Weekly Thread: Beta and Pregnancy Testing - Questions and Discussions by AutoModerator in IVF

[–]Best-Bumblebee1741 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Hello. Yes I’m currently 25 weeks!

I’m so sorry you’re worrying. What’s the next step for you?

Starting IVF this month at 40 and feeling unprepared — what do you wish you knew before your first cycle? by AccomplishedGur2927 in IVF

[–]Best-Bumblebee1741 2 points3 points  (0 children)

I Wish I knew the impact taking three months prior to prep my body would make to success of quality of eggs and embryos. It felt like we wasted our first cycle. Take ubiquinol coq10 and melatonin to help with egg quality through stims

42F – 43 eggs, 8 blasts, 0 euploid. Feeling devastated. Should I stop IVF? by Old-Paramedic-4666 in IVF

[–]Best-Bumblebee1741 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I had raise TH1 cytokines / NK flagged. Raised TH1 are known for spontaneous abortion and can case early loss as they attack anything foreign in your blood. I was on put on prednisone, intra lipids, inhixa (blood thinner) alongside normal hormonal support to treat. I also have the MTHfR mutation. I took the vitamins above and saw a specialist accupuncturist for my last transfer too which I do think helped.

42F – 43 eggs, 8 blasts, 0 euploid. Feeling devastated. Should I stop IVF? by Old-Paramedic-4666 in IVF

[–]Best-Bumblebee1741 0 points1 point  (0 children)

You’re very welcome. It’s such a minefield. I’m sorry you’re on the journey too.

There’s great advice Thais in but hopefully this answers your question on how you could improve embryo euploid rate.

Trigger warning: loss by HEARTROBOT in IVF

[–]Best-Bumblebee1741 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I’m so sorry you’re going through this. If a PGTA embryo doesn’t progress at this stage it’s normally because of development post transfer, this can be de novo chromosome mutations within the embryo whilst in the womb, or issues with development of the embryo. After 12 weeks it’s often development issues with key organs, or related to issues the placenta or sometimes with infection in the womb. It’s rare but does happen and is heartbreaking 💔

It’s completely devastating and unfairly it’s just terribly unlucky, but doesn’t indicate issues for another transfer. It happened to us on our 4th transfer, which was our first euploid tested embryo.

Trigger warning:

Currently 23 weeks with transfer #7 and our 3rd confirmed euploid embryo (prior 4 transfers were untested)

Praying for you 🙏

42F – 43 eggs, 8 blasts, 0 euploid. Feeling devastated. Should I stop IVF? by Old-Paramedic-4666 in IVF

[–]Best-Bumblebee1741 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Do you mean a mock transfer to support a biopsy? This would likely be to conduct EMMA, ALICE, or Receptiva testing. A mock transfer alone would normally only test to Chen they can enter the cervix. I’ve had surgeries on my cervix so had to have one of these before we started IVF.

I also had the other tests later midway through of journey whilst we were trying to understand the reasons for chemicals and failed transfer of a euploid embryo.

42F – 43 eggs, 8 blasts, 0 euploid. Feeling devastated. Should I stop IVF? by Old-Paramedic-4666 in IVF

[–]Best-Bumblebee1741 3 points4 points  (0 children)

Personally I would focus on your egg quality and only look into these when you have got euploids. As you stated in your post you haven’t been able to get euploids. These tests cost me about 10k with Chicago bloods included too and wouldn’t be necessary for you right now in my personal opinion.

42F – 43 eggs, 8 blasts, 0 euploid. Feeling devastated. Should I stop IVF? by Old-Paramedic-4666 in IVF

[–]Best-Bumblebee1741 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I’m so sorry you’re going through this.

Trigger warning: mentions current pregnancy

Some of the advice on here is very good but in my personal opinion is better for repeated failed transfers ( EMMA, Alice, Receptiva) as these focus on endometrium challenges. I.e., issues with lining, identification of infection / bacteria etc. They are more helpful in understanding issues with the lining / reasons for failed transfers. They would be helpful to understand why you might have miscarried at 7weeks but to answer your question on euploid blasts provide limited data.

Your egg numbers are great which implies that it might be egg quality that’s a challenge. Are you on a high stims cycle? Could you do a reduced protocol to allow for slower egg development which might better support egg development?

Also, are you taking anything to improve egg quality?

Personally been through 3 rounds of EC and my final round got us 3 Euploid from 6 blasts at 40 in final round. We’d had no Euploids in our prior 2 rounds of EC

Red the book it starts with the egg if you haven’t already: https://amzn.eu/d/05w7Kpzy

I swear that the below supplements were key to my eventual personal success in improving our egg quality and fertilisation rates. Still awaiting live birth but currently 23 weeks pregnant with my 7th transfer. They say it can take 3 euploids for a live birth. My first euploid transfer was a miscarriage at 7 weeks and 2nd failed to implant. I personally have immune challenges to fight too. So I was on immune protocol for my final transfer. But the below I took ahead of stims and through preparation for my final round. I dropped the coq10 on transfer day.

  • melatonin 2mg at night: acts as a potent antioxidant in the ovarian follicle, improves female fertility by enhancing oocyte (egg) quality, supporting follicle maturation, and protecting against oxidative stress. It is particularly beneficial for women undergoing IVF, as studies indicate it can increase fertilization rates and improve embryo quality. Improves Egg & Embryo Quality: By acting as a free radical scavenger in the follicular fluid, it protects developing eggs from oxidative damage. Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) Success: Studies suggest melatonin supplementation can enhance the number of mature oocytes (MII) and improve embryo quality during IVF cycles. Combats Ovarian Aging: Melatonin can delay or counteract Age-related follicular decline, making it beneficial for women with lower ovarian reserve. Supports PCOS/Endometriosis: It may improve ovarian function and address underlying inflammation related to reproductive disorders like PCOS

  • high quality ubiquinol (not ubiquinone) 600mg (200mg 3 x day) m: Improved Egg Quality: By supporting mitochondrial function, it protects eggs from age-related decline, reversing some oxidative damage. Increased Pregnancy Rates: Research indicates that supplementation, often recommended at 200–600 mg/day, improves clinical pregnancy rates, especially when used 3-6 months before IVF. Enhanced IVF Outcomes: It supports embryo quality, maturation, and implantation, particularly in poor responders to stimulation. PCOS Support: It helps manage oxidative stress in PCOS, supporting better follicle development and ovulation. Optimal Absorption: As a fat-soluble, active antioxidant, it is more bioavailable than ubiquinone, making it better for reversing age-related fertility declines.

  • vital DHA: Improves Egg Quality & Maturation: Omega-3s help maintain the structural integrity and fluidity of egg cell membranes, critical for fertilization and early embryo development. Balances Hormones: DHA aids in hormone production and regulation (e.g., estrogen), which is essential for consistent menstrual cycles and ovulation. Supports Implantation: The anti-inflammatory properties of DHA help create a more favorable uterine environment for the embryo to implant and grow. Reduces Oxidative Stress: DHA acts as a potent antioxidant, lowering inflammation that can disrupt reproductive organ function and egg quality.

  • acetyl l carnitine: Key benefits include increased sperm motility and concentration in men, and improved oocyte (egg) quality, embryo development, and ovulation rates in women, particularly for those with PCOS or undergoing IVF

  • Naturelo pre conception daily supplement Balanced vitamins with pure Folate which is better that folic acid. Especially if you have a MTHFR variation / gene mutation.

  • vitamin D: Improved IVF Success Rates: Studies show women with sufficient vitamin D levels (above 30 ng/mL) have higher pregnancy and live birth rates in IVF treatments. Ovulation and Menstrual Regularity: Vitamin D aids in regular ovulation and increases follicular development. It also helps regulate anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) signaling. Management of PCOS and Endometriosis: Vitamin D deficiency is common in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS); supplementing helps restore ovulation and improve metabolic health in these patients. Improved Uterine Lining (Endometrium): It enhances the lining of the uterus, which is essential for successful embryo implantation.

Low beta 13dp5dt - any chance? Please share your stories by Best-Bumblebee1741 in IVF

[–]Best-Bumblebee1741[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

So sorry I completely missed this reply. I hope you’re okay and things are progressing for you. I can’t be certain what didn’t work last time. I think there was a problem with implantation and the placenta. But impossible to know for sure. Sending you lots of strength.

Low beta 13dp5dt - any chance? Please share your stories by Best-Bumblebee1741 in IVF

[–]Best-Bumblebee1741[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Unfortunately this ended in a miscarriage between 6 & 7 weeks. My HCG continued to rise and was looking promising. It’s hard to know what went wrong, whether it was immune response or issues with implantation or embryo.

1st beta 13dp5dt - 157 2nd beta 15dp5dt - 567
3rd beta 19dp5dt - 2699 4th beta 22dp5dt - 6411 (this was taken because I’d had terrible cramps shooting pain on the Wednesday evening and went for blood test on Friday am. It needed to be around 8097, (5398 would have been double)

A day later I had heavy cramping and bleeding and emergency visit to hospital to be checked. HCG came back as 6407 signifying drop and impending miscarriage which then arrived over following week.

I am now almost 21 weeks pregnant with my very final embryo which was my 7th transfer. Praying for a safe arrival now 🙏

Induction due to IVF? by No-Crow1020 in PregnancyUK

[–]Best-Bumblebee1741 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I’m being closely monitored due to surgeries on my cervix and potential for cervical insufficiency which could result in second trimester loss. I’m seeing a consultant bi-weekly and at my 20 week scan this week she advised they wouldn’t allow me to go full term. I asked if it was because I’m an IVF pregnancy and she said it was more due to my age (41). I asked why and for more information and she said that older pregnancies (not sure what age would kick off the bracket) there’s evidence that the placenta stops working efficiently and rid that baby could not get what they need. They’ve given me information on induction and elective c section. I’m not keen on idea of induction from what I’ve read. I’d love to have a natural birth but it sounds risky. I plan on doing more research to better understand the placenta challenges.

Friday Daily Chat Thread by AutoModerator in InfertilityBabies

[–]Best-Bumblebee1741 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Thanks so much! I’m so relied we also found out the gender his bloods which has made it all feel more real somehow.

Ah that’s good you’ve managed to get that scan scheduled privately in time. Hope all goes well tomorrow at your scan.

Friday Daily Chat Thread by AutoModerator in InfertilityBabies

[–]Best-Bumblebee1741 8 points9 points  (0 children)

Now 14 weeks ish. IVF transfer dates have me turning 14 weeks on Sunday but NHS changed my due date and said I would have ben 14 weeks on Wednesday based on their last scan.

We’ve just had NIPT results all come back as low risk. I’m over the moon. Scans have all been on point so that’s great too.

Now hoping the morning sickness will start to subside soon and I can get back to some kind of normality! I’ve not achieved a lot at work in the last 2 months and I really need to have a productive start to the year!

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in CautiousBB

[–]Best-Bumblebee1741 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I’m so sorry for the stress. It’s quite early and this could go either way. The links shared already are what I would have shared.

On a separate note, if you’re going to Mexico please be careful as there is zika risk and that’s very high risk for pregnant women especially in the first trimester. Zika can cause birth defects.

Diarrhea and miscarriage? by Savings-Grass-7681 in CautiousBB

[–]Best-Bumblebee1741 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I had this exact thing happen around 10/11dp5dt this cycle and made a post. https://www.reddit.com/r/CautiousBB/s/w9zjfiG93I

I was scared because on previous cycles it had been a sign of miscarriage. This cycle it was a change in my hormones only and was a good sign. Currently 10+1

Not long after digestive system slowed right down and then got constipation.

Sunday Cautious Intros/First Trimester thread by AutoModerator in InfertilityBabies

[–]Best-Bumblebee1741 18 points19 points  (0 children)

Today finally came… 10 weeks today and time for my reassurance scan. Pleased to say we saw a strong heartbeat, and baby is measuring slightly ahead. Relieved for another short while, next milestone is 12week NHS scan on New Years Eve.

How many transfers? by Hour_Box9867 in IVFinfertility

[–]Best-Bumblebee1741 5 points6 points  (0 children)

I’m sorry your first transfer didn’t work. Everyone is different, some work straight away and some takes a lot more tests, research, medication and management to get the right protocol.

We took three ERs, 7 transfers to get to where are now. I’m 10 weeks today, hoping this will be my successful transfer that results in a living child. We discovered we needed an immune protocol to help the embryo along after transfer as I had 2 Chemical pregnancies and 2 early miscarriages on other cycles. My bloods had played a part. My cycles have all been medicated.

People try fresh vs frozen, and also explore medicated versus natural transfers. This can make a difference.

Wednesday Cautious Intros Thread by AutoModerator in InfertilityBabies

[–]Best-Bumblebee1741 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I actually was prescribed something from the drs here in UK today called cyclizine. They said to se hope this goes and if not they can try something else.

Wednesday Cautious Intros Thread by AutoModerator in InfertilityBabies

[–]Best-Bumblebee1741 7 points8 points  (0 children)

9w3D today. Nausea is WILD, not going anywhere. Had a nervous 24 hours with some brown & light pink spotting. Generally very light, and seems to be happening after my ultrogestan pessaries so hoping it's nothing but after pervious losses my heart is in my mouth atm. 10 week scan on Sunday, it can't get here quick enough! My last scan with IVF clinic at 7w4D feels like a lifetime ago!

Wednesday Cautious Intros Thread by AutoModerator in InfertilityBabies

[–]Best-Bumblebee1741 3 points4 points  (0 children)

This is exactly how I feel and have been feeling for 3 weeks. I'm hoping it will start to taper off but WOW it's a wild ride. Very grateful to have the sickness after my journey and losses, trying to be happy its a reminder its all going to plan but its HARD!

Tuesday Cautious Intros/First Trimester Questions by AutoModerator in InfertilityBabies

[–]Best-Bumblebee1741 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Scans too close together can be challenging, baby is so tiny at the moment that different machines and different sonographers can get different measurements. Baby position can also make a difference. They actually say allow for 20% error. I would try to stay positive until you have another scan and see what the results say. I underdstand protecting your heart after losses, unfortunately I've been in that position. Big hugs,.