IVF/Pregnancy Timeline

6/27/18 - Hysterosalpingogram (HSG)  

We knew that there was a chance we would need help conceiving another child because of my previous surgeries.  We decided to have the HSG test done so that we could start the IVF process if needed.   During the procedure, dye is injected into the uterus and fallopian tubes, while an x-ray shows the path the dye takes.  This showed that both of my fallopian tubes were blocked by scar tissue and were filled with fluid.  Based on these results, my OB/GYN referred us to Mid-Iowa Fertility for a consultation.  

8/27/18 - Consultation with Dr. Donald Young at Mid-Iowa Fertility  

Two months after the HSG test, we met with Dr. Young to talk about the results and our options moving forward.  We learned that we would need to pursue IVF and the first step would be to have my fallopian tubes removed.  This would increase our success rate by 50% but would require 10 days off of work.  So we scheduled the procedure to overlap with my winter break.  

12/21/18 - Partial salpingectomy    

During this out-patient surgery, Dr. Young planned to remove the fallopian tubes.  However, due to the amount of adhesions in my abdomen, he was only able to clip the tubes.  This accomplished the goal of releasing the fluid and allowed us to move to the next step in our IVF journey.  The only complication (besides the scar tissue preventing the removal of the tubes) was that I had C-diff (again!) after the surgery.  Antibiotics worked wonders and I felt better in a few days.

1/25/19 - IVF class with nurse Karen  

Before beginning the IVF process, couples are required to take a class to learn more about the process.  Karen is the nurse that led our class and she became our contact person at the clinic.  During class we received consent paperwork, learned how to prepare for IVF (diet, vitamins, rest, exercise), how to prepare the injections, the timeline for taking meds, and the pros and cons of preimplantation genetic screening (PGS).  After taking the class, we could begin the preliminary steps when my next cycle began.  

2/2/19 - Cycle day 3 blood work  

Well, my next cycle took its time beginning, but it finally began.  On the third day, I went to the clinic for bloodwork to check hormone levels.  The nurse wanted to take two vials of blood so they could determine blood type, but could only get one vial.  So the blood type test was postponed until my next set of labs, scheduled for 11 days later.

2/13/19 - IVF labs and sonohysterogram    

On day 13 of my cycle I had a sonohysterogram and more blood work scheduled.  The blood work tested for Rubella, HIV, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, and Syphilis.  The sonohysterogram involves sending fluid into the uterus and using transvaginal ultrasound to examine the uterine lining and check for uterine abnormalities.  It also allows the nurse to take measurements to determine where to place an embryo during embryo transfer.  

3/5/19 - Suppression Phase    

Once we had completed IVF class, initial blood work, IVF labs, a sonohysterogram, and signed the consent forms, we just had to wait for my next cycle to begin.   After a reasonable amount of time, my cycle began and I started taking the first oral medications: birth control pills, low-dose Aspirin, and Vitamin D.  After a week, both Eric and I took an antibiotic for a week.  After finishing the pack of birth control pills, an ultrasound was scheduled and we moved on to the stimulation phase.  

4/1/19 - Stimulation Phase

After finishing the active birth control pills, I had an ultrasound and baseline blood work.  On a Monday, I began injections - 75 IU Gonal F in the mornings, and 75 IU Menopur in the evenings.  I also added an antibiotic to my daily pill regimen (prenatal vitamin, Vitamin D, and baby Aspirin).  During this phase, I had 4 blood work and ultrasound appointments to make sure I was responding to the hormones appropriately and things were on the right track.  

4/4/19 - Blood work and ultrasound

My uterine lining was thickening nicely and we could see several large follicles developing on each ovary.  I had 3-4 on each ovary that were measurable (between 8 and 11 cm) and my estrogen level was 383.  Based on these results, I was told to continue to follow my med calendar and deliver the injections as scheduled.  

4/6/19 - Blood work and ultrasound

Today my estrogen was 1026 and the developing follicles were still looking good.  I was told to add the Ganirelix shot to my evening injection of Menopur tomorrow evening and we will see what things look like when I go in on Monday.

4/8/19 - Blood work and ultrasound

At my appointment this morning, Karen was my nurse.  She measured the follicles and said she would call me in the afternoon to let me know whether egg retrieval would be on Wednesday (the 10th) or Thursday (the 11th).  She called around 4:00 to let me know that the doctors wanted me to do the trigger shot that evening and to be ready for egg retrieval on Wednesday morning!  I had to do one last injection of Gonal-F around 5:30 pm, and we did the trigger shots at 9:30 pm.  And that was the last of the injections in the stimulation phase!

4/10/19 - Egg retrieval

Today was egg retrieval day!  My procedure was scheduled for 8:30 and we were to arrive at 8:15.  The nurse started an IV, gave me some sleepy drugs, and I barely remember walking back to the procedure room.  When I was alert in the recovery area, the nurse told us that they were able to get 10 good eggs, which is average.  So we left with good news and optimism that we will have success!  Now we wait for the lab to call tomorrow to let us know how many of our 10 eggs were fertilized.  

4/11/19 - Fertilization Results

Nurse Karen called this morning to let me know that 6 of our 10 eggs were fertilized.  60%-70% is average, so we are still on track to have a successful cycle.  Now we will wait through the weekend to see how many of these fertilized eggs progress to the blastocyst stage (5 days after fertilization).  The eggs that reach the blastocyst stage can be biopsied and tested for genetic abnormalities.

4/16/19 - Blastocyst Stage

The lab called this morning to let me know that 3 of our 6 fertilized eggs have reached the blastocyst stage.  The lab technician said that it is typical for approximately half of the eggs to progress to blastocysts and the other half not to.  So they will biopsy those three embryos and send the samples to the CooperGenomics lab.  We should have those results by the end of next week (April 26th).  

4/24/19 - PGS Results

The PGS results were in a few days early!  Of the three embryos that were tested, the results were as follows:

1 genetically normal embryo

1 embryo with a deletion on the 1st chromosome (a nonviable embryo)

1 embryo with inconclusive results (not enough DNA in the sample vial)

The inconclusive embryo will be retested and we will have those results in 1-2 weeks.  Because we have at least one viable embryo (and potentially 2), we will move forward in the process and transfer the good embryo.  But first we're going on vacation!

5/7/19 - Results of Repeat PGS

Today we learned that our third embryo is also genetically normal!  So we are thrilled to have two viable embryos waiting for transfer.  Having a second embryo increases our chance of a live birth from 40% to 65%.  We will prepare for transfer after our trip to Jamaica and probably transfer an embryo in late July or early August.  

6/3/19 - No Period

I had a period following egg retrieval, but then went 39 days without starting a new cycle.  An ultrasound (at day 42) showed some hemorrhagic cysts that will resolve on their own and a uterine lining that had thickened, but never shed.  We decided to start a birth control pill to prevent my period from starting while we are in Jamaica, and to force a period when I get to the placebo pills.  This will allow me to start a new pack of pills when I begin my med calendar in preparation for embryo transfer.

6/3/19 - Zika Concern

While we were in the office for my ultrasound, we discussed the timeline for our frozen embryo transfer.  Because the CDC currently classifies Jamaica as a "country with current or past Zika transmission but no current outbreaks" we have to wait 3 months from our return to transfer an embryo.  At least we know our approximate target transfer date and  can count down the days until September 17!  

6/19/19 - Check-Up and Consult with Dr. Gross (colorectal surgeon)

Today was my first appointment with Dr. Gross since Dr. Beckwith has retired from colorectal surgery.  I asked her many questions regarding my future pregnancy plans and her opinions on pregnancy and delivery.  She was very comforting and said there are really no additional concerns with pregnancy and I could choose either a vaginal birth or a c-section.  Her only recommendation was to deliver at Methodist Medical Center downtown so that there will be a colorectal surgeon on call in case of a c-section where his or her expertise is required.  Now I will have continued conversations with my OB and Dr. Young about plans to support the best pregnancy and delivery outcomes.  

8/17/19 - Began Embryo Transfer Med Calendar

Today I began my med calendar to prepare for our frozen embryo transfer.  Right now the meds include prenatal vitamin, Vitamin D, low-dose Aspirin, and estrogen patches.   Five days before transfer (September 12) we will add injections of Progesterone in oil.  These meds will then continue until we reach 12 weeks of pregnancy.

9/5/19 - Spotting

I had a little bit of spotting during the day today.  Since I wasn't sure if this was normal or expected, I emailed my nurse - Karen - to ask.  She said that I should not be bleeding as the goal is to have a thick uterine lining at the time of transfer.  So starting today, I'll add a vaginal estrogen pill to my daily regimen (twice daily, actually).  Hopefully this stops the bleeding and maintains the uterine lining.

9/9/19 - Blood draw / lining check

Today was my only maintenance check during the preparation phase of frozen embryo transfer.  My blood work results were good (checking estrogen levels) and the uterine lining looked thick (checked with internal ultrasound).  The next step is to add Progesterone injections, beginning September 12.  

9/12/19 - Begin Progesterone injections

We started progesterone injections tonight.  Eric drew up the injection and delivered it like a professional.  I'm so glad to have him as my nurse!  I iced the injection site ahead of time, but was still quite sore.  Tomorrow we will try icing ahead of time, massaging the area immediately after the injection, and then applying heat.

9/17/19 - Frozen Embryo Transfer!

Today was the day we have been waiting for.  Dr. Young transferred one frozen embryo into my uterus!  He said the procedure went really well.  Now we wait two weeks (13 days to be exact) to find out whether it was successful.

9/30/19 - HCG Test

This morning I had a blood draw appointment at 7:45 am.  I was told that the lab would check my HCG level and call me as soon as possible with the results.  I found out around 1:20 pm that I am pregnant!  I got to call Eric with the good news.    

10/2/19 - HCG Re-check

It is standard procedure to re-check HCG levels 48 hours after receiving a positive pregnancy test.  This confirms that the pregnancy is progressing appropriately.  My number had doubled (almost exactly), which is great news.  So far, things are right on track!

10/5/19 - 5 Weeks Pregnant

The baby is the size of an appleseed.

10/12/19 - 6 Weeks Pregnant

The baby is the size of a sweet pea.

10/19/19 - 7 Weeks Pregnant

The baby is the size of a blueberry.

10/21/19 - First Ultrasound

Today was our first ultrasound appointment!  Muffin was measuring 7 weeks 2 days, which is right on track.  We even heard the heartbeat!  Heart rate was 158 bpm.

10/26/19 - 8 Weeks Pregnant

The baby is the size of a raspberry.

11/2/19 - 9 Weeks Pregnant

The baby is the size of a cherry.

11/4/19 - Second Ultrasound

We saw Muffin again today.  There was a lot of change in the past two weeks!  There was a defined body shape and we could see feet!  Today the fetal heart rate was 175 bpm.

11/9/19 - 10 Weeks Pregnant

The baby is the size of a strawberry.

11/16/19 - 11 Weeks Pregnant

The baby is the size of a lime.

11/19/19 - Third Ultrasound and 12 Week OB Appointment

Today was our third ultrasound and our first appointment with Dr. Kaufman.  The ultrasound tech was pleased with how the baby is measuring and the baby's heart rate (166).  Dr. Kaufman answered all of the questions I brought and Eric and I both felt good about the appointment.  As a result of my blood test and urine test, I am treating Group B Strep and will repeat the Rubella blood screen at a later date.

11/21/19 - Announced to Gavin

Tonight we told Gavin that he is going to be a big brother!  We gave him two books and a t-shirt.  He was happy, but had some good questions: "Where is the baby?  What is its name?  Is it going to be a boy or a girl?"  He was very excited to share the news with his friends and teachers at school.  After Gavin was in bed, I emailed my extended family to share the news.

11/22/19 - Announced to Karen Acres staff

Today I announced the news at school!  Everyone was very happy for me, and I received many hugs and congratulations from my co-workers.  

11/23/19 - 12 Weeks Pregnant

The baby is the size of a plum.

11/28/19 - Public Announcement

We took a few photos at Kelly's house and we posted them to Facebook and Instagram to share the news with our wider circles of family and friends.

11/30/19 - 13 Weeks Pregnant

The baby is the size of a lemon.

12/7/19 - 14 Weeks Pregnant

The baby is the size of a peach.

12/14/19 - 15 Weeks

The baby is the size of a navel orange.

12/17/19 - 16 Week OB Appointment

Routine OB appointment: the nurse checked my weight, blood pressure, and ordered a blood test (Quad Screen and Rubella re-test).  And Dr. Kaufman listened to the baby's heart beat (130s today).

12/21/19 - 16 Weeks

The baby is the size of an avocado.

12/28/19 - 17 Weeks

The baby is the size of a pomegranate.

12/28/19 - First kicks!

This week I felt Muffin moving for the first time.  For a couple of days, it felt like a tightening sensation that would last for a few seconds.  By the end of the week, the movements felt more like tiny jabs.  I don't feel Muffin every single day, but it's becoming more regular!

1/4/20 - 18 Weeks

The baby is the size of an artichoke.

1/11/20 - 19 Weeks

The baby is the size of a mango.

1/17/20 - 20 Week OB Appointment

Gavin accompanied me to this appointment.  We heard Muffin's heartbeat (148-150 bpm) and the nurse checked my weight and blood pressure.  We're both doing well.

1/18/20 - 20 Weeks

The baby is the size of a banana.

1/24/20 - Anatomy Scan (20 week ultrasound)

Today was our anatomy scan.  We got to see Muffin for almost an hour, and he or she was pretty active!  All of the major organs looked great and Muffin is estimated to weigh one pound.  We'll have one more scan in 4 weeks to look closely at the development of the heart.  Today Muffin's heart rate was around 130.

1/25/20 - 21 Weeks

The baby is the size of an endive.

2/1/20 - 22 Weeks

The baby is the size of a coconut.

2/8/20 - 23 Weeks

The baby is the size of a grapefruit.

2/15/20 - 24 Weeks

The baby is the size of a (small) cantaloupe.

2/19/20 - 24 Week OB Appointment

This was a routine OB appointment (checked weight, blood pressure, fundal height for the first time, and listened to the baby's heartbeat).  Muffin's heart rate was around 140 today.  The doctor was pleased with my blood pressure and weight.  I also did my glucose and hemoglobin test and passed both!  

2/21/20 - Echocardiogram Ultrasound

We went back to the perinatal center for a detailed look at Muffin's heart.  Everything looks great and Muffin is measuring at the 63rd percentile for weight.  

2/22/20 - 25 Weeks

The baby is the size of cauliflower.

2/2 9/20 - 26 Weeks

The baby is the size of kale.

3/7/20 - 27 Weeks

The baby is the size of a head of lettuce.

3/14/20 - 28 Weeks

The baby is the size of an eggplant.

3/18/20 - 28 Week OB Appointment

I saw Dr. Kaufman today for a routine appointment.  Muffin's heart rate was in the 140s and my weight, belly measurement, and blood pressure were all good.  I shared my concern with the baby's potential size at birth, and Dr. Kaufman suggested an ultrasound at my next appointment (32 weeks).  Based on that information, we will make a plan moving forward: more frequent monitoring of size, or a scheduled induction at 39 weeks.  

3/21/20 - 29 Weeks

The baby is the size of an acorn squash.

3/28/20 - 30 Weeks

The baby is the size of a zucchini.

4/4/20 - 31 Weeks

The baby is the size of asparagus.

4/11/20 - 32 Weeks

The baby is the size of a squash.

4/14/20 - 32 Week OB Appointment

We had a growth ultrasound today, followed by an appointment with Dr. Kaufman.  My weight and blood pressure were good.  Muffin's heart rate was 136, he or she is in the head-down position, and is measuring at the 66th percentile.  Dr. Kaufman was pleased with all of this.  My next appointment will be at 36 weeks.

4/18/20 - 33 Weeks

The baby is the size of celery.

4/25/20 - 34 Weeks

The baby is the size of a butternut squash.

5/2/20 - 35 Weeks

The baby is the size of a pineapple.

5/9/20 - 36 Weeks

The baby is the size of a papaya.

5/12/20 - 36 Week OB Appointment

I saw Dr. Bedia today.  My blood pressure and Muffin's heart rate were great.  He addressed my weight as I did not gain any weight in the last 4 weeks.  In order to check Muffin's growth curve, my appointment next week will include an ultrasound.  Based on the results, we will decide to continue the pregnancy as planned, begin a high-calorie diet, or induce to change the baby's environment.  I asked about the bulge on my lower belly and he said it could be nothing, or it could be a hernia.  We will assess after the pregnancy and take any necessary actions at that time.  

5/16/20 - 37 Weeks

The baby is the size of romaine lettuce.

5/19/20 - Maternity Photos

We met our photographer (Michelle Lovell) at Raccoon Rive Park and got some great outdoor shots!

5/20/20 - 37 Week OB Appointment

Today I saw Dr. Kaufman again.  I gained 0.2 pounds in the last week and my belly is measuring the same as last week.  But I had an ultrasound and Muffin is growing very well.  The baby is actually measuring at the 80th percentile.  Next week the doctor will check my cervix and if I'm dilated we can schedule an induction for the 39th week.  She confirmed the suspicion that I have a small hernia and that we will address it again after birth.  

5/23/20 - 38 Weeks

The baby is the size of a winter melon.

5/27/20 - Surprise!  38 Weeks + 4 Days!

My water broke at 5:00am, so we grabbed our bags and headed to the hospital!

5/27/2020 - Birth Day!

We arrived at the hospital at 6:30 am.  I was 3 cm dilated at 6:30 am, 5 cm dilated at 6:30 pm, and 10 cm dilated at 10:30 pm.  Elsie Kate Thorsen was born at 11:06 pm - weighing 6 pounds, 15 ounces and measuring 19.5 inches long.  

5/29/2020 - Coming Home

We were both discharged from the hospital and arrived home around 1:00.  Nana and Papa brought Gavin and Mia over around 3:00.  Gavin was excited to meet Elsie, but was quickly engaged in his usual toys and activities.  

5/30/2020 - 39 Weeks

Today I would have been 39 weeks pregnant.  The baby would be the size of a pumpkin.

6/1/2020 - First Well-Baby Check-Up

Today Elsie went to the doctor for the first time.  She got a great report.  Her height is at the 42nd percentile, her weight is the 20th percentile, her BMI is the 14th percentile, and her head circumference is the 19th percentile.  We will go back when she is 2 weeks old (June 10).  

6/6/2020 - 40 Weeks

Today was my due date so I would have been 40 weeks pregnant.  The baby would be the size of watermelon.  Yikes!  The average baby is 20.2 inches and 7.6 pounds.