After more than a decade of trying to start a family, Amanda’s journey to motherhood was anything but straightforward. However, her resilience paid off, and through donor embryo treatment at Wessex Fertility and Instituto Bernabeu, she welcomed her beloved daughter, Sophie.
Beginning the Quest
Living in Portsmouth, Amanda, 43, began her quest to conceive with her husband shortly after their wedding in 2006. Despite their efforts, by early 2010 they were still without success. Determined to improve her chances, Amanda sought advice from a nutritionist who recommended dietary changes to enhance fertility. “I tried every tip I could find. If someone said it was good for fertility, I was all in!” she reminisces.
Seeking Help
In mid-2010, after several fruitless months, Amanda and her husband sought help from Wessex Fertility, where they were diagnosed with unexplained infertility. They initially attempted intrauterine insemination (IUI), but after three unsuccessful cycles, Amanda faced another setback in November when a laparoscopy revealed mild endometriosis. The condition was treated, and they tried naturally again, but to no avail.
Turning to IVF
Years passed, and Amanda eventually turned to IVF at a different clinic. She had multiple cycles, with a total of 12 eggs collected, but sadly, none resulted in a pregnancy. By 2016, Amanda felt the pressure of time, especially after reaching 40. Her cousin, who had success at Wessex Fertility, encouraged her to return. “I was eager to explore IVF with donor sperm, but I had been suffering from severe period pains. When I ended up in the hospital, I knew I had to act,” she recalls. After confirming the return of her endometriosis, Amanda opted for private treatment, which also revealed adenomyosis.
A New Hope
Following treatment, Amanda started her IVF journey again. She had five eggs retrieved, which were combined with donor sperm. Unfortunately, her hopes were dashed with a negative result. In September, she tried a frozen cycle with her remaining embryos, which initially resulted in a positive pregnancy test, but heartbreakingly, she lost them shortly after.
Exploring Donor Embryos
Refusing to give up, Amanda returned to Wessex Fertility for another consultation. “Dr. Thompson suggested that my best chance was to use donor embryos. I jumped at the opportunity because I was considering surrogacy, and this felt like a viable path to pregnancy,” Amanda shares. With the support of both Wessex Fertility and Instituto Bernabeu, she was matched with donor embryos.
The Life-Changing News
In June 2018, Amanda traveled to Spain and had two high-quality donor embryos transferred. “I felt cautiously optimistic this time, but still nervous,” she admits. Finally, after 12 long years of trying to conceive, Amanda received the life-changing news that she was pregnant!
The Arrival of Sophie
On February 1, 2019, Amanda gave birth to a beautiful baby girl, Sophie, weighing 7 pounds 4 ounces. “The delivery was intense, but when they placed her in my arms, it was all worth it. I couldn’t believe my dream had come true,” she reflects.
A Grateful Heart
Looking back on her journey, Amanda is grateful for the decision to use donor embryos. “I recommend it wholeheartedly; if your own eggs aren’t working, it’s a wonderful option. The support from my family and the caring staff at Wessex Fertility made all the difference. I had watched so many of my friends start their families, and now, after 11 years, I finally have my little miracle.” Amanda is now savoring every moment with her precious daughter, Sophie.
Conclusion
Amanda’s story is a testament to the power of hope and determination in the face of adversity. Her journey underscores that there are various paths to parenthood, and with the right support, dreams can come true. For those interested in understanding more about fertility treatments, including donor embryos, you can check out other helpful resources like this blog on Kawasaki disease in children, pregnancy, and home insemination options.