Any IVF Advice?

[izttc]

I'm new to this forum. I used to be very active on the TTC forums and then I kind of gave up when we didn't end up pregnant over a year later. Now, almost two years later, we have had some tests and we found out that DH has a very low sperm count for unknown reasons and that the only way we could get pregnant is through IVF. Hence, today is CD2 for me and my RE put me on birth control. I had an intravaginal ultrasound and on Friday I have a Sonohistogram scheduled. And so it all begins. I think in about two weeks, we will start the injections. Actually, I don't even remember exactly when what will happen. She told us so many different things my head is still spinning.

I was hoping someone who has been through this could give me some tips and/or advice, please. Thanks in advance! And has anyone had success with IVF on their first try with sperm count around 2 million?

[izttc]

Thanks everyone! Your words are very comforting- if everyone else can get through it, I will be able to also. We will be using ICSI also, I forgot that she even talked about that until you guys mentioned it. It's so much terminology and so many different steps! Thanks again!

[Jennifer330]

Hi- yes, talk to your RE about ICSI. We have the challenge of low motility sperm and start IVF/ICSI in a few weeks. You'll get through the shots...just take it day by day and try not to get too many steps ahead of yourself. I wish you the best! The last time I had NO side effects from any of the medication. What helped me with the shots is to have something you like right after. It may sound childish but I had a fruit popsicle each night when I was done with my shots. It took the edge off! Good luck! :)

[worththewait78]

Yes! Do ICSI!

[Heather5]

I agree with mvh...it really doesn't matter that he has a low sperm count with IVF.  As for the shots, they're not a big deal. You'll get the hang of it after the first couple. Plus you'll most probably be on lupron before you start the FSH meds, and those shots are easy to inject. Personally, I had no weird reactions to the hormones, and the retrieval was fine, too....I just felt sore in the abdominal area for a few days after. Best of luck with everything!

[izttc]

Thank you so much! I'm really nervous because all this stuff is very expensive and the odds of it working aren't incredibly high. But in the end, just like every other couple, we want a child and we're willing to pay for it. I'm also nervous about the whole procedure itself and I'm really trying to prepare myself. The idea of giving myself shots, going under for egg retrieval, and waiting to see if it worked, all really scare me. Plus I'm wondering how all the hormones are going to affect me.

[mhv]

My DH has sperm issues also, I can tell you this... With IVF, it doesn't matter how low his sperm count is with IVF w/ICSI... they just take the best sperm and inject it into the eggs... problem solved!  Good Luck on your IVF!!!  I hope you get a "Your Pregnant!" call : )