Meet Sarah and her partner, who have been on a journey to become parents for the past five years. They’ve navigated through multiple rounds of intrauterine insemination (IUI), tried various fertility medications, and even undergone several in vitro fertilization (IVF) attempts. Although Sarah has experienced three pregnancies, each ended in early loss.
At just 28 years old, Sarah’s story is a reminder that fertility challenges can affect anyone, regardless of age. While many news stories highlight the success of older women conceiving with the help of fertility experts, narratives around younger individuals often get overlooked and typically conclude with a quick resolution to their struggles.
Interestingly, Sarah doesn’t view her situation as a failure. “I know my infertility isn’t something I caused,” she shares. “My partner feels the same way. Life has no guarantees, and I wouldn’t change the experiences I’ve had.” Reflecting on her journey, she notes how it has reshaped her outlook on life and instilled a deeper appreciation for the little things. “These past few years have molded me,” Sarah adds, eager to connect with others who might be facing similar challenges.
An Early Awareness
From a young age, Sarah sensed that something was amiss with her body. “In my teens, I was so irregular that I once went 18 months without a period,” she recalls. This led to her first gynecological exam, where she was informed that she likely had polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)—a common ovulatory issue. After being prescribed birth control pills, she was told it would address her symptoms.
When Sarah and her partner began discussing marriage and children, her worries resurfaced. After a couple of years without contraception, she decided to consult a specialist at 25. Following a discussion about her symptoms—like excessive hair growth and mood swings—she received a formal diagnosis of PCOS. A semen analysis on her partner indicated issues as well, prompting a referral to a fertility clinic.
A Tenacious Patient
For the past two and a half years, Sarah and her partner have explored nearly all available assisted reproductive technologies. With a keen understanding of medical terminology, she has become well-versed in her treatment options, largely through online research and community forums for those facing infertility.
“I felt encouraged after my first IVF cycle, even though it ended in loss,” she reflects. However, after her second miscarriage, she considered stepping back. Her partner encouraged her to persist, leading them to try one more IVF cycle, which they approached with careful planning. Financially savvy, they opted for a shared risk program that would allow them to explore multiple treatment cycles without overwhelming debt.
“This program made it feasible for us to pursue IVF,” Sarah explains. “And if we don’t achieve a biological child, we want to ensure we can adopt.”
A Reflective Future Mom
“Devastation doesn’t even capture what I felt after my miscarriages,” she admits. With one final IVF attempt on the horizon, Sarah feels a mix of hope and caution. “After everything we’ve been through, we’re ready to try one last time, and then we’ll turn to adoption if needed.”
Her medical team is adapting her treatment plan based on past experiences, ensuring they’re using the most effective methods. “Protocols can evolve,” she advises new patients. “Trust your doctor, but don’t hesitate to voice your concerns.”
Once focused solely on her pain, Sarah now wishes to share her story. “You never know who else might be silently struggling. Even if I don’t achieve the outcome I desire, I’ve had an incredible medical team supporting me. It’s about persevering to become parents, and I truly believe we will.”
Story Update
In a heartwarming twist, Sarah’s final IVF attempt led to the birth of their son, Oliver, in early 2020. “Those first weeks were filled with anticipation. We even saw multiple gestational sacs, but by eight weeks, we were just thrilled with Oliver.”
Despite facing challenges during her pregnancy, she describes it as “relatively uneventful,” a testament to her resilience. And just recently, she discovered she’s pregnant again, this time naturally! “We weren’t actively trying but weren’t avoiding it either,” she laughs. After the initial shock, she and her partner are feeling cautiously optimistic.
To read more about their journey and find resources for your own family-building path, check out this link. If you’re considering at-home insemination, Make a Mom offers invaluable information and kits to assist you. For further support and comprehensive advice on treating infertility, the ACOG website is an excellent resource.
In summary, the journey to parenthood can be filled with challenges, but with determination and the right support, many individuals find hope and success along the way.