When my partner and I decided it was time to start our family, the thought of IVF or IUI felt overwhelming, especially due to the costs involved. One day, while driving, I turned to my partner and suggested, “What if we tried at home?” This sparked a quick search online, leading us to the incredible resources provided by MakeAmom!
We were fortunate to have a friend willing to donate sperm to us—a generous offer that not all couples have. Once our donor agreed to our plan of a fresh deposit at our home, we felt hopeful. However, after four attempts without success, I underwent fertility testing. While my results were not ideal, we remained determined to keep trying. Unfortunately, our donor received disappointing news about his sperm quality, and a doctor informed us that IVF was our only option. I was heartbroken.
Fortunately, our donor’s brother stepped in to help, which felt like a stroke of luck! We tried three more times, but still no success. As I began to accept that IVF might be inevitable, I decided to undergo more testing to prepare for the process. However, I requested one last attempt with a medicated cycle, a decision I had hesitated to make previously. After being prescribed Letrozole and consulting with a fertility acupuncturist, I felt ready to try one final time. The ultrasound before my trigger shot revealed three follicles—two promising and one not so great. The doctor suggested IUI, but I opted for the comfort of home insemination.
We inseminated for the eighth time just before California’s COVID-19 lockdown began. Days later, with a stay-at-home order in effect, I anxiously awaited my test results, enduring what felt like the longest 16 days of my life. On day 14, I finally tested—positive! I repeated the test over the next two days, each time confirming the joyful news. I couldn’t believe it; we had conceived at home, on our couch!
At my first ultrasound at 7.5 weeks, the doctor’s first words were, “Well, there are two! It’s twins.” My partner, on FaceTime, was in utter shock; I couldn’t help but laugh. After waiting so long for this moment, we were thrilled to learn we would be welcoming two babies! Fast forward to my C-section, where we were in for an unexpected surprise—triplets! Three beautiful girls, conceived at home using a kit from MakeAmom! We love sharing this story because many assume we underwent IVF. The girls are now five weeks old, healthy, and perfect, and our hearts are overflowing with love.
Thank you, MakeAmom!
Did you face any obstacles?
Unexplained infertility
How long were you trying before using MakeAmom?
Eight inseminations over two years
How many cycles did you use MakeAmom?
Eight
– Alex & Jamie from California
Alex and Jamie, your story brought such joy to our team! Congratulations on the arrival of your three beautiful daughters! We’re honored to have played a part in your journey. Your experience will undoubtedly inspire hope and smiles for anyone who reads it. Please stay connected, as we’d love to see your little ones grow!
For those interested in home insemination, MakeAmom offers a variety of resources, including a unique reusable kit and information on how at-home insemination works. You can find a supportive community through the MakeAmom Facebook group and learn more about the process here. Additionally, understanding intrauterine insemination (IUI) can be beneficial, and you can read more on the topic at NHS. For a comprehensive guide on insemination procedures, check out this blog post. Lastly, for tips on maintaining a healthy pregnancy, visit this resource.
To Summarize:
The journey to parenthood can be challenging, but with determination and support, success is possible. Alex and Jamie’s story is a testament to the power of at-home insemination and the love that can grow from such efforts. With resources from MakeAmom and a willingness to explore different options, many couples can find their path to family-building.