This little cutie turned 1 on October 7. She had a cute candy themed party. Her outfit even matches!
Camryn sneaking her some candy
Hard to believe it's already been a year!
Showing posts with label surrogacy. Show all posts
Showing posts with label surrogacy. Show all posts
Tuesday, November 26, 2013
Thursday, April 11, 2013
grow·ing
Verb
(of a living thing) Undergo natural development by increasing in size and changing physically; progress to maturity
So I'm a little behind in my days and I'm trying to catch up today to get back on track. And I also thought I would combine the letter G with a post-surrogacy update.
This little girl is 6 months old already! And I may be a little biased but I think she is the cutest surro-baby ever. She is sitting up on her own and starting to say DaDa. She is growing up too fast.
As are these little (not so little anymore) girls. Avery is 10 and is involved in Girls on the Run this year, she has training 2 days a week and she will be running her first 5K in May. I am hoping this will spark her interest in track. Camryn is 7 and is doing Folk Dance after school. They are growing up too fast too!
(of a living thing) Undergo natural development by increasing in size and changing physically; progress to maturity
So I'm a little behind in my days and I'm trying to catch up today to get back on track. And I also thought I would combine the letter G with a post-surrogacy update.
This little girl is 6 months old already! And I may be a little biased but I think she is the cutest surro-baby ever. She is sitting up on her own and starting to say DaDa. She is growing up too fast.
As are these little (not so little anymore) girls. Avery is 10 and is involved in Girls on the Run this year, she has training 2 days a week and she will be running her first 5K in May. I am hoping this will spark her interest in track. Camryn is 7 and is doing Folk Dance after school. They are growing up too fast too!
Wednesday, November 7, 2012
Life After Surrogacy: 1 Month Later
It has officially been one month since little Hadleigh was born, so I thought I would update how things are going here.
As far as physically, I am glad to have my body back. I can get out of bed easily again, it doesn't take me 10 minutes to roll over and I'm not up 4 times a night to use the bathroom. LOL. I have about 25 lbs to go to get back to my pre-surrogacy weight. I'm not going to say pre-pregnancy because I had gained weight during the hormone/shots phase of the process. It was pretty shocking to get on the scale at my very last OB appointment and see that I was over 200 lbs. 205 to be exact *gasp*, and I had tried really hard to not gain too much weight. I had gained about the same with my previous two pregnancies as well. But I've lost 30 already and I have started exercising again and watching what I eat, and I feel confident I can lose those extra 25.
Emotionally, I am doing great. I've had several people ask if I miss her and I don't really. For the first week or two I did feel a little "lost", I guess would be the best word to describe it. I felt like my "job" was over. My job of protecting her and keeping her healthy for 9 months was over. But it wasn't a feeling of sadness that I didn't have a baby here with me. I also was taking it easy and trying not to do too much right away, so I think not having much to do didn't help either. But now that I am back into my own routine, things are going really well.
We have already taken a day trip to visit with them and have plans to get together again soon, it's so nice that we are not too far away from each other.
As far as physically, I am glad to have my body back. I can get out of bed easily again, it doesn't take me 10 minutes to roll over and I'm not up 4 times a night to use the bathroom. LOL. I have about 25 lbs to go to get back to my pre-surrogacy weight. I'm not going to say pre-pregnancy because I had gained weight during the hormone/shots phase of the process. It was pretty shocking to get on the scale at my very last OB appointment and see that I was over 200 lbs. 205 to be exact *gasp*, and I had tried really hard to not gain too much weight. I had gained about the same with my previous two pregnancies as well. But I've lost 30 already and I have started exercising again and watching what I eat, and I feel confident I can lose those extra 25.
Emotionally, I am doing great. I've had several people ask if I miss her and I don't really. For the first week or two I did feel a little "lost", I guess would be the best word to describe it. I felt like my "job" was over. My job of protecting her and keeping her healthy for 9 months was over. But it wasn't a feeling of sadness that I didn't have a baby here with me. I also was taking it easy and trying not to do too much right away, so I think not having much to do didn't help either. But now that I am back into my own routine, things are going really well.
We have already taken a day trip to visit with them and have plans to get together again soon, it's so nice that we are not too far away from each other.
Friday, October 12, 2012
Another Perspective: Thoughts from an Intended Mom
I'm not sure that I will ever have the right words to describe mine nor Johns appreciation for Sara's selfless act. I've often asked myself if I would be able to make the same sacrifice that she has made and it always comes back unanswered.
John had mentioned that one of the many professionals that helped us along the way had predicted tension between Sara and I. She said that we should expect that I would at some point resent the fact that she was carrying my child. It was the complete opposite. I was at ease that she was carrying our baby girl and Sara made sure to involve me in anyway possible. I never once worried that she wouldn't go above and beyond to do everything in her power to protect our child as she would her own. I admired her strength and her excitement to give us a family.
The day that Hadleigh Kate made her grand appearance in this world, will be a memory that is etched into my heart forever. When we got the phone call from Sara saying her water had broke, it all began to feel so real. I don't think I or John Clay stopped smiling the entire drive to Cincy. When we arrived I could tell that Sara and Jesse were just as excited as we were. So, for the next few hours, the four of us just got to hang out. We talked and laughed and just had time together. She would get through another contraction and then sit through the round of questions we had to try to understand her pain. She truly shared her pregnancy with me and I am so grateful.
Even though we all asked Sara if she was getting uncomfortable, she tried to hide the contractions were increasing in intensity. Finally around 6:00 am we went to the hospital to have her checked.
Contractions continued and Sara's facial expressions said it all. It was time for the epidural. Even then, Sara asked me what I thought she should do? I agreed that she should get it. I wanted to take away her pain. I think more so than ever I realized how much Sara truly wanted this to be our experience.
When the midwife came to check her for the last time, we had all assumed her labor had progressed, but not to 10 cm already. When they announced that it was time for her to start pushing, I was overwhelmed. Overwhelmed with joy. As they were prepping her for delivery I fought back tears to get ready for our miracle. I looked at John Clay and he too was already emotional. I got to watch the birth of my daughter and that is a feeling I cannot describe.
People ask how we found Sara. Months before we decided that we would use a gestational surrogate, I prayed. I prayed that Gods will be done and that He would grant the desires of my heart. God brought us an angel and an answer to our prayers. Not only did he fulfill our desires but he gave our little girl family that will be a part of her life for as long as they will allow. We love Jesse, Sara, Avery and Camryn and I know that our Hadleigh will share that love too. Thank you, thank you, thank you.
John had mentioned that one of the many professionals that helped us along the way had predicted tension between Sara and I. She said that we should expect that I would at some point resent the fact that she was carrying my child. It was the complete opposite. I was at ease that she was carrying our baby girl and Sara made sure to involve me in anyway possible. I never once worried that she wouldn't go above and beyond to do everything in her power to protect our child as she would her own. I admired her strength and her excitement to give us a family.
The day that Hadleigh Kate made her grand appearance in this world, will be a memory that is etched into my heart forever. When we got the phone call from Sara saying her water had broke, it all began to feel so real. I don't think I or John Clay stopped smiling the entire drive to Cincy. When we arrived I could tell that Sara and Jesse were just as excited as we were. So, for the next few hours, the four of us just got to hang out. We talked and laughed and just had time together. She would get through another contraction and then sit through the round of questions we had to try to understand her pain. She truly shared her pregnancy with me and I am so grateful.
Even though we all asked Sara if she was getting uncomfortable, she tried to hide the contractions were increasing in intensity. Finally around 6:00 am we went to the hospital to have her checked.
Contractions continued and Sara's facial expressions said it all. It was time for the epidural. Even then, Sara asked me what I thought she should do? I agreed that she should get it. I wanted to take away her pain. I think more so than ever I realized how much Sara truly wanted this to be our experience.
When the midwife came to check her for the last time, we had all assumed her labor had progressed, but not to 10 cm already. When they announced that it was time for her to start pushing, I was overwhelmed. Overwhelmed with joy. As they were prepping her for delivery I fought back tears to get ready for our miracle. I looked at John Clay and he too was already emotional. I got to watch the birth of my daughter and that is a feeling I cannot describe.
People ask how we found Sara. Months before we decided that we would use a gestational surrogate, I prayed. I prayed that Gods will be done and that He would grant the desires of my heart. God brought us an angel and an answer to our prayers. Not only did he fulfill our desires but he gave our little girl family that will be a part of her life for as long as they will allow. We love Jesse, Sara, Avery and Camryn and I know that our Hadleigh will share that love too. Thank you, thank you, thank you.
Wednesday, October 10, 2012
Birth Story and Thoughts
This will probably get long and I'm going to try to remember all the details.
When we started going to the weekly appointments our OB kept asking about inducing for convenience purposes. At first we all said that we didn't want to induce but the more we thought about it, we thought it sounded like a good plan so that we could arrange everything so the grandparents would be able to come down, and I could have a plan as to who would get my kids on or off the school bus and where they would stay if labor lasted over night. After talking about it we finally agreed and scheduled it for Friday the 5th when the OB we liked would be on call. I made my last OB appt for Thursday afternoon and IM came down for that appt and then IF and all the grandparents came down later in the evening. We all met for dinner that night and had a great time.
Friday at 4am we all show up to the hospital and start to head up to the maternity floor when we are called back. The charge nurse wanted to talk to me. Apparently they had tried to call my cell at midnight (though I had no missed calls) to tell me that they were running behind and our scheduled induction was being moved up several hours. They had a ton of woman in labor on Thursday night and hadn't even gotten to the scheduled inductions from that night, they were all pushed up to Friday morning and we were bumped back now too. Jesse and I headed home to try to get some sleep and IPs and family head back to hotel to sleep. We were told to either wait for them to call so we could come back or to call by 10am and see what the status was. We met for breakfast at 8:30 and I called back after we ate. I was told they couldn't give me a time frame at all now and to just wait. We headed back to IP's hotel room and hung out trying to pass the time. Around 9:45am the OB called to say they were just canceling us. They had gotten too far behind. Needless to say we were all upset. IPs had paid for a hotel room for nothing and now they had to leave with empty hands when we were all expecting for baby to be born that day.
Since they don't do elective inductions on the weekend our only option was to reschedule on Monday at the other bigger hospital or Tuesday at the hospital we were planning on delivering at, so they put us on for both days in case the same thing happened on Monday. But the grandparents all thought that I would go into labor on my own over the weekend. I wasn't convinced at all as I had been 1cm for 4 weeks with no change and at a -3 station, she was really high up and not moving down.
On Saturday, I went to Target and bought one of those exercise balls and literally sat on that thing and bounced all afternoon and all evening. We went to bed Saturday night and around 12:30am (Sunday) woke up to a little gush and quickly got out of bed. I had a feeling this was my water breaking, but didn't want to get too excited yet. I laid back down and about 10 minutes later got another feeling and I made it out of bed and to the bathroom and water was running down my legs this time. I literally started laughing and woke Jesse up and told him my water broke. This had been a running joke in our house for a few days now, every time I would wake up in the middle of the night to use the bathroom, Jesse would ask me if my water broke, and every time I would tell him to go back to sleep.
I called IM to let them know what was going on and then called the OB office. I was told to wait for contractions to start and if they hadn't by 8am to just head to the hospital. IP's decided to pack up and head our way and got here around 3am. We timed contractions together, paced, the guys slept off and on and chatted. I really actually enjoyed that time that the four of us had together to just sit quietly and experience that together. I was starting to feel the contractions an hour before IPs got here. They never really got regular though and were anywhere from 4 mins-7 mins apart and not lasting very long. Around 6am I called OB again and was told to just come in.
Got checked out and found out that I was 3cm now. We all got settled into the delivery room, IV was started and the monitors were placed. They weren't going to start pitocin yet, and said they would check me again in 2 hrs to see if anything was happening. The next time they checked I was 4cm and had decided to just get the epidural because if they were going to do pitocin I would rather get the epidural before the pitocin. I think I was 4cm around 9:30am, a small amount of pitocin was started and when the midwife showed up around 1:45pm and checked me I was complete. After a few pushes she was born at 2:02pm. We were all pretty surprised with how big she was.
I don't think this whole experience could have gone any more perfect than it did. I've had a lot of people ask how I am feeling, how it felt to "give the baby up", the social worker at the hospital seemed really concerned too with how I was feeling (of course that is her job). I will say that right after she was born and she was put up on my stomach she felt like a stranger, not in a bad way, it was nice to see who was kicking me all this time, but I didn't have a real emotional connection to her. I didn't have the urge to want to touch her or put my arms around her, like I did when my own girls were born. It just felt good to see her with her parents finally. I did finally hold her after all the grandparents had come in and held her. I don't feel at all like I "gave up" a baby. She was never mine. Being in the hospital, it felt like I was there visiting with a friend's newborn even though I was also a patient.
When we started going to the weekly appointments our OB kept asking about inducing for convenience purposes. At first we all said that we didn't want to induce but the more we thought about it, we thought it sounded like a good plan so that we could arrange everything so the grandparents would be able to come down, and I could have a plan as to who would get my kids on or off the school bus and where they would stay if labor lasted over night. After talking about it we finally agreed and scheduled it for Friday the 5th when the OB we liked would be on call. I made my last OB appt for Thursday afternoon and IM came down for that appt and then IF and all the grandparents came down later in the evening. We all met for dinner that night and had a great time.
Friday at 4am we all show up to the hospital and start to head up to the maternity floor when we are called back. The charge nurse wanted to talk to me. Apparently they had tried to call my cell at midnight (though I had no missed calls) to tell me that they were running behind and our scheduled induction was being moved up several hours. They had a ton of woman in labor on Thursday night and hadn't even gotten to the scheduled inductions from that night, they were all pushed up to Friday morning and we were bumped back now too. Jesse and I headed home to try to get some sleep and IPs and family head back to hotel to sleep. We were told to either wait for them to call so we could come back or to call by 10am and see what the status was. We met for breakfast at 8:30 and I called back after we ate. I was told they couldn't give me a time frame at all now and to just wait. We headed back to IP's hotel room and hung out trying to pass the time. Around 9:45am the OB called to say they were just canceling us. They had gotten too far behind. Needless to say we were all upset. IPs had paid for a hotel room for nothing and now they had to leave with empty hands when we were all expecting for baby to be born that day.
Since they don't do elective inductions on the weekend our only option was to reschedule on Monday at the other bigger hospital or Tuesday at the hospital we were planning on delivering at, so they put us on for both days in case the same thing happened on Monday. But the grandparents all thought that I would go into labor on my own over the weekend. I wasn't convinced at all as I had been 1cm for 4 weeks with no change and at a -3 station, she was really high up and not moving down.
On Saturday, I went to Target and bought one of those exercise balls and literally sat on that thing and bounced all afternoon and all evening. We went to bed Saturday night and around 12:30am (Sunday) woke up to a little gush and quickly got out of bed. I had a feeling this was my water breaking, but didn't want to get too excited yet. I laid back down and about 10 minutes later got another feeling and I made it out of bed and to the bathroom and water was running down my legs this time. I literally started laughing and woke Jesse up and told him my water broke. This had been a running joke in our house for a few days now, every time I would wake up in the middle of the night to use the bathroom, Jesse would ask me if my water broke, and every time I would tell him to go back to sleep.
I called IM to let them know what was going on and then called the OB office. I was told to wait for contractions to start and if they hadn't by 8am to just head to the hospital. IP's decided to pack up and head our way and got here around 3am. We timed contractions together, paced, the guys slept off and on and chatted. I really actually enjoyed that time that the four of us had together to just sit quietly and experience that together. I was starting to feel the contractions an hour before IPs got here. They never really got regular though and were anywhere from 4 mins-7 mins apart and not lasting very long. Around 6am I called OB again and was told to just come in.
Got checked out and found out that I was 3cm now. We all got settled into the delivery room, IV was started and the monitors were placed. They weren't going to start pitocin yet, and said they would check me again in 2 hrs to see if anything was happening. The next time they checked I was 4cm and had decided to just get the epidural because if they were going to do pitocin I would rather get the epidural before the pitocin. I think I was 4cm around 9:30am, a small amount of pitocin was started and when the midwife showed up around 1:45pm and checked me I was complete. After a few pushes she was born at 2:02pm. We were all pretty surprised with how big she was.
I don't think this whole experience could have gone any more perfect than it did. I've had a lot of people ask how I am feeling, how it felt to "give the baby up", the social worker at the hospital seemed really concerned too with how I was feeling (of course that is her job). I will say that right after she was born and she was put up on my stomach she felt like a stranger, not in a bad way, it was nice to see who was kicking me all this time, but I didn't have a real emotional connection to her. I didn't have the urge to want to touch her or put my arms around her, like I did when my own girls were born. It just felt good to see her with her parents finally. I did finally hold her after all the grandparents had come in and held her. I don't feel at all like I "gave up" a baby. She was never mine. Being in the hospital, it felt like I was there visiting with a friend's newborn even though I was also a patient.
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| My girls with Hadleigh |
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| Right before we were released |
Tuesday, October 9, 2012
Wednesday, September 12, 2012
Ultrasounds, Baby Showers and 36 Weeks!
It's been 10 weeks since I last updated. Officially 36 weeks this week.
At the beginning of August we headed to IP's to have a 30 week 4D ultrasound done. Luckily Baby Girl cooperated and they got some really great shots of her face and her cute chubby cheeks. It will be really cool to compare the pics when she is here.
At the beginning of August we headed to IP's to have a 30 week 4D ultrasound done. Luckily Baby Girl cooperated and they got some really great shots of her face and her cute chubby cheeks. It will be really cool to compare the pics when she is here.
After the Ultrasound, we hung out at IP's for a bit until IM's baby shower. The shower was really fun, cute decorations and great food. And unfortunately I forgot to bring my camera to take some pics. Baby Hadleigh is so very much loved already. And she is going to be the best dressed baby around. :)
33 weeks
This week we had our 36 week OB appt. I am currently 1cm dilated, she is head down and she is estimated to be about 6-6 1/2 lbs. We then took a tour of the Maternity and Recovery Floors at the hospital. They have remodeled the whole floor since I was there (7 years ago!). So now we know where registration is, etc. The delivery rooms are very large and really nice. Seeing the room and the little bassinet has made this seem so "real" now and I can't believe we only have 4 weeks left (or less!)
Friday, July 20, 2012
26 Weeks+
This week I am 28 weeks along. I did the dreaded Gestational Diabetes test on Monday. Drank 50 grams of sugar and had my blood drawn an hour later. I haven't heard back from the office, so I am assuming that is good news. They said if they don't call then everything is good. My next appointment is in 3 weeks and then after that the appointments move to twice a month. Not too much longer now. IM and I were talking about how quickly it seems to be going. Nothing too exciting to report. I am feeling really good and Baby Girl is moving a ton. I think she is going to be long.
This pic was taken at 26 weeks
And now onto pics of Baby Girls's nursery! IM posted these on her facebook and said I could post them on my blog. How cute is her room!? We can't wait to see it in person. We will be visiting IP's at the beginning of August for the 4D ultrasound and IM's baby shower.
Wednesday, June 6, 2012
Lots of Updates..
It's been a very long time since I updated and I'm sorry about that..things have been busy around here.
My last update was in March, holy cow..my last update was in March!? So since that March update we've had 4 OB/GYN appts, a 3D Ultrasound to find out gender at 16 weeks, a gender reveal cookout with IP's family and the big 20 week Anatomy Scan ultrasound. Lots going on.
The OB appts have been simple and quick so far. Blood pressure, weight, urine sample, listen to heartbeat, any questions and we are on our way.
IP's wanted to have an early 3D ultrasound to find out gender at 16 weeks. On April 28th we met up with IP's for lunch where I had a few really sweet drinks in hopes of getting Baby G moving enough so we could find out gender. IP's wanted the gender sealed in an envelope. The envelope was then handed to a friend of theirs who then went to pick up the cake that would tell us all the gender. A friend of theirs had made two cakes; one with pink inside and one with blue inside, so when they cut into it we would all be surprised.
My last update was in March, holy cow..my last update was in March!? So since that March update we've had 4 OB/GYN appts, a 3D Ultrasound to find out gender at 16 weeks, a gender reveal cookout with IP's family and the big 20 week Anatomy Scan ultrasound. Lots going on.
The OB appts have been simple and quick so far. Blood pressure, weight, urine sample, listen to heartbeat, any questions and we are on our way.
IP's wanted to have an early 3D ultrasound to find out gender at 16 weeks. On April 28th we met up with IP's for lunch where I had a few really sweet drinks in hopes of getting Baby G moving enough so we could find out gender. IP's wanted the gender sealed in an envelope. The envelope was then handed to a friend of theirs who then went to pick up the cake that would tell us all the gender. A friend of theirs had made two cakes; one with pink inside and one with blue inside, so when they cut into it we would all be surprised.
"He or She, Open to See"
The girls helping IM cut into the cake
IT'S A GIRL!! IP's were so excited as was everyone else.
On May 22nd, we had the big 20 week Anatomy Scan Ultrasound. This is where they are looking at the kidneys, heart, lungs, bladder, stomach, spinal cord, arms and legs for all the bones, face, etc. Everything checked out perfect and we confirmed that she is still a little girl.
Our next appointment is June 14th and that is the dreaded Glucose test. I will have to drink this really sweet drink and wait an hour to have my blood drawn to check for Gestational Diabetes.
In other news, IP's lawyer is working on the Pre-Birth order. This will allow IP's names to go directly on the birth certificate at birth.
This pregnancy seems to be flying by, for me at least. Before we know it, it will be October and IP's will finally get to hold their precious little girl.
Wednesday, March 28, 2012
10/10/12
On March 12, we went back to the RE for another ultrasound and another blood draw. They were checking my progesterone and estrogen levels to see if I could start cutting back on the medications. During the ultrasound we were able to see legs and arms and the heartrate was 162 bpm. I couldn't believe the difference in just a few weeks. We got the official due date of 10/10/12. And I was released to my regular OB. My first OB appt is Friday the 30th and we are hoping to head to the zoo after if the weather cooperates.
After the appointment I got the phone call that I could stop the shots! No more PIO shots! And my other meds were decreasing. I was to take the estrogen for another 14 days and then stop. The Prometrium capsules 3x a day for 1 week, then down to 2x a day for a week and then 1x a day for a week and then stop. Currently I am down to 1x a day, with my last dose on April 1.
And according to this ticker, Baby G is the size of a plum!
After the appointment I got the phone call that I could stop the shots! No more PIO shots! And my other meds were decreasing. I was to take the estrogen for another 14 days and then stop. The Prometrium capsules 3x a day for 1 week, then down to 2x a day for a week and then 1x a day for a week and then stop. Currently I am down to 1x a day, with my last dose on April 1.
And according to this ticker, Baby G is the size of a plum!
Thursday, February 23, 2012
Testing
At about 4dp5dt (4 days past a 5 day transfer) I started taking the 50 Hcg test strips I had gotten off of eBay. And to my surprise I got a super faint line. I could see the line, but I wasn't sure if I was just making myself think I saw one. I took a ton of pictures of it and sent it to IM to see if she could see it. (It's hard to see in the pic)
I took some more tests at 4.5dp5dt and got a line that I thought was darker.
I sent all these pics to the IP's and also had my friends analyze them with me. On Saturday I took a digital and got a definite answer!
I took some more tests at 4.5dp5dt and got a line that I thought was darker.
I sent all these pics to the IP's and also had my friends analyze them with me. On Saturday I took a digital and got a definite answer!
Progression of tests, line getting darker
On February 3, I went and had my blood drawn for my first beta. The nurse called back and my number was 543 which I am told was very good. I went back again on Monday the 6th and my number was 2,111. These were all very good signs. We started wondering if it was twins or just one.
On February 20th, we went in for the Ultrasound. IP's and IF's parents came to the appointment. IP's went back with us. We were all so anxious to see how many and to see the heartbeat. We were able to see 1 little bean and 1 perfect heartbeat.
The baby is the solid bean shape :)
IF's parents got the girls this book about surrogacy. It is really cute and I read it to them when I got home.
IP's also totally spoiled me and gave me a huge bag full of snacks that would help with the all day nauseous feeling that I've been having lately. And IF's parents gave me a little gift basket with some lotion and body wash and lots of jolly ranchers!
IF's mom also embroidered this cute little stork and framed it and gave it me. So thoughtful and cute!
My meds have decreased from Estrogen 3x a day to 2x a day and my PIO has decreased to 1ml instead of 2ml. I also started Prometrium which is another type of progesterone. I go back on March 12 for another ultrasound and another blood draw. I am hoping that after that appointment I can stop all meds! As long as everything is fine at that appointment then I should be released to my regular OB.
Monday, January 23, 2012
Transfer Day!
I think I was more nervous Sunday morning for the transfer than I was when it was going to be Friday morning. We go up and got ready, dropped the kids off at my friends and then headed to the RE.
We met IP's there and IM's parents as well. After waiting outside in the cold for a few minutes we were let in (the main doors were locked because it was Sunday) and taken back to the rooms. I went in my room and changed into a gown and IM went and changed into her scrubs. While we were waiting I gave her the gift I had gotten her. I necklace with a charm that says "believe" and a charm with little baby footprints. We were then taken back into the room where the transfer took place. We ended up waiting for awhile and just sat and chatted. The nurse came in and had to verify that we were who we said we were and I forgot my social security number! I totally blanked. Jesse's immediately popped into my head, but I didn't need his. I was one number off.
The doctor came in and started setting up. They had to press pretty hard on my stomach with the ultrasound wand so he could make sure the embryos were going in the right spot. I think that part probably hurt more than the actual transfer. Once the embryos were placed they had to get an "all clear" from the lab to make sure the embryos were stuck in the tube. The doctor pointed out on the ultrasound where the embryos were but I couldn't see anything at all.
I then had to lay there for about 10-15 minutes longer. The nurse came back in and got me up. I wasn't ready to get up! I wanted to lay there longer to make sure those little babies stick. I was told to just take it easy the rest of the day. We went out to lunch with IP's afterwards. IM's mom and dad(Intended Grandma & Grandpa) got me a really nice pair of earrings and a very nice card and IM and IF gave me a Willow Tree figure to go with my small collection. It was such a thoughtful gift. I couldn't have asked for better IP's!
So now we are in the "two week wait". I will go back February 3 for a blood test. I did buy 50 pregnancy test strips though, and I am going to try to wait at least 5 days to start testing. I've seen some women get positives at about 4.5 dp5dt (4.5 days past a 5 day transfer).
We met IP's there and IM's parents as well. After waiting outside in the cold for a few minutes we were let in (the main doors were locked because it was Sunday) and taken back to the rooms. I went in my room and changed into a gown and IM went and changed into her scrubs. While we were waiting I gave her the gift I had gotten her. I necklace with a charm that says "believe" and a charm with little baby footprints. We were then taken back into the room where the transfer took place. We ended up waiting for awhile and just sat and chatted. The nurse came in and had to verify that we were who we said we were and I forgot my social security number! I totally blanked. Jesse's immediately popped into my head, but I didn't need his. I was one number off.
The doctor came in and started setting up. They had to press pretty hard on my stomach with the ultrasound wand so he could make sure the embryos were going in the right spot. I think that part probably hurt more than the actual transfer. Once the embryos were placed they had to get an "all clear" from the lab to make sure the embryos were stuck in the tube. The doctor pointed out on the ultrasound where the embryos were but I couldn't see anything at all.
I then had to lay there for about 10-15 minutes longer. The nurse came back in and got me up. I wasn't ready to get up! I wanted to lay there longer to make sure those little babies stick. I was told to just take it easy the rest of the day. We went out to lunch with IP's afterwards. IM's mom and dad(Intended Grandma & Grandpa) got me a really nice pair of earrings and a very nice card and IM and IF gave me a Willow Tree figure to go with my small collection. It was such a thoughtful gift. I couldn't have asked for better IP's!
So now we are in the "two week wait". I will go back February 3 for a blood test. I did buy 50 pregnancy test strips though, and I am going to try to wait at least 5 days to start testing. I've seen some women get positives at about 4.5 dp5dt (4.5 days past a 5 day transfer).
Friday, January 20, 2012
Transfer Moved
Our transfer today was rescheduled for Sunday morning. I am still waiting on a call to tell me what time that morning.
The IVF nurse said that at this point the embryos should be 7-8 cells. There is one at 5 cells, 6 embryos that are 8 cells and one that is 9 cells, so by Sunday we should be able to transfer the two that are looking the best.
I went and got sushi today for lunch, hopefully it will be the last time for 9 months!
The IVF nurse said that at this point the embryos should be 7-8 cells. There is one at 5 cells, 6 embryos that are 8 cells and one that is 9 cells, so by Sunday we should be able to transfer the two that are looking the best.
I went and got sushi today for lunch, hopefully it will be the last time for 9 months!
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
100th Post and Updates!
Happy 100th Post!
And now for the updates...
I took my last Lupron shot on Sunday night, woohoo!
Monday night was shot-free
Tuesday morning, IM went for the egg retrieval. They retrieved 20 eggs and we should find out today how many were fertilized.
Tuesday evening was my very first PIO (Progesterone in Oil) shot. And boy was I nervous, the needle is really intimidating. But the shot itself was not that bad. I am a little sore today though, this is an injection that has to go into the muscle, which is why the needle is so large.
And now for the updates...
I took my last Lupron shot on Sunday night, woohoo!
Monday night was shot-free
Tuesday morning, IM went for the egg retrieval. They retrieved 20 eggs and we should find out today how many were fertilized.
Tuesday evening was my very first PIO (Progesterone in Oil) shot. And boy was I nervous, the needle is really intimidating. But the shot itself was not that bad. I am a little sore today though, this is an injection that has to go into the muscle, which is why the needle is so large.
We are hoping to find out if we are doing a 3 day transfer (Friday) or a 5 day transfer (Sunday). I'm hoping we find out soon, but I am thinking we won't know until Friday morning if I need to show up later that morning or if it's been moved to Sunday.
UPDATE! Got the call that transfer will be Friday at 10:45am. If something does come up they will call by 8:30am on Friday to let me know. But fingers crossed that everything keeps going as planned and we will be transferring two little embryos on Friday!
Thursday, January 12, 2012
Estrogen Day 12 & Lupron Day 32
I've now been on Estrogen for 12 days and Lupron for 32 days. I had an appointment today for more blood work to check my hormone levels and an ultrasound to measure the thickness of my lining. Everything looks good and is right on target for a transfer hopefully at the end of next week.
IM has an appointment later today for another ultrasound to check her ovaries. We are both hoping to get a date for the retrieval!
IM has an appointment later today for another ultrasound to check her ovaries. We are both hoping to get a date for the retrieval!
Saturday, January 7, 2012
Pressure
I must have spoke too soon about not having any side effects from the meds because I have been waking up with a headache and then I get one again about 30 minutes after my Lupron shot. My estrogen dosage also increased yesterday so I am now up to 2mg twice a day. I have an appt on the 12th of January to do a lining check to make sure the lining of my uterus is getting nice and thick and ready for the embryos to be implanted.
IM started her Follistim injections last night. It's a hormone that controls ovulation, and the growth and development of eggs in the ovaries. We are still waiting to get dates finalized but we have some possible dates if things go as planned. Egg retrieval could be the 16th, 17th or 18th and the transfer the 18th-20th. We both have a few more appts to go to and I have a few more days until I have to start the PIO (Progesterone in oil) shots. I am on a search for a really good massaging heating pad to prevent lumps forming from the oil.
IM started her Follistim injections last night. It's a hormone that controls ovulation, and the growth and development of eggs in the ovaries. We are still waiting to get dates finalized but we have some possible dates if things go as planned. Egg retrieval could be the 16th, 17th or 18th and the transfer the 18th-20th. We both have a few more appts to go to and I have a few more days until I have to start the PIO (Progesterone in oil) shots. I am on a search for a really good massaging heating pad to prevent lumps forming from the oil.
Saturday, December 31, 2011
Lupron: Day 20
Tonight will be day 20 of taking Lupron. I haven't noticed any side effects and doing that shot hasn't been a big deal at all. I went in on Tues (the 27th) for a blood draw to find out if I'm "down-regulated", which I think means that my estrogen levels are low. I got a call back from the nurse and she let me know that my levels were good and that IM was going in on January 3rd to check her estrogen levels as well to make sure she was also "down-regulated". Basically we are trying to sync our cycles up. I will start Estradiol (Estrogen) tablets on January 1st. Right now, the dosage will be half a tablet (1mg) in the morning and half in the evening as well as the 10 units of Lupron every evening. I have a nice little calendar pinned up so I know what and how much to take.
I cannot wait for 2012 and all that comes with it! I am looking forward to getting to know IP's even better and for them to become parents!
I cannot wait for 2012 and all that comes with it! I am looking forward to getting to know IP's even better and for them to become parents!
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
Meetings and Contracts and Lupron, OH MY!
I had to go back and read my last post from October to see what all has happened since then. And a lot has happened!
Let's see. The four of us met with the psychologist and talked about a lot of things. That went very well and I think if I am remembering right that we were in the early stages of starting the contract.
The contract was written up, revised and signed the beginning of November.
After the fertility clinic had word that all legal documents were in place then we were able to move on to the next step of getting the treatment plan for the medications. I had to call them on the first day of my cycle so that the calendar could be made.
Last night I gave myself my first shot of Lupron. It was not bad at all, probably because it's a tiny needle. The girls even wanted to watch and it didn't freak them out at all. I will continue the Lupron shots until IM has her egg retrieval which may be mid-to-late January.
We are still hoping for a January transfer but the transfer date isn't set in stone yet.
We are meeting for dinner this weekend and the girls will finally meet IP's. I am so happy they will finally meet, the girls have been asking a lot about them and I know the girls will really like them. :)
Let's see. The four of us met with the psychologist and talked about a lot of things. That went very well and I think if I am remembering right that we were in the early stages of starting the contract.
The contract was written up, revised and signed the beginning of November.
After the fertility clinic had word that all legal documents were in place then we were able to move on to the next step of getting the treatment plan for the medications. I had to call them on the first day of my cycle so that the calendar could be made.
Last night I gave myself my first shot of Lupron. It was not bad at all, probably because it's a tiny needle. The girls even wanted to watch and it didn't freak them out at all. I will continue the Lupron shots until IM has her egg retrieval which may be mid-to-late January.
We are still hoping for a January transfer but the transfer date isn't set in stone yet.
We are meeting for dinner this weekend and the girls will finally meet IP's. I am so happy they will finally meet, the girls have been asking a lot about them and I know the girls will really like them. :)
Wednesday, October 5, 2011
"Good To Go"
Found out on Monday that I am medically cleared by the RE to be a gestational surrogate.
On Monday the 26th, Jesse and I went to the fertility clinic for some testing. I had to have some more blood taken (I'm immune to Chicken Pox and my blood type is A+), had to pee in one of those plastic cups (fun!) and then we met with the RE. He asked about my health history and history of pregnancies. I then had to have an ultrasound to check my ovaries and uterus and he did a "practice transfer". He took some measurements of my cervix so when it comes time for the real thing he will know exactly where to place the embryos so they will get comfortable and stay for the next 9 months.
We then had to go into separate rooms and take a Personality Assessment Inventory (PAI) test. It was about 350 fill in the little bubble questions. That was a fun time. On Tues, we went back to meet with the psychologist and she asked questions about our childhoods, how we met, our parents, our feelings about the surrogacy and about our girls.
Yesterday, the IP's went in for their tests and to take the PAI and to meet with the same psychologist. My IM and I were texting back and forth that morning and then after her appointments so we could stay updated. The psych thinks we are a great fit for each other which was so good to hear. I already felt like we were, but it was nice to hear that from someone else.
In a few weeks all four of us will go back and sit down with the psychologist and discuss things together. And we are now in the process of starting contracts! We are both hoping for a December transfer. A ++ pregnancy test around Christmas would be the best gift I could ever give.
Such a big update in one blog post!
On Monday the 26th, Jesse and I went to the fertility clinic for some testing. I had to have some more blood taken (I'm immune to Chicken Pox and my blood type is A+), had to pee in one of those plastic cups (fun!) and then we met with the RE. He asked about my health history and history of pregnancies. I then had to have an ultrasound to check my ovaries and uterus and he did a "practice transfer". He took some measurements of my cervix so when it comes time for the real thing he will know exactly where to place the embryos so they will get comfortable and stay for the next 9 months.
We then had to go into separate rooms and take a Personality Assessment Inventory (PAI) test. It was about 350 fill in the little bubble questions. That was a fun time. On Tues, we went back to meet with the psychologist and she asked questions about our childhoods, how we met, our parents, our feelings about the surrogacy and about our girls.
Yesterday, the IP's went in for their tests and to take the PAI and to meet with the same psychologist. My IM and I were texting back and forth that morning and then after her appointments so we could stay updated. The psych thinks we are a great fit for each other which was so good to hear. I already felt like we were, but it was nice to hear that from someone else.
In a few weeks all four of us will go back and sit down with the psychologist and discuss things together. And we are now in the process of starting contracts! We are both hoping for a December transfer. A ++ pregnancy test around Christmas would be the best gift I could ever give.
Such a big update in one blog post!
Sunday, August 28, 2011
Matched..Again!
Well that was quick!
Our phone conference went very well and that Friday we met for dinner with the IP's. Dinner was great, it was a pretty loud and busy restaurant so at times it was hard to hear, but overall I think we really got along. I feel like we will have a lot in common and we are closer in age. I had to wait a few days, but finally got the "official" matched email with contact information. The IM and I have been emailing back and forth and I've been getting appointments set up.
Because I am now working with a new clinic and a new RE (Reproductive Endocrinologist) we will have to do a few things over. My husband and I will meet with the RE and the nurse coordinator. I will have to give him my history of pregnancies again, do a physical and another ultrasound and a "practice" transfer, where they will measure the length of my uterus so when it comes time for the real transfer the RE will know how far to go to place the embryo. I am planning to send all of our test results from the blood work in hopes that we won't have to repeat any of that since it has only been 2 months that we had that done. My husband and I will also have to take a psychological test and meet with the psychologist. I had taken the MMPI when I first signed with the agency and Jesse and I both spoke with a psychologist and were cleared as far as that goes. But the new clinic has their own psychologist that they have sit down with patients. We will both have to take the PAI psychological test this time and then talk with the psychologist. The IP's I believe will be doing the same thing, and then the 4 of us will sit down all together and talk with the psychologist.
So that's whats happening right now, contracts will be after that, then the start of injectables. I've been told that transfer may be around December, but that could change depending on how quick contracts go.
Our phone conference went very well and that Friday we met for dinner with the IP's. Dinner was great, it was a pretty loud and busy restaurant so at times it was hard to hear, but overall I think we really got along. I feel like we will have a lot in common and we are closer in age. I had to wait a few days, but finally got the "official" matched email with contact information. The IM and I have been emailing back and forth and I've been getting appointments set up.
Because I am now working with a new clinic and a new RE (Reproductive Endocrinologist) we will have to do a few things over. My husband and I will meet with the RE and the nurse coordinator. I will have to give him my history of pregnancies again, do a physical and another ultrasound and a "practice" transfer, where they will measure the length of my uterus so when it comes time for the real transfer the RE will know how far to go to place the embryo. I am planning to send all of our test results from the blood work in hopes that we won't have to repeat any of that since it has only been 2 months that we had that done. My husband and I will also have to take a psychological test and meet with the psychologist. I had taken the MMPI when I first signed with the agency and Jesse and I both spoke with a psychologist and were cleared as far as that goes. But the new clinic has their own psychologist that they have sit down with patients. We will both have to take the PAI psychological test this time and then talk with the psychologist. The IP's I believe will be doing the same thing, and then the 4 of us will sit down all together and talk with the psychologist.
So that's whats happening right now, contracts will be after that, then the start of injectables. I've been told that transfer may be around December, but that could change depending on how quick contracts go.
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