Labs and ultrasound today

Today was exhausting...

We went in for bloodwork and ultrasound. Bloodwork to check my Estradiol levels and ultrasound to check the thickness of my uterine lining. A thick lining provides the perfect environment for embryos to nest and burrow into.

The thickness of my lining was thinner than expected. Additionally there was some fluid or mucous present that required immediate aspiration. So after 3 different attempts with multiple catheters and suctioning devices, a tiny bit remains. This is not to mention the pain.

Because the lining is still too thin, I will remain on Lupron and Estradiol. The Lupron will ensure I do not ovulate. The bi-weekly Estradiol shot and nightly vaginal suppositories will continue to build the lining. We go back Monday.

Our tentative March 4th transfer is even more tentative.

IM shots are evil

Tonight was my 3rd injection and it sucks. I hoped by now we would have worked through the kinks but I now believe I will never get used to it. From beginning to end, it stings so deeply and it's worse when Ed pulls out the over-an-inch needle.

I am now focused on trying to come to terms with this suckiness. Not only will I need to continue with these shots, we will be adding in an additional daily IM shot next week. Ugh.

Praying for some grace. Goodnight.

Intramuscular shots tonight

We jumped through a very traumatic hurdle tonight with Ed giving me my first IM shot directly into my upper butt region.

We attempted it about 4 times before successfully managing our nerves. What I felt the most was a slight pinch when Ed carefully and slowly inserted the needle. I was amazed at how much longer it took for the medication to dispense.

Ed will give me this shot of Estradiol twice a week - Tuesdays and Fridays - for a couple of weeks. We will continue with the nightly Lupron shots for a couple of weeks to ensure my ovaries stay quiet (bummer).

Tonight I also start lovely vaginal suppositories at bedtime that assist in building the lining. Plus I will start baby or low dose aspirin nightly.

Also, the best of all is I didn't have a period this month probably due to the birth control pills and Lupron combination. The doctor gave me a transvaginal ultrasound yesterday and confirmed everything looked normal. Plus my Estradiol levels were low enough so we were able to start injections tonight.

We feel like were moving quickly. Hooray for that. Goodnight and thank you for your continued support.

Lupron, day 4 & I am missing my brain

Today was the first day I really felt my mind slipping into the abyss. I often lose my words but can still visualize or describe the word. Not anymore. I lose all associations with the word left feeling a little moronic. At least I knew it was coming.

Other symptoms include excessive tiredness and severe cramping. Both of which require many deep breaths and being extremly gentle and kind with myself.

The next event is a doctors appointment on Monday 2/15 for baseline blood tests and an ultrasound.

Goodnight.

Lupron shot night 2, 2/4/2010

Tonight I am reflecting Lupron. It's only night two this go-round but the past experience is fresh in my mind and memories. Last year, I thought I was losing my mind when words would fall out of my brain. This time I am acutely aware this will happen so I am comitted to over-document the effects.

So far the only effect has been mild to severe cramps most of this afternoon. I think my ovaries are quite upset with being forced into slumber.

To my little ovaries, I love you so please be gentle for the next 10 days when I hope to blissfully receive estrogen injections. XxoOoOxxo

Goodnight all.

Lupron fun

Lupron tonight!

Tonight we start 10 units of Lupron nightly. We are both pretty anxious.

Bloodwork all came back normal so I will be able to take Heparin when the time comes.

Our first doctors appointment is 2/15 for bloodwork (estradiol) and an ultrasound.

We're on our way folks!!