Need more information about E2 levels...

[LadyB]

I started my first IVF cycle in mid-October. My DH and I were having the IVF due to male infertility factor. Thus, we would have an IVF with ICSI. I had had several tests and procedures along the way and was believed to be ok.

Well, we started the IVF cycle and I started the stimulation medicine on October 25. When I did my first lab set and u/s on the 28th- I was well below expectations for follicles. I only had 3 and they were all under 4.4. The nurse said that my E2 levels were quote, "ultra low." No numbers were given at that time.

They changed my Gonal F dosage from 225 units/day to 450 units/day. I repeated the labs and u/s on October 28. This time, I had four follicles, but the largest was 5.5. Again, I was told that my E2 levels were very, very low. So, as expected the IVF cycle was cancelled due to poor stimulation, which was something of a shocker for everyone.

Only my shocks weren't over...Today, I had my follow-up with my RE. It seems that my E2 levels were VERY low. Try...0. That's right, it was -0- on both test dates.

Now, my ER spent quite awhile talking to me about my options. So, I know what I can do...

I just want to know- is there anyone else out there that has experienced this and would be willing to share their experience with me? What should my realistic expectations be?

Thanks in advance, LadyB

[alittlegrace]

Hi LadyB,
I am sorry for what you are going through, and I can somewhat relate to your frustration. My first IVF was cancelled due to poor stimulation and low E2 levels. Mine were not as low as yours, but I remember feeling so frustrated, because I didn't really understand what my E2 levels should have been, or what exactly my RE was looking to happen with my body.
I learned that your E2 level needs to me a minimim of 150-200 per mature follicle. The estrogen is what supports the egg inside the follicle. After 4 days on the med's, my E2 was only 19, and I only had 2 follicles. By the end of the week my E2 was only 351 and I had 5 follicles, and only two were mature. My RE converted my cycle to and IUI, which ended in a BFN.
You are on my other thread with Grace35. Was it you that said you were on B/C pills for three months? That could have had a lot to do with it. Your body could possibly have been too suppressed. Were you also on Lupron?
My RE changed things for me this time by putting me on the B/C pill for only two weeks, and changing me to micro dose Lupron, which is much milder than the regular. She also upped my stimulation med's. We will see what happens on Monday when I go in for my first E2 level. I started the stims today.
Keep your head up; I was told this was going to be a roller coaster ride, and for some reason I still thought will all the med's, "how could things go wrong?" The fact is, the first time you try IVF they put you on what is called the standard "IVF cocktail". It might take some adjusting to find out what works best for your body. I am no expert, but I would bet you were probably suppressed too much.
I know my situation was not exactly the same, but I hope this helps.

alittlegrace

[LadyB]

Hi, alittlegrace!

Yes, I'm the one that I said I was on BC for 3 months and I also used Lupron during the cancelled IVF. I asked my RE about it yesterday and he said the amounts of Gonal F that I was taking should have overridden any lingering BC effects, etc. So, after feeling that maybe the BC and/or Lupron was/could have been the issue and we'd just do the 'flare' IVF in January, I was left feeling pretty empty.

The process that everyone agreed to was: Stop for now. Let me have a natural cycle and let AF visit. On Day 3, they will then check the FSH levels. From those results, we will decide to: 1. Move forward with a 'flare' IVF or 2. Consider Egg Donor.

However, I've read in several places that the 'flare' IVF has worked for a lot of people after a poor stimulation cycle. I guess at this point, I just need to hope that my FSH levels are low enough for that to still be a possibility.

Good luck on Monday!!! I'll be thinking about you and sending you happy, positive thoughts!

Thank you so much for sharing your experience...Hugs, LadyB