I have a lot to update you on today! Here’s what’s happened in the last week. (If you’re new to the blog, this is our 3rd IVF cycle. You can read about our previous cycles here).
Egg Retrieval
My egg retrieval went pretty smoothly once the procedure actually started. I’ve had an IV numerous times in my life, and without fail, there is always a problem. The nurse started it in my left hand, but about 2 seconds after she finished, blood came out of the line and we noticed a bubble forming under my skin. Not good. She tried and tried to re-position it, but it didn’t work. Finally, the anesthesiologist came in and switched it to my right hand. (The picture below was taken BEFORE they put the IV in!)
All the maneuvering hurt, and I was getting really frustrated (not to mention I was so hungry and thirsty), so of course, I started crying. Then I got mad at myself for crying, so I cried some more! I managed to calm myself down before they took me in the room for the retrieval. I remember taking two deep breaths after they put an oxygen mask on me and that’s it! The next thing I remember was waking up back in the recovery room. We ended up getting 15 mature eggs.
Fertilization
The next day our nurse called with the fertilization report. All 15 eggs fertilized, but one fertilized abnormally. That still left us with 14 embryos! We felt like that was a really good number, but our hope was tempered by caution, since this is the point in all our previous cycles where things began to go poorly.
Embryo Transfer
We got a call yesterday saying that my 5-day transfer is scheduled for tomorrow (Wednesday) at 9:15am. I asked the nurse if that means the embryos are looking decent. (We’ve never made it to a 5-day transfer before). She said, “Well, some are looking decent.” I didn’t ask for exact numbers, because frankly, I don’t want to know. I’m taking some inspiration from my friend Laura’s Ignorance Plan. Right now, the numbers don’t matter. Knowing how many “decent” embryos I have right now will not help my anxiety and worry. I’ll know on Wednesday when we make the decision on how many to transfer. Right now, we’re just leaving it in God’s hands.
Physically I feel pretty good, except for my super-sore hand and my nasty bruise from the IV failure. It’s been puffy and extremely tender ever since. Who would’ve thought that my biggest bruise this IVF cycle would be on my hand? Check out the difference between my right hand (where they ended up putting the good IV) and my left hand (where they tried to put it first!).
I’ll post an update on Thursday! Thank you so much for all the prayers, email, cards, and good thoughts! I appreciate them all. In the meantime, I’ll leave you with a picture my husband took of me and Hemingway last night. This cat is such a lover!
This is all wonderful news!! I end up having the same problems with IV’s almost every single time however, this last go around the nurse was an angel and put it in perfectly!! Can’t wait to hear how the transfer goes!
Hi Lisa… Great to know about the embryos, sorry to know about your bruised hand though. Sending you lots of love, prayers & hugs! Fingers crossed for your Thursday update!
That cat is adorable! What a sweetheart. Been praying hard for those embryos!
BEST of luck to you Lisa!!
Praying, praying, praying, Lisa!!! And expecting great news, in Jesus’ name. 😉 And that Hemingway…oh, my word, what a sweetheart!
Ow! That bruise is uncool. That being said, I’m saying prayers for some amazing looking embryos tomorrow! Third time is the charm!
Amazing!!!! My nurse had to do my IV twice too! It was not pleasant. Good luck tomorrow. I’ll be praying for you!
Praying the transfer goes well!!
Good luck xxx
I have the same issues with IVs totally sucks. Hoping your transfer goes well.
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Praying for you!! Please keep us updated!
Thinking of you xo
Great numbers and also wonderful that you made it to day 5!!! I have never made it to day five!!! We only had TWO on day three and now here I am, pregnant. Praying for you during this time Lisa.
Yay for a 5-day transfer! I’ll take that as good news as your doctor has never recommended going the extra two days before, right? Best of luck, Lisa!
I am shaking with excitement! I’ve been praying and praying for this cycle. I cannot wait to hear how it goes! And yay for no IVs on transfer day! Sending you lots of good vibes, baby dust, and prayers. *Hugs*
Oh, and I feel so honored that my plan inspired you. Isn’t it the best?! I love that you tried it, too!
So exciting! Praying for you this will be your month!
Sending prayers that great news is right around the corner!!
Wow! I just read my daughter Laura’s name in your post. How exciting, especially for her. You young ladies inspire each other so well through all these trials and celebrations. God is watching and smiling.
Consistent prayers uplifted on your behalf. Thanks for the update!
Oh your little fur baby is so cute all snuggled with you! xoxo sending Baby Dust.