A week has passed since ET and I FINALLY understand what Bloat means. To me, bloat means must be bloated ankles, bloated wrists, bloated face. How did I know that bloat refers to a distended tummy?
Ok now I know.
And am bloating.
Monday, August 11, 2014
Wednesday, August 6, 2014
Moving from the Petri dish to where they belong
4 August
Transfer day! I am trying to be chill and be cool about it, after all, this is the 5th time.
It was a bit of a logistics juggle with having to settle the two year old and arrange for pick up for the 8.5 year old at school. Thankfully my father was able to help.
I want to the clinic after dropping the toddler at my father's and my husband at work. The first order of the day was a blood test to check
Progesterone and E2 levels. I was also given a progesterone jab. I have forgotten how these hurt and nope, my request for a smaller needle was not approved.
The embryologist asked me again is I was sure I wanted three embryos transferred: I did as that was how baby #2 was conceived. Three embryos were transferred: one 10 cell, two 8 cell ones.
I was dismissed after lying for a while and it is now time for miracles to happen.
I was also administered a small dose of HCG as my E2 was only 5000, too low apparently.
I pray for sticky enbbies.
I pray for good hormone levels.
I pray for happiness and peace deep within that only He can give.
Transfer day! I am trying to be chill and be cool about it, after all, this is the 5th time.
It was a bit of a logistics juggle with having to settle the two year old and arrange for pick up for the 8.5 year old at school. Thankfully my father was able to help.
I want to the clinic after dropping the toddler at my father's and my husband at work. The first order of the day was a blood test to check
Progesterone and E2 levels. I was also given a progesterone jab. I have forgotten how these hurt and nope, my request for a smaller needle was not approved.
The embryologist asked me again is I was sure I wanted three embryos transferred: I did as that was how baby #2 was conceived. Three embryos were transferred: one 10 cell, two 8 cell ones.
I was dismissed after lying for a while and it is now time for miracles to happen.
I was also administered a small dose of HCG as my E2 was only 5000, too low apparently.
I pray for sticky enbbies.
I pray for good hormone levels.
I pray for happiness and peace deep within that only He can give.
Sunday, August 3, 2014
It's funny how I turn to blogging in the very lonely journey. Well, back here again and praying for another blessing yet again.
Blogging is therapeutic. Almost like talking to a friend, who doesn't talk back. Doesn't judge. Doesn't make inappropriate comments during a very sensitive time, cos even I don't know why I respond to certain comments the way I do.
I just finished my fraxiperene injection. The needle is big and I recall this is one of those that leaves me with bruising. It took me ten minutes to get through the jab. I am brave. I am.
Blogging is therapeutic. Almost like talking to a friend, who doesn't talk back. Doesn't judge. Doesn't make inappropriate comments during a very sensitive time, cos even I don't know why I respond to certain comments the way I do.
I just finished my fraxiperene injection. The needle is big and I recall this is one of those that leaves me with bruising. It took me ten minutes to get through the jab. I am brave. I am.
Sunday, February 26, 2012
An update
Thanksgiving: Hematoma (blood pool) is gone after 6 weeks of bedrest. Praise the Lord! Baby is also doing well on all counts - a real miracle.
Prayer requests: Lost my mucus plug a week ago. Two checks so far show cervix is still closed. Pray that it stays that way. It has been an adventure since BFP and every two weeks seem to bring something new. Not that I am complaining in anyway, just a very amusing thought.
Going forward: Been told that we will take it a day at a time and the first priority is to get to 24 weeks viability. This is the basic minimum for baby to be accepted into NICU. After which aim for 28 weeks then 34 weeks. It has been a shocker for me so far - to have to basically "sit/lie & bake", esp when I am a person who needs to go places and do things. I had even bought maternity work clothes and outing clothes - in anticpation of how life will go as normal as with my first child. I had even planned to to head home to shop and get my detailed scans done in Singapore. Ah well. God has HIS plans. I am just so so SO thankful for every new day with baby and for being able to still be with my daughter and husband. Definitely not taking things for granted and travels anywhere is obviously out of the question.
Work wise: I have been given medical leave to 34 weeks due to high risk of pre-term labor. Wow. It hit me in the shower yesterday that I am considered High Risk. I have a LABEL. I am in a HUGE dilemma as I am feeling a LOT of guilt from being away from my team/work and it is useless telling me to examine which is obviously more important. My head knows which comes first but a part of me still feels very sad and torn to let my team down, especially after just hiring and training a new guy at work and having to basically let go totally. It is hard to put my convoluted feelings in words but I am nonetheless thankful that I have friends who feel no shame in knocking me in the head now and then. I will have to approach work pretty soon to break the news and am praying that the conversation goes well. Oy.
Prayer requests: Lost my mucus plug a week ago. Two checks so far show cervix is still closed. Pray that it stays that way. It has been an adventure since BFP and every two weeks seem to bring something new. Not that I am complaining in anyway, just a very amusing thought.
Going forward: Been told that we will take it a day at a time and the first priority is to get to 24 weeks viability. This is the basic minimum for baby to be accepted into NICU. After which aim for 28 weeks then 34 weeks. It has been a shocker for me so far - to have to basically "sit/lie & bake", esp when I am a person who needs to go places and do things. I had even bought maternity work clothes and outing clothes - in anticpation of how life will go as normal as with my first child. I had even planned to to head home to shop and get my detailed scans done in Singapore. Ah well. God has HIS plans. I am just so so SO thankful for every new day with baby and for being able to still be with my daughter and husband. Definitely not taking things for granted and travels anywhere is obviously out of the question.
Work wise: I have been given medical leave to 34 weeks due to high risk of pre-term labor. Wow. It hit me in the shower yesterday that I am considered High Risk. I have a LABEL. I am in a HUGE dilemma as I am feeling a LOT of guilt from being away from my team/work and it is useless telling me to examine which is obviously more important. My head knows which comes first but a part of me still feels very sad and torn to let my team down, especially after just hiring and training a new guy at work and having to basically let go totally. It is hard to put my convoluted feelings in words but I am nonetheless thankful that I have friends who feel no shame in knocking me in the head now and then. I will have to approach work pretty soon to break the news and am praying that the conversation goes well. Oy.
Monday, January 30, 2012
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
The big bleed - Part 1
Wed 18 Jan 2012
I was working from home and from the bed as I had a really bad maigraine that day. I remember diligently catching up on my emails, looking over a set of materials I needed to prepare for a training session and setting up various meetings with my colleagues from other office sites. I recall taking a nap during lunch time and feeling much better. I was even chatting with my DH on msn telling him how I was getting so much done and preparing for my conference call that was scheduled for 6:00pm that evening.
All of a sudden, I felt light headed and felt my heart beat just that little faster. I was sitting cross legged on the bed with my laptop and pinged DH on MSN saying I just felt a strange sensation. I decided to get up at 5:30 to go to the bathroom before setting up for the conference call. It was then that something went really wrong as I felt a huge woosh of pressure after I stood up.
I made my way to the bathroom and almost passed out in shock when I looked at my underwear. It was filled with fresh red blood and more kept dripping. It was like a blood filled water bomb had just exploded all over my underwear. Seeing red during any point in a pregnancy is never a good sign and somehow I snapped out of my shock and started calling for my nanny for help.
My only thought at that time was to keep my daughter away from the disturbing sight. I called and called and unfortunately the inquisitive dear came running. I shut the door and asked her to call for the nanny to come. My nanny is a trained staff nurse and quickly told me to call the hospital. I rang my midwife and she told me to get into the hospital quick. She will arrange for an OB to wait for me as she had a parentcraft class with 40 persons waiting for her.
For some reason, I stopped that 2 minutes to send an email to my boss to let her know that I wouldn't be making the 6pm conference call due to a trip to the hospital. What was I thinking? I don't know either.
I rang my neighbour and requested that Ayi (we share the same Ayi) head down to grab a cab for me. It was peak hour and peak hour traffic in Shanghai equates to massive traffic jams with little hope for any cabs. I then grabbed my bag and a towel to sit on and as calmly as I could took the lift to the first floor. It was winter dark and cold. I was in my jammies and could feel blood gushing with every step I took.
Ayi was nowhere in sight and I saw a cab that was loading a travel bag and a Chinese lady who was getting in. I quickly prayed and approached as fast as I could, begging for her to let me have the cab. I told her I was miscarrying and needed to get to the hospital quick. She insisted that she needed to get to the airport and I pleaded again. She finally relented and I begged the cabbie to drive as fast as he could.
The hospital is normally a 10 minute ride away, but with peak traffic, we came to a standstill at various points in our journey there. During this time, I rang my husband who was outstationed but couldn't reach him. I then rang my mom who was travelling in Taiwan and we prayed together. It was only then that it hit me that I could be losing the baby and that God was the only One who is really in control at this point. A feeling of calm and peace came over me and I remember hearing a quiet voice telling me that no matter what happens, I will be alright in the end. I got DH who was really calm and told me to do what I needed to do and keep him informed.
I then rang my IVF Doc in Singapore and she too picked up on the first ring. She assured me that I needed to stay calm to allow the uterus to relax as much as it can and not to walk too fast. She sounded amazed that I was alone on the way to the hospital and assured me as best as she could over the phone.
We finally made it to the hospital after 25 minutes or so and I walked to the OB-GYN clinic to find my midwife, the nurses and the sonographer all waiting for me, even though they were supposed to have knocked off an hour before. My midwife managed to get her team to stay to wait for me to arrive - what a blessing! We did a quick scan to ascertain that baby was alright and she decided to admit me for observation after we consulted with my OB who was also on duty that night.
I was quickly directed to the ward where I found that DH had sent our driver to check me out. I can tell you on hindsight that it is hilarious to see this huge big guy looking out of place at the L&D floor as we walked past him. I was settled into a bed and changed into scrubs and told to wait it out till 8 to 9pm when both my OB doctor and midwife will come by to discuss the situation with me. I was cramping all this while and it was reassuring to hear from the Dr that it is really natural for that to happen.
(To be continued)
I was working from home and from the bed as I had a really bad maigraine that day. I remember diligently catching up on my emails, looking over a set of materials I needed to prepare for a training session and setting up various meetings with my colleagues from other office sites. I recall taking a nap during lunch time and feeling much better. I was even chatting with my DH on msn telling him how I was getting so much done and preparing for my conference call that was scheduled for 6:00pm that evening.
All of a sudden, I felt light headed and felt my heart beat just that little faster. I was sitting cross legged on the bed with my laptop and pinged DH on MSN saying I just felt a strange sensation. I decided to get up at 5:30 to go to the bathroom before setting up for the conference call. It was then that something went really wrong as I felt a huge woosh of pressure after I stood up.
I made my way to the bathroom and almost passed out in shock when I looked at my underwear. It was filled with fresh red blood and more kept dripping. It was like a blood filled water bomb had just exploded all over my underwear. Seeing red during any point in a pregnancy is never a good sign and somehow I snapped out of my shock and started calling for my nanny for help.
My only thought at that time was to keep my daughter away from the disturbing sight. I called and called and unfortunately the inquisitive dear came running. I shut the door and asked her to call for the nanny to come. My nanny is a trained staff nurse and quickly told me to call the hospital. I rang my midwife and she told me to get into the hospital quick. She will arrange for an OB to wait for me as she had a parentcraft class with 40 persons waiting for her.
For some reason, I stopped that 2 minutes to send an email to my boss to let her know that I wouldn't be making the 6pm conference call due to a trip to the hospital. What was I thinking? I don't know either.
I rang my neighbour and requested that Ayi (we share the same Ayi) head down to grab a cab for me. It was peak hour and peak hour traffic in Shanghai equates to massive traffic jams with little hope for any cabs. I then grabbed my bag and a towel to sit on and as calmly as I could took the lift to the first floor. It was winter dark and cold. I was in my jammies and could feel blood gushing with every step I took.
Ayi was nowhere in sight and I saw a cab that was loading a travel bag and a Chinese lady who was getting in. I quickly prayed and approached as fast as I could, begging for her to let me have the cab. I told her I was miscarrying and needed to get to the hospital quick. She insisted that she needed to get to the airport and I pleaded again. She finally relented and I begged the cabbie to drive as fast as he could.
The hospital is normally a 10 minute ride away, but with peak traffic, we came to a standstill at various points in our journey there. During this time, I rang my husband who was outstationed but couldn't reach him. I then rang my mom who was travelling in Taiwan and we prayed together. It was only then that it hit me that I could be losing the baby and that God was the only One who is really in control at this point. A feeling of calm and peace came over me and I remember hearing a quiet voice telling me that no matter what happens, I will be alright in the end. I got DH who was really calm and told me to do what I needed to do and keep him informed.
I then rang my IVF Doc in Singapore and she too picked up on the first ring. She assured me that I needed to stay calm to allow the uterus to relax as much as it can and not to walk too fast. She sounded amazed that I was alone on the way to the hospital and assured me as best as she could over the phone.
We finally made it to the hospital after 25 minutes or so and I walked to the OB-GYN clinic to find my midwife, the nurses and the sonographer all waiting for me, even though they were supposed to have knocked off an hour before. My midwife managed to get her team to stay to wait for me to arrive - what a blessing! We did a quick scan to ascertain that baby was alright and she decided to admit me for observation after we consulted with my OB who was also on duty that night.
I was quickly directed to the ward where I found that DH had sent our driver to check me out. I can tell you on hindsight that it is hilarious to see this huge big guy looking out of place at the L&D floor as we walked past him. I was settled into a bed and changed into scrubs and told to wait it out till 8 to 9pm when both my OB doctor and midwife will come by to discuss the situation with me. I was cramping all this while and it was reassuring to hear from the Dr that it is really natural for that to happen.
(To be continued)
Sunday, November 6, 2011
Poking myself hurts...DUH!!
It used to be easier to acts of self injury injections, but it has lately been getting harder and harder. I feel the pain to be greater than before and wonder if its all in the mind. It actually took me a good 25 minutes to get one shot in yesterday and I only know cos I had to sit through two rounds of advertisements while watching a show on television.
I suspect it has got to do with me being a bit bloated as these self administered injections never did pose much of a challenge to me before.
Ah boo.
I suspect it has got to do with me being a bit bloated as these self administered injections never did pose much of a challenge to me before.
Ah boo.
Saturday, November 5, 2011
Beta again
We did another Beta today as the Progesterone and E2 levels from the other day were worrying for the Doc. Today's numbers came back more satisfactory and it feels like a pat on the back for now.
16 days post 3-day transfer
Progesterone: 296.6
E2: 1671
HCG: 1,490
" An ultrasound at five or six weeks of pregnancy can better predict a good pregnancy outcome than any number of beta tests. As a note, you won't expect to see a gestational sac or the fetus until the HCG level reaches at least 1,200 mIU/ml. And you probably won't see a heartbeat until that level reaches at least 6,000 mIU/ml."
From: The Betabase
So does this mean that if we did a scan we would be able to see a sac since we've crossed the 1,200 hurdle? I have decided that unless necessary, I don't really want to know the statistics anymore. Mrs Ostrich is going to put her head in the sand now.
16 days post 3-day transfer
Progesterone: 296.6
E2: 1671
HCG: 1,490
" An ultrasound at five or six weeks of pregnancy can better predict a good pregnancy outcome than any number of beta tests. As a note, you won't expect to see a gestational sac or the fetus until the HCG level reaches at least 1,200 mIU/ml. And you probably won't see a heartbeat until that level reaches at least 6,000 mIU/ml."
From: The Betabase
So does this mean that if we did a scan we would be able to see a sac since we've crossed the 1,200 hurdle? I have decided that unless necessary, I don't really want to know the statistics anymore. Mrs Ostrich is going to put her head in the sand now.
Friday, November 4, 2011
Beta charts
It is hard to stay out of the numbers game when I take into consideration of my previous medical history. It sure doesn't help that I get shoved a copy of the lab report to keep for future reference and find it hard to not flick the paper open and look at the numbers.
Plus, I am an analyst my nature...and profession...so yeah, I need to figure things out so that things make sense. Add to that finely honed research skills and it is almost a perfect equation for trouble.
Anyhow, I came across this really cool site that gathers Beta figures from real women and thought to share.
http://www.betabase.info/index.php
Beta, for the uninducted, refers to the level of HCG hormones in a person's body and is tested via blood serum. A person is often deemed pregnant when the Beta is 10 and above - according to my previous midwife. The important trend here is to see the number double every two days. So I guess we - or I should say, my Doc, will be keeping a close eye on this one over the next few weeks.
Plus, I am an analyst my nature...and profession...so yeah, I need to figure things out so that things make sense. Add to that finely honed research skills and it is almost a perfect equation for trouble.
Anyhow, I came across this really cool site that gathers Beta figures from real women and thought to share.
http://www.betabase.info/index.php
Beta, for the uninducted, refers to the level of HCG hormones in a person's body and is tested via blood serum. A person is often deemed pregnant when the Beta is 10 and above - according to my previous midwife. The important trend here is to see the number double every two days. So I guess we - or I should say, my Doc, will be keeping a close eye on this one over the next few weeks.
Thursday, November 3, 2011
Beta day
I have been waking up really early every morning to start my work day. Today was the same - u at 6am to work and clear my work emails. I then went down to the clinic for my blood draw at 9:30am and asked the nurse to not ring me with the results since I had to come down to the clinic eitherway - Either to get follow up support or to collect medicines for another cycle.
I returned home and worked more. I had lunch and even dozed off for a litte while after lunch. I was awaken by my cell which rang and showed the clinic's number only to be asked by the nurse if the Doc was with me at lunch. No....since I was snuggly tucked up in bed!
I then decided to work a bit more. It was 2:30pm before I hualed myself out of bed and drove to the clinic. When I walked in, I was met with a strict faced receptionist. I smiled and went into the nurses' room and was similarly met with a somber faced nurse.
She asked if I wanted to open the results together with her - I told her its fine, and it really was. I told her I already knew it was negative fromr reading their facial expession. So don't worry, I am alright.
The nurse showed me the lab report from her screen and I couldn't make out the numbers for a while - you know how it takes a while for the brain to really make sense of characters and figures. But by this time she was already grinning ear to ear and I remember telling her "no way...are you sure this is mine?". I grabbed her mouse and scrolled up the report to check that it is indeed my name that's on there.
The receptionist rushed in and started giggling..saying how it was so hard for her to have kept a straight face and how joyful she was. It didn't take long for the Doc who had just arrived back from lunch to walk in to join the party. It was truly a moment to remember.
Things quickly got very sombre as I was issued a warning about how my low progesterone and estrogen levels were and how I needed to up my meds.So things were not out of the woods yet.
It took us quite some time to figure everything out as I was on a whole load of meds. They include:
Progesterone support:
Utrogesten (Oral) - 1 morning, 1 noon, 2 night
Crinone (Vaginal) - 1 morning, 1 night
Proluton (Injection) - 1 daily
Estrogen support:
Progynova - 3 morning, 3 noon, 3 night
Patch - 1 a day
Aspirin -1 a day
Fraxiparene - 1 a day
Folic acid - 1 a day
Prenatal vitamins
I have also been grounded until things stablize and this has by far been the toughest thing to manage at this point as I had promised my daughter that I would be flying home in a day's time.
I am happy, excited and very grateful. Thank you God.
I returned home and worked more. I had lunch and even dozed off for a litte while after lunch. I was awaken by my cell which rang and showed the clinic's number only to be asked by the nurse if the Doc was with me at lunch. No....since I was snuggly tucked up in bed!
I then decided to work a bit more. It was 2:30pm before I hualed myself out of bed and drove to the clinic. When I walked in, I was met with a strict faced receptionist. I smiled and went into the nurses' room and was similarly met with a somber faced nurse.
She asked if I wanted to open the results together with her - I told her its fine, and it really was. I told her I already knew it was negative fromr reading their facial expession. So don't worry, I am alright.
The nurse showed me the lab report from her screen and I couldn't make out the numbers for a while - you know how it takes a while for the brain to really make sense of characters and figures. But by this time she was already grinning ear to ear and I remember telling her "no way...are you sure this is mine?". I grabbed her mouse and scrolled up the report to check that it is indeed my name that's on there.
The receptionist rushed in and started giggling..saying how it was so hard for her to have kept a straight face and how joyful she was. It didn't take long for the Doc who had just arrived back from lunch to walk in to join the party. It was truly a moment to remember.
Things quickly got very sombre as I was issued a warning about how my low progesterone and estrogen levels were and how I needed to up my meds.So things were not out of the woods yet.
It took us quite some time to figure everything out as I was on a whole load of meds. They include:
Progesterone support:
Utrogesten (Oral) - 1 morning, 1 noon, 2 night
Crinone (Vaginal) - 1 morning, 1 night
Proluton (Injection) - 1 daily
Estrogen support:
Progynova - 3 morning, 3 noon, 3 night
Patch - 1 a day
Aspirin -1 a day
Fraxiparene - 1 a day
Folic acid - 1 a day
Prenatal vitamins
I have also been grounded until things stablize and this has by far been the toughest thing to manage at this point as I had promised my daughter that I would be flying home in a day's time.
I am happy, excited and very grateful. Thank you God.
Saturday, October 29, 2011
Big sister in waiting
I look at my first born and I see the many hopes I have for her. I say first born as I am convinced that the Lord has plans for us to be fruitful and multiply. :)
When I watch my firstborn play or work at her school work, I think of how much fun it will be for her to be a big sister, and how great of an older sister she will be.
My firstborn has been blessed with a lovely caring and nurturing heart and has good leadership qualities. I say so only because I am convinced that the Lord has made her so as He has good plans for her.
I get tempted at times to buy materials for the day when we can share with her the news that she is going to be a big sister - books, toys, shirts ....
That day will come, I know. Until then.
When I watch my firstborn play or work at her school work, I think of how much fun it will be for her to be a big sister, and how great of an older sister she will be.
My firstborn has been blessed with a lovely caring and nurturing heart and has good leadership qualities. I say so only because I am convinced that the Lord has made her so as He has good plans for her.
I get tempted at times to buy materials for the day when we can share with her the news that she is going to be a big sister - books, toys, shirts ....
That day will come, I know. Until then.
Water logged
I think I am water logged. Bloated.
Doc thinks it is probably because of all the porogynova that I have been given to supplement my estrogen levels. Fun!
It just means I am not able to wall very long I.e. No running around the shops! Which is a real key part of my relaxation plan. Bummer!!
For the record, my ankles are a little water logged and I can feel my arms slightly logged too. I am not too sure about the tummy as it has been feeling swollen for about more than a week now.
I am thankful that my body is responding to the supplements. PTL!!
Doc thinks it is probably because of all the porogynova that I have been given to supplement my estrogen levels. Fun!
It just means I am not able to wall very long I.e. No running around the shops! Which is a real key part of my relaxation plan. Bummer!!
For the record, my ankles are a little water logged and I can feel my arms slightly logged too. I am not too sure about the tummy as it has been feeling swollen for about more than a week now.
I am thankful that my body is responding to the supplements. PTL!!
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
Air supply
I have been having a tendency to burp quite a bit for the third day in a row now. It doesn't feel good and is keeping me awake after three hours of sleep.
My tummy is distended according to my acupuncture doctor who I saw today for a session. It is apparently pretty common even with FET according to her, quite a relief I must say as I figured if it wasn't so, then it must mean that I have pigged out a little too much!!!
My tummy is distended according to my acupuncture doctor who I saw today for a session. It is apparently pretty common even with FET according to her, quite a relief I must say as I figured if it wasn't so, then it must mean that I have pigged out a little too much!!!
Friday, October 21, 2011
They are in!!!
I showed up at the clinic at 7:45am for my transfer as instructed and was told to get out my kit and into the gown. I had even brought my own socks since I always have cold feet. I was ready within minutes and was quickly ushered into the operating theatre and got into position. Its a position that I am unfortunately very familiar with.
I felt a sense of peace overwhelming me and a real sense of calmness. I know that He is with me and in control. Amen to that!!!
The embryologist came to report that she had thawed four and there are three ready for transfer.
Embbies status:
- 8 cell that grew to 10 cells
- 8 cell that remained at 8 cells
- 4 cell that grew to 8 cells
Doc came, checked that my bladder was full - it was as I drank tonnes - and popped those embryos in. The obligatory squirt of Crinone and I was transferred to another bed. It is the first time I was transferred awake since all other times were under sedation.
So there I lay, resting and listening to praise music which really help put everything into perspective.
It wasn't long after that my bladder started to protest from all the liquids that I had downed earlier. A glance at the phone informed me that it was way too early to pee, so I started to play a game on the phone to distract myself.
Finally at 30 minutes past transfer, it hurt too much to tolerate any further. But the nurse was busy so I rang the main line in the clinic and got the reception to come save me. It was terrible trying to hobble to the bathroom and relief had never felt so good. I then returned to bed for another hour after and changed into my civvies.
After a bum kiss of progesterone and the obligatory blood draw, I was done - not before paying the bill of course. Did n't think I could get out of that one!!
I then made my way to the acupuncturist at Raffles Hospital where I did a really relaxing session and it was great. The TCM doctor commented that my pulse felt better than when I first started a week ago. Hurrah the Lord really heals!!!
I was given a formulation to brew for the next few days and sent home where I slept for over three hours....with my embbies :)
I felt a sense of peace overwhelming me and a real sense of calmness. I know that He is with me and in control. Amen to that!!!
The embryologist came to report that she had thawed four and there are three ready for transfer.
Embbies status:
- 8 cell that grew to 10 cells
- 8 cell that remained at 8 cells
- 4 cell that grew to 8 cells
Doc came, checked that my bladder was full - it was as I drank tonnes - and popped those embryos in. The obligatory squirt of Crinone and I was transferred to another bed. It is the first time I was transferred awake since all other times were under sedation.
So there I lay, resting and listening to praise music which really help put everything into perspective.
It wasn't long after that my bladder started to protest from all the liquids that I had downed earlier. A glance at the phone informed me that it was way too early to pee, so I started to play a game on the phone to distract myself.
Finally at 30 minutes past transfer, it hurt too much to tolerate any further. But the nurse was busy so I rang the main line in the clinic and got the reception to come save me. It was terrible trying to hobble to the bathroom and relief had never felt so good. I then returned to bed for another hour after and changed into my civvies.
After a bum kiss of progesterone and the obligatory blood draw, I was done - not before paying the bill of course. Did n't think I could get out of that one!!
I then made my way to the acupuncturist at Raffles Hospital where I did a really relaxing session and it was great. The TCM doctor commented that my pulse felt better than when I first started a week ago. Hurrah the Lord really heals!!!
I was given a formulation to brew for the next few days and sent home where I slept for over three hours....with my embbies :)
Sunday, October 16, 2011
Grow lining grow!
Dear Lining,
How are you today? Did you enjoy last night's concert with songbird Kit Chan last night? I hope you are growing well and slowly but surely, preparing us to receive the beautiful embryos - 8mm or if you are an over-achiever like me, surpass that!
See you tomorrow at the scan machine!!
Xxxx,
Me
How are you today? Did you enjoy last night's concert with songbird Kit Chan last night? I hope you are growing well and slowly but surely, preparing us to receive the beautiful embryos - 8mm or if you are an over-achiever like me, surpass that!
See you tomorrow at the scan machine!!
Xxxx,
Me
Wednesday, October 5, 2011
Ouch
Ppppppprrreeeeesentingggg ...... *drumroll*.....the biggest bruise I have collected so far. After three fresh cycles and our first attempt at fet, I have created a bruise that has succeeded in freaking me out. Eeps.
It looks like I have taken a marker and tried to scribble something only belly, using light pink markers to supplement the picture.
I think it kind of resembles a bear... What do you reckon?
It looks like I have taken a marker and tried to scribble something only belly, using light pink markers to supplement the picture.
I think it kind of resembles a bear... What do you reckon?
Friday, September 16, 2011
Flats it is
I had to attend a function and decided to put on a pair of heels to complete my outfit. Now, these were not Twin Towers type towering heels but rather low to medium height heels. At least that is what I think.
The event lasted for three hours with most of the time sitting instead of walking or standing. Nonetheless I arrived home feeling a dull ache on the right side of my womb.
No good. Obviously. It hurt when i sat, lay and walked. So I stuck a heat pad to my jammies and slept with it the entire night hoping for the best.
I woke this morning and felt much better. Lesson learnt. Flats it is today.
The event lasted for three hours with most of the time sitting instead of walking or standing. Nonetheless I arrived home feeling a dull ache on the right side of my womb.
No good. Obviously. It hurt when i sat, lay and walked. So I stuck a heat pad to my jammies and slept with it the entire night hoping for the best.
I woke this morning and felt much better. Lesson learnt. Flats it is today.
Thursday, September 15, 2011
Starting FET round one
Today marks the day of my return to something weirdly familiar and comforting - daily injections. Now, let me explain my feelings lest you think I a closet druggie.
Being on daily jabs isn't fun for sure - think self administered ouches and twenty-cent coin sized bruises - but it somehow provides me a level of comfort in knowing that we are doing something in moving closer to having our babies. It is at least a step forward in the right direction, yeah?
I will be on 30 units of Suprefect to shut my active hormonal system down and have also also been instructed to keep up with the multivitamins and add Lacto Forte to the cocktail. Lacto Forte, being a probiotic, is supposed to help balance the good bacteria in the nether regions.
I am emotionally 'almost there' in terms of being prepared for this cycle. I know that this is something we need to get done but am feeling very held back about being emotionally vested in the hope that This Is It. I know that this is not at all the right mindset to be in and promise myself to work on it.
And so, FET babies, here we come!!! We are coming to save you from the frost really soon!!
Being on daily jabs isn't fun for sure - think self administered ouches and twenty-cent coin sized bruises - but it somehow provides me a level of comfort in knowing that we are doing something in moving closer to having our babies. It is at least a step forward in the right direction, yeah?
I will be on 30 units of Suprefect to shut my active hormonal system down and have also also been instructed to keep up with the multivitamins and add Lacto Forte to the cocktail. Lacto Forte, being a probiotic, is supposed to help balance the good bacteria in the nether regions.
I am emotionally 'almost there' in terms of being prepared for this cycle. I know that this is something we need to get done but am feeling very held back about being emotionally vested in the hope that This Is It. I know that this is not at all the right mindset to be in and promise myself to work on it.
And so, FET babies, here we come!!! We are coming to save you from the frost really soon!!
Thursday, September 8, 2011
D&C and Hysteroscopy
It is Wednesday the 7th of September and I underwent a D & C and Hysteroscopy. Isn't it amazing how suddenly such words make it's way to become part of our everyday language?
The procedure, in normal lingo, means Mr Doctor will be:
1) Taking a scrapping of the uterine lining for culture
2) Inserting a video-like instrument to have a visual tour inside to see if there is anything interesting of note inside Kind of like visiting the Night Safari.
The objective of this exercise is to rule out anything that may be wrong with my uterine cavity and lining, since our embryos were deemed perfect in Fresh Two and Fresh Three from the lab perspective. I love how logical analysis comes into play and how much comfort I am drawing from it.
The procedure is done under sedation and lasts about 20 minutes or so, though I spent a good 6 hours in the hospital from check-in to discharge.
According to Mr Doctor, there was no infection in the womb as he had initially suspected from first reconnaissance. The pathology report, however, did show fragments of polyps and an uneven lining which he thinks may be getting in the way of implantation. It also seems like I gave been nurturing a polyp farm since one was previously removed last Jan (2010) .
Mr Doctor is hopeful that a new uterine lining will generate from the procedure and resolve the implantation issue. He has suggested that we try again within the next 4 to 5 months.
So onward and upward we go!!!
I have quite a lot to say about my experience at this hospital in Singapore but will save it for another post. Meanwhile, here is a peek at the obligatory post-operation meal: Cheese sandwich with Milo! Join me for afternoon munchies anyone?
The procedure, in normal lingo, means Mr Doctor will be:
1) Taking a scrapping of the uterine lining for culture
2) Inserting a video-like instrument to have a visual tour inside to see if there is anything interesting of note inside Kind of like visiting the Night Safari.
The objective of this exercise is to rule out anything that may be wrong with my uterine cavity and lining, since our embryos were deemed perfect in Fresh Two and Fresh Three from the lab perspective. I love how logical analysis comes into play and how much comfort I am drawing from it.
The procedure is done under sedation and lasts about 20 minutes or so, though I spent a good 6 hours in the hospital from check-in to discharge.
According to Mr Doctor, there was no infection in the womb as he had initially suspected from first reconnaissance. The pathology report, however, did show fragments of polyps and an uneven lining which he thinks may be getting in the way of implantation. It also seems like I gave been nurturing a polyp farm since one was previously removed last Jan (2010) .
Mr Doctor is hopeful that a new uterine lining will generate from the procedure and resolve the implantation issue. He has suggested that we try again within the next 4 to 5 months.
So onward and upward we go!!!
I have quite a lot to say about my experience at this hospital in Singapore but will save it for another post. Meanwhile, here is a peek at the obligatory post-operation meal: Cheese sandwich with Milo! Join me for afternoon munchies anyone?
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
Flying in for the procedure
I had to re-arrange our lives to fly back to Singapore for the procedure.
For all our fertility procedures actually.
I remember when we first started on this IVF journey and had discussed our options with some friends who have gone down this route before - opinions are very divided as to whether we should pursue this option locally (out of Singapore on home ground) or overseas where we are living.
One couple was advised to start treatment overseas as their doctor felt that it was too traumatising for the couple to fly in and out of the country for each step of the treatment, given that both parties hold full time jobs. This doctor assured the couple that the overseas centers are alright to proceed with the treatment given the sheer numbers they see as well as the obvious advantage of cost and convenience, despite being in a developing country.
Another couple shared that their doctor had advised them to pursue treatment in Singapore due to the medical advancement and level of medical care here. High costs are an obvious deterrent but I guess it comes with a peace of mind knowing that the level of service provided is much better. There is an added complication of having to make travel arrangements for both parties to be in Singapore for all or parts of the procedure - not to mention how much more complex this can turn out to be if one party held a full time job.
We, or rather, I had felt very strongly for giving Singapore a shot going by my previous experience with the overseas center for IUI as well as hearing a friend's experience there. This instinct proved to be a sound one given all the complications we have since uncovered through Fresh 1,2 and 3, though it doesn't mean that travel and work arrangements have been really tough in addition to ensuring full care for our firstborn.
So here I am en route to Singapore for my fertility operation, leaving my darling firstborn in the care of her nanny and a good mate who will be helping her with her schoolwork. Leaving my husband behind and heading for an operation without his hand holding mine.
A high price to pay but we know that it will amount to something meaningful one day. Meantime, here's adding to some happiness factor with my childhood friends, the Smurfs! How can I not smile when I see them?
For all our fertility procedures actually.
I remember when we first started on this IVF journey and had discussed our options with some friends who have gone down this route before - opinions are very divided as to whether we should pursue this option locally (out of Singapore on home ground) or overseas where we are living.
One couple was advised to start treatment overseas as their doctor felt that it was too traumatising for the couple to fly in and out of the country for each step of the treatment, given that both parties hold full time jobs. This doctor assured the couple that the overseas centers are alright to proceed with the treatment given the sheer numbers they see as well as the obvious advantage of cost and convenience, despite being in a developing country.
Another couple shared that their doctor had advised them to pursue treatment in Singapore due to the medical advancement and level of medical care here. High costs are an obvious deterrent but I guess it comes with a peace of mind knowing that the level of service provided is much better. There is an added complication of having to make travel arrangements for both parties to be in Singapore for all or parts of the procedure - not to mention how much more complex this can turn out to be if one party held a full time job.
We, or rather, I had felt very strongly for giving Singapore a shot going by my previous experience with the overseas center for IUI as well as hearing a friend's experience there. This instinct proved to be a sound one given all the complications we have since uncovered through Fresh 1,2 and 3, though it doesn't mean that travel and work arrangements have been really tough in addition to ensuring full care for our firstborn.
So here I am en route to Singapore for my fertility operation, leaving my darling firstborn in the care of her nanny and a good mate who will be helping her with her schoolwork. Leaving my husband behind and heading for an operation without his hand holding mine.
A high price to pay but we know that it will amount to something meaningful one day. Meantime, here's adding to some happiness factor with my childhood friends, the Smurfs! How can I not smile when I see them?
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