Follow Up with RE
Last week, we had our follow up with the RE regarding our unsuccessful FET in December. He was encouraged that my beta made it to 10.5. He said these very early losses are usually attributed to a chromosomal issue, and essentially, there was nothing we could have done differently. Since I have had 2 very low betas (10.5 in Dec. and 26 in Mar. ’08) we decided to move forward with a chromosomal analysis on both me and DH. After at least two losses, albeit early, insurance will pay for the testing. (I was not thrilled that the insurance explanation on my form said "habitual aborter.") So, at this point, we have nothing to lose. It will be 3-4 weeks before we get the test results. They will either prove that nothing is wrong chromosomally or that we have abnormalities. This will help us decide on future treatments. We also decided to repeat the antibody analysis on me. We did this a couple of months ago and determined that I did not have any antibody issues. Since the results can change over time, we decided to test again. Hopefully, everything will come out good. When I asked if there was anything we could do to aid in implantation, my RE offered IVIG therapy as an option (although he did not push it). He said the treatment is somewhat controversial and the jury is still out on the overall effectiveness of it. And, it’s very costly! Since we have good eggs (although, he thinks I might have a slight diminish in reserve) and good sperm, we’re making pretty good embryos. The fact that we’ve had two cycles where implantation was attempted is encouraging, but we need to figure out the right mix of treatments/meds to help it along. In some cases, the treatment is as simple as baby aspirin and heparin. Before moving on to another IVF cycle, we are considering another round of ovulation induction cycle(s) and/or IUI. I had 3 unsuccessful IUIs (one with a beta of 26), but with good eggs and sperm, it might be worth another try. And, it’s a much more manageable expense. My RE is great and encourages me to bring other treatment ideas to consider. So, if you’ve heard of anything that can help implantation, I’d appreciate your feedback. In the meantime, I think we’re just going to enjoy the old fashion way for a couple of months. Hope everyone is doing well. Hugs!
Replies
This is all very good news - that there is stuff that you can do and things that your RE is looking into. He sounds simply wonderful! I just wish that your insurance form wasn\'t so awful - they can be so cold. I am wishing you the best of luck and cannot wait to hear updates!
At lest your not left with lost hope. Even after the stupid insurance company made its report. You have something to look forward to and I think that helps. Enjoy your time off and I am interested in hearing how the chromosomal test goes.
I think it is good to have a plan in place. The testing is good and hopefully will bring some answers. I have a lot to say about the IVIG. I am going to send you a message. Keep us posted!
This sounds very encouraging hon!! I think trying a few more IUI\'s perhaps with at a higher dose to try adn get at least 4 follies would be a great way to go for a few cycles!! The chromosomal analysis sounds like a very good thing to do..just to rule out anything before spending big bucks on an IVF again..this way they can correct it by baby aspirin or heparin. This has me thinking if I should get my RE to run this test and the antibody test on me and dh.
Thinking of you and I am glad you are taking a little a break for the next few months..it was nice this month to just breath and recoup for Feb!
I think all of this sounds great (well, not the habitual aborter thing, argh). It is true that you make good embryos that do implant--and that is huge! It may just be a numbers game for you...getting the right one. Hopefully the chromosome analyses will come out just fine. Good luck!
Your RE sounds like a good person and I think it\'s great that he is open to ideas and suggestions. Have fun trying to old fashioned way in the mean time and I hope your results come back sooner than expected!!! Good luck!!!!
I hope how ever the tests come back it is something you and the doctors can work with. We are increasing our progesterone a lot this cycle. It is supposed to help the embryo and uterus communicate better. Maybe that is worth a shot. Not sure how much you were on before. I will keep you in my prayers!
For this round of IVF we are adding meds to help implantation - a baby aspirin and a daily shot of Luvenox (a blood thinner - like Heperin I think). I start those 3 days after transfer if I\'m remembering right. We are also adding a steroid (again to help with implantation) - I will take it for 5 days (starting 2 days before transfer and ending 2 days after). Good luck!