I've posted on the IVF and TTCYFC boards, and until now I've been a lurker on the IF support board - but your message touched me and I had to reply to you. I'm so sorry you've gotten such devastating news, and I completely understand how you feel.
My siggy has the details, but I'm 35 with high FSH that has been confirmed as diminished ovarian reserve. I've learned a lot about FSH lately, and I hope this information helps you!
First, it sounds like the FSH test was run by your regular OBGYN. If so, I encourage you to find a RE who has experience with high FSH women. A good RE will run further tests that will give you more information about your chances and will recommend whether you should proceed with IVF or other ART.
FSH levels do fluctuate monthly, so one FSH test shouldn't be used as confirmation of an inability to conceive. Honestly, one level as high as yours probably means your ovaries are 'challenged' - but it doesn't mean you are out of the running. Other tests, such as AMH level and antral follicle counts (done via ultrasound) can confirm ovarian reserve and give you more information about your conception chances.
There are many success stories of women with high FSH going on to conceive, usually through the guidance of a good RE. You should definitely not give up hope at this point!
The book "Unsung Lullabies: Understanding and Coping with Infertility" by Jaffe, Diamond and Diamond. - The emotions you are feeling are very normal, and this book has helped me feel validated as my DH and I continue on this crazy TTC roller coaster.
These boards are also a great source of support, and please know that you're not alone!
Jennifer, 35. DH 32 | TTC our first for 2 years, and blessed with IF insurance coverage
DX: DOR and Endometriosis.
Stage 3 endo Apr 2011; FSH: 20.5 in Oct 2011 and 19.5 in Nov 2011
IVF#1 Dec 2011 - 1 mature & 1 intermediate egg retrieved, 1 perfec
Hey Kim! I'm with the other ladies...second opinion all the way! I definitely would not make any decisions until you have been tested again and visited with an RE. Foster parenting is a great thing. DH and I have discussed this ourselves. But even if the tests were accurate, you still have options. Donor egg, donor sperm, donor embryo to name a few. Good luck and keep us posted please!! :)
Jemma (35) and DH, (37). Married October 13, 2007 and TTCing since April 2008. Dealing with PCOS, swollen tubes, and also MFI. Committing myself to getting healthy and losing weight in preparation for IVF later in 2012.
Hi Kim. I do not have experiece with your particular problem but I wanted to welcome you. I think you have gotten some great advice already. I would encourage going to a RE as they certainly can give you at least more information if nothing else. Do not throw in the towel yet. If I had went with even the first RE I met with opinion I would not have my daughter. A first opinion is not the only one. Good luck and baby dust to you!
Hi Kim,
I've posted on the IVF and TTCYFC boards, and until now I've been a lurker on the IF support board - but your message touched me and I had to reply to you. I'm so sorry you've gotten such devastating news, and I completely understand how you feel.
My siggy has the details, but I'm 35 with high FSH that has been confirmed as diminished ovarian reserve. I've learned a lot about FSH lately, and I hope this information helps you!
First, it sounds like the FSH test was run by your regular OBGYN. If so, I encourage you to find a RE who has experience with high FSH women. A good RE will run further tests that will give you more information about your chances and will recommend whether you should proceed with IVF or other ART.
FSH levels do fluctuate monthly, so one FSH test shouldn't be used as confirmation of an inability to conceive. Honestly, one level as high as yours probably means your ovaries are 'challenged' - but it doesn't mean you are out of the running. Other tests, such as AMH level and antral follicle counts (done via ultrasound) can confirm ovarian reserve and give you more information about your conception chances.
There are many success stories of women with high FSH going on to conceive, usually through the guidance of a good RE. You should definitely not give up hope at this point!
Some resources that have been great for me:
http://highfshinfo.com/
http://www.fertilethoughts.com/forums/high-fsh-premature-ovarian-failure/
The book "Unsung Lullabies: Understanding and Coping with Infertility" by Jaffe, Diamond and Diamond. - The emotions you are feeling are very normal, and this book has helped me feel validated as my DH and I continue on this crazy TTC roller coaster.
These boards are also a great source of support, and please know that you're not alone!
Hi Kim, welcome to the board!
Melissa
Community Moderator
Click Here to Enter & Vote
Foster parenting is a great thing. DH and I have discussed this ourselves. But even if the tests were accurate, you still have options. Donor egg, donor sperm, donor embryo to name a few. Good luck and keep us posted please!! :)
Good luck and baby dust to you!
Dixie
"Even miracles take a little time." ~ Fairy Godmother: Cinderella
TTC since April 2009
I want to thank you all for all the encouragement.
Hey Kim,
It seems like you got a lot of good advice here!
Britty & DH (both 30) TTC since late 2008