December TTC

[Clara]

Alright, hands up...who's ready for a fresh start this month?
Good girls!

Well the last 2 people who started the monthly thread ended up pg so maybe I'm hoping for a little luck. Let's do our monthly tradition of recapping our stories, shall we?

I'm 28, DH is 27, and we've been married for over 5 years. I've been off the pill since February 2004. We've been trying since then, but we've had to skip a couple of cycles for various reasons. Say it with me, I have LONG cycles....and I guess they're a little irregular, from 34 to 52 days. So this is our first cycle on Clomid (50 mgs cd 5-9). I'm currently on cd 21...no egg yet. I did see the most EWCM of my life on Monday....but still no positive OPK and the boob detectors have not gone off!

Hopefully everyone will come out of the woodwork for the beginning of the month introductions! It was starting to get a little lonely here!:)

[Laura B]

Hi, Clara!

I'm 27, DH is 30, we've been married for 7.5 years, and I am in my first cycle off the pill after eight years. I have started charting, and it appears that I did in fact ovulate this cycle, so I am relieved by that! Today my temp did go up some to 97.8 - the highest temp I have seen yet.

Someone mentioned on the last thread that low temps are a sign of hypothyroidism. I just happened to read something in TCOYF that said low waking temps and prolonged phases of fertile-quality cervical fluid are two sympton of hypothyroidism. My average pre-O temps are lower than the sample chart in the book! I did some reading online, and I think I need to get checked out for this. :( Also, my Mom did have a thyroid problem that she was on medication for - I cannot remember if she was hypo or hyper.

GOOD LUCK to everyone this month!

[ktg0930]

Hello. I can't believe it's December all ready!

I'm Kathy and I'm 36. We started trying about 2 years ago and went about 6 months with no success, so we went to the RE. We have the full work-up and it turns out I have PCOS and DH has low sperm count and motility (not as low as originally thought...he didn't get all his "sample" in the cup the first time...which is why I made that suggestion to someone last month to make sure all the sample goes in the cup!). So IVF was our only option and we decided we weren't willing to do that and were considering adoption.

To make a long story short, I started seeing a new RE when we moved and went back on the pill to manage my PCOS symptoms since we were going to adopt. The RE suggested repeating the semen analysis just to verify the results of the first one. The 2nd test was much more positive, not normal, but better enough that we can try IUI.

So in January, we are beginning IUI with injectables. Because of my age, the RE will only do 3 cycles.

Good luck to everyone!

Kathy

[kelliek]

Hopefully, I don't get this posted twice. I wrote a nice post, went to a meeting, then came back and submitted it. Meanwhile, I apparently timed out of my log-in. So apologies if I've double posted!

Only my second post, I think.

I haven't had much to add to the thread, but it has been very interesting reading about everyone else's experiences.

I'm 33 as is DH. We've been married 9 years and just started TTC, last month. We really didn't make an earnest go of it though, because I'm pretty sure DH was out of town during the appropriate window. So, now we are on cycle #2. I have pretty regular cycles of about 28 days. If CM is any indication, I do ovulate, but I only just started charting my temps. But, if my educated guesses are any indication, the BD will be this weekend, luckily.

I don't know if anyone else has this problem, but we definitely have a problem making time for "activity" during the week. We both work full time and I usually work out 5-8 hours per week, usually in the morning. So, I tend to be early to bed and rise, while DH is more of a night owl.

[nowimcooking]

Hi there all and good luck for December!

I'm 34, DH is 31. I went off the patch in March, ended up with a surprising positive HPT in July, then miscarried one week later. We kept trying as soon as my cycles returned to normal (August) but I just started charting last month (thanks to this BB). My cycles have been short -- last was only 26 days. All the signs of ovulation were there, though, so hopefully everything is working! BD for me will be next week.

None of my temps have reached 98 degrees -- pre-o were all hovering around 97.2 and post-o were 97.7 to 97.9. Do I need to have this checked out?

And yes, KellieK, we also have the time problem during the week. I'm a morning person, DH is a night owl! And those darn jobs can really zap the sex right drive out of you can't they? :)

Editing to add my name -- Jen

[TerriS]

Hey all! Just a quick note - low temps can be a sign that you need to get your thyroid checked, especially if you have some of the other symptoms:
Fatigue
Weakness
Weight gain or increased difficulty losing weight
Coarse, dry hair
Dry, rough pale skin
Hair loss
Cold intolerance (can't tolerate the cold like those around you)
Muscle cramps and frequent muscle aches
Constipation
Depression
Irritability
Memory loss
Abnormal menstrual cycles
Decreased libido

2 caveats: one, many of those symptoms can be caused by anything, so if you do get a diagnosis, it may not address all of them. I was all excited (oddly) when I was diagnosed - lose weight, get more energy, feel better? well, the only really noticeable change was in memory - when I forget to take my thyroid med, I totally get forgetful.

Second, I was very concerned about my low temps, and really worried we wouldn't be able to get pregnant, but I got my thyroid results of normal (I am on meds, so it looks like it's the right dosage!) right after I got a positive pregnancy test! One of the main issues that a thryoid problem can cause is not ovulating, so if your charts show ovulation, that's a good sign. It was for me, at least. YMMV.

So, bottom line, if you have the low temps, and especially if you have some of the other symptoms, certainly ask your doctor if you can get your thyroid levels checked. It's a simple test done with blood. Low levels can be corrected with medication that is also safe to take during pregnancy.

Good luck everyone!!!

[chicagoamy]

Hi all...I'm 36 (soon to be 37 in Jan) and DH is 52...have been off the pill for about 15 months and saw an RE in October...have had all the test run and they discovered that I don't ovulate (have no idea how long or whether I ovulated on my own in any of the months off the pill, because I didn't temp)..I take 50 mg of Clomid on CD 3 - 7 and my CD 21 bloodwork for the past two months have shown that Clomid did the trick and I now do ovulate...unfortunately they also discovered Male Factor for DH....we have low volume (that probably relates to the fact that DH is diabetic) and low motility and some morp issues...the RE wanted us to give nature a try and do IUIs for 4 months, but pre-register for IVF in February...Mar/Apr are very busy for me at work, and our chances with the IUIs aren't that great, so we decided to only do 2 IUIs...the first failed, and I'm in 2 weeks waiting on the second...if it fails, will TAB for December and then start the IVF process in January...

I was really negative about IUI working given our sperm count, but this month was better than last (although far from ideal)...and my CD 21 bloodwork was very good...so the next 7 days will be hard to wait.

Good luck to all and a round of baby dust for all!

[buffygirl]

Ugh, here I am again, I think the longest resident here on TTC. Or at least duking it out with Clara as to who has been here the longest:p

I'm Kim, 38 and my DH is 35. We've been TTC for nearly 2 1/2 years, have conceived twice, but both were ectopic. On the last ectopic in March, my left tube was removed. So now I'm down to 1 tube, of "advanced maternal age", have PCOS, have had a fairly major uterine surgery, and have at least one fibroid. All in all about a 5-10% chance of conceiving naturally.

We've decided after much prayer to not do any fertility drugs (Clomid) or IVF. I'm not opposed at all for others to do it, but it is just not for me.

We are considering adoption, and are also considering staying childless. DH had one of our many (documented here ad nauseum) heart to hearts this weekend. Most of the time I am really at peace with my infertility issues. But I do feel that to a certain extent I put my life on hold in hopes of conceiving or adopting and that is making me pretty frustrated. I think I'm going to try just living my life for me for a while and not worry so much about my cycle. It gets old getting my hopes up every month and nothing happening.

On a really positive note, I've now lost 44 pounds and am just 3 pounds from my goal weight. I am a size 6 and feel wonderful. I'm loving life in my new body! And I had blood work done last week and my doctor said that I have the blood work of a skinny person:D My cholesterol was 176.

Lots to be thankful for here!

Kim

[DanaSD]

I'm 33 and I've been married 1 year. Went of bcp right after we got married, waited 3 cycles and then TTC. Got pg on the second month but miscarried at 9 weeks. Waited 2 cycles (doctor's reccomendation) and now TTC agin - this is the 3rd cycle and AF came yesterday.

My cycles are 32-37 days. The last 3 have been a little different than before but I'm also paying more attention (when I was pg the first time I didn't even notice for about a 1 1/2 weeks after I should have) - I posted some of this at the end of Nov TTC. I started to temp part way through last cycle but it may have been too late in the cycle to notice a shift. My temps did seem lower than the example charts. Haven't really noticed a drop either but there's not enough data to see any trend.

My biggest challenge is that DH travels a lot so I don't now how often we have good timing - one reason I decided to start temping. I'm also trying to learn more about what causes miscarriages and what tests can be done (the scientist in me) - but its frustrating that doctors don't test until you've had 2 or 3. I would rather test now so that if it is an issue that they now how to treat we could start working on it now instead of waiting and going through it again. I do feel like a downer when I mention miscarriage here on the board so I try not to mention it and why I'm often more of a lurker.

[Laura B]

OK, why have my boobies been hurting since I ovulated? My nipples are so sore! Is this what y'all were referring to as "boob detectors" on past threads? What does this detect? :eek: :) :o

[Laura B]

And just for fun, here is my very first chart: http://www.ovusoft.com/forum/chart.asp?id=laurahboyd

I have been inconsistent in recording CM because I was so frustrated by it.

[Clara]

Laura- Boob detectors can mean any number of things,sometimes that we're going to ovulate, that we just ovulated, that AF is coming, or that we're pg. We just get excited because it means "something" is happening. :)

Kim- You sound so awesome right now. I've been really frustrated lately, so I really look to you for courage that no matter what happens, we'll be fine!

On the boob note, I'm well known for achy boobs 2-3 days before O. I don't think that happens to everyone else on here. Interestingly, I'm pretty sure I ovulated yesterday (EWCM Mon and yesterday, + OPK yesterday, and a slight temp rise this morning), but my boobs still aren't really sore. Maybe a little bit tender, but nothing compared to the ache that I've had BEFORE ovulation for the past 7 cycles. Now I know that achy boobs is a sign of rising hormones (I believe progesterone is to blame). I'm wondering if the fact that my boobs used to hurt before I ovulated meant that my progesterone was rising before I actually released the egg, thus throwing my hormones off balance and making it very difficult to get all my ducks in a row....

Maybe just wishful thinking, but scientifically, it makes sense to me...

[Laura B]

Clara, thanks for the answer! I guess it will take several cycles of observation before I know what my boob detectors mean! :D

[greta]

delurking for a moment...

i am wondering what kind of thermometer people use to track their temps.

i just turned 34 years old in sept and have a 8 month old son. my husband and i definitely want more children and would like them close in age. since i've been nursing, i'm not sure where i am in my cycles. i had a bit of bleeding last month while in kashmir, but nothing this month.

i thought it would be a good idea to start tracking, but i have NO idea how to get started!

thanks, greta

[Clara]

Hi Greta

First you need a Digital basal thermometer (http://www.cvs.com/CVSApp/cvs/gateway/detail?prodid=233142&previousURI=/CVSApp/cvs/gateway/search?ActiveCat=499^Query=basal).

Then I would suggest checking out Taking Charge of Your Fertility by Toni Weschler for charting information.
We also routinely use Fertility Friend (http://www.fertilityfriend.com) as an online charting tool (basic membership is free).

Welcome!

[Laura B]

Greta, a great resource for charting is the book Taking Charge of Your Fertility. There is also a website called Fertility Friend that lets you chart for free, and I think they give you instructions on how to do it. As far as the thermometer, you need a basal body thermometer. I think most people here, inculding myself, use the BD brand.

[greta]

thanks clara and laura!
i just ordered Taking Charge from overstock.com. and i'm off to find the thermometer.
this will be a bit challenging as my husband and i live in different states right now! :rolleyes:
i'm just hoping to be ovulating at this point. i have a history of amenorrhea (unknown cause) and i never know what to expect.

[BeachBum]

I mostly lurk here, but I try to pop in at the start of each month so it's not creepy. :)
I'm 27 and my DH is 39, we've been married for 3 years. We've been trying a little more than a year.
I just started charting which has been tough because I don't sleep well. But it worked well enough to detect a pattern this month. It appears that I did ovulate, but a bit later than expected after I got my + OPK.
I'm interested to learn more from you guys with low temperatures. I haven't hit 98+ yet either.

[kelliek]

This is my first real cycle charting my temps. Is it fairly common to have up and down temps before ovulation? Mine kind of bounced up and down and are now on their way down again prior to O as expected, but I had a dip and rise a few days ago too, but no other symptoms. Just wondering if this is "normal.":)

[Clara]

Hi Kellie!
My temps are all over the place before O, so I think it's perfectly normal. As long as they calm down and show a clear temperature shift after ovulation, you won't have any trouble interpreting your charts. Are you using Fertility Friend? If so, then it really takes the guess work out of it.

[Laura B]

My temps are still up and down after O, but they are doing their thing above the coverline (except for one day that actually dipped back down to the coverline). Do you think this means anything bad? Ovusoft recognized a temp shift and said I ovulated on Day 18. I'm just concerned that my temps are not supposed to still be up and down.

[fudi2000]

This is my first time here on the TTC boards.
DH is 25, I'm 30. I have PCOS and Hyperthyroid. My first appointment with the RE is on Dec 15, and they want DH to give a "sample". Did anyone else's DH just FREAK at this idea? I have to turn it into the lab by Wednesday, and he still is too embarassed to do it. Is there anything I can say, do, to make him feel better? ARGH!!! I haven't started charting yet, but I have the themometer and the chart by my bed side, so I can start with my next cycle. It's nice to know that I'm not alone out there, and I guess I should have started coming sooner.
By the way, can anyone break down the acronyms for me?
O-is for ovulation I'm assuming
RE-Reproductive Endocronologist
But there were a few I didn't get.
Thanks for the help, and the support
Theres

[chicagoamy]

Fudi,

My DH was very freaked with his first sample....after doing it four times he said it is getting easier....try giving him an incentive....other than that I think it just takes time to get used to the idea and my DH said it wasn't as bad as he thought.

Amy

[nowimcooking]

Okey, dokey, so....I know I am close to ovulating, and DH and I have been doing the BD every morning, so here's my question....how do I chart my cervical fluid because well, I can't tell what's mine and what's his. I suppose you will all say to check BEFORE his stuff gets in there (duh!), but when it's 5 or 6 am and that's our only opportunity to do it, well, I just plain don't feel like it. So, how many hours after intercourse can I assume that what's there is mine? Any help with this crazy question?

Fudi, definitions for all the acronyms were posted in the November TTC thread, if you don't mind going there to look them up. A few others that I can think of off the top of my head are:

2ww (2 week wait)
DPO (days past ovulation)
BD (baby dance -- sex)

I am new to this, too, so can't really think of all the others...

Jen

[Laura B]

Originally posted by nowimcooking
So, how many hours after intercourse can I assume that what's there is mine? Any help with this crazy question?


I'm not entirely sure. However, in TCOYF she mentions doing kegels after sex to flush the semen out of there. Apparently any sperm that are going to make it are already merrily on their way, so there is no reason not to let the rest of the semen go away!

I have officially finished my first cycle! I spotted yesterday and am counting today as CD1 of my second cycle. Last cycle, I ovulated on CD18 and had a 10 or 11 day luteal phase. That is on the short end, but thankfully it was at least 10 days.

[nowimcooking]

Originally posted by Laura B
in TCOYF she mentions doing kegels after sex to flush the semen out of there. Apparently any sperm that are going to make it are already merrily on their way, so there is no reason not to let the rest of the semen go away!

Ah ha!! See, on FF they tell you NOT to do Kegels after sex because it's pushing the semen out of there and you want to give the sperm as much time as possible (paraphrasing). I still haven't gotten that book....I think I'll look for it today.

Congratulations on completing your first cycle, Laura! Doesn't it feel good to be in tune with what's happening in your body? :)

[Laura B]

It really does feel good! Some of the mystery is gone now. :)

FF really says not to do Kegels? I just checked TCOYF, and she says to do them a little while after sex. Here is the paragraph about the "Semen Emitting Technique" (:D):

"In order to determine daily fertility without confusing semen (or spermicide) with fertile cervical fluid, you should eliminate semen as soon as possible. The first time you urinate following intercourse, push out as much of it as you can, absorbing the rest with a tissue. The next couple of times, stop and start the flow with Kegels, wiping away semen after each contraction. You will usually be able to get rid of it by the time you are through urinating. (Pregnancy acheivers should wait at least half an hour after intercourse to ensure enough time for the sperm to swim up through the cervical fluid before doing SETs.)"

She says in the Maximizing Your Chances of Getting Pregnant chapter: "In order to time intercourse most effectively, you should eliminate residual semen so that it won't mask your cervical fluid in the following days. This is easily done by doing Kegels a few hours after sex. Those sperm with potential to fertilize will then have had all the time they need to swim beyond the cervix."

So, it seems like to be safe you could wait like two hours and then do Kegels. Because if you are BDing every morning, you'll never be able to see your cervical fluid!

[Laura B]

OK, I didn't mean to gross everyone out with the kegel info! :o :p

I forgot how crampy and heavy my periods are when I am not on the pill. :(

How is everyone doing?

[buffygirl]

Hanging in there, not much to report. Just very busy with the holiday season.

Anyone else?

Kim

[Clara]

I'm still here....8dpo...in the trying not to freak out but still freaking out stage....

Plus I have tons of schoolwork and actual work so I'm going a little nuts!!

Anyone else in the dreaded 2ww?

[nowimcooking]

I, for one, very much appreciated the Kegel info!! :D

Didn't get to pick up a copy of TCOYF yesterday, but am about ready to head out today so I may finally get it.

Looks like I'll be starting the 2ww here tomorrow or the next day...anyone else mid-cycle with me?

Jen

[MrsReber]

Originally posted by fudi2000
I have PCOS and Hyperthyroid. My first appointment with the RE is on Dec 15, and they want DH to give a "sample". Did anyone else's DH just FREAK at this idea? I have to turn it into the lab by Wednesday, and he still is too embarassed to do it. Is there anything I can say, do, to make him feel better? ARGH!!!

My DH had a vasectomy after our son was born. They keep asking for samples before they give the go ahead to resume, uh "relations", safely. We didn't talk about it at all. I didn't want details and DH didn't want to tell me. He took care of dropping off the samples and everything. That's what it took for us. We talked "around it" when it was necessary to discuss something related to it. It just seems funny to me. I mean, we basically know that most or all guys do that anyway, but if they have to acknowledge that they do it, it's a whole other story! :D

[kelliek]

Still waiting to see if I'm ovulating. I thought it would be today or yesterday, but doesn't seem to be quite yet. Still have the egg-whites and a lower temp. And, my boobs hurt on Tuesday (I had no idea that was a symptom until I read it here!). But, soon, I hope to be in the 2ww. I do have low expectations though, as this is our first real cycle of trying. As DH put it, after everyone we know has taken about a year to get pg, why should we expect not to have to suffer through the same? So, we'll see.

A DH mood question though: DH wasn't enthusiastic about having kids in the first place. Only through some talking, lots of talking with his friends with kids, and even a little counseling between the two of us, did we mutually decide that it was a worthwhile thing. However, the man who has normally had a healthy (to say the least!) sex drive has suddenly become less interested since we "officially" started trying. He's not turning me down or anything, but he's also taking a little bit of cajoling. Is this just cold feet? I've asked him if he wants to rethink our decision or take the question back to counseling, but he says no. In fairness though, he's also had a huge project that I wouldn't wish on anyone going on at work in the same timeframe, too. Just wondering if other husbands got less enthusiastic once you started trying.

[ktg0930]

Crossing my fingers for you Clara!

No news here...we're just in the holding pattern until we start IUI with injectables in January.

Fudi2000 - hope your DH was able to give his sample.

[Clara]

Kellie- Actually my DH got more enthusiastic about sex after our decision, but we have had a couple of episodes of performance anxiety...just took a little extra effort :)

9dpo....can I just fast forward a week? Not feeling the least bit pregnant...every other cycle I'm usually convinced by now...I'm also wondering because I DON'T have any symptoms....we shall see.

[Kerri]

Kellie - I had the same concerns about my husband, but he has turned out to be a real trooper. It did take awhile. After my first couple of cycles, he saw that I was disappointed and felt dissapointment for himself when AF came. I think that helped inspire him. Your DH might get more into it the more you try. Good luck!

[TerriS]

Fingers crossed Clara! 9DPO is so early. I remember very clearly thinking on 10DPO that I did not feel the least bit different or the least big pregnant. Hang in there - just a few more days.

[nowimcooking]

Yes, more fingers crossed for Clara!

Well, this cycle is different from my last and I'm not sure if I've O'd yet. My temps went consistently down as if I were going to ovulate on CD 11 (same day as last cycle), but then after two days of going slightly back up, I am now back down again (as of this morning). I've had watery CM since CD 8, and felt extrememly mild Mittelschmerz on Friday (CD 11). All signs pointed to O on day 10 or 11, but now I'm not sure. I'll just have to keep temping to see.

[kelliek]

So, now FF thinks I'm 4 DPO. That would put me finding out right around Christmas. That would be a nice present.

I wonder how much of FF's estimate is based on my description of my CM. I'm not sure I did a very good job there. I think they need better categories. Sticky, Creamy, and Egg white, I couldn't do much with. What about watery, globby, and nothing? That I could use. Anyway, I'm curious to see what this cycle looks like overall by the end. My temps have not gone up as high as they were at the end of last cycle (I started temping mid-cycle last cycle). I was traveling when I started and just getting a cold, so that could be why.

Anyway, now I'm in the 2WW with everyone else.

[Laura B]

Originally posted by kelliek
I think they need better categories. Sticky, Creamy, and Egg white, I couldn't do much with. What about watery, globby, and nothing? That I could use.

I'm with you on that! I find it very confusing to classify CM.

[Clara]

12 dpo....somehow I resisted the urge to test....I don't know if I'll make it through tomorrow morning...

There are a few "symptoms"...but it's hard to tell if they're "real" or just PMS/stress....

I definitely don't feel tired though, I actually have more energy than I've had in a while....

[RebeccaT]

Clara, FWIW... I tested at 13 DPO, and was positive! Tested again at 15 DPO, still positive! :D

And I wasn't tired at all until I was around 6 weeks. Well, I was, but that was more due to caffeine withdrawal than anything.

Crossing my fingers for you this week!

[mst]

Clara, I am the worst influence. ***TEST***!!! I am a test-aholic.
I am really crossing my fingers for you this cycle. Just know that a negative doesn't mean it is a negative, but a positive is a positive!

[Clara]

13 dpo, absolutely negative.

I'm thinking about taking a break for a while. With lots of schoolwork right now, holidays right around the corner, and then leaving for my winter PhD session, it might be a good idea to keep my mind off of this for a month or so.

I'll check back with you guys every now and then.

Good luck everyone.

[Jessica]

((((Clara))))

[mst]

Clara. So sorry. But, as I mentioned earlier, a negative doesn't necessarily mean negative at this stage of the game. I think a negative on day 15 (one day past most people's period) is really a negative. It still was a smidgen early to test.

That being said, I definately feel for you, and think that you should take some time off if you feel that is the right course for you. I know that I obsess daily, and I know that there is virtually no chance that I could ever get pregnant (unless I had an affair!;) ) So, I can't imagine how much you must obsess knowing that you *might* have a chance each cycle.

BTW, I am feeling like you these days- day 38 or 39. I am trying not to obsess. I think I just ovulated on Friday, so I will now have to wait two more weeks. I am eager to see AF because I can start doing blood tests, and do my HSG this cycle. I feel like some of us are in the very slow TTC race, all turtles here! Hopefully, we will all cross the finish line soon.

[LadyBug]

I've been on other threads on this site but just started reading this one. I'm TTC too. I'm 32 and have been married 4 years. We have been TTC for only 2 months...but I have endometriosis and am afraid it will take longer than most...so I went out and bought TCOYF yesterday and can't put it down. I've been charting on my own for about 5 months on an excel spreadsheet that I created...nothing fancy, but it might help out. Any words of wisdom as we journey together? Good luck everyone...Clara...we just moved to Houston. :) Kim

[Kerri]

Hey Kim,

I also have endometriosis and I have read that the longer you are off the pill the harder it will be to concieve, soooo get to it! My doctor told me that instead of the usual year to get pregnant that most people have to wait, that I should come in after 6-9 months. Unfortuately, I just started month 8, so I will be calling for an appointment after the holidays. Hopefully, your doctor is also understanding. Welcome!! Another great charting site is fertilityfriend.com. It has paid and free services that are very helpful. Good luck!

[buffygirl]

OK, I've got to spill it. I've been resisting for 2 weeks.

:) :) I'm pregnant....finally:) :) :)

We are cautiously optimistic. It looks like I'm right at 6 weeks. My HCG levels have been skyrocketing, so much so that my doctor's office called yesterday and wanted to see me then for an ultrasound. So yesterday the u/s confirmed that we have a baby in there and it is actually in the right place. Smack dab in the middle of my uterus (DH is so proud of himself, LOL) Miracle of all miracles!!!!

Again, I am guarding my emotions, but am upbeat and happy. I trust God, no matter what happens. DH is thrilled.

Symptoms have been parched dry mouth in the middle of the night pretty much immediatley, a little dizzy headed, tender breasts, lumpy breast (so much so that I had a breast exam by my doctor 2 weeks ago:rolleyes: ) and tired a little earlier in the evening than usual. The doctor said the onset of the crappy stuff should be in about 5 days or so:rolleyes:

Kim

[lhall]

OMG! Ok, now I'm crying. Kim, I am so incredibly happy for you and DH!!

Leigh

[KathrynY]

Delurking to say YAY KIM and DH!!! So very happy for you both - sending my very best wishes for a wonderful pregnancy. :)

[Laura B]

OMG!! Congratulations, Kim and DH!! :D

[ktg0930]

Kim, that is great news!!! Congratulations to you and DH! I'm so happy for you!

[TerriS]

Hip hip hooray Kim!!!! Fingers crossed for a healthy nine months!!!! That is so exciting!!!!

[Beth H]

Kim - I am so happy for you!!! I hope you continue to feel OK and that everything goes well the next 9 months. Yay!

[RebeccaT]

:D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D

So very thrilled for you and DH, Kim. Beyond words. Happy Day!

[Jessica]

Kim, your news certainly brightened my day! Best wishes to you and your DH--you must be over the moon with excitement.

:) :) :)

[JenZen]

Whoo-hoo! Congrats Kim and DH.

Here's to a happy and healthy 9 months.

Jen

[LaraW]

OMG, Kim! I am so very happy for you and DH! I just have goosebumps!

Here is to a happy, healthy and blessed 9 months ahead, and a lifetime beyond that. What a great Christmas present! :)

[Clara]

Kim! I am so happy for you! That makes what has been a crappy week so much better. You give us such inspiration and hope. You took care of yourself, focused on other things, held strong, you fought hard to not let this process take over your life! And then here you are...pregnant...and giving so much hope to all of us that are having a hard time that it WILL happen when it's our turn....we just have to be patient.

Congratulations!

[MinEaston]

Congrats to Kim! How exciting!

[mst]

Kim! Wow! I am so thrilled for you. It is so amazing, and definately your turn! YAHOOO!

I am so glad that you even saw your little bugger in the right place (must be one smart kid...)

I hope this is only the beginning of all fabulous things.

[buffygirl]

Thanks everyone, I'm just so touched! Many of you have read all of my trials and tribulations and I really appreciate all of the well wishes.

Everyone just hang in there, it will work out.

Also an interesting fact about miscarriage that my doctor shared with me. First of all, I thought he was going to kiss DH and I when he saw the baby in the uterus instead of the tubes...His comment though was that now that I've had a pregnancy in the uterus, even *if* I miscarry this one, I am now 7 times more likely to have a successful pregnancy that if I'd not had a uterine pregnancy. Very interesting and gave me even more hope.:)

Kim

[Personal Chef]

Kim, I'm so happy for you that I'm crying right now. My heart is so full of wonderful emotions for you. Have fun on on the pregnancy thread! I wish for you, your husband and your baby all the love your heart and can hold :D

[jphilg]

Kim, I just started SOBBING when I read your news. I am so happy for you and your DH! Congratulations! What a wonderful Christmas gift for you!

[linsleyd]

Kim, Congratulations to you and your DH and I'm sending all kinds of hugs your way and wishing you a safe, full nine months!

[JanetJ]

Kim, what wonderful, wonderful, wonderful news!! I had to come out of lurking on this thread to share in your joy! That is just so fantastic! Congrats to you and DH!!

[aprilbride]

Kim, CONGRATULATIONS! That's such awesome news..Santa came early:-)

See you on the pregnancy thread!

Claudia

[Molli526]

Congrats Kim & DH!!!

Here's to a happy and healthy pregnancy :)

[LadyBug]

Thanks Kerri for the info. Like I said we have only been trying a few months...but with endometriosis...things just aren't as cut and dry with the whole period thing...so this month I've been feeling weird..I'm not sure if I want to get pregnant so badly that I'm making things up...I feel sickly sometimes...I'm thicker in the middle..my jeans don't fit as nicely. I don't know. I just thought the book could help me figure it all out or at least make me less crazed. It kinda scares me though to think I'll be 33 in March and it will take longer...we should have started 8 months ago..but financially, emotionally (My Father and Mother have passed away in the past 2 years)...there was no way we were ready to start a family...but now we are and the waiting begins...Thanks for letting me whine. You all are awesome...

Congrats Kim and DH!!

Kim

[gertdog]

Poking my head in to say Congratulations Kim and DH!!! I am so happy for you and am sending best wishes for a healthy pregnancy and baby. :)

[kelliek]

Congrats to Kim and DH and the baby-to-be!

It is nice that you've done such great things with your "waiting" time, and now you get to start down the path to momhood!

Me, I'm 7dpo, feeling sickly, and about to travel for Christmas. Happy holidays everyone!

[LadyBug]

I'm sure this topic has been discussed a gazillion times...but can you humor the new girl and give suggestions on a good basal thermometer? Will any digital kind work? Or is there a special one for ovulation?

[MrsReber]

Yeah Kim!!!!! :D :D I will be praying that everything works out this time. You so deserve this happiness after all you've been through.

I love checking in here and finding such great news.

[LadyBug]

AF came yesterday with a vengence! I haven't been that sick in months! Anyway...starting to chart and reading TCOYF. This is month 3 of TTC. SO...I'll buy a thermometer and keep checking in. I read last months thread and am trying to get caught up. A brief history...I'm stuck in Mississippi until March trying to settle my Mother's estate. I lost my Dad in an accident at work Dec. 23, 2002 and my Mom passed this past September 22 from brain cancer. So....DH and I have been stressed. We so desperately want a family and am now in the position to start one. We have an apartment in Houston and have been paying on it since moving from NY in June. We will get back to TX in a few months...but thought we'd get a jump start on things. Wishing you all luck this month!
Kim

[Kerri]

Lady Bug Kim - Mine is a BD basal body digital theromometer that I ordered form Amazon, but I think you can pick one up in any drug store. I would definately recommend a digital one. Also get one that is specifically for taking your basal body temperature, but I am not sure why that is important. It seems that the only difference between a basal body thermometer and a regular one is the basal body one only goes up to 99.9.

Congrats Buffy Girl Kim!!

[LadyBug]

Thanks Kerri! I went to the store and found one for basal body temp. It said specifically on the package that it was to track ovulation it's even pink. I'm so excited to use it tomorrow and start. Isn't that silly?? Like I said we've been trying and I've been tracking my AF for several months now and now I'm trying to pinpoint and chart for success. I know it will be harder for us to conceive...but we're hoping. Where in the Dallas area are you from? My husband is from that area.
Kim

[BeachBum]

<<Delurking>>
Congrats, Kim. I am really happy for you guys!

[nowimcooking]

Anybody else have news? My chart is wacky this month, mostly because of sleep problems. I think there is little hope for a BFP in Dec, but we'll see on the 30th if I haven't seen AF by then.

My close friend called yesterday to tell me there was a bun in her oven. She has two kids, and tried ONCE (on Thanksgiving) to get pregnant with a third. I'm happy for her, but I did cry for three hours after I got off the phone. Poor DH, he had absolutely no idea what to say to me!

Keep on truckin'!

Jen

[LadyBug]

It's pretty slow in here...I'm on my 2nd day of taking temps and charting my progress...ok so far. I really hope something happens this month. I'm wishing all of us good baby thoughts!!! Kim

[DanaSD]

This is my first full cycle for charting and ovulation was detected on Saturday - its amazing once you start paying attention to do your body how you can understand exactly where you are in your cycle. So my temperatures range in the 96.5-98.6 range preovulation and 97.2-97.6 post ovulation. I'm 4 dpo so I can test around New Years if there's no AF. What's the earliest I should test???

I think I even felt ovulation - I had a sharp pain in my lower front right side that lasted about 1/2 hour. I've felt this before on the right side but never the left side.

One of my coworkers announced yesterday that she was pregant. She had baby number 2 in November of 2003 and 6 months ago was saying she was done, no more (very insistant) so I was surprised. She and her husband started talking about a third and before deciding it happend.

[Personal Chef]

Unless you think you're pregnant, I wouldn't test. It's EXTREMELY disappointing when you see that big, fat negative. If you can stand it, wait until your temps have been over your coverline 18 days. And if you can't stand it, the earliest you can test is 4 days before you expect your period. Good luck and Happy Holidays!

[nowimcooking]

Dana SD,

I too would not test until as late as possible (18 dpo if possible). I tested at 11 dpo and then again at 15 dpo last month because I was absolutely convinced I was pregnant. It was very disappointing to get TWO BFNs, not to mention the wasted tests.

In other news.....ARGHHHHH!!! On top of everything else that has happened this month, my thermometer broke (or has a low battery). Stupidly, it took me until yesterday, my fifth day of registering in at 97.7 to realize that something might be wrong. Another 97.7 this morning, so I'm out to buy a new thermometer later today. This really bugs me because it was brand new when I started charting two months ago. I threw away all the packaging and the receipt, and it's not like they're that expensive, but it's just the principle of the thing. I'm so frustrated right now (both with myself for taking so long to think about the fact that my temps were not fluctuating at all, and with the darn thermo!!). Just had to vent!

Jen

[mst]

Jen- This happened to me too. First of all, if you have a thermometer similar to mine, you can just buy a new battery. Second, now I turn my thermometer off after I use it. It sounds silly, but it turns off sooner than if I wait for it to do it automatically. But, I hear you, that stinks.

Dana- I am quite the oldtimer on this thread, and the last wave of women used to test all the time. And, I highly encourage testing. In fact, I always joke that I should buy stock in one of the companies! Just know that when you test early, chances are that you are going to get a negative. I generally start testing at 12 DPO. So, personal preference. For me, I would rather see the negative test than the blood. And, it helps me KNOW that I am not pregnant, so I don't get hopeful. Depressing, I know.

[kelliek]

I'm 15 dpo and my temp dropped this morning. So, AF should be here shortly. I have to say I'm a bit disappointed. Even though this is only month #2 of TTC and to say the least with my and DH's travel schedule in the last month, we haven't exactly been giving ourselves all the chances in the world, but still my temp was staying elevated and I was a little hopeful. It turns out this is just going to be one of my longer cycles. I'm usually right at 4 wks, but every once in a while 4.5 wks.

Anyway, hope others have better baby luck this month.

Happy holidays to everyone.

[DanaSD]

With so many recent graduates this thread has been quiet lately so more us lurkers need to delurk.

Getting a negative from testing is ok (well of course I would rather be pregnant) - I'm more interested to know when I can test. I just want to know either way. FF says to wait 18 days because I haven't charted long enough for my average luteal phase to be determined. The last 3 days my temperature has spiked even higher (the first few dpo were high 97 and now I've been in the low 98s but I've also been temping 2 hours later).

Using this chart as an example and looking at the previous two months we completely missed the BD anywhere near ovulation - DH travels a lot. This month worked out well. Next month he get home 2 days before predicted ovulation.

Today is 9 dpo. Very slight spotting today but I think I have also gotten this other cycles so can't assume this to be implantation bleeding. My boobs do hurt though but I think it is way to early for symptoms. I don't really get sore boobs as part of pms and it was the one sign that made me test last time I was pregnant (wasn't paying attention to my cycle and it was about a week late and I couldn't go up the stairs without holding my boobs).

[EmilyK]

Delurking...

Dana, I had implantation spotting at 10 dpo and tested at 12 dpo using Clear Blue Easy digital. It came up with a definite "Pregnant" (I tested at 5:30 in the morning after I took my temp). Not sure if this helps at all, but it's how I found out. I also had noticed that my boobs seemed to be bigger BEFORE I found out the results of the test, so I had some idea that I might be pregnant. Good luck!

[RebeccaT]

Delurking here as well...

Dana, my Dr. told me I could start testing at 13 DPO, and that I could test every other day until either a positive or AF. Hope that helps! Good luck!

[Kerri]

Dana - I try to wait and test on the day that I am expecting my period. AF usually comes for me at 14 DPO, so if you have a shorter luteal phase, by all means test earlier. 18 DPO is definately too long for me to wait, but testing early really can mess with your head. Believe me, there is nothing worse than getting that BFN at 12 DPO and then wondering for the next 2 days if there could still be a chance when you know there probably isn't.

[DanaSD]

13 dpo. Temperature slowly dropping but still a few points above coverline. Upset stomach 2 of the last 3 days when I woke up but I've also been fight a cold so I'll attribute it to that. Sore boobs went away. AF exptected in the next 2-5 days so we'll see.

The good news is that DH will be home during my fertile week for next month - we had our weeks mixed up so I though he would be gone a few of the days.

[Molli526]

I got my basal thermometer yesterday. I will start temping once I get my period back, which I am expecting any day with the cramps I am having.

[mst]

Molli- Are you TTC? Or, just temping? Either way, I think it is lots of fun. I am a dork when it comes to temping. Of course, I have had many months of practice...

I had my IVF bloodwork and HSG, and everything came back good. (For those of you who knew how nervous I was about the HSG- two valium were a great help!) So, I need to get AF, then we start the IVF stuff. It has been so long that I have been waiting, that I am looking forward to starting, even though the process is so scary.

I hope 2005 is our year!

[Personal Chef]

Happy New Year everyone! May 2005 bring us all health, happiness, love and babies:D

[Molli526]

Originally posted by mst
Molli- Are you TTC? Or, just temping? Either way, I think it is lots of fun. I am a dork when it comes to temping. Of course, I have had many months of practice...



We will be TTC come this summer.

[BeachBum]

Well I'm doing the 2WW here. Boring!

I've got a question about how long to wait before seeking answers regarding fertility problems.
I had a m/c in Feb 04 and we had been trying since Aug '03. My doctor said that he wanted us to try for a full 12 cycles (so starting May) before considering doing fertility work ups. He felt that the m/c was a successful fertilization /implantation and that at this point we have no reason to think something is wrong. And so the 12 cycles rule starts over.
Does this sound reasonable / in line with what you've learned?

[Personal Chef]

In my opinion it would depend on your age. I'm 37 so it would not be wise for me to wait 12 full cycles before seeking a fertility consult. If you're under 35 and have no known problems that would affect (sp?) your fertility and your charts look good then you may want to consider taking your doctor's advice.

I'm sorry to hear of your miscarriage. I hope '05 brings you a healthy baby.

[DanaSD]

My doctor also said we should wait -because we got pregnant the first time after 2 months a TTC she said we didn't have fertility issues and 1 miscarriage doesn't mean you will have issues - they won't test for mc issues until the 2nd or 3rd one which I have a problem with since many of the tests are just simple blood tests. If its an insurance cost issues I don't mind paying for these myself. I would just rather know and move on with treatment. A mc puts you far beind in the TTC process with the 2 months of conceiving, pg and then the 2-3 cyles of waiting again (plus the pain, emotional loss, etc). I'm 33 and this will be starting month 4 or 5 of TTC post mc and waiting period.

AF arrived today - a shorter cycle for me so that moves up next months predicte fertile time which is good because my parents are going to be visiting during the orginal predicted dates.

[Kerri]

I believe in TCOYF it recommends seeing a doctor if you know for sure you have had 4-6 cycles of correctly timed intercourse and you are still not pregnant. I guess if you are not charting, then you can't be sure if you hit the window or not so that is why you have to wait a year. I don't know if a doctor would accept that as a reason to seek help though. I didn't think so at first, but now I think a year seems like a long time to wait. I can't think of anyone I know that concieved past 6 months of TTC without help. Does anyone else have some encouraging stories?

[mst]

BeachBum- I would go in. I think that TTC for a year and a half is a long time. Generally, under 35, the rule of thumb is one year (w/o m/c). Over 35, the rule of thumb is 6 months. That being said, do you even have infertility coverage at all? If not, and you are anxious, you will pay out of pocket, one way or another. I think that a semen analysis and blood tests for you are well worth the money (totally $200-300 about). The HSG is much more money, and you should try to get it covered if you can.

We found out early in our TTC about my husband's low sperm count. And, I count my blessings every day. It has been six months since we found out, and it is probably about two more months until we can do IVF. If I had been trying for a full year...my goodness, I would be at my wits end. I already am! I am very aggressive about our TTC, so that does shape most of our answers. I am the type who is going to "make this happen" rather than "waiting for this to happen." Depends on your personality and timeline.

[Jessica]

Delurking to reply to Beachbum...

I got pregnant in August after one cycle of trying and then I had a miscarriage in October. My midwife said we should come back if I am not pregnant within a year, but since I will be 33 in May, we plan to talk with him if I am not pregnant in about six cycles.

Good luck!

[BeachBum]

Thanks for the replies guys. Interesting perspectives.... I generally fall in the "let nature take its course" philosophy so I'm not really anxious to seek treatment. You are right Kerri in that by not charting I don't know how good our timing was. Mostly I just wanted to know if my Dr. was outside of generally accepted recommendations. I'm 27 so time isn't as big of an issue to me. He had discouraged me from charting and to only use OPKs which made me suspecious of him. His feeling was that charting caused unnecessary stress, and since we weren't in a real hurry to just let nature take its course. I did start charting last cycle (after frustration of nothing happening) and its been interesting....