WHEN KNOCKED UP WON’T HURRY UP

“It may take longer than you think” was the subtle hint I wish I had actually listened to. 

Like most intending mothers, I didn’t anticipate my journey to knocked up,  would include:

• multiple tests and  scans
• long specialist waiting lists
• minor and major surgery
• postoperative healing time
• my doctor’s travel schedule
• 2^{nd and 3rd} opinions
• transfers to a new doctor

Now, it’s not actually the poking and prodding, … but rather the time.

Age Matters

For me, it took 14 months of obstacles before starting IVF .  At just over 39,   14 months was difference between a 48% success rate and a 29% success rate with IVF.  A frightening impact on my chances of becoming a mum.

Start sharing

Some obstacles are gynecological, very personal in nature and therefore rarely shared over a bubbles with the girls on a Friday night.

 I had  many friends with conception challenges , but these were never discussed.  A taboo topic.  If everyone keeps their deeply personal obstacles to themselves,  how are we meant to know ?  

What I would tell my 39 year old self

I ignored the tests and checklists . In hindsight  I think I was scared of any glitches  and  even a little arrogant  “that won’t happen to me”.

 Some of the recommended tests include include;

• An appointment with your GP. General health check
• AMH Test, to count your eggs
• Blood Test – to check your hormone levels
• Cystic Fibrosis check – between you and your partner
• Pap Smear – a negative result needs treatment before you fall pregnant
• Ultra sound – to check all is ok with the uterus , can require day surgery
• Day surgery and surgery – some test results my require this.

These appointments, scans, and test results  all take time.

I count myself one of the lucky ones, to have a healthy baby girl at the age of 43.  If I had ” just got started 6 months earlier ” my daughter might have a sibling.  Something I will never know. 

Story of lived experience shared by LPl8Parenting Founding Editor: Danielle

Resources

• Conception Checklist
• Genea Fertility age calculator