I am a little bummed this morning. DH and I had a long conversation last night. We've dubbed Sunday nights to be our "discussion night" where we go over finances and the budget, and talk about anything else that we feel needs to be discussed. So we were looking over our quicken last night, and we became a little concerned.
DH works two jobs, and I am about to start school 3/4 time next week, plus we have a 2 year old. Our plates are pretty full. DH's second job has severely cut his hours (seriously, he's only worked 8 hours in the last two weeks) and we need him to be working the 20/week hours that he was promised in order to make ends meet. Needless to say, the outlook wasn't so great for the next few months, and while we would be ok, if we had to throw in more diapers into the budget, if for some reason I couldn't breastfeed again, we would have a hard time affording formula, and if for some reason our insurance didn't cover any of the cost (like with my son) we would be in a world of hurt.
So after a long discussion, lots of tears (on my end), some planning, and some prayer, we have decided not to have a baby at this point in time. I am devistated, but I am trying to find the silver lining. We still want one, and knowing it can only take a few months to get things situated again we aren't completely closing the door. We agreed that each Sunday when we go over our financial situation, we'll re-evaluate whether or not to try. That gives me a little hope that the door is not completely closed. It also motivates me to do all I can to fix things and make it so we can start trying again.
I went to bed last night a little angry. It just wasn't fair to me. Anytime we start making financial strides in the right direction, it feels like someone kicks us back down. We used to be very reckless with our money, but we've learned and are sooo much better with it, but yet it still feels like we are going nowhere. People get pregnant all the time when they can't afford the baby, and they turn to the government for help. I'm not saying that's wrong, but I just can't do that. It is an appealing idea to be able to do that, but maybe it's a pride issue, but I think other people need that more than us. I feel it is my responsibility to be able to provide for the children I bring into this world, because what if the gov't ceased to be?
So, yes, I went to bed angry last night. I think most of it was because I knew it was not a good time to have a baby, but yet I wanted it so badly I was refusing to see the long term perspective. I even said, and I am so ashamed to have said it, that "If God didn't want me to have a baby now, then he needs to stop making me feel like I should have one." I said it. I feel horrible, because that there is my problem. I am trying to pave my own path, when He already has one for me. I hate that it's not the time. I really do. So last night when I said my prayers, instead of asking for a healthy pregnancy, I asked to understand, and to have patience.
Though I am still upset about the decision, I feel that it is best. It is our job as parent to be financially responsible before bringing other life into the world. And I am not talking about being rich or anything, but able to meet the basic demands of having a family. I am ok with the decision. I know it is for the best, and I strongly feel like when it is the right time, I will have no problem getting and staying pregnant. It feels like something he's promised me.
There is a reason in all things, and I am starting to see that there is a lot I need to learn. This experience, these trials, they are for me right now, to teach me. So, I'm looking at the silver lining and I am going to grow from this. It will make me a better mom, wife and friend. I am facing these trials so that I can help someone in the future not endure them.
On a lighter note, I am a planner, and since I need something to plan, here is what I am going to take the time off from TTC to do:
1. Get fit. I WILL do the Jillian Michael's 30 Day shred. All 30 days.
2. Get my CNA license.
3. Change my diet. Reduce my meat intake, eat more veggies, and no soda. I am done!
4. MAYBE I'll go see a naturpath about a herbal regiment, but that's not a big issue right now.
5. Consider getting off my anti-depressants. I hate relying on a pill to feel good, but right now I am scared to get off them. I don't like myself off of them.
Sorry for the long novel post. It might be the last post in a while... I might blog about other things somewhat related to TTC, and keep you updated. So stay subscribed, that way you don't miss a thing!
Showing posts with label TTC. Show all posts
Showing posts with label TTC. Show all posts
Monday, May 17, 2010
Thursday, May 13, 2010
HSG Test & Results
So, this morning bright and early I checked into the hospital for my HSG test. We went to the radiology wing and gave all our info. We only waited like 5 minutes, and the nurse (her name was Breezy by the way, and she was really cool) escorted me back to the xray room. She gave me a hospital gown and a robe to wear (the robe was a nice addition, I'm gonna ask for one when I'm in L&D) because I was completely covered up for a change! So, they had me lay on the x-ray table and they took an initial x-ray to see what shape my uterus was. After they did that, they scooted me all the way to the edge of the table and began the procedure.
First used the speculum to open the pathway the catheter would go through (just like a pap smear) then he swabbed my cervix with what looked like iodine to cleanse the area, then he filled a syringe with this yellowish-goo and then attached the syringe to a 12" metal looking tube and inserted it into my cervix. Now when I researched the procedure, everything I read said they used a balloon to hold the cervix open, but this thing had two little spikes that poke into the cervix to hold it open. As soon as he put it in it hurt. Immediately the cramping started, and then as soon as he injected the dye (the yellowish-goo) I was INTENSE pain!! My hubby held my hand and I'm sure his fingers hurt by the end of it. I tried so hard to breath through the pain, but it was very hard to do. I equate it with being in labor. It only took 5 minutes tops, but it felt like much longer.
So, the dye went in and they photgraphed it as they went. As soon as the procedure was done, he quickly removed the catheter and I was done. He let me sit up and pulled the monitor around so I could see the results. As soon as I sat up I felt like I was going to throw up, don't know if it was the pain, the laying down, or the cramping, but it was not a great feeling.
Anyways, on to the results. First thing he told me was that there was scar tissue on my cervix. He says it's probably from my son's birth, or from my D&C 8 months ago. He doesn't think that has anything to do with my reproductive health, it was just something he noticed. Another thing he said was I had a "severely tilted uterus" which means it tilts back more that it should, but again, it can make it a little bit tougher to conceive, it's not an issue, and there's really nothing they can do for it. Other than that, there are no fibroids or polyps in my uterus, my tubes are open and very clear, no scar tissue other than on the cervix (that means my D&C was done right!) so everything looked as it should! It's good to know that nothing is wrong in there. Below is an example of what I saw, This is NOT my scan, but one I found on google, that had the same results as me.
I cramped really badly for about an hour or two after the procedure and have a little bleeding, but it should be done by the end of today. The doc said he was concerned about my cervix if I keep bleeding, since those two spikes might have torn it, and therefore I would need stitches. I hope not!
But anywho...now I'm just waiting to do my retests for my blood work. Then it's on the the next phase. My doctor even suggested clomid already, but I don't know if we're ready for that yet. I'm more worried about finding out how to STAY pregnant.
First used the speculum to open the pathway the catheter would go through (just like a pap smear) then he swabbed my cervix with what looked like iodine to cleanse the area, then he filled a syringe with this yellowish-goo and then attached the syringe to a 12" metal looking tube and inserted it into my cervix. Now when I researched the procedure, everything I read said they used a balloon to hold the cervix open, but this thing had two little spikes that poke into the cervix to hold it open. As soon as he put it in it hurt. Immediately the cramping started, and then as soon as he injected the dye (the yellowish-goo) I was INTENSE pain!! My hubby held my hand and I'm sure his fingers hurt by the end of it. I tried so hard to breath through the pain, but it was very hard to do. I equate it with being in labor. It only took 5 minutes tops, but it felt like much longer.
So, the dye went in and they photgraphed it as they went. As soon as the procedure was done, he quickly removed the catheter and I was done. He let me sit up and pulled the monitor around so I could see the results. As soon as I sat up I felt like I was going to throw up, don't know if it was the pain, the laying down, or the cramping, but it was not a great feeling.
Anyways, on to the results. First thing he told me was that there was scar tissue on my cervix. He says it's probably from my son's birth, or from my D&C 8 months ago. He doesn't think that has anything to do with my reproductive health, it was just something he noticed. Another thing he said was I had a "severely tilted uterus" which means it tilts back more that it should, but again, it can make it a little bit tougher to conceive, it's not an issue, and there's really nothing they can do for it. Other than that, there are no fibroids or polyps in my uterus, my tubes are open and very clear, no scar tissue other than on the cervix (that means my D&C was done right!) so everything looked as it should! It's good to know that nothing is wrong in there. Below is an example of what I saw, This is NOT my scan, but one I found on google, that had the same results as me.
I cramped really badly for about an hour or two after the procedure and have a little bleeding, but it should be done by the end of today. The doc said he was concerned about my cervix if I keep bleeding, since those two spikes might have torn it, and therefore I would need stitches. I hope not!
But anywho...now I'm just waiting to do my retests for my blood work. Then it's on the the next phase. My doctor even suggested clomid already, but I don't know if we're ready for that yet. I'm more worried about finding out how to STAY pregnant.
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Blood Test
So I called my doctor's office yesterday to see what was taking so long getting my blood results back. The nurse told me they had just gotten the results and that my doctor wanted to look them over first before they gave them to me. So, they were supposed to call me back but never did. So I called again today and guess what? The lab performed the wrong tests! Lucky me gets to go back in and get another 8 vials of blood drawn and I get to wait another 10 days-ish for the results. How sucky is that??
Oh well, atleast I have the HSG scheduled.
Monday, May 10, 2010
CD 2
Well, I've scheduled my HSG test for Thursday morning. I'm a little anxious about it, not in a good anxious though. Also asked the nurse at my Dr.'s office about my bloodwork and she said my Dr. was gonna look at it today and that she'd call me back. So, hopefully we'll hear back on that today.
Had a talk with the hubby last night about TTC and how sick and tired I am of it. I think this cycle we are going to take a break, and what I mean by that is, a break from charting, and counting cycle days and stuff. We are still gonna try to make one, but we are hoping that without the stress of TTC it will help. I plan on keeping my distance from the What to Expect message boards because those tend to make me a little stir crazy as well.
I also start school this month and from the looks of my textbook it is going to be a TON of information in a short amount of time, so hopefully I won't have time to concentrate on when I am ovulating. So, with this cycle, here is what we ARE going to do though:
1. I will continue to take my prenatal vitamins, extra folic acid.
2. Use preseed
3. DH will be taking extra vitamin C
4. Remedy anything they might find in my bloodwork/HSG test.
I will NOT:
1. Test till AF is due. That drove me insane this month. I am ridding my house of all pregnancy tests before the time comes to test.
2. Chart my temps
3. Check my CM
4. Look at a calender to see what CD I am on.
Hopefully, this non-plan-of-attack will catch the eggy by surprise!! LOL
Had a talk with the hubby last night about TTC and how sick and tired I am of it. I think this cycle we are going to take a break, and what I mean by that is, a break from charting, and counting cycle days and stuff. We are still gonna try to make one, but we are hoping that without the stress of TTC it will help. I plan on keeping my distance from the What to Expect message boards because those tend to make me a little stir crazy as well.
I also start school this month and from the looks of my textbook it is going to be a TON of information in a short amount of time, so hopefully I won't have time to concentrate on when I am ovulating. So, with this cycle, here is what we ARE going to do though:
1. I will continue to take my prenatal vitamins, extra folic acid.
2. Use preseed
3. DH will be taking extra vitamin C
4. Remedy anything they might find in my bloodwork/HSG test.
I will NOT:
1. Test till AF is due. That drove me insane this month. I am ridding my house of all pregnancy tests before the time comes to test.
2. Chart my temps
3. Check my CM
4. Look at a calender to see what CD I am on.
Hopefully, this non-plan-of-attack will catch the eggy by surprise!! LOL
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
The Main Reason
Sometimes when I think about having another baby I get very overwhelmed. I have a two year old and he has more energy bottled up inside him than a roman candle. He refuses to potty train even though he knows what he is supposed to do, he wakes me up at the crack of dawn every morning, and he talks every minute of the day he is awake. He exhausts me. How on earth would I be able to manage 2 of him? When I was pregnant last summer with pregnancy #4, I had these thoughts a lot. I hate to admit that I was a little less thrilled about the fact I was pregnant - Even though we had been trying actively for months. Once the reality hit me that I was actually going to have another baby I got very stressed out. Since that loss, I have realized more than ever that I would love another child. And the main reason I am excited for that, is my son.
As tiring and exhausting as he is, he is the light of my world. Nothing in this world makes me happier than being his Mommy. I love that it is my name he calls out when he has a bad dream, or when he has a boo boo. I love that he comes up to me randomly and kisses my arm or cheek. I love watching him grow and learn. I never would have guessed the joy I would feel when someone said their first sentance ("What do you want?" in this case :)). The fact that I taught him his colors, and that he can pick out certain letters off of the signs in front of stores, the fact that he can tell me what animals say... it is amazing to see that I played a roll in that. I am so proud of all the things he is learning to do every day. I think he is so cute sometimes I just want to squeeze the heck out of him. He gets so much attention everywhere we go because of his massive eyelashes and big brown eyes. I just love nothing more than being his mother.
The reason I am trying to have baby number 2, may be selfish, but I want to feel that feeling x2. I want to be a Mom to another baby. I want Cohen to know the joy there is in having brothers and sisters. There is a hole in our family that needs to be filled, and that hole is very prominent in my eyes and is almost shouting at me to fill it. I cannot wait for this dream to become a reality. I deserve this. Cohen deserves this. Our family deserves this. Am I wrong for thinking we deserve something? At the risk of striking a nerve with someone, we have gone about having our family the right way. We dated, got married, then had a baby. We've gotten our insurance straight, made sure we are financially able to care for a baby, and made all those necessary preparations before trying for #2. We've gone about this all the right way, so why hasn't it happened for us? That is why I think we deserve this. And I know it's all up to God and his will, and truly I understand it and trust it will happen in his time, but the natural woman in me can't help but feel that way. Anyways, thanks for listening to another vent. Chao!
Monday, May 3, 2010
A Fun Read & Update
I came across this book at the library, it's called The Conception Chronicles. I was pleased to find a book about TTC, that wasn't all text-booky. This one is raw, blunt humor about the roller coaster of TTC. It was so funny at some times. I really enjoyed reading it, I read it cover to cover in a day.
Some of my favorite highlights from the book:
On the topic of Timed Intercourse: "Since when did sex have to be special for him? In your old life, your husband could have one leg caught in a bear trap and would still somehow manage to have sex if you showed even the slightest interest." Absolutely hilarious, and true! lol
"Slutty Saturdays"- Trying to make the baby marathon less work by trying to spice up the romance with lingerie? It gets tiring when your 3 day window turns into 10 days of safety net, dubbing Saturday as "Slutty Saturday" reserving that to be the only day you have to strap yourself into something that doubles as a rock climbing harness. (I love this, it is so funny to me)
There's also a chapter about how to deal with "Fertile Foes" and those are the women who flaunt their obvious fertility in your face. That's a good chapter b/c I've encountered my fair share of those!!
Anywho...just my lil' book review. Enjoy!
BTW, I'm 9DPO today...just a few more days till testing! I can't say for sure if I feel pregnant or not though. Like every month I've gone back and forth and can't really say for sure. As far as symptoms go, I have a little nausea that started yesterday, and I pee a lot, but that one isn't such a good sign or not b/c I have waaay too much juice in my fridge and I always have a drink nearby. I was starving the other day only 10 minutes after I was full, and I've been a little on the sleepy side, which again isn't a good indicator since my 2 year old wakes me up daily at the crack of dawn by putting his nose against my nose and says "Mommy. Wake up!" LOL. Only time will tell. Very tempted to hit up the pharmacy and get me a first response since those are the most accurate test and give an early response, but I have sworn to wait until AF is due to test, which will be Saturday. I can do this!! lol.
Some of my favorite highlights from the book:On the topic of Timed Intercourse: "Since when did sex have to be special for him? In your old life, your husband could have one leg caught in a bear trap and would still somehow manage to have sex if you showed even the slightest interest." Absolutely hilarious, and true! lol
"Slutty Saturdays"- Trying to make the baby marathon less work by trying to spice up the romance with lingerie? It gets tiring when your 3 day window turns into 10 days of safety net, dubbing Saturday as "Slutty Saturday" reserving that to be the only day you have to strap yourself into something that doubles as a rock climbing harness. (I love this, it is so funny to me)
There's also a chapter about how to deal with "Fertile Foes" and those are the women who flaunt their obvious fertility in your face. That's a good chapter b/c I've encountered my fair share of those!!
Anywho...just my lil' book review. Enjoy!
BTW, I'm 9DPO today...just a few more days till testing! I can't say for sure if I feel pregnant or not though. Like every month I've gone back and forth and can't really say for sure. As far as symptoms go, I have a little nausea that started yesterday, and I pee a lot, but that one isn't such a good sign or not b/c I have waaay too much juice in my fridge and I always have a drink nearby. I was starving the other day only 10 minutes after I was full, and I've been a little on the sleepy side, which again isn't a good indicator since my 2 year old wakes me up daily at the crack of dawn by putting his nose against my nose and says "Mommy. Wake up!" LOL. Only time will tell. Very tempted to hit up the pharmacy and get me a first response since those are the most accurate test and give an early response, but I have sworn to wait until AF is due to test, which will be Saturday. I can do this!! lol.
Saturday, April 3, 2010
6 DPO
Hey guys. I went through some issues with my chart, it says I ovulated on day 17, when I'm pretty sure it was on CD16...so I found out how to adjust my chart and things should be correct now. That means I'm 6 DPO today. I've read everywhere that the egg will usually implant around day 6-10...and I've been having some cramping today, so maybe that's a good sign? Temps are still up, and I spent some time today dry-heaving over the toilet because my lunch did not sit well with me almost as soon as I ate it. Probably too early for any real symptoms, but I'm crossing my fingers! Not obsessing about it all yet, and that's good. I am trying to keep my mind off it all so the TWW goes by faster. Anyways, that's about it for today... I think I'm gonna go! TTYL!
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
What's happening during the TWW
Hello all,
So far the TWW hasn't been so bad. Haha, I'm only 3 days in, but I'm not too worried about it all...yet. From what I read the egg stays in the fallopian tubes for about 3 days before it enters the uterus. But during that time, it's growing and the cells are splitting and all kinds of cool stuff. That is, IF we caught the egg. I don't know. I can't help but worry we missed it...but only time will tell. Anywho... so after those 3 days it enters the uterus and impants, usually around 6-10 DPO...seems like a long time in between, but I guess that's how it is. Once it implants, that's the earliest you can be getting symptoms (around 10DPO).
Also, something I learned yesterday, for all you charters out there, you will probably have a temperature dip on the day it implants, or a temperature rise to a new degree. Interesting!
Below is a pic of fertilization. It is computer generated of course.
This is a pic of implantation of the embryo on the uterine wall. I've read that if you were to take a fine tipped pen, and make a dot on a piece of paper, that's how big the egg is when it implants. Crazy huh?
If you just loved these pics and wanna see more, I got them from this blog post.
So far the TWW hasn't been so bad. Haha, I'm only 3 days in, but I'm not too worried about it all...yet. From what I read the egg stays in the fallopian tubes for about 3 days before it enters the uterus. But during that time, it's growing and the cells are splitting and all kinds of cool stuff. That is, IF we caught the egg. I don't know. I can't help but worry we missed it...but only time will tell. Anywho... so after those 3 days it enters the uterus and impants, usually around 6-10 DPO...seems like a long time in between, but I guess that's how it is. Once it implants, that's the earliest you can be getting symptoms (around 10DPO).
Also, something I learned yesterday, for all you charters out there, you will probably have a temperature dip on the day it implants, or a temperature rise to a new degree. Interesting!
Below is a pic of fertilization. It is computer generated of course.
This is a pic of implantation of the embryo on the uterine wall. I've read that if you were to take a fine tipped pen, and make a dot on a piece of paper, that's how big the egg is when it implants. Crazy huh?
If you just loved these pics and wanna see more, I got them from this blog post.
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Almost Giddy
I am on CD13... so I'm in my "fertile" period, and I am strangely...Giddy about it all. I am so excited to actually try this cycle it's probably silly. I want to catch that egg more than anything, and I feel like my body is 100% in harmony with things and that it will happen soon... I sure hope so!! I would love a Christmas Baby. He/She might night like it in the future...but hey, I've waited long enough! :)
And just a side note, I went to www.bing.com and did an image search for the word "Giddy" to add to this blog, and you'd be surprised to see what came up lol. Just thought I'd share that!
And just a side note, I went to www.bing.com and did an image search for the word "Giddy" to add to this blog, and you'd be surprised to see what came up lol. Just thought I'd share that!
Monday, March 22, 2010
A Must See...
This is kind of long and sorry that it's broken into 6 parts, but I stumbled across this today and watched it today. It is utterly FASCINATING! I mean, I know how conception works and stuff, but this really puts it into perspective and makes the whole process seem absolutely amazing.
My 2 year old sat in my lap during some of the movie, and I could not help but swell with pride that HE was the one sperm who made it through all those obstacles compared to millions of others. He endured it all, he was the fastest, the smartest, and the strongest. It could have been a completely different one, but it was him. I guess the same goes for me... I was the one who made it out of millions. The ending of the movie very much sums up what I felt about luck. So, enjoy the movie, it's about an hour-ish long, but it is so worth the time. There are specialty doctors in this who give some insight on ways to increase your chances of conception...I learned several things in this video. I think I am going to make my husband watch it... it's just so cool!! Enjoy everyone!
My 2 year old sat in my lap during some of the movie, and I could not help but swell with pride that HE was the one sperm who made it through all those obstacles compared to millions of others. He endured it all, he was the fastest, the smartest, and the strongest. It could have been a completely different one, but it was him. I guess the same goes for me... I was the one who made it out of millions. The ending of the movie very much sums up what I felt about luck. So, enjoy the movie, it's about an hour-ish long, but it is so worth the time. There are specialty doctors in this who give some insight on ways to increase your chances of conception...I learned several things in this video. I think I am going to make my husband watch it... it's just so cool!! Enjoy everyone!
Thursday, March 18, 2010
How Can I NOT try?
Today's frustration is getting every party involved with baby making...well... involved! My husband is great, let me tell you all that first. He really puts up with a lot and probably knows more than most women even do about how a woman's body works, and the best ways to really get pregnant. If we were having a conversation about the things we are most passionate about, he would talk about video games or track, and I would talk about baby making. And believe it or not after all these years of TTC he actually understands what I am talking about, in the scientifical sense.
It seems that he has the hardest time connecting to the strong desire I have to have another baby. He says he gets it, and I know he tries. But today he mentioned that we "agreed" not to actively try anymore, but just to let what happens happen. Now we did have this conversation last month, because I still wanted to have another cycle come around before actually pursuing this, so I said if it happened last month, then great. Now here we are, I'm gung-ho about doing this, and he is taken all aback because he thought we weren't going to "try."
Honestly, if I could just put all methods on the shelf and just let chance takes it's toll, I would. I envy those so much out there who get pregnant without trying, I've heard so many people say "As soon as you stop trying it happens." But after all I've learned, all the difficulties I've had, and all the time that has gone by since deciding to TTC... How can I NOT try? How can I not take my BBT every morning, and count my days and study my chart, and take vitamins, and excersize and eat right and all those things that will help me get pregnant? DH and I decided to have another baby in February of 2009. That's over a year ago. How can I waste any time at all by being...oh what's the word, all nonchalant about it all?
When we first started trying to conceive our first, I had NO idea how it really worked, And still without using any birth control I had no luck for a YEAR. I'm not playing here!! I know I'm young and have lots of time, but when a woman knows she should have another, there's no stopping her!! It's all I think about, and I even dream about it at night. I wish it wasn't that way, but I want to give my son a little brother or sister, and I long to hold another infant of my own in my arms. There is honestly nothing else I want more than growing my family right now.
All the eggs are in the basket. All preparations have been made financially, insurance is set up, and my heart is ready. Now we just have to wait for that blessing!
It seems that he has the hardest time connecting to the strong desire I have to have another baby. He says he gets it, and I know he tries. But today he mentioned that we "agreed" not to actively try anymore, but just to let what happens happen. Now we did have this conversation last month, because I still wanted to have another cycle come around before actually pursuing this, so I said if it happened last month, then great. Now here we are, I'm gung-ho about doing this, and he is taken all aback because he thought we weren't going to "try."
Honestly, if I could just put all methods on the shelf and just let chance takes it's toll, I would. I envy those so much out there who get pregnant without trying, I've heard so many people say "As soon as you stop trying it happens." But after all I've learned, all the difficulties I've had, and all the time that has gone by since deciding to TTC... How can I NOT try? How can I not take my BBT every morning, and count my days and study my chart, and take vitamins, and excersize and eat right and all those things that will help me get pregnant? DH and I decided to have another baby in February of 2009. That's over a year ago. How can I waste any time at all by being...oh what's the word, all nonchalant about it all?
When we first started trying to conceive our first, I had NO idea how it really worked, And still without using any birth control I had no luck for a YEAR. I'm not playing here!! I know I'm young and have lots of time, but when a woman knows she should have another, there's no stopping her!! It's all I think about, and I even dream about it at night. I wish it wasn't that way, but I want to give my son a little brother or sister, and I long to hold another infant of my own in my arms. There is honestly nothing else I want more than growing my family right now.
All the eggs are in the basket. All preparations have been made financially, insurance is set up, and my heart is ready. Now we just have to wait for that blessing!
Thursday, February 4, 2010
A little bummed
Well, I am now on CD 47. That is crazy long and I am going crazy just waiting. I'm a little bummed at a few recent events, this being one of them. I have yet to have a normal cycle since the miscarriages, so Spencer and I have decided it is not a good idea to try until I have atleast 2 normal ones out of the way. Another turn of events is we lost our health insurance due to a stupid office error and we have to reapply of sorts for it. That could be a few weeks anyways, not to mention if they have me wait for the waiting period again. So, needless to say we are out of the TTC game for a couple months... I would say till atleast the end of March. Looks like there will be no Morris baby born in 2010. Oh well, there's a time and a place for everything.
But I will continue to blog and help all you TTCers out. I feel like even though I can't be actively doing these things, I can use my powers for good ;)
I'll start the blogging up again tomorrow, for now its out to dinner with the hubby!!
But I will continue to blog and help all you TTCers out. I feel like even though I can't be actively doing these things, I can use my powers for good ;)
I'll start the blogging up again tomorrow, for now its out to dinner with the hubby!!
Monday, February 1, 2010
Fertility site
Ok, just a quick little blog here, I came across this website and I have to say it's just fascinating! Not that I'm looking into these measures, but I just stumbled upon it. It covers all kinds of fertility treatments including IUI, IVF, ICI, and egg donation. It is very detailed and informative, and also gives costs of such treatments. It's all good to know if you are considering fertility procedures.
Click here to see it
Click here to see it
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
hCG After a D&C
Just a little suggestion for all you TTCers who are TTC after a pregnancy loss. Before you start TTC again, be sure to get your hCG levels checked before peeing on a stick.
This is the latest development in my long drawn out roller coaster miscarriage. Ever since I miscarried on December 3rd, I've had my blood tested to monitor my hCG levels and see that they go back down to zero. As of yet they still haven't. What does that mean? It means that there might be some remnants of the pregnancy remaining, and until it's 100% removed my body is thinking it's pregnant. Even more so... this has got me thinking, since I was 4 months pregnant when I miscarried in September... my hCG levels would have been sky high up until the loss. What if they missed something on my D&C and ever since September when I thought I was ovulating regularly and TTC that I actually wasn't... and that the BFP I got in November was just because my hCG levels hadn't gone down enough to zero yet??
This would be good news and bad news. It would mean that I didn't actually loose #4... that I just got a false positive. The bad news, well not bad, but the annoying news is that it put me through all this stress and worry over what is wrong with me, and that if that is the case and since my levels aren't down to zero yet, I would most likely need ANOTHER D&C.
So, to research my theory I discovered that if tissue was left after my D&C, it would still cause my body to produce hCG, make my body think it's pregnant, go through all the motions it would if I were (i.e., building up the uterine lining, giving me symptoms) But after about 20 days my body would realize it's not pregnant, and flush everything out and start again. Since my D&C I have only gone a max of 21 days b/t "cycles" so that just makes me believe my theory even more. I am so tired of all this run around, it's ridiculous.
I go in to the doctor again on Monday to have my levels checked, so I will know by Tuesday at the latest if they've gone down or not. I am hoping and praying they have gone back down.
UPDATE: I am now on CD26...the longest one yet, so let's hope it's out of my system???
This is the latest development in my long drawn out roller coaster miscarriage. Ever since I miscarried on December 3rd, I've had my blood tested to monitor my hCG levels and see that they go back down to zero. As of yet they still haven't. What does that mean? It means that there might be some remnants of the pregnancy remaining, and until it's 100% removed my body is thinking it's pregnant. Even more so... this has got me thinking, since I was 4 months pregnant when I miscarried in September... my hCG levels would have been sky high up until the loss. What if they missed something on my D&C and ever since September when I thought I was ovulating regularly and TTC that I actually wasn't... and that the BFP I got in November was just because my hCG levels hadn't gone down enough to zero yet??
This would be good news and bad news. It would mean that I didn't actually loose #4... that I just got a false positive. The bad news, well not bad, but the annoying news is that it put me through all this stress and worry over what is wrong with me, and that if that is the case and since my levels aren't down to zero yet, I would most likely need ANOTHER D&C.
So, to research my theory I discovered that if tissue was left after my D&C, it would still cause my body to produce hCG, make my body think it's pregnant, go through all the motions it would if I were (i.e., building up the uterine lining, giving me symptoms) But after about 20 days my body would realize it's not pregnant, and flush everything out and start again. Since my D&C I have only gone a max of 21 days b/t "cycles" so that just makes me believe my theory even more. I am so tired of all this run around, it's ridiculous.
I go in to the doctor again on Monday to have my levels checked, so I will know by Tuesday at the latest if they've gone down or not. I am hoping and praying they have gone back down.
UPDATE: I am now on CD26...the longest one yet, so let's hope it's out of my system???
Sunday, January 10, 2010
Baby Psychics- Are they for real??
Some women out there are claiming themselves to be "Baby Psychics" specifically dealing with women TTC or are newly pregnant. Are they for real or is this just a way to expolit desperate desires to have a baby?
A while back there was an explosion of "baby psychic" talk on one of the message boards I was on. Several women jumped at the chance to pay $10-$50 to find out when they would conceive, the gender of their baby, their due date, or their baby's past life. I was actually quite surprised how many women paid to get these done. But are they for real?
First of all, my personal beliefs about "psychics" are about much as I believe the sky to be green. I do however believe that some people are given special gifts in this life, like some take to speaking other languages well and other things like that. I think some people have the ability to heal faster. I believe in God of course, and that he speaks to us through the Holy Ghost. I believe some people are more sensitive to those whisperings than others are. Here are some incidences that make me think that people have the "gift" of foreseeing. I have a dear friend who worked with me. She was showing something to a customer and she looked up at my friend and asked her when her little girl was due. My friend, had no clue she was pregnant and thought this lady was just some wacko, or thought she looked pregnant. She shook it off, and only a few weeks later she found out she was pregnant (total surprise to her) and then eventually found out it was a girl. Another scenario... my husband works installing security systems in people's homes. While in a customers house this past summer, the customer told him to enjoy playing with his 2 sons. My husband was a little taken back by that comment, this customer had no knowledge that we had any kids at all. I was pregnant at the time however, and when I lost my baby, we could see it was a boy. Our second son that they were referring to maybe? So I think people may be sensitive to those kind of things, but to be able to predict their conception month, due date, and past life? I'm a little iffy on that one.
While in a discussion about this, one lady claiming to be a baby psychic challenged me on my denial that they were really psychic. She said she would give me a reading for free to prove that she was psychic. She said I would get pregnant that current month (November) and that I'd be due August 7th, but have a planned C-section on the 27th of July, and that it would be a girl. I took her challenge and was very skeptical. November 3oth rolled around and I got a BFP. I was getting a little spooked by what she said. However I miscarried later and there goes the rest of the prediction. But who is to say if I hadn't miscarried that it would have come true? I don't know, but if someone could tell me EXACTLY what was going to happen, they would have seen that wouldn't they? I think that is more proof that we have a hand in our own destiny more than anything. If a "Psychic" predicts us to get pregnant in the month of January and we don't touch our husband's that whole month, what are the chances of that happening? Don't waste your money on a baby psychic predicton that may or may not come true. Your money is best spent elsewhere on something that will benefit you in the long run. I think more than anything God has his own timing for things and if you have concerns about timing, you should take it up with Him. Not to get all religious on you, but when the topic of psychics come up, religion always ends up in there somewhere.
But if you are just too curious about a baby psychic, here are a few I've heard of:
Cheri22 - I've heard her readings are very indepth sometimes even going into the baby's personality, past life, and the baby's futere family. She does offer free readings in her slower times, and they just tell you the gender and EDD.
JennyRenny - Hers seem very specific, conception month, due date, gender and info about the delivery.
Ruby - Hers are very indepth it looks like as well. I have heard some negative things about how long it takes her to get the reading back to you, but I don't know by experience.
I'd advise you as my frugal thrifty self to not pay for a reading. If it does not come true, you are out money, and if it does come true, it would have happened anyway right? If your prediction doesn't come true, it is only going to make the arrival of your period that much worse when you get it on the month she told you would would get a BFP.
If you are looking for some fun, and instant answers, you could always try this. I think it's just as accurate :)
A while back there was an explosion of "baby psychic" talk on one of the message boards I was on. Several women jumped at the chance to pay $10-$50 to find out when they would conceive, the gender of their baby, their due date, or their baby's past life. I was actually quite surprised how many women paid to get these done. But are they for real?
First of all, my personal beliefs about "psychics" are about much as I believe the sky to be green. I do however believe that some people are given special gifts in this life, like some take to speaking other languages well and other things like that. I think some people have the ability to heal faster. I believe in God of course, and that he speaks to us through the Holy Ghost. I believe some people are more sensitive to those whisperings than others are. Here are some incidences that make me think that people have the "gift" of foreseeing. I have a dear friend who worked with me. She was showing something to a customer and she looked up at my friend and asked her when her little girl was due. My friend, had no clue she was pregnant and thought this lady was just some wacko, or thought she looked pregnant. She shook it off, and only a few weeks later she found out she was pregnant (total surprise to her) and then eventually found out it was a girl. Another scenario... my husband works installing security systems in people's homes. While in a customers house this past summer, the customer told him to enjoy playing with his 2 sons. My husband was a little taken back by that comment, this customer had no knowledge that we had any kids at all. I was pregnant at the time however, and when I lost my baby, we could see it was a boy. Our second son that they were referring to maybe? So I think people may be sensitive to those kind of things, but to be able to predict their conception month, due date, and past life? I'm a little iffy on that one.
While in a discussion about this, one lady claiming to be a baby psychic challenged me on my denial that they were really psychic. She said she would give me a reading for free to prove that she was psychic. She said I would get pregnant that current month (November) and that I'd be due August 7th, but have a planned C-section on the 27th of July, and that it would be a girl. I took her challenge and was very skeptical. November 3oth rolled around and I got a BFP. I was getting a little spooked by what she said. However I miscarried later and there goes the rest of the prediction. But who is to say if I hadn't miscarried that it would have come true? I don't know, but if someone could tell me EXACTLY what was going to happen, they would have seen that wouldn't they? I think that is more proof that we have a hand in our own destiny more than anything. If a "Psychic" predicts us to get pregnant in the month of January and we don't touch our husband's that whole month, what are the chances of that happening? Don't waste your money on a baby psychic predicton that may or may not come true. Your money is best spent elsewhere on something that will benefit you in the long run. I think more than anything God has his own timing for things and if you have concerns about timing, you should take it up with Him. Not to get all religious on you, but when the topic of psychics come up, religion always ends up in there somewhere.
But if you are just too curious about a baby psychic, here are a few I've heard of: Cheri22 - I've heard her readings are very indepth sometimes even going into the baby's personality, past life, and the baby's futere family. She does offer free readings in her slower times, and they just tell you the gender and EDD.
JennyRenny - Hers seem very specific, conception month, due date, gender and info about the delivery.
Ruby - Hers are very indepth it looks like as well. I have heard some negative things about how long it takes her to get the reading back to you, but I don't know by experience.
I'd advise you as my frugal thrifty self to not pay for a reading. If it does not come true, you are out money, and if it does come true, it would have happened anyway right? If your prediction doesn't come true, it is only going to make the arrival of your period that much worse when you get it on the month she told you would would get a BFP.
If you are looking for some fun, and instant answers, you could always try this. I think it's just as accurate :)
Saturday, January 9, 2010
Fun TTC things
So, here are some fun things for you TTCers.
If you are part of a message board community or are openly TTC, these are some fun little things you can display on your websites, profile, signature, etc..
1. Blinki
es
These blinkies and MANY more are found here. Just find the one you want, right click it, save target as (remember where you save it), and then add it like you would a picture. These are kinda fun and let other people in your forum know a little bit more about you.
2. Tickers
Make an ovulation ticker
Above: Ovulation Ticker. Helpful not only for others to see and give you support at whatever stage you are at, but I find it helpful to keep track of where you are in your cycle. You need to know the date of your LMP, how long your luteal phase is, and how long your periods usually last. This one is from www.pregnology.com
Make a pregnancy ticker
Out of all the pregnancy tickers out there, I find this one to be the coolest. It shows week-by-week pictures of what your baby should look like each week. Very cool, and also from www.pregnology.com. You can change the colors if you want. All you need for this one is your due date.
TTC ticker. This one is small and cute and counts down to ovulation. Again, you'll need to know details of your cycle, but this one you can choose a small or large ticker (this is the small one) and pick your background and your marker (I chose the couple...seemed appropriate).
3. Banners
Want to make your own blinkie or poster for your signature/website? You see the cute little things like this on people's posts?
Make your own here! Just pick your size, colors, cute saying, and special effect and save it. It's completely free!
4. Photos
To add photos to a site that required html, upload them to photobucket.com first, then get the "embedded" code below the picture.
5. Delivery Day Predictions- For entertainment purposes of course...
I just took the test, and here's my "prediction" from Madame Zaritska.
"The day you deliver, outside will be windy. Your baby will arrive in the late night. After a labor lasting approximately 44 hours, your child, a girl, will be born. Your baby will weigh about 7 pounds, 7 ounces, and will be 22-1/2 inches long. This child will have dark green eyes and a lot of black hair."
Just a little fun prediction, but this one is kinda funny since there's no green eyes in my family and not a trace of black hair on mine of my husband's hair. Click on the link highlighted above to take your test, it's free and really just for kicks.
6. Glitter Text
Type your name, baby's name, or a cute saying in glitter from "giggaglitter"
7. TTC Graphics from Mommy Grapics
There are lot of cute things out there, and these are just a few. Just something to occupy yourselves and have some fun with TTC, other than the baby dancing part!! :)
If you are part of a message board community or are openly TTC, these are some fun little things you can display on your websites, profile, signature, etc..
1. Blinki
es
These blinkies and MANY more are found here. Just find the one you want, right click it, save target as (remember where you save it), and then add it like you would a picture. These are kinda fun and let other people in your forum know a little bit more about you.
2. Tickers
Make an ovulation ticker
Above: Ovulation Ticker. Helpful not only for others to see and give you support at whatever stage you are at, but I find it helpful to keep track of where you are in your cycle. You need to know the date of your LMP, how long your luteal phase is, and how long your periods usually last. This one is from www.pregnology.com
Make a pregnancy ticker
Out of all the pregnancy tickers out there, I find this one to be the coolest. It shows week-by-week pictures of what your baby should look like each week. Very cool, and also from www.pregnology.com. You can change the colors if you want. All you need for this one is your due date.
TTC ticker. This one is small and cute and counts down to ovulation. Again, you'll need to know details of your cycle, but this one you can choose a small or large ticker (this is the small one) and pick your background and your marker (I chose the couple...seemed appropriate).
3. Banners
Want to make your own blinkie or poster for your signature/website? You see the cute little things like this on people's posts?
Make your own here! Just pick your size, colors, cute saying, and special effect and save it. It's completely free!
4. Photos
To add photos to a site that required html, upload them to photobucket.com first, then get the "embedded" code below the picture.
5. Delivery Day Predictions- For entertainment purposes of course...
I just took the test, and here's my "prediction" from Madame Zaritska.
"The day you deliver, outside will be windy. Your baby will arrive in the late night. After a labor lasting approximately 44 hours, your child, a girl, will be born. Your baby will weigh about 7 pounds, 7 ounces, and will be 22-1/2 inches long. This child will have dark green eyes and a lot of black hair."
Just a little fun prediction, but this one is kinda funny since there's no green eyes in my family and not a trace of black hair on mine of my husband's hair. Click on the link highlighted above to take your test, it's free and really just for kicks.
6. Glitter Text
Type your name, baby's name, or a cute saying in glitter from "giggaglitter"
7. TTC Graphics from Mommy Grapics
8. Or cute graphics from My Sun Will Shine
There are lot of cute things out there, and these are just a few. Just something to occupy yourselves and have some fun with TTC, other than the baby dancing part!! :)
Thursday, January 7, 2010
Home Fertility Tests
This post is merely for my own curiosity, as I was in the pharmacy aisle today I saw a over the counter at-home fertility test. Basically, you pee on the stick like a pregnancy or ovulation kit and it tells you if you can get pregnant or not. I was instantly curious. Now, I don't consider myself to be infertile by any means, I mean I dont seem to have the issue of GETTING pregnant, my issue lies in STAYING pregnant, but for all those women out there who are TTC for a year or more might worry if they are or not. If you are under 35, and healthy, and same with your spouse, you would want to see a fertility specialist after atleast a year of not conceiveing. If you are over 35, they say after 6 months of TTC you should see one. But in the meantime, if you are on like your 8th month TTC, and you wanna take matters into your own hands, you may wanna take one of these:
How does it work?
According to the FirstResponse Website, this fertility test measures the amount of Follicle Stimulating Hormone, (FSH), in your urine. FSH is a hormone that is directly connected to your ovaries and egg production. It tells your body to produce an egg. If your levels are normal, you have enough eggs to consider yourself fertile. If your FSH is elevated, that means your body is producing more of the hormone to convince your body to prepare and release an egg, meaning you don't have very many or have a limited supply. Wow, betcha never realized your urine could tell you so many things!
How and when do you take it?
On day 3 of your cycle. So, you should take this while on your period. This is the prime time to take this test. Hold it in your urine stream for 5 seconds, replace cap, and wait 30 minutes. Yes, it's longer than a pregnancy test, but I think this process is a little more in-depth. After the 30 minutes have passed you will see either one line or two. This is one test where you want to see only ONE line! That means your FSH levels are normal and you have enough eggs to be considered fertile. If you see two lines, it means there is an elevated amount of FSH and so you may have a low supply of eggs and you might consider seeing a fertility specialist.
Does it Work?
Now that's the million dollar question. I think it accurately detects the FSH hormone. I don't it lies about that in it's claim to 95% accuracy. I think that's true. However, not all fertility issues lie in egg production. There several things that contribute to infertility such as PCOS, Endometriosis, even being over/underweight, low progesterone levels, and so much more. And according to www. MedicineNet.com only 1/3 of infertility cases are because of female issues.
Would I Recommend?
If you are healthy, have no signs or history of PCOS, Endometriosis, or other things that can interfere with fertility, then I say go for it. If anything it is a way to rule out one possible cause and give you a sense of relief in that department. But I could caution that you take your result with a grain of salt, because just like in a pregnancy test, there could be false positives, or false negatives. If you have $25-40 to spare it couldn't hurt. But if you are doing it to avoid seeing a fertility specialist, it won't save you money in the long run, because you should see one anyways regardless of your result.
I don't think I will buy one though. If you have tried one, please let me know your experience.
How does it work? According to the FirstResponse Website, this fertility test measures the amount of Follicle Stimulating Hormone, (FSH), in your urine. FSH is a hormone that is directly connected to your ovaries and egg production. It tells your body to produce an egg. If your levels are normal, you have enough eggs to consider yourself fertile. If your FSH is elevated, that means your body is producing more of the hormone to convince your body to prepare and release an egg, meaning you don't have very many or have a limited supply. Wow, betcha never realized your urine could tell you so many things!
How and when do you take it?
On day 3 of your cycle. So, you should take this while on your period. This is the prime time to take this test. Hold it in your urine stream for 5 seconds, replace cap, and wait 30 minutes. Yes, it's longer than a pregnancy test, but I think this process is a little more in-depth. After the 30 minutes have passed you will see either one line or two. This is one test where you want to see only ONE line! That means your FSH levels are normal and you have enough eggs to be considered fertile. If you see two lines, it means there is an elevated amount of FSH and so you may have a low supply of eggs and you might consider seeing a fertility specialist.
Does it Work?
Now that's the million dollar question. I think it accurately detects the FSH hormone. I don't it lies about that in it's claim to 95% accuracy. I think that's true. However, not all fertility issues lie in egg production. There several things that contribute to infertility such as PCOS, Endometriosis, even being over/underweight, low progesterone levels, and so much more. And according to www. MedicineNet.com only 1/3 of infertility cases are because of female issues.
Would I Recommend?
If you are healthy, have no signs or history of PCOS, Endometriosis, or other things that can interfere with fertility, then I say go for it. If anything it is a way to rule out one possible cause and give you a sense of relief in that department. But I could caution that you take your result with a grain of salt, because just like in a pregnancy test, there could be false positives, or false negatives. If you have $25-40 to spare it couldn't hurt. But if you are doing it to avoid seeing a fertility specialist, it won't save you money in the long run, because you should see one anyways regardless of your result.
I don't think I will buy one though. If you have tried one, please let me know your experience.
Why we do this
Please excuse my absence yesterday, one of my best friends went in to labor yesterda
y morning 19 days early. I was at her side through the entire birth, helping her, counting for her, and just being supportive. This is the only other birth I've ever been involved in- besides my own, and I have to say I am even more sure that I want to be a L&D Nurse. It was absolutely amazing and just reminded me why we women go through what we do. All the pain and headache of TTC, the 9- almost 10 months of being uncomfortable and forgetful, and 30-40 pounds heavier, and the excruciating hours of labor and then the birth, is for that little baby we've worked so hard towards, and I have to say it's a small price to pay for that little miracle. Congrats to my friend she did an amazing job with no epidural (it wore off) and she now has a new little family, and the baby is seriously small and very beautiful!
y morning 19 days early. I was at her side through the entire birth, helping her, counting for her, and just being supportive. This is the only other birth I've ever been involved in- besides my own, and I have to say I am even more sure that I want to be a L&D Nurse. It was absolutely amazing and just reminded me why we women go through what we do. All the pain and headache of TTC, the 9- almost 10 months of being uncomfortable and forgetful, and 30-40 pounds heavier, and the excruciating hours of labor and then the birth, is for that little baby we've worked so hard towards, and I have to say it's a small price to pay for that little miracle. Congrats to my friend she did an amazing job with no epidural (it wore off) and she now has a new little family, and the baby is seriously small and very beautiful!
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
Herbal Supplements to Boost Fertility
A lot of info from today's post comes from all over the place, so I will do my best to give credit where due.
The first two pregnancies I've had were lost before I hit 8 weeks. They were pretty close together (January and Late February). I had some issues with Ovarian cysts in the past and the only thing a doctor said to do to get rid of them was take birth control pills. Well, that wasn't an option for me at the time since we were TTC! So, desperate, I went and saw an Iridologist (not sure how that's spelled). An Iridologist is a person who "reads" people's eyes. they basically look for patterns and colors in they eye and look for weak spots in the body, and that gives them a good idea of what is unbalanced and such. To learn more about it, CLICK HERE. Well, I went to this lady and she read my eyes and it was almost like going to a fortune teller. She knew a lot about me and my body just by reading my eyes. It was cool. She had no idea why I'd come in and she told me I had an Ovarian Cyst, among other things that were throwing my hormones out of wack. So, she also sold natural medicine, as in herbal supplements and stuff. She told me what I needed to balance out my system to make it more "baby friendly." So after that I found myself taking 9 pills in the morning 5 in the afternoon, and 7 at night. (I'll go into more detail on what I took later). This was in early March when this happened, and by the middle of April, I found out I was pregnant with my now 2 year old son. Not only was it a successful pregnancy, but it was complication free and my body responded well to the effects of pregnancy, having a virtually symptom free pregnancy. I cannot say for sure if it was due to the herbs that I was taking, but I can't say it harmed the processes at all.
Now here it is 2 years after the birth of my son and I've had another 2 miscarriages, again 6 weeks apart. Feeling like a total failure I looked back on what I did differently before my one and only successful pregnancy, and I had totally forgotten about the herbal help I had. So, I called up my Iridologist only to find that she's retired and not doing that kind of thing anymore. Rats! So, lucky for me I remember what it was she "prescribed" me all those years ago so I looked into it. I found the website that she was a member of and priced the supplements I took. I didn't have $75 to waste on 5 different supplements, so I researched which of the herbs would benefit me, and this is what I've found. In my research I've also found some things that can help your partner, so read on!
Now if I may insert a disclaimer here, IT IS BEST TO CONSULT A DOCTOR OR MIDWIFE ABOUT TAKING ANY HERBAL SUPPLEMENTS WHILE TTC. SOME HERBS ARE EXTREMEMLY BENEFICIAL TO TTC, BUT ARE HARMFUL TO A PREGNANCY SO BE SURE TO CONSULT A DOCTOR AND TAKE AS DIRECTED. JUST BECAUSE IT IS HERBAL DOES NOT MEAN IT IS SAFE!
Ok, enough of that. Here's what I was taking as suggested my my Iridologist:
Nature's Sunshine: Female Comfort. The main herbs in this supplement are:
Red raspberry leaves- Raspberry works by helping the fertilized egg attach to the uterine lining and stay attached. Raspberry also seems to have a toning effect that helps women’s reproductive systems function normally. Nowadays, herbalists capitalize on this benefit by recommending raspberry for a variety of women’s problems, such as morning sickness, menstrual cramps, and heavy menstrual bleeding.
Dong quai root-it is considered the "female ginseng" because of its balancing effect on the female hormonal system
Licorice root- Believed to balance feminine hormones
Black cohosh root- It helps to increase the chances of conceiving.
For couples using black cohosh, fertility is one of the best reasons to take it. If you suffer from PCOS (Poly-Cystic Ovary Syndrom) You can take black cohosh for PCOS to help with the problems that come about from this disorder.
I give this supplement the most credit out of everything else I took. The other supplements I took are Adrenal Support, Master Gland Formula, Nutri-Calm, and a prenatal vitamin. Those have more to do with balancing out the human body, not fertility, so if you are interested check them out at the Nature's Sunshine Website.
This time around I am trying something a little different, to be easy on the pocketbooks, I discovered is "Fertility Blend" found at GNC stores and online. It's $39.99 for 90 capsules.This supplement is designed for TTCers.
It contains:
CHASTEBERRY (VITEX) - Can regulate menstrual cycles, proper ovulation, and lengthen the luteal phase of our cycles (10-12 day LP is necessary for proper implantation, the longer the better)
FOLIC ACID- Helps prevent birth defects in your unborn babies
GREEN TEA-In a study conducted at Kaiser Permanente Medical Care Program of Northern California in Oakland, researchers found that women who drank more than one half cup of caffeinated green tea every day
doubled their odds of conceiveing (www.babyhopes.com).
B VITAMINS-Balances hormones, correct irregular
cycles, assist in correcting progesterone deficiencies,
improve sperm and egg quality and development
and lengthen the luteal phase.
I am also taking EVENING PRIMROSE OIL. This helps your body create fertile high quality cervical mucus to make your body a sperm-friendly environment, and give you the best chance of getting pregnant.
I am also drinking a cup of Raspberry tea every night to help strengthen the walls of my uterus, hoping for better implantation conditions!
As far as side effects go in taking these supplements, I have to admit I get a little heartburn and an "herby" taste in my mouth, and my pee is bright yellow, but I'm told that's all normal when taking herbals. Again be sure to check with your doctor as some herbal medicine can interfere with other medicines. For example, you cannot take The Fertility Blend when using Clomid.
If you readers have any other suggestions, feel free to share! These are just a few I have heard the most about!
The first two pregnancies I've had were lost before I hit 8 weeks. They were pretty close together (January and Late February). I had some issues with Ovarian cysts in the past and the only thing a doctor said to do to get rid of them was take birth control pills. Well, that wasn't an option for me at the time since we were TTC! So, desperate, I went and saw an Iridologist (not sure how that's spelled). An Iridologist is a person who "reads" people's eyes. they basically look for patterns and colors in they eye and look for weak spots in the body, and that gives them a good idea of what is unbalanced and such. To learn more about it, CLICK HERE. Well, I went to this lady and she read my eyes and it was almost like going to a fortune teller. She knew a lot about me and my body just by reading my eyes. It was cool. She had no idea why I'd come in and she told me I had an Ovarian Cyst, among other things that were throwing my hormones out of wack. So, she also sold natural medicine, as in herbal supplements and stuff. She told me what I needed to balance out my system to make it more "baby friendly." So after that I found myself taking 9 pills in the morning 5 in the afternoon, and 7 at night. (I'll go into more detail on what I took later). This was in early March when this happened, and by the middle of April, I found out I was pregnant with my now 2 year old son. Not only was it a successful pregnancy, but it was complication free and my body responded well to the effects of pregnancy, having a virtually symptom free pregnancy. I cannot say for sure if it was due to the herbs that I was taking, but I can't say it harmed the processes at all.
Now here it is 2 years after the birth of my son and I've had another 2 miscarriages, again 6 weeks apart. Feeling like a total failure I looked back on what I did differently before my one and only successful pregnancy, and I had totally forgotten about the herbal help I had. So, I called up my Iridologist only to find that she's retired and not doing that kind of thing anymore. Rats! So, lucky for me I remember what it was she "prescribed" me all those years ago so I looked into it. I found the website that she was a member of and priced the supplements I took. I didn't have $75 to waste on 5 different supplements, so I researched which of the herbs would benefit me, and this is what I've found. In my research I've also found some things that can help your partner, so read on!
Now if I may insert a disclaimer here, IT IS BEST TO CONSULT A DOCTOR OR MIDWIFE ABOUT TAKING ANY HERBAL SUPPLEMENTS WHILE TTC. SOME HERBS ARE EXTREMEMLY BENEFICIAL TO TTC, BUT ARE HARMFUL TO A PREGNANCY SO BE SURE TO CONSULT A DOCTOR AND TAKE AS DIRECTED. JUST BECAUSE IT IS HERBAL DOES NOT MEAN IT IS SAFE!
Ok, enough of that. Here's what I was taking as suggested my my Iridologist:
Nature's Sunshine: Female Comfort. The main herbs in this supplement are:Red raspberry leaves- Raspberry works by helping the fertilized egg attach to the uterine lining and stay attached. Raspberry also seems to have a toning effect that helps women’s reproductive systems function normally. Nowadays, herbalists capitalize on this benefit by recommending raspberry for a variety of women’s problems, such as morning sickness, menstrual cramps, and heavy menstrual bleeding.
Dong quai root-it is considered the "female ginseng" because of its balancing effect on the female hormonal system
Licorice root- Believed to balance feminine hormones
Black cohosh root- It helps to increase the chances of conceiving.
For couples using black cohosh, fertility is one of the best reasons to take it. If you suffer from PCOS (Poly-Cystic Ovary Syndrom) You can take black cohosh for PCOS to help with the problems that come about from this disorder.
I give this supplement the most credit out of everything else I took. The other supplements I took are Adrenal Support, Master Gland Formula, Nutri-Calm, and a prenatal vitamin. Those have more to do with balancing out the human body, not fertility, so if you are interested check them out at the Nature's Sunshine Website.
This time around I am trying something a little different, to be easy on the pocketbooks, I discovered is "Fertility Blend" found at GNC stores and online. It's $39.99 for 90 capsules.This supplement is designed for TTCers.
It contains:
CHASTEBERRY (VITEX) - Can regulate menstrual cycles, proper ovulation, and lengthen the luteal phase of our cycles (10-12 day LP is necessary for proper implantation, the longer the better)
FOLIC ACID- Helps prevent birth defects in your unborn babies
GREEN TEA-In a study conducted at Kaiser Permanente Medical Care Program of Northern California in Oakland, researchers found that women who drank more than one half cup of caffeinated green tea every day
doubled their odds of conceiveing (www.babyhopes.com).
B VITAMINS-Balances hormones, correct irregular
cycles, assist in correcting progesterone deficiencies,
improve sperm and egg quality and development
and lengthen the luteal phase.
I am also taking EVENING PRIMROSE OIL. This helps your body create fertile high quality cervical mucus to make your body a sperm-friendly environment, and give you the best chance of getting pregnant.
I am also drinking a cup of Raspberry tea every night to help strengthen the walls of my uterus, hoping for better implantation conditions!
As far as side effects go in taking these supplements, I have to admit I get a little heartburn and an "herby" taste in my mouth, and my pee is bright yellow, but I'm told that's all normal when taking herbals. Again be sure to check with your doctor as some herbal medicine can interfere with other medicines. For example, you cannot take The Fertility Blend when using Clomid.
If you readers have any other suggestions, feel free to share! These are just a few I have heard the most about!
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