Day 7 - Morning IVF injection & Office Visit

Wow, 35 measurable follicles! That's incredible news and a fantastic sign of how well your body is responding to the stimulation medications. It's completely normal to feel a mix of excitement and apprehension, especially when you have a high follicle count and a history of PCOS. The concern about Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS) is very real, and it's great that your doctor has a clear plan in place with the trigger shot choice, freezing all eggs, and using Cabergoline. Those strategies are key to minimizing risks with higher stim cycles. For anyone else going through their IVF journey, understanding what happens during these crucial IVF monitoring appointments can make a huge difference. Typically, these visits involve blood tests to check your hormone levels like estrogen (E2), progesterone, and LH, alongside transvaginal ultrasounds to count and measure your developing follicles. The doctors use this information to fine-tune your medication dosages, like your Menopur and Gonal, to ensure optimal growth without overstimulating. My own experience with monitoring appointments has taught me to always write down my questions beforehand, no matter how small, as things can feel overwhelming. It's amazing to see the numbers change day by day, and having a high count like 35 measurable follicles is often a sign of a potentially good egg retrieval. Speaking of medications, while you're on Menopur and Gonal, many women later move on to progesterone support after egg retrieval, often involving medications like Crinone IVF. Crinone is a commonly prescribed progesterone gel used to support the uterine lining, helping it prepare for and maintain a pregnancy. It's usually inserted vaginally once or twice a day. While it's super effective, some common side effects can include mild irritation, discharge (which can look quite clumpy and sometimes alarming, but is usually normal!), and some fatigue or nausea. It's always best to discuss any concerns with your clinic, but knowing what to expect can ease some worries. I remember feeling a bit self-conscious about the discharge at first, but realizing it was a common part of the process helped a lot. The stimulation injections themselves, like your Menopur and Gonal, are designed to boost your ovaries' production of multiple eggs, mimicking the natural surge of hormones like Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH). While the specific dosage, like an FSH 75 injection, might vary for each person based on their individual response and protocol, the goal remains the same: to encourage as many healthy follicles to mature as possible. Administering these injections at home can feel daunting initially, but with practice, it becomes a routine. I found that creating a little “injection station” with all my supplies and using a cold compress beforehand really helped to minimize discomfort. It’s incredible to think about the science behind these tiny needles doing such big work inside our bodies. It's completely normal to experience discomfort in your lower abdominal area as your ovaries grow. With 35 measurable follicles, your ovaries are definitely putting in overtime! Finding comfortable positions to sleep and just generally move around can be challenging. Gentle stretching, warm baths (if approved by your doctor), and really listening to your body become paramount. Remember, every ache and discomfort is a sign that your body is working hard towards a beautiful goal. Keep communicating with your medical team about your pain levels and any new symptoms. You're doing amazing, and counting down those last few days to egg retrieval must feel like a mix of anticipation and relief!