Fairly new to IVF; not responding to the meds

[KeepintheFaith]

HI there everyone! I'm fairly new to IVF (started my first cycle the beginning of Feb). I just went in this past Tuesday for my first ultrasound and found out that I didn't respond to the medication. I was taking Lupron and Gonal. I do only have one ovary (lost one when I was 18). The coordinator called and told me the doc reviewed my past records (Clomid challenge) and found my FHS levels were high. Does anyone know what this means? I'm taking it can't be good because the doc wants me to come back in to have another consultation. The coordinator reviewed the schedule and said I wouldn't be able to come in for about a week. I can't wait that long to know! My anxiety is through the roof!! Anyone have a similar story where they can explain their outcome? I'd appreciate any information or suggestions I can get!!!!

[Cocoa]

Hi Keepin'

Normally doctors (REs) look for an FSH <10 on day 3 of your cycle which will tell them that you are a good candidate for IVF because an FSH of 10 or less means that your ovaries are good responders to your natural ovary stimulating hormone (in this case the hormone that stimulates the ovaries to make eggs from the follicles hence "follicle stimulating hormone - FSH") If your numbers are higher than 10 on day 3 (the REs may check more than one cycle to see the pattern if its initially high) REs say this means that your rate of response with good eggs (or any eggs at all sometimes) is low. Some clinics won't even work with you for your own eggs if your FSH is higher than 12 or 15, they will suggest donor eggs. In any event, a high FSH number, higher than 15 could mean peri or premature menopause (depending on your age). My FSH at age 32 was 187. I was WAAAYYYY out of the market on that day... they called it premature ovarian failure and I had failed to respond to the fertility drugs. This is the reason I know so much about it. Now, depending on your age you may be able to help reduce your FSH - acupuncture, herbs, vitamins and I responded to hormone treatment (some women do as it decreases the demand on the ovaries but its a long shot). Also, you may just be having a bad cycle... see what the numbers are, listen to what they say, do your research and then decide. They might push for donor egg but that would be entirely up to you.

Good luck in your journey and keep us posted... we are here for support!

xxxCocoa

[KeepintheFaith]

Hi Cocoa:

First and foremost, THANK YOU for your response! I've read it over and over on this forum about how it really is easier going thru this process knowing there are others out there that know what you're going thru!! Just reading your response and seeing that you over-came, it gives me hope.

I'm 32, will be 33 this Oct.

I meet with my RE tomorrow to find out what exactly my FSH levels where and consult what options I have from here.

I have a few questions if you don't mind sharing your experience and outcome. Please let me know what is usually best for asking questions like this, if it should be posted or sent as a private message.

How many times did your RE test your FSH levels? Mine was done (clomid challenge) by my OB/GYN before I went to see the IVF dr. I take it the IVF dr never received them before starting me on the meds because I feel know that I'm back tracking.

Was it always that high (in the 100's)?

What is hormone treatment? Would you recommend it?

Again, I appreciate any advice or direction you can provide. As I said, I meet with my RE tomorrow and I want to ask ALL of the appropriate questions to find what is going to work for me!

[Cocoa]

Hey Keepin'

I am about to PM you (personal stuff)... I hope I can be of help...

xxxCocoa