After four long years of trying to conceive and facing the challenges of vaginismus, we finally got our big fat positive (BFP) on January 30th, 2021! It was our first time attempting at-home insemination, and we were over the moon. Living with vaginismus had made us feel like parenthood was slipping away, especially since I had been struggling with painful experiences even trying to use a tampon. I had been receiving pelvic floor therapy for about a year, and just a year ago, the thought of using a tampon was excruciating.
During the fall, I spoke with my doctor about our options, and she suggested making an appointment with a gynecologist to discuss intrauterine insemination (IUI). She also mentioned hearing stories of people getting pregnant using the “turkey baster” method, which got me thinking. I began researching home insemination more seriously. However, using a regular syringe didn’t seem feasible due to my condition, so when I stumbled upon an at-home insemination kit that was both discreet and medically backed, I was thrilled! I showed it to my partner, and we decided to give it a shot—what did we have to lose?
After ordering the kit, it took about four weeks to arrive in Canada, likely due to the holiday season and ongoing COVID delays. During this waiting period, I dove deep into research, finding a wealth of helpful information and support online. The resources available to explain ovulation and cervical mucus felt friendly and relatable, almost like chatting with a buddy. This month of preparation allowed me to familiarize myself with my cycle and ovulation kits, so I felt ready when our kit finally arrived.
When I picked it up from the post office, I was filled with excitement. Comparing the size of the insemination syringe to tampons gave me hope; even if it took a few tries, this was something I could manage both physically and emotionally. The packaging felt more like a gift than a medical product, which was very reassuring.
I brought the kit to my pelvic floor therapist, who was incredibly supportive and excited about my decision to try this method. We tracked my ovulation cycle meticulously and decided to use the kit on my high and peak days, ensuring the sperm would be ready when the egg was released. We also used a special lubricant, which made the process much more comfortable—definitely less painful than a pap test! Being in the comfort of our own home made a world of difference.
After insemination, I started feeling a bit nauseous and tired, but I chalked it up to my ongoing sleep struggles. Instead of testing early, we agreed to wait until three days before my period was due. We wanted to enjoy our weekend together, regardless of the outcome.
Then came that Saturday morning—I did the test and made a cup of tea while waiting. To my shock, there were two clear pink lines! I ran to take a second test, and it confirmed it: we were pregnant! I was ecstatic, laughing and crying, and I rushed to wake my partner. We never expected it to work on the first try, but the hope that our dreams of parenthood could come true was overwhelming.
I took a third test the next day, and it was positive again! Now, I’m eagerly awaiting my first appointment with my family doctor, and we’re starting to plan our life as a family of three. A huge thank you to everyone who helped us along the way; your support truly makes a difference in the lives of people navigating similar challenges. If you’re interested in learning more about home insemination, consider checking out this great resource on IUI from the Mayo Clinic, or for more inspiration, visit this post about a fresh corn and mango salad. Also, Make A Mom offers excellent information on insemination kits that could be useful in your journey.
To summarize, after years of challenges with trying to conceive and dealing with vaginismus, we turned to an at-home insemination kit that brought us not only hope but ultimately, our long-awaited positive pregnancy test. Our journey may not have been easy, but it has certainly been rewarding, and we can’t wait to welcome our little one!