10:00 AM: I just got to my baseline appointment. We are going to do an Estradiol and Progesterone blood test and another vaginal ultrasound. So, I’ll keep you guys updated!
I just got done with the blood work, we’ll find out the results later today and I’m back in the ultrasound room.
11:45 AM: I just finished my baseline appointment and my nurse gave me my medications in case I do start injections tonight. She also did a med teach with me so I can be knowledgeable when it is time to begin. I currently have them in a cooler so I will show you when I get home! Here’s a sneak peek of my injection medications.
Video 2: Medications
Trigger warning: This video contains footage of needle injections. All medications are prescribed by an IVF physician.
I am officially cleared to start medications. I will be taking 200 units of Follistim® and 75 units of Menopur®. This is what my cycle calendar currently looks like. It is subject to change based on my response to the medications.
Here is a chart of the different types of medications you can take during your cycle. Option 2 is a list of medications I am taking. I have to refrigerate the Follistim® and my Lupron® trigger. I was told I can take my injections any time from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM but I have to take it consistently. I chose 8:00 p.m. (Pro tip: Set an alarm on your phone as a reminder!) Here is everything that I need to take my Menopur® and my Follistim®. The clinic gave me tips on how to prevent OHSS, so I went grocery shopping. I got protein shakes, chicken, bananas, and water.
Post 4 Days of Medications:
I’ve taken 4 days of medications and I’m reacting very well. They’ve asked me to gradually decrease my Follistim® dosage and I will also be starting Ganirelix® tonight. I don’t feel bloated but I will keep you updated. Here is everything I need to take my Menopur®, Follistim®, and Ganirelix®.
Post 6 Days of Medications:
I’ve now completed 6 days of medications and I do feel a little bloated but the doctor said that's normal. All my follicles are growing nicely. They are going to decrease my Follistim® just a little bit. I have a couple more check-ups to go but I will keep you updated when it’s time to trigger.
Post 9 Days of Medications:
I just got confirmation that I will be doing my trigger injections tonight. These are the last and most important injections. I will be doing a combo trigger and it has to be done at exactly 7:20 PM tonight. Just a quick tip: Always set an alarm for your trigger injection. I set mine 5 minutes before and 1 minute before so I have time to prep my injections. It’s super important to take the trigger shot at the exact time as instructed. Typically, your egg retrieval will be 32-36 hours after your trigger shot.
Video 3: Egg Retrieval
Day Before Egg Retrieval Day
Last night, I took the most important injection of my cycle, which is the trigger shot. My egg retrieval is scheduled for 7:20 a.m. tomorrow. My friend will be here later tonight to drive me to and from my egg retrieval tomorrow and stay with me after. The clinic has asked me to remove my nail polish because during my surgery I will have something on the end of my finger to read my oxygen level and nail polish or fake nails would block that.
Egg Retrieval Day
5:00 AM: Here is my comfy outfit for my surgery.
6:00 AM: Here’s a bag for my personal belongings, a cap for my hair, some socks, and two gowns to cover my front and back sides, and a warm blanket. Here is what my recovery room looks like.
I am now being prepped for my IV sedation.
1 hour later: The egg retrieval took about 30 minutes and I think I stayed asleep for about 30 minutes after. Now, I just have to go home, rest, and drink plenty of water and electrolytes.
Day After Egg Retrieval Day:
I’m going to work right now. Here is an update on my bloating. For my job, I’m mainly sitting down all day so I was able to come to work today. It’s very important that you listen to your own body and take it as easy as possible.
Thank you for following me along my egg donor journey!
Find Resources in the Donor Nexus Blog:
- Step-By-Step Overview of the Egg Donation Process
- If I Donate My Eggs, Can I Still Have Babies in the Future?
- Can You Donate Eggs if You Have an IUD?
- Can I Donate My Eggs If I’m on Birth Control?