My New Year's Resolution: Get pregnant. Anyone else? SIX BFPs so far!!!

[Jax41]

Feel a bit old (at 43 ) to join you spring chicks but may I? Wasn't looking forward to 2013 (it's the number at the end...) as last year was supposed to be my year - 2012, I was 42, we had our 10 year weddi anni, okay so I'm an even numbers kinda girl But I have renewed hope that this is destined to be my 'baby' year!! My Dr, at last, reluctantly refered me (long story) to the most fantastic FS who is being super supportive - monthly blood tests, scans and starting clomid today and most importantly I at last have my lovely (although he drives me nuts regularly) DH onside

Supplements - I only take omega 3, a good multi-vit and folic acid, you're right everything else is way confusing, not to mention expensive!

Good luck girls, c'mon lets nail this!

 

[pbl_ge]

Welcome Jax, and Kas!!!! There's no such thing as too old!!!

So where's everyone at? Anyone getting ready to test? I'm supposed to test on the 14th, but I don't think I'll bother. I really don't feel pregnant, so I'll just wait until CD1. We're going to follow SMEP for the first time. Does anyone have advice about OPKs? I've never used them before, and am torn between the "internet cheapies" and the Clear blue strips. I've O'ed anywhere from CD12 (!!!) to CD22, so I'll need a good bunch. I'm also quite unsure of my ability to go 4 hours without peeing. Should I spring for the more expensive ones?

to everyone!!!

 

[Elphabaa77]

Welcome Jax, and Kas!!!! There's no such thing as too old!!!

So where's everyone at? Anyone getting ready to test? I'm supposed to test on the 14th, but I don't think I'll bother. I really don't feel pregnant, so I'll just wait until CD1. We're going to follow SMEP for the first time. Does anyone have advice about OPKs? I've never used them before, and am torn between the "internet cheapies" and the Clear blue strips. I've O'ed anywhere from CD12 (!!!) to CD22, so I'll need a good bunch. I'm also quite unsure of my ability to go 4 hours without peeing. Should I spring for the more expensive ones?

to everyone!!!

Honestly, I wouldn't waste your money on the Clear Blue strips. I was able to by a package of Wondfo OPK strips and Pregnancy strips and a great price! I got 100 OPK and 20 Pregnancy for $24.95 + tax/shipping. Those suckers have lasted me for quite a few months now. They work just fine, although I advise that when they say the test line must be darker than the control line... they are full of crap! lol As long as you see a NOTICEABLE progression and the test line does get dark, consider yourself fertile and about to ovulate. I have never had one get darker than control, but considering most of my cycle the test line is almost non existent then for a few days, it fades into to 'almost as dark as the control'... well I consider that positive. Typically my temp spikes within 2-3 days of what I consider positive. I read somewhere that a lot of women's LH surges do not reach what an OPK needs to show what they call a true positive. So that is just my biggest piece of advice.

I just checked Amazon.com, they are running the same deal I listed above. There are also smaller increment deals as well. Getting those store bought OPKs you typically get 7 for almost $20! I have used those in the past, but I have found the Wondfo to work just as well. You're like me... as in you are never quite sure what day you will ovulate and you may need to pee on a lot of sticks. (Or in my case, in cups... cuz I can never get that peeing on a stick thing right!) These packages are great! Plus, if you are like me and reluctant to use a HPT until after AF should have came... then you'll have PLENTLY of HPT sticks to use when you do get your BFP. Great for peace of mind!

 

[Elphabaa77]

My current chart that shows in my signature is not a very good indicator of a 'good cycle.' I had the flu right after AF left... and my temps are only now starting to even out to 'normal.' So I have no clue what that means for my cycle and where I am. Typically I have been ovulating anywhere from CD25-CD28 since I about 2 months after starting the Pregnitude supplement. (I have PCOS, and this supplement has shortened my cycles and made them a 'tad' more predictable than before)
So if my sickness didn't screw anything up... I am in the lots of window! But this is the first cycle in a LONG time where I haven't been completely focused and obsessed. I haven't used my OvaCue Fertility monitor, I have definitely not temp'd every day, and normally I would have been using OPKs daily since CD 17. I have only used 1 or 2 OPKs this cycle and I 'could' ovulate tomorrow. LOL Maybe laid back is good..........

 

[Jax41]

pbl! Thanks for the welcome!

Elpha's right about the OPK's, amazon have some great deals. I'm not using them anymore (got a bit obsessed ) and am just going for plain old regular BD, might do a sneaky legs up the wall too to help them along

Have to say I never test, I did when I first started TTC but it was so disappointing not to mention expensive so I just wait for AF and in all my years she's never let me down, bless her....

I'm CD3, on my first every clomid cycle, took my first pill last night - I stood in the bathroom, pill in one hand, glass of water in the other and we had a bit of a chat it went along the lines of please help me to be a mummy, then woof it was gone, onwards and upwards

Elpha, get

 

[Elphabaa77]

pbl! Thanks for the welcome!

Elpha's right about the OPK's, amazon have some great deals. I'm not using them anymore (got a bit obsessed ) and am just going for plain old regular BD, might do a sneaky legs up the wall too to help them along

Have to say I never test, I did when I first started TTC but it was so disappointing not to mention expensive so I just wait for AF and in all my years she's never let me down, bless her....

I'm CD3, on my first every clomid cycle, took my first pill last night - I stood in the bathroom, pill in one hand, glass of water in the other and we had a bit of a chat it went along the lines of please help me to be a mummy, then woof it was gone, onwards and upwards

Elpha, get

Let us know how the Clomid goes! I have heard mixed reviews of how it makes you feel. Stuff about hot flashes and major mood swings. If all goes well, we start Clomid in early March! Unless all the and being a little more laid back this time around helps us to do it before then! Would be great to have that little bean stick this month so hubby can avoid his SA test and I can avoid the HSG test. I am a little scared of how much that HSG test is going to cost without insurance! Well, I have insurance but I have to meet a $3,000 deductible first and typically they won't cover anything fertility related including an HSG. My OBGYN said the fertility clinic would call me this week to talk about my HSG, but I haven't heard from them. AF will probably be here in 2 weeks so I hope they call soon! I have to have it done right after AF or I have to wait another cycle. At 35, I really do not like wasting any time! Especially if we would like to have more than one baby.

 

[Kasgreenbean]

@jax i like your chat with the clomid ,)

@pbl opks - i test twice a day 2 & 9pm and dont drink anything for two hours before, gets a better result.

4dpo here; everyday im gonna tell myself im making a baby, positivity goes a long way! gl everyone

 

[charm2mama]

Jax41 - please keep us updated on your experience with clomid. I don't think it will work for us, but I thought I'd ask FS if it would be worthwhile to give it a try.

pbl_ge - I also use the cheapie OPKs. I'm not really good at reading it but last time I just kept all the strips to make side-by-side comparisons. I'm embarrassed to say I still couldn't figure it out. I'm hoping I'll do better this cycle.

Elphabaa77 - I know what you mean about wanting more than one. I was thinking that too, but now that I am nearing 37, I'm thinking just one...and then I'll try again but will adopt a second. I don't know...i'm still hopeful for two but I feel like I shouldn't be greedy just yet. I'm just praying for #1 to happen soon.

I am on cd11, and it looks like O day may happen after OH comes back from his trip so maybe we can ttc this cycle. I hope his semen has improved some! I also need to make an appointment(s) with new FS. Hope I either get BFP or meet a good FS!

 

[grace10209]

Welcome Jax, and Kas!!!! There's no such thing as too old!!!

So where's everyone at? Anyone getting ready to test? I'm supposed to test on the 14th, but I don't think I'll bother. I really don't feel pregnant, so I'll just wait until CD1. We're going to follow SMEP for the first time. Does anyone have advice about OPKs? I've never used them before, and am torn between the "internet cheapies" and the Clear blue strips. I've O'ed anywhere from CD12 (!!!) to CD22, so I'll need a good bunch. I'm also quite unsure of my ability to go 4 hours without peeing. Should I spring for the more expensive ones?

to everyone!!!

I also hated opks cuz I never got a positive, not once ever, UNTIL this month, I used Internet cheapies, and I did not hold urine for 4hrs, no way I could do that. I did however take them a few times per day. I bought like 50 online, so I took fmu, then 4p when I got home from work - then sometimes again at 7 or 8 pm
I got an "almost" positive on like cd11 so I took. Several a day after as I thought it was close, well I don't think the true positive came Til cd17 or cd18 but it came and was way darker then control line! I was shocked!
If u have a bunch just test each time u pee around ur normal peak days, you are also temping right? Most opks say you'll o within 24-48 hrs after but temping helps confirm!

Good luck!!

 

[pbl_ge]

Hey, ladies! CD1 here, so I'm starting SMEP this month. How are all of you???

 

[Beryl]

As for me, I've added CoQ10, I'll also be picking up baby aspirin and pre-seed at the pharmacy tomorrow. I'll continue to workout regularly, but will add a daily walk (was walking to and from work each day when I first got pregnant). Some changes to my diet to shift 20lbs (not losing all 20lbs in a month - probably take me about 4 months to lose that much weight). Other than managing my stress a bit better and getting more sleep, that's about it.

Good luck everyone

 

[Jax41]

Morning girls! Hope you all had a lovely weekend?

pbl_ CD1 should be but good luck with the SMEP this cycle!

Okay, clomid update coming up....last pill tonight let the commence! I'm feeling a little different bc of it I think but to be honest I don't know whether that's bc I've read, read and re-read the side affects so I know what to look out for so far nothing emotionally but physically I do feel a little sick (I think), tired (or is that just getting back into work after the holidays), and got this horrid taste in my mouth (wishful thinking!). Who knows this is worse than SSing for AF

Kasgreen, so hoping the chat works, or else

Are you all okay?

 

[Suzy_Q]

I'm glad we have some trailblazing clomid users on this thread. I couldn't get my OH to go get the SA this week so I'll be starting clomid in mid-Feb. That's assuming I can get him to get the SA in time boys...

I am looking forward to trying new things and continuing to be proactive. I may be one of those women who go all in early, I may fail, and then largely give up. I'll always HOPE, mind you, but at least by going all in now I know I've done everything I can. Worst case, I can just become the cat lady I'm destined to be Best case, it works and I become the best mom I can be. Stay tuned as the drama continues and glad to have you all here for the ride

 

[Elphabaa77]

I agree about taking OPKs more than once a day. They say some women's surges are sooooo short, that if you only take it once a day you could miss it. I usually use an OPK first thing in the morning and then when I get home from work. So anywhere from 6-8 pm. I typically notice a fade-in pattern on mine, but they never get as dark or darker than the control line. When they do get pretty dark, I take it as 'time to get going!' However, I have noticed if I relied solely on my after work tests I might never get close to a positive. By then, I have drank so much water that the urine is so dilute. This cycle though, I still got a super dark (but not as dark as the control) line. Hoping that is good sign. My temp usually spikes 2-3 days after my darkest OPK, and it did that.

Feels like we timed things the BEST we ever have this cycle, so I am REALLY hopeful for that BFP to come in the next 2 weeks! BFP = no AF and no HSG test! WIN! I was able to get hubby to BD 4 out of 5 days AND he was able to finish each time. The past 2 cycles he has struggled with that. So I have a good feeling right now and I am hoping I won't be crushed in the next 2 weeks with AF showing up. Regardless though, I am going to call the fertility clinic about my HSG test and hubby's SA test. My OBGYN's office told me the clinic would call me last week and they never did. So I want to make sure they have my referral so we are good to go with the HSG test as soon as AF leaves. (if she comes! FX!) Figure I better call them now, because here in the next 10-12 days either a BFP is coming or AF is! Don't want to miss my window and have to wait another cycle.

Hope everybody had a great weekend! Back to work today... and it's too cold to have even left the house! BRRRRR!

 

[grace10209]

Hi All
hope everyone is doing well. PBL Im sorry about cd1
but I hope the SMEP plan works for you this cycle.

I have had 3 failed clomid cycles and am now on to gonal f and iui.
Oh I pray it works. But I also need for the little one to be IN MY UTERUS and healthy! getting the positive test is only step 1 for me. ughhhhh.

I am starting acunpuncture this month AND i also got the Circle & Bloom cd's and have been listening to them for the first time this cycle. I really like them.

good luck to all!!!!! Lets get some BFP"S ON THIS THREAD!!!!!!!!!

 

[grace10209]

elpha, I had the HSG test, it wasn't too bad, plus i have read lots of women get their bfp's shortly after the test so think of it as a good thing if you have to get it done

 

[Elphabaa77]

elpha, I had the HSG test, it wasn't too bad, plus i have read lots of women get their bfp's shortly after the test so think of it as a good thing if you have to get it done

I have heard 'mixed reviews' of the HSG test. Some women with horror stories and others saying it was not bad at all. I have had my cervix frozen and a LEEP biopsy (where they remove a small 'cone' of your cervix) in the past, so I imagine this test cannot be much worse than that! Not to mention I am used to wretched AF cramps. I would just like to avoid the 'cost' of the test if I can. That is what scares me the most. I have a high deductible insurance plan with a health savings account. So I am a cheapskate, I would rather keep that HSG money in the health savings account to go towards my deductible at Labor & Delivery time. I have heard the test can cost up to $1,000, and since it won't count toward my deductible because it's fertility related... (or so my OBGYN told me) I would not 'mind' avoiding it. BUT either way, I am prepared.

I have also read about increased fertility after the test, so if I do not get the BFP in the next 10-12 days, then maybe I will get it the next cycle.

Do you (or anybody else that has had the test done) remember how much your HSG test cost? I have NO idea what to expect. Only what I have read all over the internet, which varies so much!

 

[Elphabaa77]

Nevermind about the HSG cost. I called the fertility clinic I was referred to today and they said it will be $260 for the doctor costs and $600-$700 for the actual test. That's a bit more 'friendly' than $2500+.

A little irritated though because my OBGYN said her nurse was faxing over my referral that day (which was January 4th) and that the clinic would have it by Monday, January 7th and would call me that week to discuss the test. Well, I called a little bit ago because I had not heard from them and the clinic does not have my referral. I love my OBGYN, but the one nurse who was explaining the tests and referrals and such leaves a lot to be desired! She told me all sorts of wrong information! Like the HSG would be at the hospital (and it's not), that my hubby had to do his sperm sample at home and get it to the clinic within 20 minutes (which was ALSO wrong, because they prefer it done AT the clinic!), then add to it, she never even faxed the referral! AF is due in 9-10 days and I have to have the test right after she leaves. Good thing I called to 'check' on things today or I would have had to push everything back another cycle! With close to 40 day cycles, that is a long time to wait!

Okay... end vent!

 

[pbl_ge]

Beryl! Welcome! Good luck with the weight loss!

Jas, good luck catching the egg! How are you feeling on clomid? Are you doing anything to replace CM?

Grace, sorry you're on to IUI. I guess you could think of it as bringing in the big guns! Are you doing IUI this cycle?

Suzy, good luck with the SA! And the clomid. The FS I will see in a couple of months apparently uses Femara as a default, instead of clomid. No idea why.

Btw, Suzy, I think of your avatar whenever I think of this group. Rosy the Riveter seems like a good mascot! There may be something ironic of having her as a mascot for the purpose of getting knocked up, though. Not sure.

Elphaba, hope you caught the egg!! My HSG wasn't too bad, either, and it was such a relief to hear that everything was okay. My insurance is pretty good, so I think it was only a $30 or something similar copay.

Does anyone know anything about heavy clotting and fertility? Seems like I've had much worse clots since the m/c. I know that it can indicate a problem like endometriosis, which I have no other symptoms of. Is this the reason some women take baby aspirin? Beryl, do you know?

I ordered my OPKs yesterday! Let the peeing on sticks begin!

 

[Elphabaa77]

Suzy, good luck with the SA! And the clomid. The FS I will see in a couple of months apparently uses Femara as a default, instead of clomid. No idea why.

Elphaba, hope you caught the egg!! My HSG wasn't too bad, either, and it was such a relief to hear that everything was okay. My insurance is pretty good, so I think it was only a $30 or something similar copay.

Does anyone know anything about heavy clotting and fertility? Seems like I've had much worse clots since the m/c. I know that it can indicate a problem like endometriosis, which I have no other symptoms of. Is this the reason some women take baby aspirin? Beryl, do you know?

I ordered my OPKs yesterday! Let the peeing on sticks begin!

My insurance is crappy high deductible stuff. I get no coverage of any sort until I meet a $3,000 deductible. I do have a health savings account that I am trying to get to $3,000 to cover my deductible, but the HSG won't count toward my deductible since it is infertility related. Insurance can be so confusing, especially when it's garbage like mine.

My OBGYN told me she could not give me Femara. I had asked her because I have been told it is better than Clomid for PCOS women. My OBGYN said that only the Fertility Specialist could give me that. I thought that was weird, because I have read of numerous women getting it from their OBGYN. It doesn't dry up your CM like Clomid and it is completely out of your system faster than Clomid. Both GOOD things when TTC. It supposedly does not thin your uterine lining like Clomid either.

I found a pretty good online article about clotting when I was concerned. If you want to look at it, here is the link:
https://women.webmd.com/guide/menstrual-blood-problems-clots-color-and-thickness

If your cycles have been longer since the MC, then it could be because of that. Longer cycles means thicker uterine lining and that can lead to more clots. I have longer cycles, and that is most likely the cause of mine.