Just been referred for IVF - advice on the process??

[BennioR]

Hi everyone

I’m new on here; but by no means new to TTC! Had quite a tough time the last few years - no periods, no ovulation, discovering a massive detmoid cyst on my ovary and having an open operation to remove it. The recovery was pretty horrific. Now my consultant has said enough is enough I’m now a classic case of “unexplained infertile” and wants to refer me for IVF especially since I’m high risk of another cyst reoccurring and losing more ovarian tissue. Was wondering if anyone can give me any idea of what to expect next?

Thank you ❤️ xx

[Hidden]

Hey there, sounds like you have been through a tough time.

I am in my first round of ivf now - in the middle of my two week wait.

For me personally the waiting is the worst bit.

All the injections and medications I didn't find that bad. I don't think they gave me much simulation so maybe that is why. I didn't get as many eggs as they had expected, but had 1 leftover for the freezer that was good quality so I am happy.

I had Accupuncture a few sessions over a few months and an endometrial scratch before the start of the meds which is said to sometimes help with implantation. But NHS hasn't proven this yet. I did it anyway for peace of mind. Usually 1st timers don't bother.

I am waiting for my results so not sure how I will feel after that - but so far the process was smooth.

Don't worry it will all workout.

X

[Wishfully]

Sounds like you’ve had a pretty awful time with everything so far & open surgery must have knocked you for six! It’s great that you have a path of treatment now & can move forwards positively 😊 I’ve learnt that having a support network is the single most important thing to make sure you stay positive and resilient... having your OH thoroughly on side, helping preparing drugs, with planning, with hugs on tap; Having one or two friends or family you can confide in when you are feeling low (equally this forum has been great for me!); telling someone in your management team at work (I didn’t do this to start with, but the support I’ve had since I did has been phenomenal and unexpected); and finally planning for recovery days (save some holiday) are my key bits of advice. Best of luck to you & keep us posted xx

[BennioR]

Thank you so much for your responses - any info right now is so so welcome! As you’ve mentioned the wait is the worst bit - I’ve only been referred for IVF 3 weeks ago so I’ve probably got a fair bit of a wait!

Reading everyone’s experiences really does help it makes you feel like you’re not alone - especially when you seem to be the only one within your group of friends that is having trouble conceiving. It can be a very lonely isolating experience, so thank you for sharing and replying ❤️

I’m sure I’ll be shouting all over here when I finally get my first appointment with the IVF centre 😂 xx

[Hidden in reply to BennioR]

Yes you are not alone - so many people go through this in silence. We were 8 months on the list to start IVF, but had some many tests and appointments with the fertility clinic in between it helped passed the time.

I lived for all my appointment dates!

x

[BennioR]

Oh wow this is amazing thank you so much! I’m going to get a cup of tea and read those articles right now thank you!

Thank you for sharing your experience too, I hope you’re doing ok with your treatment so far xx