Low follicle count : Need advise

[ammu]

I am 34, have done 2 fresh IVF cycles, both resulted in BFN
Both cycles my response to meds were not that good. My FSH level was good at around 7. One tube partilally blocked, no other known fertility issues with me and DH.

1st Cycle:
Long lupron protocol with follistim 450.
Got 9 follicles, only 6 mature, 4 fertilized with ICSI, put back 3 8cell embryos.

2nd Cycle:
Flare up lupron protocol with follistim 300 and menopur 150.
Got only 6 follicles, 4 mature, 3 fertilized with ICSI, put back 3 6 cell embryos.

I even did accupuncture 2nd cycle and tried to do everything right, but still no luck.

Is there anything I can do from my side to improve the follicle count and quality? I am going to start the 3rd cycle probably in January and would like to have a better response then. I was so confident when I started the first cycle that I would be one of the lucky ones, but I am losing hope now that I have done 2 cycles.

Any advise is appreciated. I soooooooooo want to be a mommy.

[tilly3709]

Hi Ammu! I have also done two IVF cycles. My first was the long lupron protocal, this cycle was cancelled as I had poor response and a dominating follicle. My 2nd cycle I had 6 follies on each size but only 3 grew large enough. They got 5 from my ER but only 3 were mature all three were fertilized with ICSI. Two were great quality 4 cell embryos the third was grade 3 (just ok) 4 cell, all three were put back and we found out Nov. 15 it was a BFN.

I went for my follow up yesterday and they have now suggested a new protocal can't remeber the name that will not have any Lupron, but will substitute a different medication. The medication is Ceteroite (sp?) or something close to that. I have done some research and everything I have found says sometimes Lupron even the micro-dose flare protocal is too much for low responders. My RE assured me that quality is much more important than quantity while they like to see big #'s so you have some to freeze and have more choices etc. it does not mean with fewer eggs you won't see your BFP.

Hang in there and keep your chin up. This is such an emotional roller coaster ride. If you ever need to talk feel free to email me.

Good luck and I'm praying for a BFP for you!!


Michele

[ammu]

Michele,

Thank you for your kind words. Your situation sounds very similar to mine. My RE has suggested a new protocol for my 3rd attempt where he will use lupron only 3 days and then he will use another medicine to prevent ovulation. Hopefully, I will produce more quality/quantity eggs then. I am also going to do accupuncture.

When are you doing your next cycle? Wish you BFP in your next attempt!

ammu.

[tali]

Hi Ammu,

I am 35 and responded poorly the first time around as well. (with only one follicle), I was converted to iui. For my second cycle, I am on BCP for 7 weeks (I think this helps with estrogen) and no lupron. Instead they want me on Anatagon (which does the same thing as Lupron, but takes less time. I stop BCP on 12/25, start 400 ius each of Brevelle and Menapou on 12/26, once I have a few follicles that are showing growth, I will start taking the Atangon.

I am hoping that this protocol will have better results for me.

Hope this helps.