I would consider myself a fairly patient person under normal circumstances. That being said, I would have to say that waiting twelve days for a blood test to determine if I'm pregnant with M & A's baby anything but normal circumstances.
Being the optimist I am, let's look at some good things. 1) I'm not cramping. 2) I haven't had morning sickness yet, but I didn't really have it with either of my girls. 3) I am used to the medication regimens they have me on. 4) All of this waiting is building my character. 5) It's kind of fun to mess with people by saying things like "no, thank you. I will not have that glass of wine. I may be pregnant and will find out on the 8th." Interesting reactions from those not in the loop. 6) My hubby likes telling people he went with me to Toronto to watch me get pregnant.
So, I really do have a lot of fun and good things going on. I am definitely learning patience and have been spending more time in prayer. That helps with the anxiousness and stops me from letting my mind wander.
I'm here, waiting on confirmation of a miracle!
**Update**
It is now a couple hours later from the above post and I am happy to report some awesome cramping and low-grade nausea going on. No, I'm not going to throw up, just the thought of food and the preparation of said food is totally revolting. I'm taking this as a good thing as these are both symptoms I had with the girls while I was pregnant!
Not much longer before I find out if these are signs of a miracle or just food poisoning!
Thursday, January 31, 2013
Sunday, January 27, 2013
Transfer Complete!
Long story short, I have two embryos in me!
Short story long, I was told to report to the clinic this morning at 9:30 with a full bladder. At 10 we met Dr Garcia, the fertility doctor working with M & A. I signed a gestational surrogate consent and then I was led down a curvy hallway where I met the ultrasound tech. I was told to undress and given the paper drape all women know. I lay down and the probing started.
First, an ultrasound to see the uterus. Next, the speculum was inserted (oh joy) and a good spot was located. Then, a little window next to the doctor opened up and a petrie dish was slid through. A quick check of my name and birthdate and some pokes, probes, and general uncomfortableness and its done. Two embryos were transferred into me. The whole thing took less than 10 minutes, including signing the consent. I was then instructed to stay laying down for another ten minutes and could go.
They told me to be on bed rest today and light duty for the next 48 hours. No problem there! (Someone, please tell my job that Tuesday morning needs to be light duty!)
A side note, I really appreciate my OB/GYN at home for heating her instruments and the ultrasound gel! This clinic could learn a thing or two from her! I digress.
Before I left I was given orders for a beta blood test to confirm the pregnancy on the 8th. You know I will be posting before then, but that is the official day to confirm a pregnancy!
Little miracles, hold on strong! You stay there and I will keep you safe until you are ready to go home with M & A. They can't wait for their miracles, too!
Short story long, I was told to report to the clinic this morning at 9:30 with a full bladder. At 10 we met Dr Garcia, the fertility doctor working with M & A. I signed a gestational surrogate consent and then I was led down a curvy hallway where I met the ultrasound tech. I was told to undress and given the paper drape all women know. I lay down and the probing started.
First, an ultrasound to see the uterus. Next, the speculum was inserted (oh joy) and a good spot was located. Then, a little window next to the doctor opened up and a petrie dish was slid through. A quick check of my name and birthdate and some pokes, probes, and general uncomfortableness and its done. Two embryos were transferred into me. The whole thing took less than 10 minutes, including signing the consent. I was then instructed to stay laying down for another ten minutes and could go.
They told me to be on bed rest today and light duty for the next 48 hours. No problem there! (Someone, please tell my job that Tuesday morning needs to be light duty!)
A side note, I really appreciate my OB/GYN at home for heating her instruments and the ultrasound gel! This clinic could learn a thing or two from her! I digress.
Before I left I was given orders for a beta blood test to confirm the pregnancy on the 8th. You know I will be posting before then, but that is the official day to confirm a pregnancy!
Little miracles, hold on strong! You stay there and I will keep you safe until you are ready to go home with M & A. They can't wait for their miracles, too!
Saturday, January 26, 2013
A Day of Travel and Time to Think
I don't have much to report today. After a whirlwind of packing and getting ready, Shawn and I left home before four a.m. this morning for our flights to Toronto. It really is a bit strange to be traveling far away and have all of the travel arrangements made for me. I just need to follow the packet of information in my carry on and I'm set!
I'm currently on a small-ish size airplane after a very quick plane change in DC. There was a short time during the last flight when I was concerned I wouldn't make my connecting flight, but I did make it with 15 minutes to spare.
Tomorrow, I will be going to the clinic for the transfer of M & A's embryos into me. I know I've been pretty casual about this whole thing as we have prepared for this weekend. I honestly do feel the enormity of the situation, even if I'm not showing or expressing it. To think that I get to help a wonderful couple have a child who, through no fault of their own, are completely unable to naturally have a child, is not lost on me. I realize this is no small undertaking, nor is this something I just jumped into on a whim.
People keep asking me if I'm nervous. I can honestly say that no, I am not a bit nervous. I did quite a bit of research before I even talked with the agency about surrogacy. I knew couples who have had children through surrogacy. I also went to school with a lady who was a two time surrogate, and this was years before the media made surrogacy mainstream. I think what I am feeling mostly is excitement. Excitement and anticipation. You know the feeling you get when you have a really good secret? Like, you know a child has always wanted a Red Rider BB Gun and you know that is what they are getting for Christmas and can't wait to see the look on their face? That is kind of what I am feeling. Lots of anticipation and excitement.
I know that in a previous post I talked about me worrying about all of the "what ifs" that could take place. "What if this transfer doesn't work?" "What if the pregnancy takes and then I miscarry?" "What if something happens to me during this procedure or even the pregnancy?" "What if...?" After thought and prayer I can honestly say that I have put the "What ifs" behind me. I've always been a positive person, a positive thinker. I chose to think positively about everything involved in this situation. Not that that automatically guarantees a healthy baby and smooth sailing, but it lets me concentrate on what I can do about the situation and helps me focus on Who is really in control of my life. And those are some things I can control.
For now, I am going to enjoy the travel (I LOVE flying and traveling to places I've never been!) I'm thankful that Shawn was able to join me on this adventure. It will be nice to spend time alone with him and just hang out with my best friend. And in 24 hours I will be officially introduced to a little miracle or two...
I'm currently on a small-ish size airplane after a very quick plane change in DC. There was a short time during the last flight when I was concerned I wouldn't make my connecting flight, but I did make it with 15 minutes to spare.
Tomorrow, I will be going to the clinic for the transfer of M & A's embryos into me. I know I've been pretty casual about this whole thing as we have prepared for this weekend. I honestly do feel the enormity of the situation, even if I'm not showing or expressing it. To think that I get to help a wonderful couple have a child who, through no fault of their own, are completely unable to naturally have a child, is not lost on me. I realize this is no small undertaking, nor is this something I just jumped into on a whim.
People keep asking me if I'm nervous. I can honestly say that no, I am not a bit nervous. I did quite a bit of research before I even talked with the agency about surrogacy. I knew couples who have had children through surrogacy. I also went to school with a lady who was a two time surrogate, and this was years before the media made surrogacy mainstream. I think what I am feeling mostly is excitement. Excitement and anticipation. You know the feeling you get when you have a really good secret? Like, you know a child has always wanted a Red Rider BB Gun and you know that is what they are getting for Christmas and can't wait to see the look on their face? That is kind of what I am feeling. Lots of anticipation and excitement.
I know that in a previous post I talked about me worrying about all of the "what ifs" that could take place. "What if this transfer doesn't work?" "What if the pregnancy takes and then I miscarry?" "What if something happens to me during this procedure or even the pregnancy?" "What if...?" After thought and prayer I can honestly say that I have put the "What ifs" behind me. I've always been a positive person, a positive thinker. I chose to think positively about everything involved in this situation. Not that that automatically guarantees a healthy baby and smooth sailing, but it lets me concentrate on what I can do about the situation and helps me focus on Who is really in control of my life. And those are some things I can control.
For now, I am going to enjoy the travel (I LOVE flying and traveling to places I've never been!) I'm thankful that Shawn was able to join me on this adventure. It will be nice to spend time alone with him and just hang out with my best friend. And in 24 hours I will be officially introduced to a little miracle or two...
Friday, January 25, 2013
Travel Plans
I am now in possession of travel papers! Tomorrow at 6am my flight takes off for places I've never been! That's okay, because I'm doing things I've never done!
Okay, done with the silliness, on to the specifics. I will be flying out at 6am for Toronto, Canada. The transfer of embryo into me will take place around 10am Toronto time on Sunday. I'll hang around there for a while then go back to the hotel where I have official instructions to "take it easy." I will be coming back Monday afternoon.
My hubby will be coming with me. He is on a different carrier than I am, but that's okay. He will arrive close to the same time. It's nice that he's going and can be there for support during this new-to-us situation.
Our girls will be having fun at home with one of my good friends. My oldest is very excited to have a babysitter for "three days and two whole nights!" The younger will be fine once she sees her sister having fun. No worries there! And the girls will have fun stories to tell at daycare next week!
I was told by my coordinator that the egg retrieval yesterday went well. I will learn more about the egg quality and how many will be transferred on Sunday when I'm in the doctor's office.
I haven't been in touch with M & A since the 14th when they called me to find out how I was doing and about my travel. I pray they are well and that their travels to Toronto were safe. I am guessing that I will be talking with them next week after the transfer.
Well, that's it for tonight. I guess I should go pack for my trip! (I had so much to do to get my kids ready. Don't judge!)
In 38 hours I will be "introduced" to a miracle!
Okay, done with the silliness, on to the specifics. I will be flying out at 6am for Toronto, Canada. The transfer of embryo into me will take place around 10am Toronto time on Sunday. I'll hang around there for a while then go back to the hotel where I have official instructions to "take it easy." I will be coming back Monday afternoon.
My hubby will be coming with me. He is on a different carrier than I am, but that's okay. He will arrive close to the same time. It's nice that he's going and can be there for support during this new-to-us situation.
Our girls will be having fun at home with one of my good friends. My oldest is very excited to have a babysitter for "three days and two whole nights!" The younger will be fine once she sees her sister having fun. No worries there! And the girls will have fun stories to tell at daycare next week!
I was told by my coordinator that the egg retrieval yesterday went well. I will learn more about the egg quality and how many will be transferred on Sunday when I'm in the doctor's office.
I haven't been in touch with M & A since the 14th when they called me to find out how I was doing and about my travel. I pray they are well and that their travels to Toronto were safe. I am guessing that I will be talking with them next week after the transfer.
Well, that's it for tonight. I guess I should go pack for my trip! (I had so much to do to get my kids ready. Don't judge!)
In 38 hours I will be "introduced" to a miracle!
Shove It!
When talking about a vaginal suppository you've got to find a little humor, right?
This morning I started the progesterone vaginal suppositories. They aren't the most terrible things in the world-hey, I just finished up injections! But, the progesterone things are a bit, umm, messy. :-)
Anyway, I'm still waiting to hear back when I travel and will update people and the blog accordingly.
Sometimes its messy waiting for a miracle!
This morning I started the progesterone vaginal suppositories. They aren't the most terrible things in the world-hey, I just finished up injections! But, the progesterone things are a bit, umm, messy. :-)
Anyway, I'm still waiting to hear back when I travel and will update people and the blog accordingly.
Sometimes its messy waiting for a miracle!
Tuesday, January 22, 2013
Big Changes...Possibly!
**Previous information not yet blogged**
Last Friday I was sent an email from my PC informing me that my flight for the transfer would be this upcoming Saturday, embryo transfer on Sunday, and coming home on Monday. Shawn and I made arrangements with our jobs, with a good friend to watch our kiddos, and started getting things in order for our trip.
**Today at 4pm**
This afternoon I received a call from my PC. Again, she is a great lady who has helped me out a lot and I am glad she is on my side.
Anyway, she informed me that the egg retrieval scheduled for today did not happen and will be happening on Thursday. They will watch the embryo for a day and then make a decision on Friday whether they are going to let it grow 3 days or 5 days.
What this means is that if they are growing well they will still do the transfer on Sunday (3 days) with Saturday travel. If the embryos need the additional 2 days for a total of 5 days then my flight will be pushed back to Monday, transfer on Tuesday and travel back on Wednesday.
I call my hubby so he can contact his jobs, talked with my boss to make arrangements for my class for a possible two extra days off, call my friend to see if she's available to watch the kids... Holy cow, that's a lot of people to have on hold until Friday!
So, what I know now is the following:
-I start progesterone on Friday. One vaginal suppository twice a day until they tell me to stop. This is in addition to the other meds I'm presently taking.
-Egg retrieval is happening Thursday. (I wonder how M & A are doing with all of this?)
-I will hear from PC on Friday to get a confirmed date of travel of either Saturday or Monday.
-My wonderful hubby's jobs are supporting and being flexible with all of the crazy scheduling we have going on. (Thanks, Greenhaven and Apple!)
-My job is being absolutely wonderful about scheduling and covering my class with all of the craziness going on. (Thanks, SonShine!)
-My friend who will be watching our girls is a GEM for her flexibility and availability with being here during my insanity (I owe you a ton of soy chai lattés!)
-Oh, and I heard back from the doctor (read previous post today). He is fine with my lining thickness and wants me to proceed as I have been with no additional medication or testing needed. He's okay with 7.48 for a thickness. :-)
-My hubby is being amazing and supporting me through all of this craziness. I'm so glad I have a steady rock to keep me stable during all of this instability. Thanks, Shawn! Loves you!
I'm doing all right with these changes, for the most part. I wish there was something I could do to make sure everything goes as planned and works the first time, but I know that's not possible to control. I just keep praying for M & A, praying for the little miracle, praying for me. As long as all of the arrangements (and back-up arrangements) are in place to the best of my ability, then I'm okay.
If the doctor thinks its best, we can all wait a few more days for a miracle.
Last Friday I was sent an email from my PC informing me that my flight for the transfer would be this upcoming Saturday, embryo transfer on Sunday, and coming home on Monday. Shawn and I made arrangements with our jobs, with a good friend to watch our kiddos, and started getting things in order for our trip.
**Today at 4pm**
This afternoon I received a call from my PC. Again, she is a great lady who has helped me out a lot and I am glad she is on my side.
Anyway, she informed me that the egg retrieval scheduled for today did not happen and will be happening on Thursday. They will watch the embryo for a day and then make a decision on Friday whether they are going to let it grow 3 days or 5 days.
What this means is that if they are growing well they will still do the transfer on Sunday (3 days) with Saturday travel. If the embryos need the additional 2 days for a total of 5 days then my flight will be pushed back to Monday, transfer on Tuesday and travel back on Wednesday.
I call my hubby so he can contact his jobs, talked with my boss to make arrangements for my class for a possible two extra days off, call my friend to see if she's available to watch the kids... Holy cow, that's a lot of people to have on hold until Friday!
So, what I know now is the following:
-I start progesterone on Friday. One vaginal suppository twice a day until they tell me to stop. This is in addition to the other meds I'm presently taking.
-Egg retrieval is happening Thursday. (I wonder how M & A are doing with all of this?)
-I will hear from PC on Friday to get a confirmed date of travel of either Saturday or Monday.
-My wonderful hubby's jobs are supporting and being flexible with all of the crazy scheduling we have going on. (Thanks, Greenhaven and Apple!)
-My job is being absolutely wonderful about scheduling and covering my class with all of the craziness going on. (Thanks, SonShine!)
-My friend who will be watching our girls is a GEM for her flexibility and availability with being here during my insanity (I owe you a ton of soy chai lattés!)
-Oh, and I heard back from the doctor (read previous post today). He is fine with my lining thickness and wants me to proceed as I have been with no additional medication or testing needed. He's okay with 7.48 for a thickness. :-)
-My hubby is being amazing and supporting me through all of this craziness. I'm so glad I have a steady rock to keep me stable during all of this instability. Thanks, Shawn! Loves you!
I'm doing all right with these changes, for the most part. I wish there was something I could do to make sure everything goes as planned and works the first time, but I know that's not possible to control. I just keep praying for M & A, praying for the little miracle, praying for me. As long as all of the arrangements (and back-up arrangements) are in place to the best of my ability, then I'm okay.
If the doctor thinks its best, we can all wait a few more days for a miracle.
Emotional Rollercoaster
Today was my ultrasound to check the lining of my uterus for optimal thickness for the transfer this weekend. The tech told me that the doctors usually want a measurement of 8 or above.
I asked what the doctors usually do if the number is lower than that. She said they usually increase the estrogen and retake the ultrasound in a couple of days. It is possible that they would move the transfer back by a couple days as well. She said that if everything looks good and the measurement is above 7 they can opt to just increase the estrogen and not retake the ultrasound. Either way, it's up to the doctor.
My measurement was 7.48.
Time to wait and see what the doctor says. That, and pray for a miracle!
I asked what the doctors usually do if the number is lower than that. She said they usually increase the estrogen and retake the ultrasound in a couple of days. It is possible that they would move the transfer back by a couple days as well. She said that if everything looks good and the measurement is above 7 they can opt to just increase the estrogen and not retake the ultrasound. Either way, it's up to the doctor.
My measurement was 7.48.
Time to wait and see what the doctor says. That, and pray for a miracle!
Monday, January 21, 2013
Counting Down
Six days. Just six more days until I am at the Clinic to have the embryo(s) transferred. Six days isn't very long at all, is it?
No, I'm not scared. I'm not nervous. I'm a bit worried. If you know me at all, you know that I am not much of a worrier. I have a strong faith and I try to "cast my worries on Jesus, because He cares for me" (my paraphrase). I'm not worried about me at all. I know I will be fine. There isn't anything medically tricky about my part in the transfer. I'm worried about M & A. More than that, I'm starting to worry about if this transfer doesn't take and I get a negative test result the week after I return.
I know worrying won't help or accomplish anything. I know that this pregnancy and baby are totally out of my control. I know that there is absolutely nothing I can do to make a positive pregnancy test happen. I know all of these things.
Honestly, I am worried that if the test is negative, how am I supposed to call M & A and tell them that? I've made some tough phone calls before, but I think this would rank up there with the most difficult.
For now, I will continue to pray and continue to "cast my worries". I will continue to take my meds, eat healthily, get daily exercise, play with my kids, love my husband, and pray that all goes well for a little miracle.
No, I'm not scared. I'm not nervous. I'm a bit worried. If you know me at all, you know that I am not much of a worrier. I have a strong faith and I try to "cast my worries on Jesus, because He cares for me" (my paraphrase). I'm not worried about me at all. I know I will be fine. There isn't anything medically tricky about my part in the transfer. I'm worried about M & A. More than that, I'm starting to worry about if this transfer doesn't take and I get a negative test result the week after I return.
I know worrying won't help or accomplish anything. I know that this pregnancy and baby are totally out of my control. I know that there is absolutely nothing I can do to make a positive pregnancy test happen. I know all of these things.
Honestly, I am worried that if the test is negative, how am I supposed to call M & A and tell them that? I've made some tough phone calls before, but I think this would rank up there with the most difficult.
For now, I will continue to pray and continue to "cast my worries". I will continue to take my meds, eat healthily, get daily exercise, play with my kids, love my husband, and pray that all goes well for a little miracle.
Sunday, January 20, 2013
The Last Stab
Today marks a big accomplishment for me: it marks the last shot of Lupron I have to give myself. They haven't been as bad as I feared and I didn't have the side effects that many others have experienced, but it hasn't been the highlight of my day, either. My tummy looks a little worse for the wear, a bruise and a bunch of puncture wounds, so that part of my body is also glad to be done.
Here's what is on the schedule for this week:
-Tuesday-I go in for an ultrasound to check the uterine lining (follicular development and endometrial lining thickness, to be precise) to make sure it is nice and thick and ready for the transfer and implantation. Coincidently, this will also be the day that the eggs are retrieved. But that's not me or my eggs.
-Wednesday- I start progesterone. Thankfully, my doctor has prescribed the vaginal suppositories so I will not be starting another shot. I am very thankful for this minor fact!
-Friday-A good friend comes over to stay with my girls. I will give her the rundown of their schedules and quirks in order to leave...
-Saturday- I fly out to the clinic city!
-Sunday-Transfer day!
-Monday- Return flight home.
As you can see there is a lot going on this week! I'd appreciate prayers for safe travels and a successful transfer. Safe and healthy miracle or two...
Here's what is on the schedule for this week:
-Tuesday-I go in for an ultrasound to check the uterine lining (follicular development and endometrial lining thickness, to be precise) to make sure it is nice and thick and ready for the transfer and implantation. Coincidently, this will also be the day that the eggs are retrieved. But that's not me or my eggs.
-Wednesday- I start progesterone. Thankfully, my doctor has prescribed the vaginal suppositories so I will not be starting another shot. I am very thankful for this minor fact!
-Friday-A good friend comes over to stay with my girls. I will give her the rundown of their schedules and quirks in order to leave...
-Saturday- I fly out to the clinic city!
-Sunday-Transfer day!
-Monday- Return flight home.
As you can see there is a lot going on this week! I'd appreciate prayers for safe travels and a successful transfer. Safe and healthy miracle or two...
Tuesday, January 15, 2013
Making Plans
Today marks a big day in the life of M & A. They started their trip to the Clinic today and will undergo testing and treatments the next five days, resulting in the egg retrieval on the 22nd. They are in my prayers as they travel and undergo all of the medical stuff.
Looking back, it's crazy how I only blogged once a month for several months and now I'm blogging almost daily. According to my PC, that's a huge part of surrogacy, the hurry-up-and-wait. As long as I know something is in the works I'm okay with waiting. Now it appears my patience seems to have paid off as things are really picking up!
I'm still doing really well in the medicinal side effects department. The biggest thing I've noticed is that I am incredibly thirsty. I've been drinking a couple hundred ounces of water every day and that barely takes care of the need. Thankfully, my body is getting rid of the water and I'm not bloated. That would be bad! But, one would think my skin would be incredibly soft and well hydrated from all of the liquid. Not so! I know part of it is due to me washing my hands so often during the day at work (I'm a toddler teacher). But really, I should be dry-skin free! Ah, the plights of a surrogate (can you hear the sarcasm?). My 25oz water tumbler is my new constant companion! (See pic below).
I also received notification from my PC that I will be having an ultrasound in one week to make sure my uterine lining is nice and thick, all ready for the transfer. This will happen the same day as the egg retrieval, so lots going on next week!
They are also working on my travel to the Clinic. Checking dates, times, making sure my passport is valid, etc. All of the arrangements that are needed for a successful transfer, as far as we can get set. Shawn wants to come with me which I love, and we will hopefully be able to swing that. Again, more arrangements to be made.
Please keep M & A in your prayers today and in the coming days as we all prepare for a miracle.
Looking back, it's crazy how I only blogged once a month for several months and now I'm blogging almost daily. According to my PC, that's a huge part of surrogacy, the hurry-up-and-wait. As long as I know something is in the works I'm okay with waiting. Now it appears my patience seems to have paid off as things are really picking up!
I'm still doing really well in the medicinal side effects department. The biggest thing I've noticed is that I am incredibly thirsty. I've been drinking a couple hundred ounces of water every day and that barely takes care of the need. Thankfully, my body is getting rid of the water and I'm not bloated. That would be bad! But, one would think my skin would be incredibly soft and well hydrated from all of the liquid. Not so! I know part of it is due to me washing my hands so often during the day at work (I'm a toddler teacher). But really, I should be dry-skin free! Ah, the plights of a surrogate (can you hear the sarcasm?). My 25oz water tumbler is my new constant companion! (See pic below).
I also received notification from my PC that I will be having an ultrasound in one week to make sure my uterine lining is nice and thick, all ready for the transfer. This will happen the same day as the egg retrieval, so lots going on next week!
They are also working on my travel to the Clinic. Checking dates, times, making sure my passport is valid, etc. All of the arrangements that are needed for a successful transfer, as far as we can get set. Shawn wants to come with me which I love, and we will hopefully be able to swing that. Again, more arrangements to be made.
Please keep M & A in your prayers today and in the coming days as we all prepare for a miracle.
Sunday, January 13, 2013
A Walking Medicine Cabinet
I know that there are a ton of people on the planet who take a lot more medication than I am currently taking, but in the past couple of days my medicine intake has rapidly increased. Here's the rundown:
-Prenatal vitamin. Taken for obvious reasons. I've been taking this for a couple of months, so no change here.
-Zyrtec (generic version). I have environmental allergies and have been on a controller for a number of years. Yes, I have a note from my OB/GYN stating it is safe to take during pregnancy. My allergies trigger my asthma so as long as I can keep my allergies under control I'm pretty safe from breathing problems. Shawnee breathing = child I'm carrying is breathing.
-Lupron (generic equivalent). This is a new one. I started the lupron injections on Friday and so far so good! I have some previous knowledge about lupron and it wasn't positive. The kids that I would give this to would say that they would hurt for a day or two after the injection (same medication given for different reasons as determined by their doctor). My dad was on lupron as one of his treatments of prostate cancer (this is the original intention of this drug). My dad had severe reactions to this medicine. He would be in severe pain for about 3 days after the shot. I chatted with some surrogate friends about their experience and most of them said they had headaches and mood swings. One confided that she turned into a crazy lady while on it with severe mood swings that she wasn't able to control.
My experience so far with it has been better than I was fearing. I've had a lot of cramping and headaches so far, but none of the extreme mood swings I heard about. I'm counting my blessings as I can deal with cramping, headaches, oh, and a little bruising on my stomach where I'm injecting (I bruise really easily).
-Estrace (generic form). I'm taking 10 mg in tablets broken up throughout the day. So I'm taking two 2mg in the morning, one 2mg in the afternoon, and two 2 mg in the evening. I honestly don't know know if the cramping and headaches are from the Lupron or the estrogen (or a combination of the two) as I started both of them at the same time.
-Tylenol. To counteract the headaches and cramping I've been popping Tylenol to take the edge off. I can't say it's been all that effective, but I'd like to think that it's helping a little. Not sure what else to take that is safe with the smörgåsbord of meds, so I'll stick with what I know.
I have yet to start the progesterone suppositories, but I'm not too concerned about them. I was on them with my last pregnancy due to a slightly low progesterone level. That pregnancy turned out fine. They are gross, but overall not nearly as bad as progesterone-in-oil that some other surrogates have to take (that's a twice daily shot in the fanny). My OB was glad to hear I would have suppositories as studies show they are more effective than the shot. It makes sense when you think about it: put the medicine where it is needed rather than making it travel throughout the body to get to where it is needed.
Anyway, now that I have been on drugs for a few days I thought I'd check in. So far, so good. All of this for a trip to Canada and a transfer on the 27th! Actually, all of this for a miracle...
-Prenatal vitamin. Taken for obvious reasons. I've been taking this for a couple of months, so no change here.
-Zyrtec (generic version). I have environmental allergies and have been on a controller for a number of years. Yes, I have a note from my OB/GYN stating it is safe to take during pregnancy. My allergies trigger my asthma so as long as I can keep my allergies under control I'm pretty safe from breathing problems. Shawnee breathing = child I'm carrying is breathing.
-Lupron (generic equivalent). This is a new one. I started the lupron injections on Friday and so far so good! I have some previous knowledge about lupron and it wasn't positive. The kids that I would give this to would say that they would hurt for a day or two after the injection (same medication given for different reasons as determined by their doctor). My dad was on lupron as one of his treatments of prostate cancer (this is the original intention of this drug). My dad had severe reactions to this medicine. He would be in severe pain for about 3 days after the shot. I chatted with some surrogate friends about their experience and most of them said they had headaches and mood swings. One confided that she turned into a crazy lady while on it with severe mood swings that she wasn't able to control.
My experience so far with it has been better than I was fearing. I've had a lot of cramping and headaches so far, but none of the extreme mood swings I heard about. I'm counting my blessings as I can deal with cramping, headaches, oh, and a little bruising on my stomach where I'm injecting (I bruise really easily).
-Estrace (generic form). I'm taking 10 mg in tablets broken up throughout the day. So I'm taking two 2mg in the morning, one 2mg in the afternoon, and two 2 mg in the evening. I honestly don't know know if the cramping and headaches are from the Lupron or the estrogen (or a combination of the two) as I started both of them at the same time.
-Tylenol. To counteract the headaches and cramping I've been popping Tylenol to take the edge off. I can't say it's been all that effective, but I'd like to think that it's helping a little. Not sure what else to take that is safe with the smörgåsbord of meds, so I'll stick with what I know.
I have yet to start the progesterone suppositories, but I'm not too concerned about them. I was on them with my last pregnancy due to a slightly low progesterone level. That pregnancy turned out fine. They are gross, but overall not nearly as bad as progesterone-in-oil that some other surrogates have to take (that's a twice daily shot in the fanny). My OB was glad to hear I would have suppositories as studies show they are more effective than the shot. It makes sense when you think about it: put the medicine where it is needed rather than making it travel throughout the body to get to where it is needed.
Anyway, now that I have been on drugs for a few days I thought I'd check in. So far, so good. All of this for a trip to Canada and a transfer on the 27th! Actually, all of this for a miracle...
Friday, January 11, 2013
One Little Poke
Well, I did it. Today is my day one and that means that I started the Lupron injections. Let me wax eloquently for a bit.
I used to work at a local children's hospital as a nurse in their general pediatric clinic. Every day I would work with patients and would often have to give them shots. In the five years I worked in this field, I'll bet that I gave between 10-20 kids vaccinations or an immunization on any given day. I worked 4 days a week, 47 weeks a year for five years. Not including special vaccinations like flu shot clinics, well-child clinic, etc, I've probably given 20,000 shots to kids.
Today, as opened the alcohol prep pad and cleaned off the top of the vial, it all came back to me. This is what I've been trained to do! I swiftly filled the syringe to the designated place and scooped the cap on for safety. I cleaned the area on my tummy that I'm supposed to use. And then everything I've been trained to do went out the window as I aimed the syringe at myself. This is NOT something I've been trained for! As a matter of fact, I've been trained to properly give a shot without stabbing myself! What the heck am I doing?!?!?!
I took a couple of deep breaths and reminded myself why I am doing this. M & A want and deserve a child. M & A have been through so much, my worst nightmare, and yet they still strive to taste the blessings that Shawn and I enjoy every day, the blessings of our children. It's not about me, it's about helping create a family for two people who want this so much. It's about a miracle for all of us.
With that in mind, I recleaned my site, grabbed the syringe and injected. The start of the miracle has begun.
I used to work at a local children's hospital as a nurse in their general pediatric clinic. Every day I would work with patients and would often have to give them shots. In the five years I worked in this field, I'll bet that I gave between 10-20 kids vaccinations or an immunization on any given day. I worked 4 days a week, 47 weeks a year for five years. Not including special vaccinations like flu shot clinics, well-child clinic, etc, I've probably given 20,000 shots to kids.
Today, as opened the alcohol prep pad and cleaned off the top of the vial, it all came back to me. This is what I've been trained to do! I swiftly filled the syringe to the designated place and scooped the cap on for safety. I cleaned the area on my tummy that I'm supposed to use. And then everything I've been trained to do went out the window as I aimed the syringe at myself. This is NOT something I've been trained for! As a matter of fact, I've been trained to properly give a shot without stabbing myself! What the heck am I doing?!?!?!
I took a couple of deep breaths and reminded myself why I am doing this. M & A want and deserve a child. M & A have been through so much, my worst nightmare, and yet they still strive to taste the blessings that Shawn and I enjoy every day, the blessings of our children. It's not about me, it's about helping create a family for two people who want this so much. It's about a miracle for all of us.
With that in mind, I recleaned my site, grabbed the syringe and injected. The start of the miracle has begun.
Wednesday, January 9, 2013
Meds, Math, and a Bit of Confusion
Warning! Possible TMI! Nothing too bad, just stuff you probably didn't want to know about me. Too bad! This surrogacy thing is a whole lot about me you didn't know!
Yesterday, I posted that I received my medication protocol. The email stated something like "Since you will get your period tomorrow or the next day..." Being curious because I had already tried to figure out when I would start medications, the transfer would take place, etc, I grabbed my pack of birth control pills that I had been taking to regulate my cycle. Hmm, it looks like I still have three more active pills left then I start the inactive pills. I usually cycle the second day of inactives...
My math was telling me that this means that my day one of the next period would be on Sunday, not Wednesday or Thursday. When we are talking about egg retrieval and transferring, a couple of days like this matters a lot.
I emailed my PC last night and told her what I was seeing with the BCP and asked what they advised. And then I waited...
Finally, at 10:45 this morning, I received an email letting me know that I need to discontinue the BCP and let them know when I finally get a period.
Got it. I'm guessing someone miscounted last month or forgot how many pills are in this brand's pack. Either way, today is my first day without any kind of medication (except for allergy meds, of course) and holy cramps, batman! But, I'm guessing that I will start the injections tomorrow or Friday. Let the good times roll!
Preparation for a miracle...
Yesterday, I posted that I received my medication protocol. The email stated something like "Since you will get your period tomorrow or the next day..." Being curious because I had already tried to figure out when I would start medications, the transfer would take place, etc, I grabbed my pack of birth control pills that I had been taking to regulate my cycle. Hmm, it looks like I still have three more active pills left then I start the inactive pills. I usually cycle the second day of inactives...
My math was telling me that this means that my day one of the next period would be on Sunday, not Wednesday or Thursday. When we are talking about egg retrieval and transferring, a couple of days like this matters a lot.
I emailed my PC last night and told her what I was seeing with the BCP and asked what they advised. And then I waited...
Finally, at 10:45 this morning, I received an email letting me know that I need to discontinue the BCP and let them know when I finally get a period.
Got it. I'm guessing someone miscounted last month or forgot how many pills are in this brand's pack. Either way, today is my first day without any kind of medication (except for allergy meds, of course) and holy cramps, batman! But, I'm guessing that I will start the injections tomorrow or Friday. Let the good times roll!
Preparation for a miracle...
Tuesday, January 8, 2013
Medication Protocol
Today I heard from my coordinator. The clinic sent her my medication protocol. I had no idea what or when I would be taking anything, with the exception of the lupron. That I knew was to be started on my day one for January.
The only thing is that I think they might have gotten my BCP confused with some other brand. My protocol thinks my day one will be tomorrow, when, according to my BCP and my body, my day one should be Sundayish (you know how accurate women's bodies are!). Oh goodness.
One kind of confusing email typed out via my phone and now I wait to hear back from my coordinator. I'm guessing it will be sometime tomorrow before I hear back. I'll keep ya posted!
For now, I will go to sleep, dreaming about a miracle...
The only thing is that I think they might have gotten my BCP confused with some other brand. My protocol thinks my day one will be tomorrow, when, according to my BCP and my body, my day one should be Sundayish (you know how accurate women's bodies are!). Oh goodness.
One kind of confusing email typed out via my phone and now I wait to hear back from my coordinator. I'm guessing it will be sometime tomorrow before I hear back. I'll keep ya posted!
For now, I will go to sleep, dreaming about a miracle...
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