Infertility Support Group
In vitro fertilization is one of the most common and utilized ways of treating conception problems. This support group is dedicated to those beginning their journey with IVF and needing support. Join the community and share your experiences, advice, and story with people going through similar challenges starting a family.
Since I'm starting my first IVF next month, thought I'd ask some of you veterans out there for advice. I of course have a zillion concerns and am both nervous and excited but one thing that makes my uneasy is DH's work schedule. He's a teacher and has zero flexibility so I'm concerned about how this will all work out. How did you handle work constraints? I'm also a little worried about my job, I have a lot more flexibility but nether of us think its a good idea to share what we're doing with our jobs. As it is it's been tough running back and forth to the RE for blood/sonos and the 3 IUIs - feels like we are always sneaking around. It already feels like IF has become a full time job and we haven't even started IVF yet! Any advice on this, or anything else you feel like sharing with this IVF virgin is very much appreciated!!!
First, it's not going to be emotionally easy or fun but you can probably do it without your husband mostly through the whole process. They only need him one time! Our clinic had us collect the sperm that morning at home and bring it in for the retrievel. If that's the case, your husband could just do the sample at home before work and then you go to the retrievel alone. You would need someone to drive you home, though. You could do the transfer alone and wouldn't need any driving help. With that said, it would be hard to not have your husband there with you but the end result is most important and you can do it! (That is my pep talk for you).
Second, I shared everything with work but I am a generally open person and I feel close to my work people so I wasn't scared about anyone knowing. But you have to do what feels right and if you need to just have "medical appointments", surely no one would pester you about it.
Third, my best advice for IVF is to take things one step at a time. There is so much information and so many steps that it can seem overwhelming but just break things down into simple steps and breathe! Don't worry about the next step until you are ready for it. And p.s. the shots aren't as scary as they seem. You'll kick butt!