Tuesday, April 24, 2012

My First Visit to a Fertility Specialist

I had my first appointment with a Fertility Specialist today.  How am I feeling? Raw Emotions: Relieved, Scared, Open, Skeptical, Not Alone, A Statistic, Why Me?, Confused, Nervous, Somewhat Encouraged.  It's your typical Emotional Roller Coaster!  

I was proud of myself... I didn't cry during the appointment, but remained objective and professional.  I waited for the car ride home to let my emotions escape me!  I find my car the most therapeutic place to shed a few tears or release a belly jolting, hyperventilating weep.  The name of my car: Shrink!

So far, we do not have an explanation for the infertility.  My husband's semen analysis was normal and my blood work was normal.  The ultrasound of my ovaries and uterus appears normal as well.  My periods are mostly regular (every 26 to 32 days) and according to these results, I should be ovulating normally.  

Tomorrow I'm scheduled for a HYSTEROSALPINGOGRAM (HSG).  Fancy word, huh!?!?  Try saying that 5 times in a row!  It's a dye study using x-rays to help outline the interior of my uterus and fallopian tubes to look for any obstruction or abnormalities.  I'm encouraged because we've not found anything wrong thus far, but also discouraged because that doesn't explain why I'm not yet pregnant.  Why?   I've often wondered, is this some evil joke God is playing on me? 

My Doctor is concerned I might have endometriosis.  This diagnosis has been on the back of my mind for some time now due to my extremely painful and heavy periods.  The likely next step if the HSG test is normal is to have laparoscopic surgery for a diagnosis and treatment of endometriosis.  

So many things to think about!  I don't like discussing the finances of this, but my insurance doesn't cover any of the infertility treatment costs.  Luckily, they do pay for some of the diagnostic costs, but they do not, however, pay for the treatment or any medications.  My husband and I will do what it takes to make ends meet while also striving for a healthy, happy baby!  If that means picking up extra hours at work then I'll gladly do it. 

Anxiously awaiting the HSG tomorrow...





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