On our marks, get set!

This morning we had an ultrasound to see whether we could start the IVF-treatment this month. They checked the existence of cysts (none), the number of egg cells (enough) and the thickness of the endometrium (beautiful! How deep does vanity go? :-)). Since it is all looking good, we can now start! I was so relieved by the good news that I burst in to tears. Of course the tears could also be a symptom of my upcoming period...

As soon as my period starts, we start with the hormone injections in my stomach. "We" because Jonny will give me the injections, since I seem to cause massive bruises when I try to do it myself!

I am on the so-called "short IVF protocol". This means we inject Decapeptyl during the first three days of my cycle. This drug suppresses the production of hormones being released during the normal reproductive cycle. It also suppresses ovulation and enables improved control of hormonal stimulation. On day three we also inject the stimulant Menopur. This medication will fool my ovaries into working overtime to hopefully produce lots of eggs!