So, we sat down with the RE yesterday

She ended up calling back on Monday, late afternoon, and asked us to come in yesterday at 11am. This was with my regular doctor, not the other woman.

I came in armed with all my questions, and she addressed each, one by one. First, the endometrioma, she said it does indicate that I have endometriosis, but because the cyst is so small, she doesn't think it's that severe, and that the research shows a nebulous link between infertility and endometriosis. She said they can do a laparscopy to determine exactly how extensive it is, but doesn't want to put me through the procedure until we've tried a few more months.

Second, for the TSH levels, she said that each lab maintains it's own guidelines. The lab that analyzed my bloodwork uses the guidelines of .5-4.5. She said, despite, my levels are elevated, and that's why she's having me go back in next week to be retested and if it's still elevated, she's going to prescribe medication. But, she said, again, she doesn't think this is the main factor in why we aren't getting pregnant.

What worries her most is the results of both post-coitals. Both were done within a day or two before I ovulated, and with both, while Dh's sperm were numerous, and I had substantial CM, the sperm weren't moving. She can't determine yet if it's a problem with my CM being to thick, or if it's an issue with Dh's sperm, so he's getting the SA this week. I asked about natural remedies like Robitussin and she said I can certainly try, but it really doesn't appear to help.

She asked why we were so opposed to IUI and I said I just don't think I'm mentally ready to take that step yet. She said that she's here to help us, and will only go as far as we're comfortable, and that we have to direct her to what we want to do.

So, Dh and I have decided to try for 4 months on our own with charting and the CBEFM, pre-seed, robitussin and evening primrose oil. If nothing happens, we'll move on to IUI, but, without Clomid.

I'm just so unbelievably upset - I feel like my whole world is reeling and I can't find my grounding anymore. I know that I should be happy and really thankful that I was able to have Alex with very little problems, but I just can't focus on that right now. All I feel is this terrible pit in my stomach that I may not be able to have another child, and it's just gnawing and gnawing at me.

Any tips on how to deal with these emotions?

Re: So, we sat down with the RE yesterday

I'm glad you were able to get your questions answered. I think if you give it all a little time to sink in you'll come around to the idea of IUI. It's a big step to jump into the world of artificial technology, but with your post-coital results you have an idea of what might work for you. Best of luck on your journey, you're on the right path to giving your child a sibling

Re: So, we sat down with the RE yesterday

There is a book titled Inconcievable and it is about a woman's journey with secondary infertility. She had elevated FSH levels but dealt with it through diet.

Have you considered seeing an accupunturist who is also an herbalist? There may just be something out of wack that can be easily adjusted with diet and herbs!

Good Luck!!!!!!

Re: So, we sat down with the RE yesterday

I think you are right to take your time and try other things before you move onto IUIs and other invasive procedures. You have to be mentally ready to take that on. Sometimes doctors don't understand that.

I also found that changing my diet and acupuncture was very helpful too. There are several books on the subject. Send me FM if you are interested.

Good luck to you!

Message edited 12/12/2007 9:29:46 AM.

Re: So, we sat down with the RE yesterday

I think you need to take time to let this settle in.. you may be getting ahead of yourself... remember the Dr's are only trying to get you to your end point ASAP.. that doesn't mean you have to follow that protocol.. As far as dealing with these feelings.. I think you are at the beginning stages of this journey and are probably in shock right now...that is why it feels so overwhelming… it will settle and you will than pick yourself up and do what you have to, to get pregnant. Also yes you very lucky that you have a child, and that you have been pregnant before.. Focus on the good!

Best of luck.

Re: So, we sat down with the RE yesterday

Glad to hear you have a plan you are comfortable with...all the best to you and much

Re: So, we sat down with the RE yesterday

I know how hard it can be to realize you need help having children. A few weeks ago I was a mess for days knowing that I have to be inseminated with DH's semen in order to get pregnant. That coupled with the fact that i have to inject myself with medication nearly sent me over the edge. However, I took some time, talked to DH and we came up with a plan we're comfortable with. As long as you're comfortable trying a little while and the doctor is behind you, that is great.

I wish you lots of luck!!