Consent forms signed - eek here we go - nerves!

[luthien]

So we've signed our consent forms, had our nurse planning appointment, all blood tests done. Just some additional paperwork on covid, costs and zika to fill in. But all go as soon as we're ready.

We'll be on the long protocol, fresh cycle (or however it's called), with IVF and ICSI as a backup, the clinic does a 5 day blastocyst culture and embryo glue as standard.

Ahh, nervous, scared, worried, all the thoughts, as it's our first cycle. They've said I just call with the first day of full flow period, which should be in about a week. It's coming round quickly. They've said I can delay a month if needed.

My husband is thinking about going in prior to my egg collection to do the sample so that it takes the pressure of doing it on the day, it costs a little extra. Has anyone done that? I know women on here don't talk about what their partners did / do but it is kinda a vital role as no sample (fresh / frozen) on the day of egg collection I'm guessing would mean a paused cycle and the eggs are frozen (additional cost).

I have autoimmune thyroiditis and on medication which the clinic has said they monitor (that's a relief), I have had my stage 3 endometriosis excised and had the all clear from the specialist. My BMI is 33 and decreasing which the clinic are happy with. It just sounds like a lot of issues. My AMH is 5.6, and I'm 37.

Any hints, tips, advice much appreciated for both of us on the start of this journey x

[AuroraXen]

Exciting! Sounds like you're really ready to start 😍 Wishing you lots of luck xx

[LisaBeatrix1980]

Hi, that's very exciting!!! I start my 3rd cycle soon, will be on down reg in a few weeks and the same protocol as you so nice to have some morale support from brave ladies going through it at the same time. I have a slightly lower AMH than you and am 40, so many lovely ladies on here have amazing success stories so always worth checking in because someone will inspire you for sure Good luck with everything, finger and toes crossed for you xx

[luthien in reply to LisaBeatrix1980]

Aww thanks, good luck to you too.

[Ladybugluck]

Just a warning that frozen sperm doesn’t work as well by as much as 50% as fresh. If at all possible, I’d get his sample day of the egg collection so you have the best odds. It wasn’t standard protocol at my clinic to freeze eggs with frozen sperm, they thaw the sperm first and have it ready. But if you have to freeze your eggs there’s a pretty decent chance a few doesn’t make it through the thaw (eggs don’t thaw as well as Embryos).

I did a lot of research on this as I had very few eggs and a known sperm donor willing to give a same day sample but because he’s not my spouse they wouldn’t let me do it. It would have upped my odds considerably!

Best of luck with your cycle! Sending love and luck!