Step 1 (IVF Seminar) - Complete

OK, so we made it to the IVF Seminar (after sitting in traffic for ages). It was at a really nice posh Country Club.

We got to see what they do as far as testing, medications, egg transfers, fertilization, embryo transfers, the whole nine yards. Some really interesting videos...no wonder the procedure is so expensive!

After the doctors did their presentation we were allowed to have a chat with them, which I really should have beem more prepared for. Though we did learn that we would actually be able to attempt IUI before doing IVF. What a relief!

Some of you probably have no idea what I'm talking about, but it will help me to remember if I write all down. They have a lower limit of 10 million washed swimmers for IUI, which we are fairly sure we can be above that limit. They charge around $500 for an IUI, not including meds, blood tests and ultrasounds. We asked about doing a double IUI to increase chances, which is something they recommend if progesterone levels are lower than 1 on the day of the first IUI (they hope to see a level of 3 for prog)...or they will do two if it is what we prefer. The doctor we spoke with also said there were several tests that could be performed on sperm and eggs to check the quality and ability to fertilize.

We didn't win the free IVF cycle prize drawing :( Oh well, lets hope we don't really need it.

With regards to Step 2 - Laparascopy - I've been given news that the hospital where I will be having the surgery charges from 16-20K for the procedure. :-o Luckily my insurance should cover all of it, after we pay the $2,500 deductible. It can never be simple can it ? Even though its a lot of dosh I'm still pretty sure it will be worth it in the end, even if nothing is found then I'll have some peace of mind; although I'll still be without a reason for the pain.

AND if my insurance deductible has been paid for the year then I can see as many docs as I can before the end of the year for other little niggles.