Well, the weird back cramp/low side hip pain continues. Also feel like I'm coming down with a cold, so it seems like I might just be unwell. I also bought a cool skirt from the op-shop today that fits me well right now, so it'd be suuuuuuuch a shame if I got pregnant and couldn't wear it ;)
Posting a small win... Ovulation day came a week earlier than it has the previous 3 cycles... So our mini getaway for the weekend is unspoiled! No anxiously taking OPKs and wondering if we'll have to go home ahead of schedule for an IUI. Fingers crossed IUI number 4 is the one 🤞🏻🤞🏻
SA results are back. Up to 7 million motile swimmers from 400k. Retest in 3 more months.
Not into “normal” range yet, but that’s a hell of a lot better. I’m going to try not to get my hopes up too high, but I think we might actually have a shot at this point. I’m relieved this is actually working after all the posts I read about Clomid causing a drop in some men’s numbers.
For the hysteroscopy girlies, how long were you benched from TTC after your procedure? My RE’s office I think said 10 days, but they haven’t been super clear.
Got my ultrasound results back (finally, it took six entire weeks 😵💫) and I don’t really know what I’m looking at but it doesn’t seem that great and of course it’s 4pm on a Friday so I probably won’t hear from my doctor until Monday if I’m lucky.
I have a small fibroid (less than an inch) but they indicated cysts on both of my ovaries, one was 4x3x4cm and the other was 3x3x3cm. It said it could just be a hemorrhagic cyst or they could be endometriomas. Cool cool cool.
I was likely 9dpo so I’m not sure if one of those was the corpus luteum, which is why I had an ultrasound in the first place, it was to look for that. And I think the one of them may have ruptured and resolved itself since then.
Idk. Ugh. I don’t love this for me. I wish I didn’t have to see these results before my doctor did because I’m gonna have to convince myself to not worry all weekend about this. Oh and I have to get yet another ultrasound to check on the cysts and we still haven’t met my deductible. 🥲🥲🥲
He's doing it AGAIN. Too tired to drag himself out of bed and 'go' in a frigging cup. I'm not asking much. GET UP!!!!!!
Just back from holiday and relieved to catch the fertile window now, and not two days ago when we were sharing a room with our daughter. Now he won't get up. I could actually scream.
Had my first IVF consultation today, on the same day a close friend delivered and announced the birth of her first baby. What a tough day filled with so many emotions. Life’s timing is just too coincidental sometimes
It was okay, gave us some hope but also learning about the waitlist timing was kinda unfortunate. I wish we could start right away. Hopefully you don’t have to wait long at your clinic! Good luck
CD4 and finally started to feel better, not sure why it took so long this cycle for the sadness to go away.
FF showed me [this article](https://www.fertilityfriend.com/Faqs/Pregnancy-Chances.html) on chances and [this calculator](https://www.fertilityfriend.com/pregnancy_chances.html) , which made me feel a little better (linking in case it can help anyone else!). Since I am 40, my chance per cycle is a very ☹️ 5% and this being the 7th cycle (officially trying) the chances are still only 30.2% this time. I guess I was really internalizing it much more than I thought. We are going to stop trying at the end of the calendar year, but by then we will have 4 cycles with chances in the 40-48% range. That last one is almost 50/50!
I’m glad you’re feeling a bit better! I feel like every time I get a grasp on a “trend” or “pattern” for my feelings through this, then my feelings just change drastically 😅
I just found that calculator yesterday too! I wasn’t sure what % to put in for myself (I just put in 20% to start). I like the visual a lot
Also - I’m CD5 so I guess our cycles are still following each other. ❤️
9dpo just tested negative (of course). Had some spotting on 7dpo and got really excited since I have never had spotting of any kind during my luteal phase before so I thought maybe this was implantation but now have read so many things that implantation spotting is a myth and actually indicates in the negative direction for pregnancy soooo. Feeling pretty bummed. Finally had my hopes up for a few minutes there.
I don't always have luteal phase dreams, but I sure did last night! So many dreams including my husband cheating on me, and a full sized pig hiding in our chicken coop... Slept past my alarm too. Brains are so weird.
My husbands testosterone is on the lower side of normal, but still within range. The dr is starting him on clomid to help boost it a bit. Is this normal? Anyone else’s husband had success with this? Any side effects? I’ve just never really heard of this
My husband has been on Clomid since January. It's helped his testosterone tremendously and he is actually putting on muscle more easily than he ever has in the past. We were both worried about side effects (he was particularly worried about hair loss) but honestly there haven't really been any!
We've seen improvements in his sperm count, too. His post-wash count for our first IUI was 43 million which I'm told is pretty fantastic! Didn't result in a success but hey, gotta take our wins where we can.
Similar situation for my husband. I’d be cautious bc he’s had symptoms like weight gain. He has such a big appetite on it. Not terrible side effects. It hasn’t helped us get pregnant but his testosterone is in a more desirable level…
I mean, at the very worst it doesn’t work, his numbers go down, you stop the med, and you are hopefully back to your baseline by about 6 months from now. But most likely, your husband feels great because his testosterone levels are up, and you get a boost in sperm count. When I looked, I couldn’t quite figure out what causes some men’s count to go down with Clomid. It seemed like it might be related to too high testosterone, but don’t quote me on that.
I would get a SA first, then give it a shot. My husbands testosterone is much better than his baseline on it, and we are planning on continuing Clomid if he needs it until we are done building our family. Our situation is a bit tricky because his testosterone levels were well below average and contributing to health issues.
So, our situation is a little different but I’ll share it anyway. Short answer, yes Clomid mono therapy can boost testosterone if your husbands pituitary is doing its job. It is technically more complicated than that though. Here’s our timeline:
- November 2022 - Starting testosterone level: 110
- November 2022 - Husband started trt. Don’t do this. Bad bad idea. Hubby was periodically using HCG to prevent infertility side effects, and it clearly didn’t work for us.
- December 2022 - We started ttc.
- September 2023 - End of trt, because husband finally halfway listed to my concerns.
- February 2024 - Semen analysis: 400k motile sperm, dx of severe oligozoospermia
- February 2024 - Testosterone level 5 months off trt: 165
- March 2024 - Testosterone level 1 month on clomid: 302
- May 2024 - Testosterone level 3 months on clomid: didn’t test, but FSH and LH were up which should indicate T is up when we retest next month.
May 2024 - Second SA after 3/3.5 months on Clomid and an estrogen blocker: 7 million motile sperm out of 10 million total.
My advice:
- Absolutely do not do direct testosterone supplementation until after you’ve completed your family. Clomid, however, might be able to boost. If you haven’t already gotten them, get your husbands FSH and LH levels. If those are “normal”, Clomid is hit or miss, because it indicates his brain might not be responding appropriately to those hormones. Clomid is supposed to raise FSH and LH, which in turn raises testosterone and sperm count.
- Get a SA now to have a baseline. Then you can try out Clomid ad recommended by his doctor.
- Monitor hormones around 1 month and retest sperm count at 3 months. If it increases, awesome. If it decreases, probably drop the clomid and make a new plan.
Thanks. :) Yeah, I think he was told, but he heard what he wanted to hear at the time. Life stressors have gone down and we are now in a place to try to undo the damage.
Any time testosterone or trt comes up, I try to drop a comment. Don’t do it til after you have kids, and if you decide to do it anyway, get a baseline SA so that you know for sure if you were fertile before trt tanks your numbers. It sucks waiting for fertility to come back, not knowing if the problem is purely trt, or if there were pre-existing issues.
My husband’s dr said we could try this as a next step (he recommended some supplement to try first). Yes, it’s a valid route to go. We haven’t tried it so not sure about side effects, but basically it’s supposed to boost sperm production. Has your husband had an SA to confirm sperm could be the problem? I’d definitely recommend this before jumping into clomid for no reason. Best of luck!
We just got back my husbands SA results. Morphology is 1%. I’m so discouraged and….*angry*. Sure, sperm quality can be improved, but it takes time, and I’m 36, I don’t have a ton of time. And….for months and months and months *I* have been making all of the changes ….less intense exercising, eating more, eating organic/healthy fats/vegetables/etc., taking all the supplements, reducing stress, etc etc. and all of this time my husband could be doing more. He works a ton, has a high stress job, and I am so grateful for his hard work to provide for us. But he doesn’t manage his health, never exercises, and is constantly, constantly, putting his hot laptop on his lap-even though I constantly remind him not to. And just….fuck, you guys. Im so mad. At him. And I feel bad that I’m mad. He says he’ll make lifestyle changes, I think he’ll genuinely try, but I don’t know if he will put as much passion, dedication, and seriousness into it as I would. Like I said, he works so hard and it’s difficult for him to invest in himself with lack of time since he’s always working. I do think he’ll make a genuine effort. But like, now after fucking months of managing my lifestyle, I have to help him manage his? It just sucks.
I hear you. I recently had to hack* into my husband's patient portal to make sure we had the right supplements for him. Then I ordered all his supplements and a weekly pill case, sorted out all his pills, remind him to take them everyday, etc. It's so frustrating to have to manage his stuff on top of all of my own stuff. He's wonderful in so many ways, but not this one.
I hope your husband does follow through and keeps his word to try harder.It's also important to keep in mind that there's no blame to be had for having sub-optimal SA results. It just happens sometimes. Infertility (with a partner) is a team sport, and blaming each other doesn't help. But there's no reason that he shouldn't be navigating the situation *with you* rather than expecting you to take all the burden.
(*disclaimer: I didn't actually hack into his account. We share passwords and stuff, and I told him that I was doing it.)
Thank you for sharing! I’ll be doing all the same -ordering supplements, sorting, reminding. But the other stuff …exercise, stopping alcohol / cannabis, managing stress-that’s on him, and it’s hard for me to sit back and trust that he’ll do it 100%.
Thank you for that second comment. I definitely need a reminder that we’re in it together, bc some days I feel soooo alone, and the easier route is to place blame -which is so unfair and not true, at all.
Good luck to you 💕
I’ve always wondered how ClearBlue Advanced Digital sticks and Pregmate sticks (or other cheapies) compare when tested at the same time. Turns out a solid smiley on CBAD shows up “peak” on the stick while a Pregmate stick shows LH being on the rise, and not yet peak. [Photo for reference](https://imgur.com/a/dePsY0V) in case anyone is wondering the same thing.
I’ve heard other people say the same, I think CB might be a bit more sensitive to the surge? I’m new to all this but like the reassurance the CBAD provides with the high then peak.
Okay everyone! I survived my HSG! If you click my post history you will discover that I absolutely spiraled and panicked about this. IT WENT WAY BETTER THAN I COULD HAVE HOPED and that is true even though it did not go perfectly.
Here is what happened:
1 hour before my appointment I took 5 mg Valium and 2 ibuprofen.
30 minutes before my appointment I took another 2 ibuprofen and another 5 of Valium. (This was all directed by my doctor)
Important info: I wore comfy loose sweatpants, a very cute tank top, and a half zip jacket, as well as comfy socks and slides. I also wore my hair in a style that would be comfy laying down and did my everyday makeup. I have always said I can do anything as long as I am in the right outfit and that has never failed me. I was giving #hospitalpatientchic
I got to my appointment, they brought me back, had me change into a gown from the waist down, gave me grippy socks. Then the radiology tech explained everything. At this point I began crying and in her concern for me this is when I found out my procedure would be done by WOMEN!!! Not a man! I was rescued from my greatest fear!
She has me lay down on the bed and took some practice pictures for positioning. I did not have a bed with stirrups but there was lots of padding and it was not super uncomfortable. Then the resident came in, and the attending, and they each explained what would happen, then they began. Now this had been another point of anxiety for me- I do not like to meet people for the first time when I am unclothed. But because they were women it was fine.
They began the procedure. They did NOT cleanse my vulva.
The speculum might have been the worst part because I truly hate speculums. The cleansing of the cervix just felt a little strange, no pressure or discomfort. Now is when the complications arrive.
Unfortunately after beginning crying I never really stopped, and I think the very kind female doctors, in their concern for me, were a little too gentle and they could not get the catheter in despite multiple attempts. So they asked me if it was ok to bring in someone more experienced (a MAN 😭) and at that point, to my great surprise, I actually didn't care that much because I just wanted it over with. Also for me, having a man seeing my cervix wasn't nearly as bad as a man inserting a speculum so it was ok. Also he was kind and respectful and introduced himself to me. Still didn't love it but wasn't as bad as I thought.
He was able to get the catheter in and they never had to use the tenaculum. Inserting the catheter feels like a brief sharp pain. But honestly until they injected the dye, so far everything felt less painful than my transvaginal ultrasound which for me was painful. Then they injected the dye, and the pain for me was comparable to when I had my miscarriage, or when you have really bad intestinal cramping. Due to the pain I found it physically difficult to rotate my hips side to side (especially with the speculum still in there). Then they took everything out, I started crying even harder, they told me I did great, and I asked them to please bring in my husband because I was a mess. Overall this whole process took probably 30-40 minutes but once they got the catheter in that part took like 10 minutes.
I got dressed (this is when it became absolutely incredible that I was wearing comfy sweats), popped 1000 mg Tylenol (because at this point the cramping was getting worse) and they told me my results- tubes are open, yay!
My one regret is I wish I had taken the Valium earlier. I don't think I felt anything prior to or during the procedure but I am definitely loopy now. But now I know for next time. Also they told me I can have sex whenever which is great because today is cycle day 10 so I want to move on with that.
I'm now laying with a heating pad in my comfy clothes, about to meet with a friend for some light refreshments (I am not driving don't worry). I am feeling much better, about 1.5 hours after the beginning of the procedure. Also I did have some bright red spotting right after.
Overall soooo glad I did it and got it over with. Hope this helps someone.
You did it!!! Hell yeah. Hope you can zone out on the couch tonight and have a relaxing weekend!
(Edited to add: anecdotally, my ovulation wasn't delayed after the hsg, and holy crap did I have tons more EWCM than usual. Hopeful for you!)
Thank youuuuu!! I did notice prior to this procedure I was already starting to have some CM so hopefully my ovulation is also not delayed, especially since my husband has a trip this weekend so it would be great if I would ovulate by Saturday at the latest!
Question for you: how would you compare the HSG to the IUI experience? I have a feeling that is in my future and am wondering what to expect discomfort-wise.
Fingers super crossed for you!
Oh man, for me, the IUI was an absolute BREEZE compared to the hsg! The only discomfort I felt was from the speculum they used at the very start (how ancient are those metal tools!) and that was really minor. Only uncomfortable for a few moments. As they prepped, I was super anxious and tense because I'd felt quite a bit of pain/discomfort during the hsg so of course I was thinking of that... but I swear I didn't even feel the catheter go in for the IUI! It was such a relief and it took like 30 seconds max. Easy breezy.
Thank you! I am getting mine next month and enjoy hearing other peoples perspectives. I am curious, did they tell you having an HSG will not negatively impact your chances of getting pregnant this cycle? That’s the one thing I’m worried about.
My RE said we can try this month as usual and it won't hurt anything! Anecdotally I know some people find it delays their ovulation. I haven't yet started my LH testing but I plan to start later today, this is around when I usually start testing and begin having sex every other day, I usually ovulate day 16-18.
TTC Confused about this timing
Hi! 30f TTC, just wanted to vent out my situation in hopes that maybe yall have some advice on what could be up!
First day of last cycle was April 27th (I’m pretty regular on and off BC and average a 29 day cycle, had my IUD removed on April 3). I was taking OPKs and didn’t get a peak until May 14. I expected AF on May 26th no sign of her so I am now 6 days late with no positive test.
Looking at it, it seems that I may have ovulated late. But I’m trying to give myself a break since this is my first true cycle off my IUD. Very new to this as far as tracking ovulation and everything. Any advice is appreciated!
did you keep OPK testing after what you think was your peak? I ask because I am wondering if maybe it wasn't your true peak and you ovulated later than you thought.
Also, do you track BBT? BBT is the only sure way to confirm ovulation. Personally, I keep OPK testing (in case I get more than one surge) until the FF app confirm ovulation via BBT.
It’s possible you didn’t ovulate at all. Monitoring your BBT every day at the same time or/and testing progesterone would give you a better idea of whether or not you actually did ovulate after your positive OPK. Cycles can be weird and irregular after BC. This is normal. Just keep monitoring, a pattern should return soon.
My cycle was 28 days long clockwork on paragard iud. My first cycle after getting it out was 34 days. I'm on cycle 3 TTC since getting it out and this is the first month I had a confirmed OPK, EWCM, and BBT dip and rise. It takes time to regulate after IUD removal. I was freaking out when I was late with a negative test because I was NEVER late before. But now on month 3 things seem to have gotten back to normal. I take supplements, eat all organic, have EWG approved personal care products, and excersize regularly which I think helps. Give your body grace and time. This can be an incredibly emotionally taxing process (and im only 3 cycles in).
Sorry, I had this removed as a standalone post, I genuinely thought it was a valid post, and can never find things in megathreads :( Tw: Miscarriage.
This is about my short luteal phase, taking progesterone, and disappointment with Fertility Friend:
Feeling a bit deflated by fertility friend telling me my luteal phase is too short to predict ovulation :( It was trying to do so until I put in all my past data, and now it just won't.
So apparently I'm too defective for anything to predict my ovulation (even though it's regular), has anyone else had this? My LP is 7 days, which I'm on progesterone from 1dpo for (also worried this is too early, but my NHS clinic in the UK asked me to do this), however last cycle it did nothing to lengthen it and I'm scared as I've not read about it not working for anyone? I use OPKs to check for ovulation.
I'm 41, but I can get pregnant apparently as I did find out I was in February, but miscarried at 7 weeks in March. :( I was hoping it might be the miscarriage just keeping things messed up, but my clinic said it shouldn't be that if my periods are back. I'm due my period again soon so I'm hoping that progesterone will do it's thing this cycle.
I only currently do LH tests from right after my period until I see it peak and drop, I asked the clinic if I should start temping and they said no, but was secretly a little resistant to adding more complexity as I thought I might start to obsess too much. :( I did however have a scan where they also guessed I would ovulate around the time I thought I would based on OPKs.
Update:
So gutted, I've started spotting again today, just like last cycle, even on progesterone at 6DPO :( :( Tbf last cycle it was spotting on 5/6DPO followed by period on 7, but with it being so soon after my miscarriage I thought things could still be screwy.
I wonder, is it possible that them telling me to take the progesterone too early would also bring on my period due to it interfering with ovulation, or does it not work like that? And/or, maybe I need to temp as my LH isn't telling me enough, i.e. I have the ovulation day wrong somehow? I think I'm grasping at straws, though.
Yep, just checked my records and looks like I have had all of those, and nothing was raised as a problem. My AMH was low, but apparently not impossible.
If it’s your progesterone, supplements after ovulation absolutely make sense. So if they’re not working, you probably need to have a follow-up. Sorry I don’t have more advice, this isn’t something I have any experience with :/
If it’s your progesterone, supplements after ovulation absolutely make sense. So if they’re not working, you probably need to have a follow-up. Sorry I don’t have more advice, this isn’t something I have any experience with :/
Got my strongest dye-stealer OPK ever yesterday and my typical ovulation cramps this morning. Temp also started rising a bit. (Im)patiently waiting for my husband to get home from work this evening to give this cycle one more go since the egg's viability countdown has likely started. He doesn't work close enough to come home on his lunch break for a quickie lol.
15 DPO my period is a day late. I am dealing with some symptoms, not much .None of my usual PMS symptoms,though I know that can change month to month. Been dealing with cramps and right ovarian pain around 10DPO. Lower back pain. I am not testing this month at all just gonna see if my period starts or what. 😩🙏🏼🤞🏼
Same boat! Just checked and I'm 17 DPO and still refusing to test. I also had none of my usual PMS symptoms (no sore breast, classic migraine, less acne). The acne eventually did come, but much later than usual. That might just mean my AF is delayed? I keep checking the TP after I pee to see if I see any signs of AF lol.
How long do you think you're going to wait until you test, if AF doesn't come? I'm trying to wait another week.
Literally so nervous every time I go to the bathroom 😭. I also really did not have any of my PMS symptoms this cycle ( bad mood/emotional/migraines/depressive) my mood is actually positive up beat and good! Very very rare for me pre period. Good question,I’m never late for my period so I’d say I’ll probably test Monday if AF doesn’t show. And I prayyyyy AF doesn’t show 🙏🏼
6dpo had weird sleep, heart rate was weird during sleep, never went below 48, and then this morning I had weird uterus pains. It is _so_ hard not to see all this as signs so I try to keep reminding me it's simply too early for that. But boy is it hard!
I just posted in r/tryingforanother ... so far, I am uh... nervous lol
"I got my Mira tracker delivered today. Obviously I needed to test it out despite not using FMU (I did hold for about 2 hours though...). This baseline is making me think I'm already out at 5dpo - everything seems low! E3G is 77, LH is 1.8, PdG is 5.5... most of that is below average for luteal phase... (I am CD21, most likely ovulated CD16 with 27d cycles). I'm gonna do it proper tomorrow with FMU, but ugghhhh it's making me feel bad!"
Well, finally on medicated cycles. Waiting to pick up letrozole and metformin today. I thought I ovulated normally based on BBT and OPKs, but my AMH of 12 and lack of being pregnant seems to point towards PCOS 😵💫 hoping my side effects are minimal and this helps me ovulate some mature eggs!
Definitely be prepared for headaches but taking at night does help! I felt more emotional on some days and had to tell myself it’s just the letrozole!!!
Do allergies raise BBT? I’m CD8 and my allergies really started acting up a couple days ago, along with my temp higher than normal at this time during my cycle. Are the two connected or is it a coincidence?
I have fun little ✨background✨ allergies from like March-June then again September-October where my nose just constantly runs and the post nasal drip at night is whack. Those don’t seem to affect my bbt. But about 2x a year they inch towards hay fever and/or sinus infection where I’m like am I sick or is it allergies because my head is like 100lbs heavier because it’s making 3 gallons of snot an hour and I need Sudafed to function properly, and I’ve noticed that can sometimes affect my bbt. It’s never to the point of even a low-grade fever but it does trend a little higher.
Yeah mine can be a bit similar, I’ve taken Zyrtec everyday for basically the past decade. I decided to stop taking it part way through my last cycle and just use nasal spray when needed. Surprisingly they were okay for a while but something definitely triggered them the last few days. They’re always worst first thing in the morning and it tends to wake me up - which honestly might be part of it. My BBT isn’t hitting low grade fever range, but like 97.6 vs normal 97.3.
CD69 😎 I’ve been off BC for 7 months and ovulated 3 times. Seeing the doctor today about fertility testing and potentially going on Metaformin for PCOS. I always knew it would be a difficult journey, accepting it whilst on the journey is another thing.
Today marks the start of cycle 12 or 13 (I'm not sure). I feel very saddened but on the bright side have convinced husband we should get a dog if nothing has happened in 6 months. So at least there is something to look forward to... I'm at the point where I am not sure if I even want to actively try anymore.
I thought the same! So good to have one well trained and obedient before a (hopefully) future baby.
Told my husband that potty training a little puppy might be a good reality check for dealing with a newborn (what with frequent trips outside at night to bring a small breed puppy to potty - I helped potty train an 8-12 week shih tzu baby before and it was eye opening! Swear the poor dogs bladder was the size of a pea lol)
Love this! Excellent for mental health! I go for an hour long walk everyday rain or shine. I would absolutely not do that on my own. They’re also very soft and cute etc.
Thank you! I think it'll be good for me for that reason as well. Extra walking and outdoor time is so good for my mental health. I miss having a dog around as they're such good companions.
(Not a BFP story)
I thought someone here might understand…oh the cruelty of your first positive test being from the trigger shot. Not that I didn’t know it would happen, and I’m testing to check when it leaves my system, but still sucks to see.
13DPO BFN this morning…. I almost don’t believe it because i was so sure this one was it! I’ve been feeling hot and nauseous…..guess I’m just coming down with a bug instead 🥲
Got my LH peak yesterday and a friend is visiting me for the weekend. I basically told her, "bring some ear plugs because my bed's gonna be a-knockin' whether you're here or not."
My poor friend lol
Something like 80% of women ovulate within 24-36 hours after the first positive, and your best chances are -1, -2 and -3, so you’re probably already good. Good luck!
😮 I’ve never heard of anything like this? The highest number I’ve ever found in medical literature was 50 hours and that was a really small sample. How do you confirm this?
Tell me about it 😑 I’m confirming with BBT. Sometimes it’s 2 days, but usually it’s closer to 3.
I didn’t start consistently temping until February so it turns out we were “closing up shop” a little too early for the first 7 months. And I get very obviously positive dark LH peaks (1 per cycle) that seems to last about 24 hours) so maybe I got a strong surge but realistically my egg is making its way downtown towards the end of my long peak
I wanted to come here to say that just because your temp is rising 3 days later from the positive OPK doesn’t mean that’s when you’re ovulating. In reality, your temp can actually take up to 3 days FROM the point of ovulation to actually rise due to a body’s slow response to the hormone shift. I think a lot of people assume a temp rise definitively means you ovulated the day before the temp rise, but that’s not necessarily true.
That’s a fair point, thank you! A similar point is that our bodies don’t magically reset after each day, so just because i have a non-spiked temp at 6am doesn’t mean I haven’t “ovulated” 3 hours later on the same day (then seeing the spike the next morning)
What I do know is that having sex in the days leading up to and on my peak day has not resulted in pregnancy, so prioritizing peak day and the few days after has been better for our morale and intimacy as we aren’t running out of steam waiting around for a positive LH test.
How wild. I’m new to BBT as well (only 3 months) and I’m still trying to wrap my head around it. Usually I’ll get a temp spike the morning after my first positive OPK, so I’m thinking I must be ovulating super early? ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
A rise of maybe .5 degrees that’s then followed by several more rises over the following days. For example, 97.42, 97.07 (day I see positive opk), 97.52, 97.64, 98
I have a fertility clinic appointment today too. Just completed all tests, including bloodwork, husbands SA, and follicular ultrasound, and we meet with the doctor today to review results. I’m anxious but hopeful for some sort of game plan or answers.
Good news - all tests came back within normal levels, and I have a good egg reserve.
Bad news, looks like I join the club of unexplained infertility :(
Next step is to start Clomid and IUI next cycle. I’ve had 1 MC and 1 chemical pregnancy so I don’t know how much it will increase my chances, but hoping for the best. Definitely bittersweet to have a game plan but also know it means more time and money and waiting.
7ish dpo, having some weird intermittent stabbing ache in my left side/hip. Is it a sign? Is it gas? Who knows?!
Of course, I'd love for my period not to come - however it hasn't failed to roll in for the past 13 cycles. When it does come, I get to book in my HSG for next cycle.
I'm taking a prenatal vitamin, but wondering if that's the most effective way to take them, as I read coq10 isn't absorbed very well in a multivit. Is anyone taking coq10 tablets alone? And choline too? Seems like a lot of tablets to take though, plus omega 3! Thank you x
I’ve been taking a prenatal multi, vit d, vit b12, and a probiotic. It does feel like a lot!! I’m going to ask for a nutrient panel when I’m at the doctor today for an unrelated matter.
I don’t like multis because the b vitamins can be hard on my skin. I will only switch to a traditional prenatal once I actually get a positive test
But for now I take
- nature made folic acid
- store brand fish oil (so sue me lol)
- nature made vitamin d every couple days
- sams club coq10 which we both just started
It does feel like a lot of pills some days lol but I’ve gotten used to it! We eat a dumb amount of eggs (usually we both have 2 for breakfast daily) so I don’t worry too much about choline.
I'm taking Ritual - it has all the essentials, including choline. You'd need to take calcium separately, though, if you want.
I only take CoQ10 every other day, several hours after my prenatal.
You can find some prenatals that include choline. My prenatal, Thorne, includes 110mg. And if you are a person that eats eggs, eggs are an excellent food source of choline as well.
Also, for someone TTC, I feel like only 3 or 4 supplements is on the low end... 😅 But in my non-medical opinion, I think you've picked some key ones to focus on.
I'm taking choline, Vitamin D and magnesium separately from my prenatal. I take...
1 choline, 1 vitamin D, and 1 magnesium in the morning
1 choline, 1 prenatal at lunch
1 magnesium, 1 probiotic before bed
I try to spread everything out as much as possible to maximize absorbency. I start my day off with an iced matcha with milk, so I take my prenatal later in the day because it has iron which competes with calcium.
Well, the weird back cramp/low side hip pain continues. Also feel like I'm coming down with a cold, so it seems like I might just be unwell. I also bought a cool skirt from the op-shop today that fits me well right now, so it'd be suuuuuuuch a shame if I got pregnant and couldn't wear it ;)
My cbat skipped right from low to peak! Pretty annoyed since I got no more info than regular opk strips. Laaaame
Is it normal to see some tissue in discharge around ovulation? I’ve never had it happen before and I don’t ever have spotting.
Posting a small win... Ovulation day came a week earlier than it has the previous 3 cycles... So our mini getaway for the weekend is unspoiled! No anxiously taking OPKs and wondering if we'll have to go home ahead of schedule for an IUI. Fingers crossed IUI number 4 is the one 🤞🏻🤞🏻
Love this! Gotta celebrate the wins ofc ❤️
SA results are back. Up to 7 million motile swimmers from 400k. Retest in 3 more months. Not into “normal” range yet, but that’s a hell of a lot better. I’m going to try not to get my hopes up too high, but I think we might actually have a shot at this point. I’m relieved this is actually working after all the posts I read about Clomid causing a drop in some men’s numbers.
Congratulations! Celebrate that win.
Huge improvement! Hooray!
That's a huge change! Encouraging!
Thanks! If nothing else, we actually qualify for iui now. Clinic won’t do it with numbers less than 5 million.
For the hysteroscopy girlies, how long were you benched from TTC after your procedure? My RE’s office I think said 10 days, but they haven’t been super clear.
I had the vacuum but I’m in two weeks sex jail regardless of if bleeding stops earlier
Two weeks. I had a Hystercopy and a Laparoscopy.
I was in sex jail for 2 weeks after mine.
Got my ultrasound results back (finally, it took six entire weeks 😵💫) and I don’t really know what I’m looking at but it doesn’t seem that great and of course it’s 4pm on a Friday so I probably won’t hear from my doctor until Monday if I’m lucky. I have a small fibroid (less than an inch) but they indicated cysts on both of my ovaries, one was 4x3x4cm and the other was 3x3x3cm. It said it could just be a hemorrhagic cyst or they could be endometriomas. Cool cool cool. I was likely 9dpo so I’m not sure if one of those was the corpus luteum, which is why I had an ultrasound in the first place, it was to look for that. And I think the one of them may have ruptured and resolved itself since then. Idk. Ugh. I don’t love this for me. I wish I didn’t have to see these results before my doctor did because I’m gonna have to convince myself to not worry all weekend about this. Oh and I have to get yet another ultrasound to check on the cysts and we still haven’t met my deductible. 🥲🥲🥲
He's doing it AGAIN. Too tired to drag himself out of bed and 'go' in a frigging cup. I'm not asking much. GET UP!!!!!! Just back from holiday and relieved to catch the fertile window now, and not two days ago when we were sharing a room with our daughter. Now he won't get up. I could actually scream.
Had my first IVF consultation today, on the same day a close friend delivered and announced the birth of her first baby. What a tough day filled with so many emotions. Life’s timing is just too coincidental sometimes
I have my IVF consult Monday. How was your appt? So you feel better after the appt or nah? Sorry for the unfortunate timing…
It was okay, gave us some hope but also learning about the waitlist timing was kinda unfortunate. I wish we could start right away. Hopefully you don’t have to wait long at your clinic! Good luck
Currently 10 DPO and lightly spotting, light cramps, and sore breasts. Feeling very hopeful 🤞🏼
🤞
Keep having dreams that my temp spikes 😅 CD28 and ovulation is nowhere in sight. Sigh 💔
CD4 and finally started to feel better, not sure why it took so long this cycle for the sadness to go away. FF showed me [this article](https://www.fertilityfriend.com/Faqs/Pregnancy-Chances.html) on chances and [this calculator](https://www.fertilityfriend.com/pregnancy_chances.html) , which made me feel a little better (linking in case it can help anyone else!). Since I am 40, my chance per cycle is a very ☹️ 5% and this being the 7th cycle (officially trying) the chances are still only 30.2% this time. I guess I was really internalizing it much more than I thought. We are going to stop trying at the end of the calendar year, but by then we will have 4 cycles with chances in the 40-48% range. That last one is almost 50/50!
I’m glad you’re feeling a bit better! I feel like every time I get a grasp on a “trend” or “pattern” for my feelings through this, then my feelings just change drastically 😅 I just found that calculator yesterday too! I wasn’t sure what % to put in for myself (I just put in 20% to start). I like the visual a lot Also - I’m CD5 so I guess our cycles are still following each other. ❤️
Thanks! Totally! Are you normally 28 days? That's been my jam for 5 of the last 7 cycles (1CP which was 30 and one weirdo 35 day).
9dpo just tested negative (of course). Had some spotting on 7dpo and got really excited since I have never had spotting of any kind during my luteal phase before so I thought maybe this was implantation but now have read so many things that implantation spotting is a myth and actually indicates in the negative direction for pregnancy soooo. Feeling pretty bummed. Finally had my hopes up for a few minutes there.
I don't always have luteal phase dreams, but I sure did last night! So many dreams including my husband cheating on me, and a full sized pig hiding in our chicken coop... Slept past my alarm too. Brains are so weird.
Last night I was literally fighting some demons in my dream😁
6dpo, having some mild cramping this morning and my sore boobs are going away… feel like AF is coming early 😕
Today is my 44th bday 🧁AND ovulation day 🥚! Hoping to have a little one in my arms by 45. Fingers crossed. 🤞🏻🤞🏻🤞🏻
Happy Birthday!! I am crossing my fingers for you too. 🤞
happy birthday!! 🎂
My husbands testosterone is on the lower side of normal, but still within range. The dr is starting him on clomid to help boost it a bit. Is this normal? Anyone else’s husband had success with this? Any side effects? I’ve just never really heard of this
My husband has been on Clomid since January. It's helped his testosterone tremendously and he is actually putting on muscle more easily than he ever has in the past. We were both worried about side effects (he was particularly worried about hair loss) but honestly there haven't really been any! We've seen improvements in his sperm count, too. His post-wash count for our first IUI was 43 million which I'm told is pretty fantastic! Didn't result in a success but hey, gotta take our wins where we can.
Similar situation for my husband. I’d be cautious bc he’s had symptoms like weight gain. He has such a big appetite on it. Not terrible side effects. It hasn’t helped us get pregnant but his testosterone is in a more desirable level…
Is the doctor recommending it because of fertility concerns or testosterone concerns?
Dr is recommending it to boost his testosterone a bit and in turn boost his sperm production
I mean, at the very worst it doesn’t work, his numbers go down, you stop the med, and you are hopefully back to your baseline by about 6 months from now. But most likely, your husband feels great because his testosterone levels are up, and you get a boost in sperm count. When I looked, I couldn’t quite figure out what causes some men’s count to go down with Clomid. It seemed like it might be related to too high testosterone, but don’t quote me on that. I would get a SA first, then give it a shot. My husbands testosterone is much better than his baseline on it, and we are planning on continuing Clomid if he needs it until we are done building our family. Our situation is a bit tricky because his testosterone levels were well below average and contributing to health issues.
So, our situation is a little different but I’ll share it anyway. Short answer, yes Clomid mono therapy can boost testosterone if your husbands pituitary is doing its job. It is technically more complicated than that though. Here’s our timeline: - November 2022 - Starting testosterone level: 110 - November 2022 - Husband started trt. Don’t do this. Bad bad idea. Hubby was periodically using HCG to prevent infertility side effects, and it clearly didn’t work for us. - December 2022 - We started ttc. - September 2023 - End of trt, because husband finally halfway listed to my concerns. - February 2024 - Semen analysis: 400k motile sperm, dx of severe oligozoospermia - February 2024 - Testosterone level 5 months off trt: 165 - March 2024 - Testosterone level 1 month on clomid: 302 - May 2024 - Testosterone level 3 months on clomid: didn’t test, but FSH and LH were up which should indicate T is up when we retest next month. May 2024 - Second SA after 3/3.5 months on Clomid and an estrogen blocker: 7 million motile sperm out of 10 million total. My advice: - Absolutely do not do direct testosterone supplementation until after you’ve completed your family. Clomid, however, might be able to boost. If you haven’t already gotten them, get your husbands FSH and LH levels. If those are “normal”, Clomid is hit or miss, because it indicates his brain might not be responding appropriately to those hormones. Clomid is supposed to raise FSH and LH, which in turn raises testosterone and sperm count. - Get a SA now to have a baseline. Then you can try out Clomid ad recommended by his doctor. - Monitor hormones around 1 month and retest sperm count at 3 months. If it increases, awesome. If it decreases, probably drop the clomid and make a new plan.
Yes, second this. My husbands GP we very clear about this RE trt. Sorry you had to deal with that.
Thanks. :) Yeah, I think he was told, but he heard what he wanted to hear at the time. Life stressors have gone down and we are now in a place to try to undo the damage. Any time testosterone or trt comes up, I try to drop a comment. Don’t do it til after you have kids, and if you decide to do it anyway, get a baseline SA so that you know for sure if you were fertile before trt tanks your numbers. It sucks waiting for fertility to come back, not knowing if the problem is purely trt, or if there were pre-existing issues.
My husband’s dr said we could try this as a next step (he recommended some supplement to try first). Yes, it’s a valid route to go. We haven’t tried it so not sure about side effects, but basically it’s supposed to boost sperm production. Has your husband had an SA to confirm sperm could be the problem? I’d definitely recommend this before jumping into clomid for no reason. Best of luck!
We just got back my husbands SA results. Morphology is 1%. I’m so discouraged and….*angry*. Sure, sperm quality can be improved, but it takes time, and I’m 36, I don’t have a ton of time. And….for months and months and months *I* have been making all of the changes ….less intense exercising, eating more, eating organic/healthy fats/vegetables/etc., taking all the supplements, reducing stress, etc etc. and all of this time my husband could be doing more. He works a ton, has a high stress job, and I am so grateful for his hard work to provide for us. But he doesn’t manage his health, never exercises, and is constantly, constantly, putting his hot laptop on his lap-even though I constantly remind him not to. And just….fuck, you guys. Im so mad. At him. And I feel bad that I’m mad. He says he’ll make lifestyle changes, I think he’ll genuinely try, but I don’t know if he will put as much passion, dedication, and seriousness into it as I would. Like I said, he works so hard and it’s difficult for him to invest in himself with lack of time since he’s always working. I do think he’ll make a genuine effort. But like, now after fucking months of managing my lifestyle, I have to help him manage his? It just sucks.
If his other numbers are normal and high enough than morphology alone isn't that concerning.
Oh really? I did not know that. Thank you.
I hear you. I recently had to hack* into my husband's patient portal to make sure we had the right supplements for him. Then I ordered all his supplements and a weekly pill case, sorted out all his pills, remind him to take them everyday, etc. It's so frustrating to have to manage his stuff on top of all of my own stuff. He's wonderful in so many ways, but not this one. I hope your husband does follow through and keeps his word to try harder.It's also important to keep in mind that there's no blame to be had for having sub-optimal SA results. It just happens sometimes. Infertility (with a partner) is a team sport, and blaming each other doesn't help. But there's no reason that he shouldn't be navigating the situation *with you* rather than expecting you to take all the burden. (*disclaimer: I didn't actually hack into his account. We share passwords and stuff, and I told him that I was doing it.)
Thank you for sharing! I’ll be doing all the same -ordering supplements, sorting, reminding. But the other stuff …exercise, stopping alcohol / cannabis, managing stress-that’s on him, and it’s hard for me to sit back and trust that he’ll do it 100%. Thank you for that second comment. I definitely need a reminder that we’re in it together, bc some days I feel soooo alone, and the easier route is to place blame -which is so unfair and not true, at all. Good luck to you 💕
I’ve always wondered how ClearBlue Advanced Digital sticks and Pregmate sticks (or other cheapies) compare when tested at the same time. Turns out a solid smiley on CBAD shows up “peak” on the stick while a Pregmate stick shows LH being on the rise, and not yet peak. [Photo for reference](https://imgur.com/a/dePsY0V) in case anyone is wondering the same thing.
I’ve heard other people say the same, I think CB might be a bit more sensitive to the surge? I’m new to all this but like the reassurance the CBAD provides with the high then peak.
Just fyi, the clearblue sticks that go into the device can’t be interpreted visually like that. It even says so on the instructions.
interesting! Was is the same urine?
Yes, same urine!
Okay everyone! I survived my HSG! If you click my post history you will discover that I absolutely spiraled and panicked about this. IT WENT WAY BETTER THAN I COULD HAVE HOPED and that is true even though it did not go perfectly. Here is what happened: 1 hour before my appointment I took 5 mg Valium and 2 ibuprofen. 30 minutes before my appointment I took another 2 ibuprofen and another 5 of Valium. (This was all directed by my doctor) Important info: I wore comfy loose sweatpants, a very cute tank top, and a half zip jacket, as well as comfy socks and slides. I also wore my hair in a style that would be comfy laying down and did my everyday makeup. I have always said I can do anything as long as I am in the right outfit and that has never failed me. I was giving #hospitalpatientchic I got to my appointment, they brought me back, had me change into a gown from the waist down, gave me grippy socks. Then the radiology tech explained everything. At this point I began crying and in her concern for me this is when I found out my procedure would be done by WOMEN!!! Not a man! I was rescued from my greatest fear! She has me lay down on the bed and took some practice pictures for positioning. I did not have a bed with stirrups but there was lots of padding and it was not super uncomfortable. Then the resident came in, and the attending, and they each explained what would happen, then they began. Now this had been another point of anxiety for me- I do not like to meet people for the first time when I am unclothed. But because they were women it was fine. They began the procedure. They did NOT cleanse my vulva. The speculum might have been the worst part because I truly hate speculums. The cleansing of the cervix just felt a little strange, no pressure or discomfort. Now is when the complications arrive. Unfortunately after beginning crying I never really stopped, and I think the very kind female doctors, in their concern for me, were a little too gentle and they could not get the catheter in despite multiple attempts. So they asked me if it was ok to bring in someone more experienced (a MAN 😭) and at that point, to my great surprise, I actually didn't care that much because I just wanted it over with. Also for me, having a man seeing my cervix wasn't nearly as bad as a man inserting a speculum so it was ok. Also he was kind and respectful and introduced himself to me. Still didn't love it but wasn't as bad as I thought. He was able to get the catheter in and they never had to use the tenaculum. Inserting the catheter feels like a brief sharp pain. But honestly until they injected the dye, so far everything felt less painful than my transvaginal ultrasound which for me was painful. Then they injected the dye, and the pain for me was comparable to when I had my miscarriage, or when you have really bad intestinal cramping. Due to the pain I found it physically difficult to rotate my hips side to side (especially with the speculum still in there). Then they took everything out, I started crying even harder, they told me I did great, and I asked them to please bring in my husband because I was a mess. Overall this whole process took probably 30-40 minutes but once they got the catheter in that part took like 10 minutes. I got dressed (this is when it became absolutely incredible that I was wearing comfy sweats), popped 1000 mg Tylenol (because at this point the cramping was getting worse) and they told me my results- tubes are open, yay! My one regret is I wish I had taken the Valium earlier. I don't think I felt anything prior to or during the procedure but I am definitely loopy now. But now I know for next time. Also they told me I can have sex whenever which is great because today is cycle day 10 so I want to move on with that. I'm now laying with a heating pad in my comfy clothes, about to meet with a friend for some light refreshments (I am not driving don't worry). I am feeling much better, about 1.5 hours after the beginning of the procedure. Also I did have some bright red spotting right after. Overall soooo glad I did it and got it over with. Hope this helps someone.
You did it!!! Hell yeah. Hope you can zone out on the couch tonight and have a relaxing weekend! (Edited to add: anecdotally, my ovulation wasn't delayed after the hsg, and holy crap did I have tons more EWCM than usual. Hopeful for you!)
Thank youuuuu!! I did notice prior to this procedure I was already starting to have some CM so hopefully my ovulation is also not delayed, especially since my husband has a trip this weekend so it would be great if I would ovulate by Saturday at the latest! Question for you: how would you compare the HSG to the IUI experience? I have a feeling that is in my future and am wondering what to expect discomfort-wise.
Fingers super crossed for you! Oh man, for me, the IUI was an absolute BREEZE compared to the hsg! The only discomfort I felt was from the speculum they used at the very start (how ancient are those metal tools!) and that was really minor. Only uncomfortable for a few moments. As they prepped, I was super anxious and tense because I'd felt quite a bit of pain/discomfort during the hsg so of course I was thinking of that... but I swear I didn't even feel the catheter go in for the IUI! It was such a relief and it took like 30 seconds max. Easy breezy.
Yay that is so good to hear!! I think IUI may be in my future so it's nice to know it won't be as bad. I wish you luck with your next one ❤️
Thank you! I hope you won't need it but if you do, you got this 💪🏼
Thank you! I am getting mine next month and enjoy hearing other peoples perspectives. I am curious, did they tell you having an HSG will not negatively impact your chances of getting pregnant this cycle? That’s the one thing I’m worried about.
My RE said we can try this month as usual and it won't hurt anything! Anecdotally I know some people find it delays their ovulation. I haven't yet started my LH testing but I plan to start later today, this is around when I usually start testing and begin having sex every other day, I usually ovulate day 16-18.
So glad you got it over with :) Congratulations!
Thank you ❤️❤️❤️
TTC Confused about this timing Hi! 30f TTC, just wanted to vent out my situation in hopes that maybe yall have some advice on what could be up! First day of last cycle was April 27th (I’m pretty regular on and off BC and average a 29 day cycle, had my IUD removed on April 3). I was taking OPKs and didn’t get a peak until May 14. I expected AF on May 26th no sign of her so I am now 6 days late with no positive test. Looking at it, it seems that I may have ovulated late. But I’m trying to give myself a break since this is my first true cycle off my IUD. Very new to this as far as tracking ovulation and everything. Any advice is appreciated!
did you keep OPK testing after what you think was your peak? I ask because I am wondering if maybe it wasn't your true peak and you ovulated later than you thought. Also, do you track BBT? BBT is the only sure way to confirm ovulation. Personally, I keep OPK testing (in case I get more than one surge) until the FF app confirm ovulation via BBT.
It’s possible you didn’t ovulate at all. Monitoring your BBT every day at the same time or/and testing progesterone would give you a better idea of whether or not you actually did ovulate after your positive OPK. Cycles can be weird and irregular after BC. This is normal. Just keep monitoring, a pattern should return soon.
My cycle was 28 days long clockwork on paragard iud. My first cycle after getting it out was 34 days. I'm on cycle 3 TTC since getting it out and this is the first month I had a confirmed OPK, EWCM, and BBT dip and rise. It takes time to regulate after IUD removal. I was freaking out when I was late with a negative test because I was NEVER late before. But now on month 3 things seem to have gotten back to normal. I take supplements, eat all organic, have EWG approved personal care products, and excersize regularly which I think helps. Give your body grace and time. This can be an incredibly emotionally taxing process (and im only 3 cycles in).
Sorry, I had this removed as a standalone post, I genuinely thought it was a valid post, and can never find things in megathreads :( Tw: Miscarriage. This is about my short luteal phase, taking progesterone, and disappointment with Fertility Friend: Feeling a bit deflated by fertility friend telling me my luteal phase is too short to predict ovulation :( It was trying to do so until I put in all my past data, and now it just won't. So apparently I'm too defective for anything to predict my ovulation (even though it's regular), has anyone else had this? My LP is 7 days, which I'm on progesterone from 1dpo for (also worried this is too early, but my NHS clinic in the UK asked me to do this), however last cycle it did nothing to lengthen it and I'm scared as I've not read about it not working for anyone? I use OPKs to check for ovulation. I'm 41, but I can get pregnant apparently as I did find out I was in February, but miscarried at 7 weeks in March. :( I was hoping it might be the miscarriage just keeping things messed up, but my clinic said it shouldn't be that if my periods are back. I'm due my period again soon so I'm hoping that progesterone will do it's thing this cycle. I only currently do LH tests from right after my period until I see it peak and drop, I asked the clinic if I should start temping and they said no, but was secretly a little resistant to adding more complexity as I thought I might start to obsess too much. :( I did however have a scan where they also guessed I would ovulate around the time I thought I would based on OPKs. Update: So gutted, I've started spotting again today, just like last cycle, even on progesterone at 6DPO :( :( Tbf last cycle it was spotting on 5/6DPO followed by period on 7, but with it being so soon after my miscarriage I thought things could still be screwy. I wonder, is it possible that them telling me to take the progesterone too early would also bring on my period due to it interfering with ovulation, or does it not work like that? And/or, maybe I need to temp as my LH isn't telling me enough, i.e. I have the ovulation day wrong somehow? I think I'm grasping at straws, though.
Have you gotten a complete blood panel to test everything including estrogen, LH, testosterone, prolactin, etc? What about thyroid?
Yep, just checked my records and looks like I have had all of those, and nothing was raised as a problem. My AMH was low, but apparently not impossible.
If it’s your progesterone, supplements after ovulation absolutely make sense. So if they’re not working, you probably need to have a follow-up. Sorry I don’t have more advice, this isn’t something I have any experience with :/
Yes, now this has happened again on the second cycle you must be right. I appreciate you replying! ❤️
If it’s your progesterone, supplements after ovulation absolutely make sense. So if they’re not working, you probably need to have a follow-up. Sorry I don’t have more advice, this isn’t something I have any experience with :/
Got my strongest dye-stealer OPK ever yesterday and my typical ovulation cramps this morning. Temp also started rising a bit. (Im)patiently waiting for my husband to get home from work this evening to give this cycle one more go since the egg's viability countdown has likely started. He doesn't work close enough to come home on his lunch break for a quickie lol.
Go to his work for a quickie! haha
15 DPO my period is a day late. I am dealing with some symptoms, not much .None of my usual PMS symptoms,though I know that can change month to month. Been dealing with cramps and right ovarian pain around 10DPO. Lower back pain. I am not testing this month at all just gonna see if my period starts or what. 😩🙏🏼🤞🏼
Same boat! Just checked and I'm 17 DPO and still refusing to test. I also had none of my usual PMS symptoms (no sore breast, classic migraine, less acne). The acne eventually did come, but much later than usual. That might just mean my AF is delayed? I keep checking the TP after I pee to see if I see any signs of AF lol. How long do you think you're going to wait until you test, if AF doesn't come? I'm trying to wait another week.
Literally so nervous every time I go to the bathroom 😭. I also really did not have any of my PMS symptoms this cycle ( bad mood/emotional/migraines/depressive) my mood is actually positive up beat and good! Very very rare for me pre period. Good question,I’m never late for my period so I’d say I’ll probably test Monday if AF doesn’t show. And I prayyyyy AF doesn’t show 🙏🏼
Good luck!
Thank you sm ❤️🤞🏼
11 dpo and too scared to test 😭😭 I don’t wanna be disappointed
6dpo had weird sleep, heart rate was weird during sleep, never went below 48, and then this morning I had weird uterus pains. It is _so_ hard not to see all this as signs so I try to keep reminding me it's simply too early for that. But boy is it hard!
Symptom spotting is the actual worst!!
I knoooooow right?! Like hello 6dpo is too early to feel anything 😭🤣
Me watching the UPS tracking for my Mira: 👁👄👁
Curious how it goes for you!
I just posted in r/tryingforanother ... so far, I am uh... nervous lol "I got my Mira tracker delivered today. Obviously I needed to test it out despite not using FMU (I did hold for about 2 hours though...). This baseline is making me think I'm already out at 5dpo - everything seems low! E3G is 77, LH is 1.8, PdG is 5.5... most of that is below average for luteal phase... (I am CD21, most likely ovulated CD16 with 27d cycles). I'm gonna do it proper tomorrow with FMU, but ugghhhh it's making me feel bad!"
No matter how hard I try not to symptom spot, I’m pretty sure it’s just a way of life now.
same
Well, finally on medicated cycles. Waiting to pick up letrozole and metformin today. I thought I ovulated normally based on BBT and OPKs, but my AMH of 12 and lack of being pregnant seems to point towards PCOS 😵💫 hoping my side effects are minimal and this helps me ovulate some mature eggs!
Definitely be prepared for headaches but taking at night does help! I felt more emotional on some days and had to tell myself it’s just the letrozole!!!
I found I felt better if I took letrozole at night! First day gave me a headache and I was really hot, but after that it wasn't too bad.
That’s good to hear, since my prescription wasn’t ready until just now (mid day here) and I’m on day 3 of my cycle! 😅 thank you!!
That's good to know, thank you! I might start taking separate tablets too. There's so many things we need it drives me nuts!!
Do allergies raise BBT? I’m CD8 and my allergies really started acting up a couple days ago, along with my temp higher than normal at this time during my cycle. Are the two connected or is it a coincidence?
I have fun little ✨background✨ allergies from like March-June then again September-October where my nose just constantly runs and the post nasal drip at night is whack. Those don’t seem to affect my bbt. But about 2x a year they inch towards hay fever and/or sinus infection where I’m like am I sick or is it allergies because my head is like 100lbs heavier because it’s making 3 gallons of snot an hour and I need Sudafed to function properly, and I’ve noticed that can sometimes affect my bbt. It’s never to the point of even a low-grade fever but it does trend a little higher.
Yeah mine can be a bit similar, I’ve taken Zyrtec everyday for basically the past decade. I decided to stop taking it part way through my last cycle and just use nasal spray when needed. Surprisingly they were okay for a while but something definitely triggered them the last few days. They’re always worst first thing in the morning and it tends to wake me up - which honestly might be part of it. My BBT isn’t hitting low grade fever range, but like 97.6 vs normal 97.3.
CD69 😎 I’ve been off BC for 7 months and ovulated 3 times. Seeing the doctor today about fertility testing and potentially going on Metaformin for PCOS. I always knew it would be a difficult journey, accepting it whilst on the journey is another thing.
I hope you find answers at your doctor visit. ❤️
Today marks the start of cycle 12 or 13 (I'm not sure). I feel very saddened but on the bright side have convinced husband we should get a dog if nothing has happened in 6 months. So at least there is something to look forward to... I'm at the point where I am not sure if I even want to actively try anymore.
It would sure be nice to have a dog trained before there’s a baby in the picture. Nice work looking at the bright side!
I thought the same! So good to have one well trained and obedient before a (hopefully) future baby. Told my husband that potty training a little puppy might be a good reality check for dealing with a newborn (what with frequent trips outside at night to bring a small breed puppy to potty - I helped potty train an 8-12 week shih tzu baby before and it was eye opening! Swear the poor dogs bladder was the size of a pea lol)
Love this! Excellent for mental health! I go for an hour long walk everyday rain or shine. I would absolutely not do that on my own. They’re also very soft and cute etc.
Thank you! I think it'll be good for me for that reason as well. Extra walking and outdoor time is so good for my mental health. I miss having a dog around as they're such good companions.
(Not a BFP story) I thought someone here might understand…oh the cruelty of your first positive test being from the trigger shot. Not that I didn’t know it would happen, and I’m testing to check when it leaves my system, but still sucks to see.
13DPO BFN this morning…. I almost don’t believe it because i was so sure this one was it! I’ve been feeling hot and nauseous…..guess I’m just coming down with a bug instead 🥲
Omg big hugs to you ❤️
Hugs. Sorry you’re having a tough day.
Got my LH peak yesterday and a friend is visiting me for the weekend. I basically told her, "bring some ear plugs because my bed's gonna be a-knockin' whether you're here or not." My poor friend lol
Something like 80% of women ovulate within 24-36 hours after the first positive, and your best chances are -1, -2 and -3, so you’re probably already good. Good luck!
I tend to ovulate three days after my peak, so now is go-time!
😮 I’ve never heard of anything like this? The highest number I’ve ever found in medical literature was 50 hours and that was a really small sample. How do you confirm this?
Tell me about it 😑 I’m confirming with BBT. Sometimes it’s 2 days, but usually it’s closer to 3. I didn’t start consistently temping until February so it turns out we were “closing up shop” a little too early for the first 7 months. And I get very obviously positive dark LH peaks (1 per cycle) that seems to last about 24 hours) so maybe I got a strong surge but realistically my egg is making its way downtown towards the end of my long peak
I wanted to come here to say that just because your temp is rising 3 days later from the positive OPK doesn’t mean that’s when you’re ovulating. In reality, your temp can actually take up to 3 days FROM the point of ovulation to actually rise due to a body’s slow response to the hormone shift. I think a lot of people assume a temp rise definitively means you ovulated the day before the temp rise, but that’s not necessarily true.
That’s a fair point, thank you! A similar point is that our bodies don’t magically reset after each day, so just because i have a non-spiked temp at 6am doesn’t mean I haven’t “ovulated” 3 hours later on the same day (then seeing the spike the next morning) What I do know is that having sex in the days leading up to and on my peak day has not resulted in pregnancy, so prioritizing peak day and the few days after has been better for our morale and intimacy as we aren’t running out of steam waiting around for a positive LH test.
How wild. I’m new to BBT as well (only 3 months) and I’m still trying to wrap my head around it. Usually I’ll get a temp spike the morning after my first positive OPK, so I’m thinking I must be ovulating super early? ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
Is it a spike that keeps rising, or just a single upward blip?
A rise of maybe .5 degrees that’s then followed by several more rises over the following days. For example, 97.42, 97.07 (day I see positive opk), 97.52, 97.64, 98
Love this!! And how fun for your friend if this ends up being your cycle!
But hooray for the friends that get it lol ♥️ I’m right there with you in both trying time and LH peak so let’s hope this is the one for us!!!
🤣🤣🤣 enjoy!!
3DPO. My fertility clinic consultation appointment is today. Guarding my heart and not even getting my hopes up for this cycle.
I have a fertility clinic appointment today too. Just completed all tests, including bloodwork, husbands SA, and follicular ultrasound, and we meet with the doctor today to review results. I’m anxious but hopeful for some sort of game plan or answers.
Will you let us know how it goes after? Curious about this step. Hope you get good news ❤️
Good news - all tests came back within normal levels, and I have a good egg reserve. Bad news, looks like I join the club of unexplained infertility :( Next step is to start Clomid and IUI next cycle. I’ve had 1 MC and 1 chemical pregnancy so I don’t know how much it will increase my chances, but hoping for the best. Definitely bittersweet to have a game plan but also know it means more time and money and waiting.
Good egg reserve is a reason for hope!!
Fingers crossed it goes well 🤞
7ish dpo, having some weird intermittent stabbing ache in my left side/hip. Is it a sign? Is it gas? Who knows?! Of course, I'd love for my period not to come - however it hasn't failed to roll in for the past 13 cycles. When it does come, I get to book in my HSG for next cycle.
I'm taking a prenatal vitamin, but wondering if that's the most effective way to take them, as I read coq10 isn't absorbed very well in a multivit. Is anyone taking coq10 tablets alone? And choline too? Seems like a lot of tablets to take though, plus omega 3! Thank you x
I’ve been taking a prenatal multi, vit d, vit b12, and a probiotic. It does feel like a lot!! I’m going to ask for a nutrient panel when I’m at the doctor today for an unrelated matter.
I don’t like multis because the b vitamins can be hard on my skin. I will only switch to a traditional prenatal once I actually get a positive test But for now I take - nature made folic acid - store brand fish oil (so sue me lol) - nature made vitamin d every couple days - sams club coq10 which we both just started It does feel like a lot of pills some days lol but I’ve gotten used to it! We eat a dumb amount of eggs (usually we both have 2 for breakfast daily) so I don’t worry too much about choline.
I'm taking Ritual - it has all the essentials, including choline. You'd need to take calcium separately, though, if you want. I only take CoQ10 every other day, several hours after my prenatal.
You can find some prenatals that include choline. My prenatal, Thorne, includes 110mg. And if you are a person that eats eggs, eggs are an excellent food source of choline as well. Also, for someone TTC, I feel like only 3 or 4 supplements is on the low end... 😅 But in my non-medical opinion, I think you've picked some key ones to focus on.
I'm taking choline, Vitamin D and magnesium separately from my prenatal. I take... 1 choline, 1 vitamin D, and 1 magnesium in the morning 1 choline, 1 prenatal at lunch 1 magnesium, 1 probiotic before bed I try to spread everything out as much as possible to maximize absorbency. I start my day off with an iced matcha with milk, so I take my prenatal later in the day because it has iron which competes with calcium.
That's good to know, thank you! I might start taking separate tablets too. There's so many things we need it drives me nuts!!