Fit For Future Families - April 2011

AutumnisBSB

Jalara-Hope this is your cycle! I am about 1.5 weeks behind you.

fitterpam

Ivy - I think, if they've already checked the tubes, you're probably still good. They tend to close after either a traumatic experience or an STD (unless they were always that way), either of which would have been noted by your doc and you'd already be getting re-tested. It could be lots of things - knowing all the things that can go wrong with an embryo makes me wonder sometimes about the ability of humans to reproduce in general. Only about 1 in about 2 fertilized eggs even get past that stage into embryo - sometimes they "arrest". They aren't sure why.....sometimes it could be genetics, sometimes it could be environment, sometimes it could be stress.....there are lots of possibles and no definites. As for the weight loss, definitely try more small meals through the day and I've found upping the protein helps a lot (just don't up the sugar and fat like I did this last week as well!!! LOL) Things will fall into place when they are meant to....I know that's horrible to hear - I'm sure you've been told a million times, but.....it's the only reason I can think that we've been waiting so long.......I know it'll happen for you!!! With PCOS, avoid soy in anything....soy is a xenoestrogen that can throw your hormones out of whack - so try and opt for other choices While doing my HSG, the doctor felt that since I was "classic" PCOS that it was time to bring in all the interns and the U/S staff and show everyone what PCOS looked like.....LOL but no one has ever told me whether or not it's been a long time since I've ovulated....so that's still confusing to me....I thought cysts interfered, not completely blocked ovulation (especially if you temp and all the hormones act normally - they don't tend to do that if you don't ovulate)...heh....learn something new every day

HMKan - 4 months is really not that long - if we ovulated every night, that would be a long time, but you've only had 4 shots at it That's still learning in my books - there is also so much to learn about it that I'd be surprised if you knew it all :flowerforyou: I have a few charts up on fertility friend (ignore my current cycle....LOL It's horrible) http://www.fertilityfriend.com/home/165835 Hopefully that will help with whether you're doing it right or not - are there any specific questions? I definitely know that devastated feeling The only thing I can say to help is try and find something else to focus on right now, besides the charting and the rest of it.....at this point, you've done all you can this cycle so it's time to try and relax (which if there is a fertilized eggie, is the best thing to try and help it stick)......if you enjoy photography or crafting or reading or anything, now's the time to really engage in it....PS. you were never the annoying kid.....LOL

Crabin - Good points on the Clomid!! Notes on the Robitussen - make sure not to get the kind that helps clear a runny nose....LOL that will have the opposite effect on the CM (dry it up, like it does for nasal mucous). I've heard good and bad things about baby aspirin, so definitely check with the doctor before trying it again. They also recommend it to people with cardiovascular disease to help thin the blood - it has a similar effect on the uterine lining (or so I've read). If you want to try herbal remedies, definitely do your research, but vitex is supposed to be stellar as far as regulating cycles goes. Personally, I'm trying to remove the sugars from my diet (completely unsuccessfully it would seem). I know sugars mess with insulin levels and since I'm insulin resistant (my body overreacts to sugars being input into the body by over producing insulin) with PCOS, the insulin levels then mess with the levels of the reproductive hormones all of which leads to irregular cycles........hence the prescription for most PCOSers trying to conceive of Metformin (an insulin stabilizing drug).

AFM: Phew, that was a major brain dump......LOL now all I have left is sympathy and encouragement :laugh: I watched Jamie Oliver Food Revolution last night and I kind of wish I hadn't......"sigh" The pink slime that is chicken nuggets is apparently allowed in most ground beef, up to 15%. I stopped eating McNuggets after seeing the slime and now...ground beef (especially the finely minced stuff) is off my list....so much for the rest of the lasagna in the fridge......From now on, I'm going to watch my butcher grind up fresh steaks......my pocket book will hate me, but I absolutely can't do it......This clean eating stuff is really tough........BTW, I re-added the old ticker.......thanks for the suggestion Jalara

lukimakamai

Sorry it took me awhile to post my weigh in. I am down one pound- Not splurging paid off and I’m very happy!

Pam- I’m sorry your body is being funky and not showing what it should! You have done a great job this week so try to not let it bother you- maybe next week will show all the work you are putting in.

Jalara- Congratulations on the loss this week that is awesome!

MrsHinds- What is the name of the yoga tape? Sounds like a winner. I’ve been thinking about starting yoga but don’t have the courage to join the class at the gym because it is always the same ladies and I would stand out like a sore thumb. Starting out with a tape is more me.

Ivy- yes I remember you…Hawaii that is my home (well, where I was born and raised). Have fun I’m very envious!

Crabin- baby asprin? Really? I’m going to read up on that and maybe give it a try.

AFM- I’m sick!!! Went to the doctor today after work and confirmed that I have bronchitis. Second time this school year so very bummed and hoping my z-pac works quick so I can get my energy back. I’m also having some early cramps so not sure if AF is arriving early or…(I know better than to get my hopes up at this point, but this is not normal for me.) All in all feeling really crappy today, at least I lost weight this week.

jalara

crabin - thanks for the thoughts! I also hope this is your cycle!!! I also wanted to add that aspirin is really dangerous to take, even baby aspirin - that really needs to be under physician supervision, and there are A LOT of conditions that aspirin can harm - it's not even supposed to be used as a regular headache treatment anymore.
I only say this because I have found that TTC forums can be taken too seriously, and methods can be adopted by anyone without them really looking into it or talking to their health care team - just the advice of a student nurse!

HMKan - I do agree with Pam that 4 months isn't that long, but when I was at the 4 month mark someone else scoffed it off and told me not to be upset.... so I will NEVER do that! 4 months can seem like forever, but I want you to know that it does get easier and there really is only a small chance each cycle. I recommend looking up The Great Sperm Race on youtube (there are 5 parts, if I remember right) - it's very eye opening! Also - I've got some skills at reading charts, so let me know if I can help you out I think you'll find a lot of support here.

MrsHinds - I love the approach you're taking (nutrition wise) - sounds like you're headed for success!

Ivy - ovulation, by definition, is releasing an egg, but you can have your period without ovulating - many women do - it's called an anovulatory cycle. a cyst is a egg that developed, didn't release and didn't get reabsorbed. They can be a little dangerous for some people, but not a big deal for others. Considering that you were on Clomid though, they're a very common side effect - one of the worst. One of the ways that Clomid works is that it not only stimulates ovulation, it also stimulates the maturing of "better quality" eggs which is what leads to progesterone (but you need to ovulate for that). SO from what you've told us I would say you must have ovulated when they did your progesterone test, but that you are either a) not ovulating each cycle, or b) maturing more than one egg due to the Clomid.
Sorry - I don't mean to sound like a know-it-all!

I hope I answered everyone!

Also - they can tell if you ovulate with ultrsound - but they have a VERY small window to catch it.

fitterpam

Luki - bronchitis is the WORST!!!

Jalara - I remember catching the great sperm race on CBC when it came on tv......fascinating!!!! Definitely worth watching. Great points!!!!

AFM: bedtime......night all

AutumnisBSB

Of course anyone going to take medication while ttc or pregnant should ask their dr. I know many women who baby aspirin was the key to them being able to carry the pregnancy to term. Just like everything I am sure there is controversy over it. Just letting everyone know what worked for me and others I know.

The best robitussin is actually just the generic guaifenesin. The hospital I work at (I am a nurse) is able to get a brand but I haven't seen it in the stores.

Since I am new here I do not know how much people know or don't know regarding TTC, medications etc. So if I say something that someone doesn't know about I hope they ask questions here, do research or talk to their dr before doing it.

Jalara-One of our doctors here says some new research shows that 650mg of aspirin is one of the best treatments for a migraine. I dunno.

Luki-Hope you get to feeling better soon.

ivygirl11

Ivy, my doctor said that doing small meals throughout the day is the best way to lose weight, especially if you have PCOS. It's also good to focus on plant protiens like beans and nuts and try to avoid carbs. I've been doing it for about a month now and my clothes have already become loose! I haven't actually weighed in yet because I dont have a scale at home but I'm planning on getting one soon I actually combined the PCOS weight loss efforts and my efforts to get pregnant by looking up specific nuts, beans, veggies, etc. that promote fertility. It's been fun trying new things and I'm starting to see results!

Thats funny you mention this. I was watching Chelsie lately the other night and her traditionalist was on the show as her guest. I thought she looked really good with the weight she had lost and how tone she was. So I ordered his book called "Body Confidence" and its all about eating something every 2-3 hours... I CANT wait for it to come. I know that i am not eating enough throughout the day. I just will eat someting light and then have like a big meal later, lets just say thats not working out for me. I cant wait to try this. (actually tried it today). I felt like i was constantly eating but they were lower calorie type things that were still filling (nuts, cheese etc.)... Anyhow i just have to retrain my body

ivygirl11

Ivy - ovulation, by definition, is releasing an egg, but you can have your period without ovulating - many women do - it's called an anovulatory cycle. a cyst is a egg that developed, didn't release and didn't get reabsorbed. They can be a little dangerous for some people, but not a big deal for others. Considering that you were on Clomid though, they're a very common side effect - one of the worst. One of the ways that Clomid works is that it not only stimulates ovulation, it also stimulates the maturing of "better quality" eggs which is what leads to progesterone (but you need to ovulate for that). SO from what you've told us I would say you must have ovulated when they did your progesterone test, but that you are either a) not ovulating each cycle, or b) maturing more than one egg due to the Clomid.
Sorry - I don't mean to sound like a know-it-all!

I hope I answered everyone!

Also - they can tell if you ovulate with ultrsound - but they have a VERY small window to catch it.

You totally didnt sound like a know it all. Im glad someone knows lol! I get a little overwhelmed with all of the doctor talk and then i loose all of what they told me, so sometimes i have to "re-ask" the question lol.

This last time when we did the IUI they did do an ultrasound to see if i ovulated and i did. But with the other doc. he didnt do things like that. He was just super basic.

So from what i was understanding he said cysts are eggs that had not been released with your period. With the number of them that i had in my ovaries thats how he gathered that i had not dropped an egg for so long. But he wasnt concerned that those cysts were dangerous or anything...

I appreciate you answering all of my questions, i hope im not too much of a bother

AutumnisBSB

Pam-I have been on metformin for about 6 years now. Also have insulin resistance. PCOS is just such a lovely syndrome.

HMKan

Thanks guys, I"ll try to keep it in perspective. I agree, hearing that it's only been 4 months is tough, because it's been forever in my book. It's 4 missed opportunities. I don't have anybody to talk to about this in my real life because I'm not ready for people to know we're trying (I'm terrified of failing at this so I'd rather wait until I know I can get pregnant before we tell people).

As for right now, I've had sort of pms cramps since Sunday, but no period yet. I'm due for my period on Friday. I've never had cramps this far in advance. I realize this isn't technically baby-related advice, but has anyone else experienced this?

MrsHinds7

Luki, I ordered my yoga DVD on amazon.com Here is the link:

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001OVFAA4

I'm super interested to see how it works! But hey anything where I can combine weight loss with improving fertility is worth a shot!!!

I also ordered a book about foods to eat when trying to concieve that is really interesting. Some of their theories are common knowledge and others suprised me. But its based on years of studies and is a pretty good read Here's the link to that one:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0071627103

jalara

HMKan - yeah - once I started to pay attention I realized that some months I get cramps like 3 days after ovulation! It doesn't mean much at this stage in my experience, but some women swear they know by the cramps. Sorry - there's nothing with TTC that's a straight answer it seems! The whole "every body is different" is a pain in the @ss!

ErinGiam

Hi guys!
I came across this forum and figured I would join in, if thats okay
My husband and I have just decided to start trying after AF comes along ( due this weekend). I have been wanting this for awhile so I am so excited that my husband is finally ready! Eating healthier and exercising mean even more to me now knowing that it can help in my chances of conceiving!

jalara

erileah - welcome! We're happy to have you!

fitterpam

Hey guys - just a quick post.....I totally fell apart after lunch today. I booked in my lunch and dinner and realized that even with a FULL dinner, my day would only be 600 cals, so I splurged at lunch (and then again at dinner! YIKES)

lukimakamai

MrsHinds- Thanks for message and the info on the yoga tape!

Just a quick post to say WELCOME to erileah!

After spending the whole day in a school district meeting I have decided I'm calling out! This think some sleep and another day of meds will do me good and get me back on my feet.

carriep2010

Hey, I would love to join your group, My husband and I are TTC our second child. I had my IUD taken out January 24, 2011 and had a 5 day period 4 days later and nothing since, hope it works it self out soon! If I don't get my period this month I am making an app to see my doc.

HunnyLuvsJorge

Hi all!! Sorry I haven't kept up lately. I hope everyone is doing well and moving that scale!!

ASM ... I've broken through my plateau and lost 3 lbs!! I increased my water intake and that seemed to be the magic trick. I don't exactly get how that helps, but I'm drinking water like crazy and visiting the ladies room an obscene number of times a day, but it's well worth it!

ivygirl11

I fail... got subway on the way home from work today ... why do i have to pass so many fast food joints on the way home...

AMummysLife

Hi ladies. Sorry for not being here for ages but I do have some news. I tested today (at 11 DPO so AF isn't due for another 4 days) and got a BFP!

pixieofdoom

Huge congratulaions, so, so pleased for you!! Big hugs xx

AMummysLife

Thanks Pixie. I'm still in shock lol.

pixieofdoom

I'll bet you are! The best kind of shock though *g*

jalara

History - congratulations! There are now 2 pregnant groups for you to choose from - Pregnancy 2011 - April or Fit, Fabulous and Pregnant! (which is for people who intend to keep a very high fitness level while pregnant). Either way - congratulations!

Ivy - Subway isn't unhealthy - and super easy to cut out calories! Just ask them to scoop out the inner part of the bread and then fill it with good stuff - easy-peasy!

Hunny - congrats on breaking the plateau!

Carrie - welcome to the group - we're happy to have you! We weigh in on Mondays

AFM - 1 exam left for tomorrow.... and it's a doozy..... but I'm on my way to brunch with a friend this morning, and I've already got a healthy plan! Spinach and tomato omelette with gluten free toast and a side of fruit - yum!
So far - even with the chocolate indulgence yesterday, I'm down a but from Monday so I hope it sticks! I have a goal I'm trying reach after all!

Anyone watch The Biggest Loser last night?

pixieofdoom

This may have come up before but I have a question for those of you that haven't told anyone that you are TTC. What do you say when people start asking you when you plan to have kids or asking why you don't already?

I try and brush it off with an 'oh, it's just not the right time' but some people can be really persistent. I know they mean well (most of em anyways) but it makes me want to scream or cry. I know if I say that I don't want to have that discussion it will increase their interest and fuel gossip in the cases of some people I know (the less well meaning ones)

Any really good lines to stop the conversation in it's tracks without arousing suspicion?

ErinGiam

Historysmissinglad congrats!! So happy for you!! That is super exciting :happy:

jalara

pixie - I've always liked "about 9 months after I get pregnant", but I'm sarcastic like that! To be honest, the best way I have found to answer is to ask them "Why do you ask?" It's polite, and turns the table on them, and let's them know they are being nosy - and then when they say something about just wondering you can say that when you decided it's time and have news to share that they won't be left out, but until then it's a private matter. I use this with my ol' bitty aunts and it works like a charm!

MrsHinds7

History - Congratulations! That is so very exciting Sprinkle some of that baby dust our way

Ivy - Subway is much better than Taco Bell or McDonalds! I wouldn't worry about it too much! And I don't know what you ordered, but if you substitute the chips for chicken noodle soup, its only 60calories and yummy! I always do a 6inch oven roasted chicken breast with LOTS of veggies (toasted), chicken noodle soup and the 5cal lemonade. YUM!

Hunny - Yay!!! Thats so exciting!! Thanks for sharing and inspiring us to keep working at it!

Carrie - Thanks for joining our group!!

Pixie- Thats a tough one. We decided to just be open about our struggles so people would stop asking when we were going to have a baby (especially "when am I getting a grandbaby?!"), but I think it's easier for us because everyone followed David's cancer progress so they already know that he has a series of difficulties in relation to his cancer treatments. I really like Jalara's idea of turning it back on them. Or you could just say something like, "well, were letting happen in God's timing, which I know will be perfect for our family." I don't think anyone could rebuttle that kind of response

fitterpam

LOL so much for all my chattering, eh? History, I'm SOOOOOOOOOOOOOO happy for you!!!!!! That's great news......


So now for my full post (I saw the news about History and got so excited that I had to post a quick one...but I couldn' see all the new posts). So here we go.

First off, welcome to Erileah & Carrie

Hunny - hope things are going a little more smoothly for you. That H20 is the best thing you'll do for yourself!!! I know that every time I go up, it's because I haven't had enough water for a few days.....I'm so super sensitive to that now (and my sodium isn't usually near 2500 daily!!)

Ivy - is it bad that I don't consider Subway a fail??? LOL It is a far better choice than you could have made, especially if you hit up a few on the way home (I assume they aren't all Subways)

Jalara - I'm sure you'll do well on your last exam!!! I have BL taped (plan on watching it as soon as I get home - I just can't sit through 2 hours), but I did catch Food Revolution last night too.....that's an eye opener

Pixie - Most people know we're trying, but for those who don't my answer is, "We would love to have a few"....Not saying that it's happening now....beyond that I don't mention it. And I change the topic after that - but you don't owe anyone an answer Jalara's answer is awesome though!!! "Why do you ask"

AFM: I'm up again...so much for my bubble......since getting under 230, this morning I was back up to 234 and I haven't been ridiculous with cals either - definitely not enough to warranty 4lbs of gain!!! Drinking the heck out of my water today. It's supposed to rain here for like the next week and it's not a warm rain either so I don't know how much I'll be getting outside, which kind of sucks. I (like Ivy) welched last night and stopped off for fried chicken and 'taters.....so guess what's for lunch today.....LOL I've been watching food revolution and pink slime completely grosses me out. So now, I can't have any preground ground beef (I had a simlar experience with McNuggets - I ate them at least 2x a month and I haven't had a single one in well over 18 months, not even tempted a little bit).......Anyone else find out something about a previously crave worthy food that completely turns them off and that's that????

MrsHinds7

Pam,

Sorry about the gained weight. I hate when that happens. But I'm sure it will melt right back off!!!

I definately get like that when I hear how food is processed... like dollar menu items for example... the meat they use for that used to be only used for dog food. And they kill the bacteria by shoving it through a tube and exposing it to ammonia gas... eating something that has been treated with something I would use to clean my toilet... not appealing. I actually stopped eating processed foods altogether and switched to organics Haha, I can't even watch those Food Revolution shows!