I hope this post gives hope to those who need it.
After two egg collections and four transfers, our latest transfer has been our lucky one. We transferred two low grade (C) embryos and had strong positives on OTD. We couldn't believe it. We kept waiting for that precious second line to fade away as it had always done on our previous rounds, but it stayed strong. At 7 weeks, we had a twin pregnancy confirmed which was just the best news ever!
Unfortunately I had a bleed at 8 weeks and we lost Twin B, but Twin A held on. The first trimester was truly horrible - I was very sick and had to be signed off work for 6 weeks. The trauma of previous losses, alongside losing Twin B, really haunted us and we spend each day terrified that we'd lose the pregnancy. So I can't say it's been the happiest of pregnancies but I know that is the case for the majority who walk down the rocky IVF road.
On the bright side, I am 21 weeks today and baby is doing well. We found out we're having a little girl and are thrilled!
We are both still pretty traumatised from our IVF experience. The emotional rollercoaster, the physical battering and the financial burden of it all really did take its toll. Including the purchase of donor sperm (we are a same-sex couple), we've spent close to £35k to get here. I really hope things change for people in our position in the future. I was never eligible for any IVF funding, even after recurrent miscarriage, just because of my sexuality. I will keep speaking out about this and campaigning for change.
I would like to thank all who have given me invaluable advice on here throughout my journey. This forum has been a place of safety and support during the darkest times.
We have documented our journey on YouTube for anyone who is interested in watching (link below). Please don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions.
Wishing you all the very best, whatever stage of the journey you are on. Keep fighting.