If you’re just joining us -

We’re in our second cycle on Clomid. On our first cycle, they counted us out at my CD10 ultrasound (it seemed then that I wasn’t responding to that Clomid dosage). My chart later in the cycle challenged that finding, so on this cycle (on a higher Clomid dosage) I was checked at CD9 (again, no response) and then again on CD18, which showed two possible follicles. If I stay at that clinic, their plan is to continue trying Clomid, with closer monitoring to better catch (and trigger) ovulation.

Meanwhile back at the ranch -

This is all out-of-pocket right now. The Clomid isn’t a huge expense, but we haven’t yet seen the bills for the monitoring visits. (Yet another cycle to monitor - the billing cycle). It’s open enrollment for benefits through J’s employer, so we’re going to add me on to his HMO plan. Despite my history with this HMO, they offer coverage for our current treatment plan, and even cover the “next step” options. So, I’ll set aside the history and give them a chance.

And, I’m going to be seeing an acupuncturist who specializes in fertility (likely starting in December). More on that later.

And now we’ll return you to your regularly scheduled programming.

gentle beginnings

Let’s view this as an experiment in open communication with a buffer zone. We envision this as a way to keep you informed without having to repeat the frustrating stories over and over and as a way to answer your questions in our own time. It’s an experiment, for now.

For now, start with some outside reading - such as any of the blogs on the right (most dealing with infertility, miscarriage, or pregnancy after infertility and/or miscarriage). We also encourage you to read Resolve’s Infertility Etiquette article http://www.resolve.org/main/national/familyfriend/etiquette.jsp?name=familyfriend&tag=etiquette or The Dos and Don’ts of Supporthttp://www.resolve.org/main/national/coping/talk/family/familyfriend.jsp?name=coping&tag=talk.

(sorry about the in-text links -- i'm not sure the links are working, so this way at least you can cut and paste. i hope.)