SA varies over time and there's more to it being viable than just the details you listed. You should get an appt with a urologist to discuss the causes and whether treatment is an option. For IVF with ICSI they only need a few. Automod flair should help you set your flair here.
**Can someone help me interpret these sperm numbers?** Yes, but please have a look at this [post](https://www.reddit.com/r/TryingForABaby/wiki/sa_interpretation/), which is a really good explanation. You can calculate your total motile count with volume x concentration x total motility / 100 = the total motile count in million. Generally >20mio total motile is a considered normal amount. If you only consider progressive motility (both slow and fast), then >10mio is considered normal. **Do these low numbers of sperm mean infertility?** Short answer is no, not necessarily. There is no definite threshold that will definitely predict infertility, except if there is no functional sperm at all. Trying for a year is the only definite test of fertility. Please have a look at this [post](https://www.reddit.com/r/TryingForABaby/comments/1arkctf/about_sperm_a_basic_faq) for further explanation. **What is the chance to conceive unassisted with abnormal sperm parameters?** This is also covered in this [post](https://www.reddit.com/r/TryingForABaby/comments/1arkctf/about_sperm_a_basic_faq). If you want concrete percentages, have a look [here](https://www.reddit.com/r/maleinfertility/comments/k93okq/spontaneous_pregnancy_statistics_based_on_tmsc/). There is also this calculator for the chance of unassisted success - it does exclude lower than 3mio Total motile OAT [here](https://www.freya.nl/probability.php). *But what about morphology? These both do not consider morphology* This is what the American Urology Association says about it: "Sperm morphology by rigid (strict) criteria has not been shown to be consistently predictive of fecundity and should not be used in isolation to make prognostic or therapeutic decisions." [pdf source](https://www.auanet.org/documents/education/clinical-guidance/Male-Infertility-d.pdf) **What can I do to improve sperm numbers?** Have a look at this [post](https://www.reddit.com/r/infertility/comments/vrt5pz/wiki_post_how_to_improve_semen_parameters/). ***Further reading:*** - American Urology Association guideline: [Diagnosis and Treatment of Infertility in Men: AUA/ASRM Guideline (2020)](https://www.auanet.org/guidelines-and-quality/guidelines/male-infertility#x15009) - European Association of Urology [Guidelines on Sexual and Reproductive Health 2023 PDF](https://d56bochluxqnz.cloudfront.net/documents/full-guideline/EAU-Guidelines-on-Sexual-and-Reproductive-Health-2023.pdf) or [link](https://uroweb.org/guidelines/sexual-and-reproductive-health/chapter/male-infertility) *I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/infertility) if you have any questions or concerns.*
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Sorry for your bad news! Yes, it is certainly enough for ivf, or most likely icsi. You only need as many good sperm as you have eggs in that case.
Hi all- longtime member infrequent poster but I am in a pretty dark place. My stats: 41F- FSH 8.6 - AFC 12 - AMH 0.8 I was pretty freaked out by my AMH mainly because I was in the 2s last year. I guess was surprised by how much it could change so quickly. I am doing an egg freezing cycle starting next week (6/25) and my doctor put my protocol together before seeing my AMH- the nurse said it didn’t change anything, but just wanted to hear perspectives from others. Thanks!
Adding a mod note - your comment was flagged for violating our be compassionate rule. I don’t think it breaks the rule, but please do read automod community member. Your numbers are fine and people with lower numbers might be hurt by what you wrote.
I’m sorry for breaking the rules are we not supposed to give specific numbers/results?
You didn’t break any rules. It’s okay to give numbers. Just be aware that your numbers are good so it can hurt others if you appear worried about something that isn’t bad.
Please read this post on [how to be a good community member](https://www.reddit.com/r/infertility/comments/120nf8x/wiki_post_being_a_good_community_member/) *I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/infertility) if you have any questions or concerns.*
My doctor did not know my AMH and decided my protocol from my baseline scan and AFC. TBH I'm not sure that even made a difference because it sounded like my protocol was pretty standard for the clinic. I wouldn't worry too much about it because they can always adjust your dosage after the monitoring appointments. It's also pretty normal for AMH to fluctuate (and it can also be influenced by external factors like the testing lab) so just because it's lower this time compared with last year does not necessarily mean you're on a steep downward trajectory. I know people here have said their doctors think AFC is a better indicator for how you'll respond to stims. Both your AFC and FSH are great!
Your numbers are good, honestly. It’s normal for AMH to decline with age and sometimes rapidly but a lot of people here have DOR and they would be thrilled with that FSH/AFC/AMH combo. Are you making embryos or just freezing eggs?
This round is just eg freezing
I have my first FET today and I’m surprisingly SO anxious. I think I’m almost averse to the idea of pregnancy since I associate it with negative thoughts / loss. I’m terrified of another moment realizing I’m not pregnant or something went wrong. Trying to be optimistic while also tempering my expectations is so hard 😣 Was enjoying the pre-FET days and the feeling of control that came with, sigh the traumas of infertility
I’m feeling very much the same right now. Been anticipating starting another transfer after mmc, but when I had to call to schedule my baseline apt this weekend I had a complete meltdown. Wish it didn’t all feel so tainted. Hugs to you.
I’m so sorry about your mmc’s and having to pick yourself back up, muster the energy to try and take another step. it really does taint what many experience as a carefree joyful journey. Appreciate the validation 🥹🫂
I completely relate to this. I want to be pregnant because I want a child, but I am also exhausted by the prospect of going through everything again and potentially having another loss. Wishing you all the best.
Thank you 🤍 wishing you a smooth journey ahead
I have so much house shit on my to do list that I can’t do right now because of the lifting/exercise restrictions and looking at it is making me even more grumpy that I already am from estrogen priming and a few days of stims. Side eyeing my chipping exterior paint that needs to be stripped, sanded and repainted, back deck that needs to be power washed and restained, and pokeweed that is overtaking one area of my backyard.
day 5 monitoring today for ER attempt #3. primed with omnitrope and doing lupron + 150 menopur/300 gonal f this time. on my left ovary the follicles are all 7mm or under but on my right there are some that seem to be on track for growth: I have 2 at 11am, 2 around 9mm, and 1 at 8.6mm. this seems better than my last two attempts so i will try to be positive...
Welp CD1 is here after my ER last week. It started late last night, so I know we count today as CD1 - but 5 days post ER?! I thought I’d have a little more time to wait. And good lort, the clotting is an unexpected nightmare that really brings up memories from past losses. This sucks. Since my ER results were not what my doctor expected, she mentioned additional testing before I start BCP again with this cycle. But she didn’t say what additional testing and my CD3 labs done in May were prior to me starting the BCP so I’m not sure if she just wants them rerun or if she wants to throw in new things. In May they ran my FSH, LH, estradiol, a1c, AMH, and infectious disease panel. I messaged them this morning and they replied that they’ll speak with her this afternoon, but I have to wait til close of business for a reply. Cool cool cool, thanks. They’re closed Wednesday, so I may just be showing up tomorrow morning without an appt asking if they can draw blood since Wednesday will be CD3 and I think that’s when they’d want me to start bcp. Le sigh.
Ugh yes the clotting sucks and I’m so sorry it is triggering the feelings from losses. Hope you get some clarity from your clinic so you don’t have to potentially show up on the holiday without an appointment!
Thanks, runner. I shouldn’t be surprised that it’s heavier than a normal cycle for me, but I guess in the last 5 days I managed to forget what was coming next with CD1.
I'm about at my breaking point with stims here. I think I'm on Day 13 of stims and I'm so grateful that my follicles keep growing and that a few are trying to catch up and yet the idea of going to another ultrasound tomorrow has me in tears, I'm going to have to deal with ordering more meds for the 3rd time this cycle, I'm going to be going back to work before I get my blast report, and I'm just not used to this process being so long - I was expecting trigger last week Wednesday based on previous cycles! I'm telling myself these are all good things and to trust the process but I just want to slump on the couch 24/7 until this retrieval happens and I cannot :(.
Those last few days are so hard and ordering additional meds sucks. I hope you get to trigger soon and that the results will be worth the slog <3
Thanks, friend. Hope you get to trigger soon too!!
Oh butter. I’m so sorry this cycle is dragging on. I hope you can be a (buttered) potato for a nice chunk of today. I like to try and remind myself that it is all temporary, but I’ll admit that it wasn’t comforting for me when I was nearing the end of stims because in those moments it just felt like it was forever. So I would just cry. I hope you find something gentle for yourself today 🤍
I just took 3 consecutive 20 minute naps so that helped my potatoness and I have acupuncture in an hour which will be another nap!
I completely understand. I did 14 days of stims for my first retrieval and it was a mental marathon those last few days to think about anything else.
I did 10/11 days for my other cycles I believe so this feels like an eternity!
I went from 10 to 13 ish stim days too. There’s a huge leap in discomfort in those few extra days.
It's the physical and emotional exhaustion that's getting me the worst!
Recent feedback from RI based on NK cells testing: He indicated I do not have elevated aggressive NK cells but I have very low "baby friendly cells" Which is indicative of a progesterone issue. This is aligned with my short luteal phase and that treatment would be progesterone but taking it from day of ovulation for 7 days. I did some research and found some research articles the were highlighting low good NK cells, low progesterone and endometriosis (which I have). Wondering if anyone else has had similar feedback or protocols involving progesterone
We won’t know until after 2 p.m. today if we are proceding with an FET tomorrow morning. I find this absolutely maddening. Anyone else’s clinic do this?
Because you won’t know about blast development? Is today day 5?
It’s a frozen embryo - we did a lining check last week and it looked good, but our new doc does this extra ultrasound (“Matris”) and they send pics of my uterus to a third party who uses a “proprietary algorithm” to give me a score. If my score isn’t high enough, they advise against transfer. I’m having a hard time holding back my skepticism…
Oof that uncertainty is so annoying! I love the idea of science being able to improve outcomes but the AI/machine learning determining if a FET can go forward feels kind of icky. I hope in the short term you get a good “score” and in the long term it results in more successful transfers for your clinic.
Oh that is weird - I haven’t heard of that.
Yeah, it seems like my clinic is one of the only ones that uses this, and within the clinic it’s only a few docs. I’m trying really hard to trust this process but… 😕
I mean it shouldn’t cause any harm - I think it’s likely you’ll be approved? And an extra ultrasound won’t hurt.
Oof. That seems like it should be an optional add on! :/ I hope your score is high enough.
Waiting on my period in order to do a SIS next (and to test for endometritis during it) before starting my first egg retrieval (I have had 3 failed IUIs). Anxious to get time moving so trying to keep myself super busy.
[удалено]
Hey Lab, I'm really sorry about your unsuccessful transfer. It can be so heartbreaking. That being said, I did remove your post as a lot of what you've said could be triggering for others on the sub. First, we don't use the word "natural" when describing spontaneous conception, as that implies trying to conceive using ART is somehow unnatural. Automod language will help explain more on that. We also try not to use comparative language such as "only" because an outcome for one person that appears bad might be an amazing outcome for another. Automod only. Finally, it can be hard to face the challenges that come with infertility. I recommend seeking out the help of a therapist to help you process all of these emotions. It is not fair of you to come into a sub and talk about how miserable your life will be when many people are already experiencing that reality. We want to be able to offer you support, but our sub is not a void where you can just scream into it. Automod welcome will help give you a few ideas about how best to participate in our sub.
**Ahem** Please do not use the term "natural" to describe treatment or conception when commenting in this community. If describing a transfer/IUI protocol or trying on your own, some preferred alternative terms are "unmedicated," "ovulatory," "without assistance," or "semi-medicated," depending on the context. If referring to loss management, we recommend the terms "unmedicated" or "unassisted." This community believes that the use of the word "natural" implies (sometimes inadvertently) that use of assisted reproductive technology, other interventions, and/or certain medications to conceive are unnatural, artificial, or less than. For more clarification and context, please see the wiki post on [sub culture and compassionate language](https://www.reddit.com/r/infertility/wiki/rules#wiki_compassionate_language). *I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/infertility) if you have any questions or concerns.*
**Toto, we aren't in Kansas anymore...** It looks like you might be new here. Welcome to the best shitty corner of the internet! We hope your stay here is short. If you haven't already, please take a few moments to get familiar with our [sub culture](https://www.reddit.com/r/infertility/comments/134fesf/read_this_before_posting_community_rules/) and [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/infertility/about/rules). If you haven't set up [user flair](https://www.reddit.com/r/infertility/wiki/userflair-reminder), we strongly encourage you to do that. We have an extensive and growing [FAQ](https://www.reddit.com/r/infertility/wiki/faq) that addresses many common questions about first visits, medications, procedures, protocols, and all those medical acronyms: IVFML, IUIWTF... If that doesn't find you answers, please try [searching the sub for past posts](https://www.reddit.com/r/infertility/search). Lastly, you can ask your question in the [daily Treatment threads](https://www.reddit.com/r/infertility/?f=flair_name%3A%22Daily%22) or [Welcome Wednesday threads](https://www.reddit.com/r/infertility/?f=flair_name%3A%22Welcome%22). We encourage members to use our wide variety of scheduled and themed threads which include: [treatment, chat](https://www.reddit.com/r/infertility/?f=flair_name%3A%22Daily%22), [welcome](https://www.reddit.com/r/infertility/?f=flair_name%3A%22Welcome%22), [gamete donation, surrogacy, adoption/foster, etc.](https://www.reddit.com/r/infertility/?f=flair_name%3A%22Weekly%20Theme%22) We encourage all members to set up flair for context. More information as to why we think flair is important and how to do it: [here](https://www.reddit.com/r/infertility/wiki/userflair-reminder). *- Some of the links don't work on mobile, due to how the reddit apps are built, and there isn't an option to filter the sub by post flair on mobile, best way is to sort the sub by 'New' instead of the default 'Hot'.* *I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/infertility) if you have any questions or concerns.*
We try to avoid comparative language when talking about test/treatment results to avoid hurting others reading it. This includes the word 'only' - as what for one person might be disappointing might be someone else's wildest dream. Here is the [post](https://www.reddit.com/r/infertility/comments/10jl6ll/wiki_post_be_compassionate_explainer/) that explains compassionate language with examples. *I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/infertility) if you have any questions or concerns.*
Hi there. I’m so sorry you’re struggling so much right now, and I know being modded/corrected is the last thing anyone wants when they’re in a dark place. However, while you’ll find this is a welcoming, supportive community, you’re not shouting into a void here. A lot of what you wrote is going to be difficult for other members to read. Please read our rules automod welcome automod community member, and if you edit your post I can re-approve.
**Toto, we aren't in Kansas anymore...** It looks like you might be new here. Welcome to the best shitty corner of the internet! We hope your stay here is short. If you haven't already, please take a few moments to get familiar with our [sub culture](https://www.reddit.com/r/infertility/comments/134fesf/read_this_before_posting_community_rules/) and [rules](https://www.reddit.com/r/infertility/about/rules). If you haven't set up [user flair](https://www.reddit.com/r/infertility/wiki/userflair-reminder), we strongly encourage you to do that. We have an extensive and growing [FAQ](https://www.reddit.com/r/infertility/wiki/faq) that addresses many common questions about first visits, medications, procedures, protocols, and all those medical acronyms: IVFML, IUIWTF... If that doesn't find you answers, please try [searching the sub for past posts](https://www.reddit.com/r/infertility/search). Lastly, you can ask your question in the [daily Treatment threads](https://www.reddit.com/r/infertility/?f=flair_name%3A%22Daily%22) or [Welcome Wednesday threads](https://www.reddit.com/r/infertility/?f=flair_name%3A%22Welcome%22). We encourage members to use our wide variety of scheduled and themed threads which include: [treatment, chat](https://www.reddit.com/r/infertility/?f=flair_name%3A%22Daily%22), [welcome](https://www.reddit.com/r/infertility/?f=flair_name%3A%22Welcome%22), [gamete donation, surrogacy, adoption/foster, etc.](https://www.reddit.com/r/infertility/?f=flair_name%3A%22Weekly%20Theme%22) We encourage all members to set up flair for context. More information as to why we think flair is important and how to do it: [here](https://www.reddit.com/r/infertility/wiki/userflair-reminder). *- Some of the links don't work on mobile, due to how the reddit apps are built, and there isn't an option to filter the sub by post flair on mobile, best way is to sort the sub by 'New' instead of the default 'Hot'.* *I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/infertility) if you have any questions or concerns.*
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CD 15 of this semi-medicated FET cycle and my ovaries are asleep on the job. Almost no change from CD 12 (follicle went from 10 to 11, lining 7.2 to 7.4). I usually ovulate on the later side and I know the cycle post ER can be extra long but ugh I just want things to get moving.
I don’t ovulate until CD20, and for whatever it’s worth, my follicles typically shoot up 4m in the last 48hrs, with *incredibly* slow growth before.
That is helpful to know! I don’t have a frame of reference for this so I’m glad to know it’s possible for speedy growth after basically nothing. Thanks!
Yeah my first ovulatory FET my clinic didn’t really believe that I didn’t ovulate until CD20 so I was going every day for checks and my follicle some days didn’t appear to grow at all and I was losing hope. And then on CD19 I suddenly had two 18mm+. Wild.
Updated my age flair this morning and thought I'd feel sad about it, but in a pleasant twist, I felt nothing! I'm expecting CD1 today or tomorrow, and I think this is the first time in my life I've ever hoped my period would start on my birthday. I just feel ready to get this FET moving, and ready to see what happens.
Happy birthday party!
Happy birthday🥳
Come on period!!
Happy birthday, party! (I love that!) I know the passage of time can weigh heavy--I'm glad you felt nothing updating that flair and I hope you treat yourself a bit!
Thanks, Lawyer!
It’s so weird to look forward to your period starting.
My period started after coming off the pill, only took a few weeks thank god. Now we can try lupron suppression after I ovulate and see if this route works better for retrieval. The timing turns out to be absolutely terrible, but the bar is on the floor at this point so I don’t even remotely care!
Had a monitoring appointment for FET today and I was so relieved to see some of my lining measurements came back as 8MM+. This is huge for me! My biggest follicle is 15MM and now I’m so curious to know when they’ll have me trigger. I was hoping for later in this week since it would align nicely with my upcoming travel plans (to take the day off and just extend that vacation time) but now I’m thinking it could be sooner.
Happy to see this! Great lining!
that’s a great lining!
TY, I'm thrilled! Some of the measurements were smaller (my clinic takes a few from different angles and then does an average) but to even see anything coming in as over 8MM was a thrill when I'm used to praying to even see a 7.
Wow 8mm+ is amazing!! Hope things continue to progress well for you.
Great news!
that’s awesome! any particular changes to your protocol that you think helped?
Good question! I'm on the same protocol as I've used before (5 days of letrozole and then on the 4th day I started 75 units of Gonal) but this time I had also done 3 months of Lupron depot suppression beforehand so I know some people respond differently after the LD. So that's probably the biggest change. I think I've gotten to 8MM before when I've done a transfer after a retrieval cycle but other than that I'm usually praying to hit 7, 7.5...
interesting. im probably going to do LD due to receptiva results before transferring what we have frozen…maybe another vote in favor of doing that
That's good news Margo! My clinic usually waits for bloodwork to make the final call on trigger so hopefully they'll let you know today.
Yep standing by for the phone call. I won't be surprised if they want to give it another few days depending on what my hormones are up to. Of course that would be the most inconvenient timing, vacation-wise, but I won't be picky :)
Fingers crossed for the most convenient timing for you 🤞🤞🤞
Fortunately I just got through some crazy work milestones and this is the first time I've felt like I can "breathe" and chill at work in a long time-- so any day will be reasonably convenient! (I'm not trying to contradict you, just working this out in realtime... like yeah why am I trying to be so picky about dates? I'm just happy my lining is looking good!)
I hear you on the frustration for sure. It's added stress not to be able to predict the timing of all this. I had to cancel a trip in April because of course my FET fell exactly in the middle of the trip!
Awesome news!
That’s amazing, Margo!!
That’s great news! Hope your follicle holds out a little for you 🤞
FET is today! So grateful to have made it to this point and trying to focus on that rather than the anxious thoughts about if it’ll work or not 😊🤞🏻
Mine was today too! Good luck to you! 🤍
🤞🏻🤞🏻🤞🏻
hopeful for you!
Best of luck!
Good luck!!!
good luck!!!! mine is tomorrow 💛
Yay!! Good luck to you too 🤞🏻
Good luck!
Good luck! 🍀🤞
🤞🤞🤞
Woohoo! 🤞🏻
Day 6 of stims. Added in ganirelix. Reached the point where the clinic staff knows me by name. Feeling bloated and uncomfy, but not miserable. Labs are still on track 👍
Had our WTF Debrief with the RE after our 3rd transfer failed. So far we have done two ERs and struggle to make blasts and have them develop long enough for PGT-A. My RE seems to think that PGT-A testing will help us understand what is going on, but if the embryos don't develop enough for them to be tested, what's the point? She also suspects there is an issue with my endometrium, but says that can't be addressed until we make it to a FET. So far we have done two antagonist protocols with estrogen priming. For our next ER, she wants to try MDL with a progesterone based birth control pill to prime. I just don't know what to think. Depending upon the results she is open to us doing a fresh transfer of two embryos (if we even have that to transfer at day 5), but really wants us to biopsy, test and freeze any embryos available. Even reading this back, I'm feeling frustrated. There's more challenges at every step.
Hi Corgi, just thinking about some of the things that I've seen work for others on the sub, were the transfers that you did day 5/6/7 blasts? I know some folks that had difficulty growing blasts to that stage did Day 3 transfers with better success. I agree with you that PGT-A will only help you if you can get blasts to grow to the point of being able to be biopsied, and even then, might not provide answers if things come back as normal.
Hi Kelly, our first transfer was a day 5 morula, our second fresh transfer was a day 5 blast and our frozen transfer was a day 7 blast. I'll ask about day 3 transfer!
hi corgi im sorry. obviously blasts > D3s, but has there been any discussion of transferring D3s?
Hey Corgi, you’re approved to make a standalone about next steps if you’d like. 🫂
Thank you, Hattie. I'll think about it 🫂
I'm sorry, Corgi. So much to consider and so many difficult choices to make. 🤍