Plan H

We have a new plan in our hot little hands! Our RE has been out of town for the past couple of weeks, so today was the first time we could meet with him since we found out we weren't pregnant at the beginning of May. After reviewing our last cycle, he presented us with three options:

1. Laparoscopy (minor surgery) to test for Endometriosis, which may be covered by insurance. However, I've never had painful periods -- in fact, mine are usually rather mild, especially when I'm not drugged up for fertility purposes. So, it's not likely that I have Endometriosis and he thinks this would probably be unnecessary.

2. IUI (Intrauterine Insemination) -- Our last cycle (Follistim + timed intercourse) was, on paper, very successful. Our most successful cycle by far with three mature follies. With IUI, we would essentially do the same thing as far as drugs and preparation, but instead of timed intercourse, we could go into the RE's office and they would inseminate me with J's washed, prepared sperm. This would give us a 5-10% higher chance than timed intercourse alone, according to RE. AND, it only costs about $400 more! At this point, that seems like a drop in the bucket.

3. IVF (In-Vitro Fertilization) -- This is hardcore, people. According to the handout we received, it would cost between $11,000 and $15,000. The advantage is that RE can be even more aggressive with our medications, as he knows he will be retrieving the eggs and doesn't run as high a risk of overstimulating and having to cancel the cycle (or warn us of the possibility of crazy multiples). And I believe because they are essentially fertilizing my eggs and then just hoping they "take," the chances would be increased substantially. That is how I interpreted it, anyway. Where it falls on the price and invasive scale is a whole 'nother ball of wax, compared to what we've been doing.

After a whirlwind 8 minute discussion with him, we decided on IUI. We're not ruling out the possibility of IVF down the road, but for now, we're really like to give IUI a fair shake. RE was very happy with our last cycle, as were we. Assuming we have similar results this time, the IUI procedure can only increase our chances. We're both pleased and excited about this decision. We will move forward with this after my brother's wedding in June. Speaking of which, we will be spending a week with our closest family and friends in Orlando (for the wedding), which we're both very excited about. My family has gone to Orlando (and, therefore, Disney World) almost every year since I've been alive, so it's like a second home for us! REALLY can't wait.