Week of Feb 3

[fairfax]

Feb 6, 2019 16:49:51 GMT -5 robinsbff said:

seeyalater52 -- woooooo! that's great news! good luck moving forward!

stellelinds25 -- hope those 8 keep moving on along!


we had our IUI today. there was a hiccup with the appointment time for DH's dropoff and it was really stressful for a bit figuring things out, the changes to my schedule at work, getting coverage, etc, but we made it happen. just crossing my fingers that this was the 'boost' we needed and preparing to deal with the two week wait.

Ugh, sorry it was stressful but I hope this is it for you!!

[fairfax]

Feb 6, 2019 15:13:20 GMT -5 stellelinds25 said:

seeyalater52 that’s awesome!!

I’m home and resting...we got 24 eggs, but only 8 of them were mature, so I’m a little bummed about that, but my Dr said those are great numbers. I’ll get my fertilization report tomorrow so hoping for the best! If all goes well, the plan is to transfer on Monday!

Congrats! 8 sounds great - I hope they all grow and develop perfectly!

[robinsbff]

Feb 6, 2019 17:19:51 GMT -5 seeyalater52 said:

Feb 6, 2019 16:49:51 GMT -5 robinsbff said:

seeyalater52 -- woooooo! that's great news! good luck moving forward!

stellelinds25 -- hope those 8 keep moving on along!


we had our IUI today. there was a hiccup with the appointment time for DH's dropoff and it was really stressful for a bit figuring things out, the changes to my schedule at work, getting coverage, etc, but we made it happen. just crossing my fingers that this was the 'boost' we needed and preparing to deal with the two week wait.

Glad it all worked out! Since you’re doing IUI and I’m sticking in 5 day embryos you’re my TWW cycle buddy - our dates are pretty close. Fingers crossed for you.

woooooo!  my beta is the 21st.  keeping all things crossed for both of us!

[megstoo]

OMG WHY does the first period after an egg retrieval have to suck this much. Today is just spotting but OMG the cramping is beyond insane. I usually get mild cramping the first couple days but holy hell this hurts. That means that transfer should be the week of the 18th maybe?

[seeyalater52]

Feb 7, 2019 9:22:26 GMT -5 robinsbff said:

Feb 6, 2019 17:19:51 GMT -5 seeyalater52 said:

Glad it all worked out! Since you’re doing IUI and I’m sticking in 5 day embryos you’re my TWW cycle buddy - our dates are pretty close. Fingers crossed for you.

woooooo!  my beta is the 21st.  keeping all things crossed for both of us!

Hah, my beta is the same day. Just ask all my other TWW buddies from this board. I might never have success but apparently being my buddy is lucky because most of them did. 😉 Fingers crosses!

[stellelinds25]

Thanks ladies! I just got an update...they gave me a wrong number yesterday and I am beyond thrilled lol. Of my 24 eggs, 18 were mature (not 8!) and 12 fertilized!! I’m beyond happy right now, I was having nightmares of them calling and saying nothing fertilized. Transfer is scheduled for Monday (unless they need more time to grow)...I started Estrace yesterday and I’ll do my first PIO shot tonight (any tips? I’m kinda terrified). This is really happening!!

[seeyalater52]

stellelinds25 what a great update! And we will be transfer buddies, too!!

[pickel]

Feb 7, 2019 13:08:47 GMT -5 stellelinds25 said:

Thanks ladies! I just got an update...they gave me a wrong number yesterday and I am beyond thrilled lol. Of my 24 eggs, 18 were mature (not 8!) and 12 fertilized!! I’m beyond happy right now, I was having nightmares of them calling and saying nothing fertilized. Transfer is scheduled for Monday (unless they need more time to grow)...I started Estrace yesterday and I’ll do my first PIO shot tonight (any tips? I’m kinda terrified). This is really happening!!

Oh my gosh, what a great update!

I have a very specific PIO regimen to decrease the pain as much as possible.

(1) Lidocaine the area
(2) Get shot ready, put syringe on/in a heating pad.
(3) Get ice
(4) Wipe off lidocaine and apply ice for 5-6 minutes
(5) Before ice time is up, get shot off heating pad to make sure it’s not too hot (trust me on this one lol)
(6) Take off ice and alcohol swab the area
(7) Change out needle (trust me you don’t want the needle on the heating pad to be the one you put in your body, another lesson learned lol, also want to let that alcohol dry)
(8) Lay on my side on bed and insert the needle. I like to go kind of slow so I can make sure it’s not a bad spot. I hit a nerve last week and it hurt like hell but going slower helped mitigate the pain and allowed me to try again. If you have someone else administering, this point is moot.
(9) Remove needle and apply gauze and massage the area while laying down for a minute or so. I like to do this right after because the longer I wait, the more tender the area is and it doesn’t seem to hurt right after the shot.
(10) Pick up all the trash and continue to massage the area while I walk to the trash can
(11) lay back down and apply heating pad for 5-10 minutes.

I also try to use the heating pad another time during the day.

I have been lucky enough not to have any real lumps, just some soreness. As long as I let the lidocaine do its thing and let the ice numb, it really isn’t too bad. Some say not to ice because it makes the medicine lump up in your muscle but I’ve found the warm PIO goes in with no problem and then I’m warming the area right back up after the shot and massaging to disperse the medicine. Good luck. My first few shots made me want to give up but it’s not so bad once you get used to it.

[fairfax]

Feb 7, 2019 13:08:47 GMT -5 stellelinds25 said:

Thanks ladies! I just got an update...they gave me a wrong number yesterday and I am beyond thrilled lol. Of my 24 eggs, 18 were mature (not 8!) and 12 fertilized!! I’m beyond happy right now, I was having nightmares of them calling and saying nothing fertilized. Transfer is scheduled for Monday (unless they need more time to grow)...I started Estrace yesterday and I’ll do my first PIO shot tonight (any tips? I’m kinda terrified). This is really happening!!

Omg amazing news!!!!!

For me the PIO shots have not been a huge deal. I draw up the shot and then lay on a heating pad for about 5 mins. While I’m laying down DH heats up a wet washcloth in the microwave for 30-45 seconds or so to get it hot. He wraps it around the needle for a minute or two to thin the oil. I stand up straight for the shots and just try to not put much weight on the side he’s injecting. I usually feel a pinch when the needle goes in, but it’s over before I’ve registered any pain. He injects the oil slooowly, like probably 30 seconds to a minute. It does sting if he goes faster. Then I just massage the area a bit, walk around a little doing some high knees, and sit on the heating bad some more.

[Jalapeñomel]

Feb 7, 2019 16:58:26 GMT -5 fairfax said:

Feb 7, 2019 13:08:47 GMT -5 stellelinds25 said:

Thanks ladies! I just got an update...they gave me a wrong number yesterday and I am beyond thrilled lol. Of my 24 eggs, 18 were mature (not 8!) and 12 fertilized!! I’m beyond happy right now, I was having nightmares of them calling and saying nothing fertilized. Transfer is scheduled for Monday (unless they need more time to grow)...I started Estrace yesterday and I’ll do my first PIO shot tonight (any tips? I’m kinda terrified). This is really happening!!

Omg amazing news!!!!!

For me the PIO shots have not been a huge deal. I draw up the shot and then lay on a heating pad for about 5 mins. While I’m laying down DH heats up a wet washcloth in the microwave for 30-45 seconds or so to get it hot. He wraps it around the needle for a minute or two to thin the oil. I stand up straight for the shots and just try to not put much weight on the side he’s injecting. I usually feel a pinch when the needle goes in, but it’s over before I’ve registered any pain. He injects the oil slooowly, like probably 30 seconds to a minute. It does sting if he goes faster. Then I just massage the area a bit, walk around a little doing some high knees, and sit on the heating bad some more.

I just stick that shit in and let it go. I do put it in my bra for a second or two though.

[pickel]

I feel very extra with my PIO process. LOL

[knx9211]

Feb 7, 2019 19:28:56 GMT -5 pickel said:

I feel very extra with my PIO process. LOL

It is intense! Mine is wipe with alcohol, get it into syringe, give to husband, he stabs, I hold gauze until he tapes it, and we go on our way. Haha I am way too lazy/impatient to do anymore. I’ve had lumps and some pain, but nothing too insane. I get annoyed that it takes too long to push the PIO in because of how thick it is, so I’m way too impatient for a longer routine.

[pickel]

Feb 7, 2019 20:55:27 GMT -5 knx9211 said:

Feb 7, 2019 19:28:56 GMT -5 pickel said:

I feel very extra with my PIO process. LOL

It is intense! Mine is wipe with alcohol, get it into syringe, give to husband, he stabs, I hold gauze until he tapes it, and we go on our way. Haha I am way too lazy/impatient to do anymore. I’ve had lumps and some pain, but nothing too insane. I get annoyed that it takes too long to push the PIO in because of how thick it is, so I’m way too impatient for a longer routine.

I think part of my issue is I self administer and it HURT the first few times I did it, like I was ready to throw in the towel and just quit everything but of course couldn’t. There’s something about having to stick a needle into my own body when I know it’s going to hurt like hell. LOL. It really only takes about 20 minutes start to finish. I wish my husband would do it but he passes out almost every time he sees a needle so I’m on my own. Boo. The process is definitely for us PIO wimps out there. LOL

[knx9211]

Feb 8, 2019 6:52:32 GMT -5 pickel said:

Feb 7, 2019 20:55:27 GMT -5 knx9211 said:

It is intense! Mine is wipe with alcohol, get it into syringe, give to husband, he stabs, I hold gauze until he tapes it, and we go on our way. Haha I am way too lazy/impatient to do anymore. I’ve had lumps and some pain, but nothing too insane. I get annoyed that it takes too long to push the PIO in because of how thick it is, so I’m way too impatient for a longer routine.

I think part of my issue is I self administer and it HURT the first few times I did it, like I was ready to throw in the towel and just quit everything but of course couldn’t. There’s something about having to stick a needle into my own body when I know it’s going to hurt like hell. LOL. It really only takes about 20 minutes start to finish. I wish my husband would do it but he passes out almost every time he sees a needle so I’m on my own. Boo. The process is definitely for us PIO wimps out there. LOL

Doing it yourself must be so hard. I can’t imagine. I think I just rush it in part because I’m on a double (2ml) dose so I’ve just accepted that I’ll be uncomfortable.

[G22]

Feb 8, 2019 6:52:32 GMT -5 pickel said:

Feb 7, 2019 20:55:27 GMT -5 knx9211 said:

It is intense! Mine is wipe with alcohol, get it into syringe, give to husband, he stabs, I hold gauze until he tapes it, and we go on our way. Haha I am way too lazy/impatient to do anymore. I’ve had lumps and some pain, but nothing too insane. I get annoyed that it takes too long to push the PIO in because of how thick it is, so I’m way too impatient for a longer routine.

I think part of my issue is I self administer and it HURT the first few times I did it, like I was ready to throw in the towel and just quit everything but of course couldn’t. There’s something about having to stick a needle into my own body when I know it’s going to hurt like hell. LOL. It really only takes about 20 minutes start to finish. I wish my husband would do it but he passes out almost every time he sees a needle so I’m on my own. Boo. The process is definitely for us PIO wimps out there. LOL

I also will be doing my own PIO. I've given myself trigger shots back there before, but PIO is more intimidating. Maybe because I've heard so many horror stories about it over the years, so I completely understand your routine!

[seeyalater52]

I’m having a giant nasty PIO reaction. Way worse than anything I’ve ever had before. And now I’m crying because I’m scared the reaction is going to fuck up my transfer or cause another miscarriage and I don't think I can switch oils without messing up my ERA-tested protocol.

[landmermaid]

Feb 8, 2019 9:19:07 GMT -5 seeyalater52 said:

I’m having a giant nasty PIO reaction. Way worse than anything I’ve ever had before. And now I’m crying because I’m scared the reaction is going to fuck up my transfer or cause another miscarriage and I don't think I can switch oils without messing up my ERA-tested protocol.

I'm so sorry. That's terrible. This process sucks so much. I hope your doctor can ease your worries and that everything will be ok.

[G22]

Feb 8, 2019 9:19:07 GMT -5 seeyalater52 said:

I’m having a giant nasty PIO reaction. Way worse than anything I’ve ever had before. And now I’m crying because I’m scared the reaction is going to fuck up my transfer or cause another miscarriage and I don't think I can switch oils without messing up my ERA-tested protocol.

Oh no, I'm so sorry! I wonder if a different form is possible, like oral or vaginal suppositories. I was on both of those previous for my IUI/IVFs. Let your nurse know if you haven't already and hopefully they can find another option.

[vmars]

Feb 8, 2019 9:19:07 GMT -5 seeyalater52 said:

I’m having a giant nasty PIO reaction. Way worse than anything I’ve ever had before. And now I’m crying because I’m scared the reaction is going to fuck up my transfer or cause another miscarriage and I don't think I can switch oils without messing up my ERA-tested protocol.

Oh no! I hope there is a good solution for you that doesn’t interfere with your transfer or cause you any issues.

[icedcoffee]

Feb 8, 2019 9:19:07 GMT -5 seeyalater52 said:

I’m having a giant nasty PIO reaction. Way worse than anything I’ve ever had before. And now I’m crying because I’m scared the reaction is going to fuck up my transfer or cause another miscarriage and I don't think I can switch oils without messing up my ERA-tested protocol.

I'm sorry.  I know you can get PIO in different oils (sesame vs. olive) and the reaction is supposed to be less drastic with the olive oil.  Hopefully they can swap it out without messing with your ERA-testing.  

PIO sucks.  I'm so sorry .

[icedcoffee]

Also, FWIW, I don't think the reaction will fuck up your transfer or cause a miscarriage. I think reactions are really common to PIO. I'll have my fingers crossed for you!

[stellelinds25]

Feb 8, 2019 9:19:07 GMT -5 seeyalater52 said:

I’m having a giant nasty PIO reaction. Way worse than anything I’ve ever had before. And now I’m crying because I’m scared the reaction is going to fuck up my transfer or cause another miscarriage and I don't think I can switch oils without messing up my ERA-tested protocol.

Gah...I'm sorry! I hope you're able to get some sort of relief for your reaction. Sending hugs!!

And PS...the injection last night was completely no big deal. I barely felt it. I iced for a few minutes, H did the shot and then I sat on the heating pad for a few minutes. I'll have to do my own the week after next because I'm traveling for work, but all that worry for nothing.

[robinsbff]

Feb 8, 2019 9:19:07 GMT -5 seeyalater52 said:

I’m having a giant nasty PIO reaction. Way worse than anything I’ve ever had before. And now I’m crying because I’m scared the reaction is going to fuck up my transfer or cause another miscarriage and I don't think I can switch oils without messing up my ERA-tested protocol.

ugh.  i agree with calling your nurse to see if there is something they can recommend.  good luck!  

[knx9211]

Feb 8, 2019 9:19:07 GMT -5 seeyalater52 said:

I’m having a giant nasty PIO reaction. Way worse than anything I’ve ever had before. And now I’m crying because I’m scared the reaction is going to fuck up my transfer or cause another miscarriage and I don't think I can switch oils without messing up my ERA-tested protocol.

I’m so sorry. What kind of reaction? Any chance just a bad day or tough in the beginning?? Hoping that’s it, but I’d give a quick call to the nurse.

[Jalapeñomel]

The embryo is abnormal, it seems this is over for me.

I hope, one day, I can look at moms of 2/2+ and pregnant women without searing jealousy and heartbreak.

[vmars]

Feb 8, 2019 10:52:16 GMT -5 Jalapeñomel said:

The embryo is abnormal, it seems this is over for me.

I hope, one day, I can look at moms of 2/2+ and pregnant women without searing jealousy and heartbreak.

I am so so sorry this is all so incredibly unfair.

[icedcoffee]

I am so sorry Jalapeñomel.

[G22]

Feb 8, 2019 10:52:16 GMT -5 Jalapeñomel said:

The embryo is abnormal, it seems this is over for me.

I hope, one day, I can look at moms of 2/2+ and pregnant women without searing jealousy and heartbreak.

I'm so very sorry.

[knx9211]

Feb 8, 2019 10:52:16 GMT -5 Jalapeñomel said:

The embryo is abnormal, it seems this is over for me.

I hope, one day, I can look at moms of 2/2+ and pregnant women without searing jealousy and heartbreak.

Dammit. I’m so so sorry.

[seeyalater52]

Thank you landmermaid, G22, icedcoffee, vmars, stellelinds25, robinsbff, and knx9211.

I've had this type of reaction before and it seems to be getting worse with repeated exposure (which is apparently normal) and it only occurs on ONE side, which is totally bizarre. The nurse got back to me and apparently my doctor thinks it isn't a big deal because the reaction is localized and not warm to the touch or weeping. They want me to keep monitoring it to make sure it doesn't get worse, and do injections only on the other side for a few days. They'll take a look when I go in for transfer on Tuesday and we will go from there.

I'm already taking 2x a day suppositories in addition to the PIO and they want to keep me on this version of PIO through transfer because it's the one I did the ERA on and apparently there can be differences in progesrerone concentration between the different oil types. Usually that wouldn't be an issue but it would definitely invalidate my ERA results. So here we are.

I did get permission to pop Benadryl and use cortizone cream, although honestly the reaction isn't really that itchy. Just lumpy and irritated (especially because it's at my waistline so my underwear and pants keep rubbing it.)

Both my RE and my immunologist friend swear that this will have no bearing on transfer success, and if we don't change the PIO out after transfer on Tuesday we can also re-assess after beta if the transfer works for a better long-term solution. I'm still freaking out because that's what TTC after loss brain is, but I'm slightly less panicked than I was before.