First-Timer introduction

[Neffi211]

Hi--my name is Stephanie. My husband and I live in Lancaster, PA. I am a pediatric dental hygienist. My husband does IT work. After trying to conceive for a year...my husband and I went for our initial testing. After very surprising news of 0-1% sperm morphology...IVF w/ ICSI is our only option. I am very excited that I found this site. Our first IVF cycle is in January. We are very anxious to start. We are currently going through testing to qualify for a shared risk program at our fertility clinic. 6 cycles of IVF w/ ICSI for $22,000 w/ a guarantee or all our money back. Anyway--and advice, questions or responses are welcome. Any thoughts on shared risk? And could someone help out with abbreviations.....

[wishfull27]

Hi stephanie - welocme -you will find all the support you need on these boards and answers to all your questions

On general forum - there is a thread with all abbreviations on - think its called sticky?!? - also on there thread for december/january cycle - so it will have people going through teatment at same time as you!

Good luck

carolyn xx

[LuAnne41]

Neffi 211 - That sounds similar to the program I did. I chose an "in-house" shared risk program because I felt they would truly have a financial interest in my success. I had failed cycles before at other clinics, but a BFP on the 1st attempt in the shared risk program. (My twins are due in the spring.) I realize the fee for service program would have been more cost effective since I succeeded on the 1st attempt. However, I contribute some of the success to the very fact that I could relax somewhat knowing I had more opportunities. I had a better mental attitude & I believe PMA is very important! Also, before you start the cycle, familiarize yourself w/some of the blogs where other ladies discuss the emotional roller coaster. It is easier when you know what to expect; sometimes you simply won't feel like yourself & you may find other ladies have had the exact same thoughts, feelings, etc. Be sure to pamper yourself in whatever ways you enjoy. Visit the spa, spend romantic time w/DH, etc. Do whatever helps you relax, like yoga, acupuncture, meditation, quite time alone, etc. I also found it helpful to write in a journal. Don't be scared because it isn't that bad; it's just that you will feel somewhat different and more emotional than normal. Also, if your DH is aware of what to expect ahead of time, he will understand & can be more supportive. The last thing I suggest, & this is strictly up to you, of course, but I was more relaxed when only a very select few people (whom I could trust) knew I was undergoing this treatment. It was very distressing when multiple people knew because the news spread quickly. I was congratulated when it was inappropriate & had people ask more questions than I wanted to answer, some of which were intrusive. Best of luck to you.

[dwylie]

Hi, my husband and I have been trying for 9 yrs, several iui and we just started the ivf journey.. yesterday was our first visit in houston abt 6 hrs away .. it was so much to take in, between the long drives several times a month to the expense .. any advise / how about treatments in mexico has anyone explored that avenue ? Denise