Starting IVF stimulation can be a rollercoaster, especially when you have PCOS. I had no idea how my body would react to the hormone injections until I experienced it firsthand. The stimulation phase involves daily injections that encourage your ovaries to produce multiple eggs, but with PCOS, your ovaries might respond differently compared to others. In my journey, I noticed symptoms like mood swings, bloating, and fatigue that were more intense than I anticipated. It’s easy to overlook these reactions when you first start because everyone’s experience is unique. It helped me to track my symptoms daily and discuss them openly with my fertility specialist to adjust medications if needed. Egg retrieval was another significant step — it felt both exciting and daunting. Preparation for the procedure includes monitoring follicle growth through ultrasounds and blood tests, which gave me a better understanding of my cycle and response. The procedural experience itself wasn’t painful as I feared, but the recovery required rest and careful care. One big lesson was the importance of emotional support. Whether from partners, friends, or support groups focused on IVF and PCOS, sharing experiences made me feel less alone. Managing expectations and embracing both the highs and lows of the process helped my mental well-being. If you’re starting IVF stimulation with PCOS, know that your body’s response may surprise you. Educate yourself, communicate closely with your care team, and prepare emotionally. These steps made the journey more manageable for me and can hopefully help others navigate their own fertility treatments with greater confidence.