Doxy & Progesterone

September 3, 2004

Begin taking Doxy. This is to prevent infection due to the surgery tomorrow.

September 4, 2004

The surgery wasn't that bad. (I will not get into the details of the experience at this particular clinic) Basically, I put on a gown and was escorted to a room where I was helped onto a table. My legs were strapped into stirrups. An IV was set in my left arm (didn't really hurt). I could smell and taste the medication as it was injected in my vein so I knew what was about to happen. I closed my eyes and thought of Robert, and a baby. The medication took effect VERY quickly and the next thing I knew, I was in a recovery room. The IV was removed and I waited for Robert.

I was told that they were only able to retrieve one egg because the other two follicles only contained fluid. Because I only have one egg they will perform ICSI. This is a procedure in which they pick out a very healthy sperm and chase it from behind with a needle. They suck it up (tail first) into the needle and then inject it into my egg. This is to ensure fertilization. We now must wait to see if the egg fertilizes properly; divides properly; survives; and is healthy enough to put back in me.

If all goes well, it will be put back inside of me on Tuesday or Wednesday. We will be waiting for a call from the embryo lab in the next day or so.

Tonight more medication will be added. I will be continuing the antibiotic, but in addition I will also be adding an oral steroid that will help prevent rejection of the blastocyst after it is inserted. I will also be administering another intramuscular injection. It is called, Progesterone, and it will help my uterine lining get thick and sticky to help the blastocyst implant firmly. It is a thick, oil based medication. Since my right side is still a little sore from the HCG shot, I may teach Robert how to do it so I can get it on the left side. The progesterone shots will continue nightly until further notice OR until I can convince my doctor to allow me to use a vaginal suppository instead.