Post-op retrieval...

Let me start by saying I had Nick proof this to ensure I wasn't too loopy in the writing of this entry, apparently it's okay since he gave me the go ahead.

I’m thrilled to report that things went splendidly this morning! As with everything during this process I’ve been prepping myself for the absolute worst & this was cake compared to what I was expecting. I was of course nervous as most people are prior to surgery, but everyone at the clinic was so wonderful, which helped to calm my nerves; that & I’m sure all of the prayers you all were sending up for me (thanks for that, someone obviously heard something)!

The surgery room wasn’t nearly as scary thanks to the fabulous medical team I had working with me…an all female team of brilliant scientific minds! And I must say thank you God for my RE she is so incredibly talented & obviously has great aim…I have not been in any pain since the procedure!!! I've not needed even so much as a Tylenol, maybe I’m a tougher cookie than I thought:) Also, loving my anesthesiologist who thankfully granted me an incredibly peaceful sleep throughout the procedure. Granted some of the marvelous drugs they gave me may still be sticking around a bit, but at the moment I feel great & definitely did not expect this.

As for my eggs, the doctor was able to retrieve 13!!! We will get a report tomorrow on how well they’re all doing & their quality. Hopefully we’ve got some beautiful strong little embryo’s growing in those petri dishes. Not quite the way you imagine making a baby, but hey it’s what science has granted us & we’re grateful it’s an option.

So tomorrow we also get to begin the dreaded progesterone injections!!! This is the first & only intramuscular injection; we use a 22g 1 ½ inch needle! The progesterone is a natural hormone that enables the uterus to support pregnancy, aiding in endometrial development, & helping the embryo to thrive. These are by far the worst of the injections & if things are successful I will be given them daily for the next several weeks!

On a completely random side note, if you’ve never watched the show Brothers & Sisters you’ve got to check it out! It has grown to be my absolute favorite show & has tackled some of the most difficult topics (IVF, adoption, surrogacy, gay rights) with such remarkable realism.

Thanks again for all the prayers & support that have been offered up for us, please continue to pray that our embryos thrive & we have at least a couple healthy ones left for transfer in a few days.