Jim (my husband) and I have been together since 1994 and married since 2002. We weren’t sure if we even wanted kids, and my ambivalence was partly due to the fact that I knew it would be difficult for us, because my cycles are all screwy. But once we decided in about 2005 that we did, I started doing research online and Dr. Google diagnosed me with PCOS. Finally, in December, I realized that I was going to be 35 the next year, and it was now or never as far as my childbearing years. I went to my doctor for a physical and got a referral to an OB/GYN who is also a reproductive endocrinologist who specializes in infertility.
I had my first visit with the doctor and had a bunch of bloodwork done as well as some ultrasounds. My doctor said I had PCOS-like symptoms, meaning I don’t have full blown PCOS because I don’t have the requisite ovarian cysts, but I have some of the other symptoms, including irregular cycles and lack of ovulation.
So we came up with a plan to try to get me pregnant, and that’s where we are today. I’m starting this blog because I need an outlet for all my thoughts and feelings, and I want a record of this crazy journey that will hopefully end in a baby!
I read your blog for the first time today. I can see how writing can be cathartic as you go through this process.
You mention the drug Provera a lot, is this the same as Depro Provera which, if my memory serves me correctly, was pretty controversial when we would have been children. I don’t remember exactly what the fuss was about but your mention of the word brought it back to mind.
I will continue to follow your progress and wish you all the best for your next cycle.
Provera is probably related to Depo, but has a very different purpose. It’s the brand name for progesterone (same hormone that’s in birth control pills) and just like with birth control pills, if you take it for a while and then stop, the drop in progesterone levels causes menstruation to start. Since women shouldn’t go TOO long without menstruating, it’s often prescribed with irregular menstrual cycles. It’s a hormone that most people’s bodies produce naturally, but mine doesn’t, at least not regularly. So there’s no real long-term risk at taking it at a low dose a few times per year.
Hi there! We are on the same road … PCOS, first IVF being positive for a small amount of time and then nothing … and now we’re waiting for the levels to be zero so we can start again.
I wish you all the best … and will keep checking back with hopes to hear of some good news on your end!!!
~ Den