At the first stages!

[beginnerAdviceNeeded]

Hi everyone, I have my very first appointment at the IVF clinic tomorrow. Slightly nervous of what’s going to happen. I’d appreciate it if you guys would share your experiences of when you first started and what happened?

X

[Mystic9]

Hello and welcome to the group! Have you had any initial tests or treatments before being referred for ivf? If so they might discuss what the best treatment plan would be for you; short or long protocol, what type of drugs it might be, likely timescales etc.

At my first appointment I had an additional blood test that my GP hadn't done, and also a baseline ultrasound to look at the antral follicle count. It always helps to be well hydrated before any blood tests, but then you'll probably need an empty bladder for any scans.

From there they made a treatment plan of what medicines to take and when, how to store them and administer the injections.

Ask lots of questions if you have them, but also don't worry if you don't have any to ask. My clinic use an online portal that you can send messages to if any questions crop up.

Dont be afraid to write notes or ask them to write down all the important bits.

Hope it goes well, it's an exciting time starting this journey x

[3005]

My first IVF appointment was choosing treatment and filling in lots of forms, blood tests and basically running through what will happen.

Starting IVF was actually quite exciting for me, for once it felt like I was doing something instead of just getting told to keep trying.

Any questions you have write them down and ask your consultant and if you feel comfortable take notes because you will be bombarded with information on the day and might forget what they say.

[beginnerAdviceNeeded]

Thank you for the replies ladies.

I had a nurse planning appointment today. Went through the process and had an ultrasound scan done.

My next step is to call in when my cycle starts which should be next week some time. Then it’s a 21day wait to start the nasal spray.

How do you ladies get through this with work commitments? This is my worry that Il have to go in on a day that I’m due to work. Obviously this is my 1 priority and I wouldn’t miss any appointment.

I don’t really want management knowing.

Thank you

[3005 in reply to beginnerAdviceNeeded]

TBH i don’t think it’s something you can’t tell your boss as you will need time off for scans and egg collection etc. Maybe you could speak to someone in HR? Personally I found it best to let them know, you don’t want the anxiety of taking time off added to the list of worries. Make it as simple a process as you can x

[Leesara]

Is a tough one to juggle appointments and work, if you don’t tell you work. You may need flexible hours When having appointments or you may need to use annual leave.

Key tip would be to be as calm and stress levels down if poss x

[Leesara]

Is your treatment IVF?

[beginnerAdviceNeeded]

Yea x

[Mystic9]

I found it easier to be quite honest with my boss from the beginning. They weren't always the most helpful and it was stressful trying to rearrange things, but at least they can't say no for you having time off. I had to take appointments as annual leave or owed hours, but some employers have 'special leave' policies which might cover ivf.

I would definitely approach a manager or HR, it might take a load off your mind.

Good luck x

[PagingMom]

Good luck on your journey dear. Try to keep your mind open and your heart strong. If you're going through a funded treatment plan you will need lots of patience. We decided to have it overseas and made a vacation out of it. I agree that you best tell your boss or HR.