After a year and a half of trying, and 4 months to get an appointment with the local fertility specialist, we had our first appointment today. I thought I'd summarize for all of those who stalk these boards to see what a first appointment might entail, like I did prior to today. 
We were really impressed with the doctor. He had done his homework from the paperwork we'd mailed in, had come up with a list of things he thought were relevant, and was really great at communicating those while listening to our concerns and questions. We talked for about an hour about our histories and potential factors (which frustratingly are still leading to "unexplained fertility" based on the testing we'd done through my OB/GYN).
He then told us what he recommended for a schedule of upcoming tests, and what we might expect for treatment if there's still nothing specific to treat. For me, that means an HSG in a couple of weeks, and also Clomid with IUI this cycle (I happened to be on day 1 today, so I was pleasantly surprised that we could jump right in so quickly). At the time that we do IUI, he said he might also be able to gather more information about my husband's sperm and the way it's behaving.
Looking further down the line, we're thinking about trying injectibles with IUI (I'd already done 2 months of Clomid through my OB/GYN), and if that doesn't do it, we'd be talking IVF.
It feels great to have a plan, albeit an expensive one. No answers yet, but a plan, and someone who is knowledgeable and helpful to guide us through it. It's the first time in a long time that I don't just feel kind of hopeless about the whole thing.
So, that's my story so far! Hang in there, everyone!
Amy
We were really impressed with the doctor. He had done his homework from the paperwork we'd mailed in, had come up with a list of things he thought were relevant, and was really great at communicating those while listening to our concerns and questions. We talked for about an hour about our histories and potential factors (which frustratingly are still leading to "unexplained fertility" based on the testing we'd done through my OB/GYN).
He then told us what he recommended for a schedule of upcoming tests, and what we might expect for treatment if there's still nothing specific to treat. For me, that means an HSG in a couple of weeks, and also Clomid with IUI this cycle (I happened to be on day 1 today, so I was pleasantly surprised that we could jump right in so quickly). At the time that we do IUI, he said he might also be able to gather more information about my husband's sperm and the way it's behaving.
Looking further down the line, we're thinking about trying injectibles with IUI (I'd already done 2 months of Clomid through my OB/GYN), and if that doesn't do it, we'd be talking IVF.
It feels great to have a plan, albeit an expensive one. No answers yet, but a plan, and someone who is knowledgeable and helpful to guide us through it. It's the first time in a long time that I don't just feel kind of hopeless about the whole thing.
So, that's my story so far! Hang in there, everyone!
Amy
