When my partner and I decided to embark on the journey of parenthood, we were aware of the unique challenges we would face as a same-sex couple. With my prior experience of carrying a child 14 years ago, we knew I would be the one to carry again. After selecting a donor who was fully supportive, I focused on losing 100 pounds to prepare for our journey. We understood that medical assistance might be necessary, and patience would be essential.
Having a known donor eased the process, and we quickly realized that utilizing MakeAmom’s resources was the best option for us. I shed the necessary weight and collaborated closely with my fertility specialist to manage my PCOS. We conducted essential tests to assess whether we would need medical intervention and to find the right combination of non-fertility medications to enhance our chances of conceiving naturally.
Our first attempt using MakeAmom’s at-home insemination kit occurred in March 2022, following seven months of tracking ovulation. We purchased three kits and tried for an entire week. Unfortunately, our first round did not result in a pregnancy, prompting us to try again in early April with two kits, allowing for more spaced-out timing. After another unsuccessful attempt, we consulted with our fertility doctor about our technique. She suggested that my eggs might be maturing too quickly and advised us to take a medication specifically designed for individuals with PCOS. She recommended we try again using only one kit and to space out our attempts.
To regroup, my partner and I took a break in May and June to mentally prepare ourselves for the possibility that we might need to consider IUI (Intrauterine Insemination) as our next step. In July 2022, we decided to try again, following the doctor’s advice and using the medication. We were more relaxed this time, which I believe helped our mindset as we entered our next attempts in July and August.
After continuing to monitor my ovulation and sticking to our routine, I felt compelled to take a pregnancy test the day before my expected period. To my surprise, within seconds, the first test showed two clear lines. Doubtful, I grabbed another test we had stored away, and once again, two lines appeared almost immediately. I quickly ran downstairs to prepare a card for my partner, hiding the test strip inside so I could surprise her. I left the “official” test upstairs to finish processing and attempted to capture her reaction on video without her noticing. Though I didn’t quite succeed, her response was unforgettable. We had finally received a positive test, but new anxieties surfaced—would this pregnancy hold, and would we meet our baby in nine months?
At just five weeks, I experienced some discomfort, prompting a visit to the hospital for an ultrasound to rule out an ectopic pregnancy. The technician looked at us and, despite her reservations about sharing too much, revealed, “I see two gestational sacs in there, and they’re very clear.” My partner, Emily, could hardly believe it and exclaimed, “You’re joking!” But she wasn’t. Now, at 33 weeks pregnant with twins—one of each—we are eagerly preparing to welcome our little ones into the world. We are incredibly grateful for the assistance from MakeAmom, as having our donor and access to an at-home insemination kit made this journey possible, especially considering the emotional and financial hurdles typically associated with conception.
We enthusiastically recommend MakeAmom to all our friends seeking help in their conception journeys, and we cannot express enough gratitude for their support in making our dream come true.
To Summarize:
Our twin pregnancy journey was filled with challenges, but the support from MakeAmom made it possible for us to conceive in a way that felt right for our family. With resources like their reusable insemination options and valuable information on home insemination, we encourage others to explore their offerings. For more insights, check out their how it works page, join their sperm donor matching group, and read about other couples’ experiences, like this one. Additionally, resources from Mayo Clinic and information about implantation bleeding can be incredibly helpful on this journey.