Immune/ NK cells - Pred threat 27

[LaurenAB94]

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@VenusStarr so very sorry 💔 thinking of you x

Hi everyone. Since ttc again I have gradually started struggling again with my MH. I know this is normal. I'm a mental health nurse in a talking therapy service so know what I should be doing to manage how I feel but its easier said than done at times! Us nurses are good at helping others but can be terrible with ourselves. I've noticed checking behaviours come back such as doors, cooker, I worry about something happening to my dog who we got after loss 5 end of last year. I'm managing pretty well so far but feel there is a very real risk if we get pregnant again I will decline. Feel really emotional today as I don't feel like I normally do pre being able to test so feel this month may be out for us. I'm lucky that I have access to a CBT therapist at work and a private counsellor I have seen before. Its just all so overwhelming right now which again I know is normal. I just needed to get it off my chest to ladies who just 'get it'. Oh how I could down several glasses of wine right now and eat loads of crap food!! It didn't help that yesterday one of my work colleagues sent a picture of her newborn baby who was a few weeks ahead of me during pregnancy 5, it was like a dagger to the heart (pregnancy announcements never gets any easier!). Of course I was happy for her and congratulated her. She is the same colleague that after loss 3 told me she felt sorry for me and I had to shut myself in the office when she was pregnant so no one knew I was crying.

Sorry for the down beat post. Its been building up for a while now. If you have read to the end thank you lol. I'm aware I have rambled on!

Hope all you ladies are doing the best you can. Sending massive virtual hugs to you all ❤

Xxx

@VenusStarr sorry for your loss just heartbreaking

@Rainbowdreams1983 I think just talking about these things can help. I hope you feel a bit better soon. Seems a bit inconsiderate of your colleague to have sent you a photo but if it was sent as a group thing I guess it would have been a bit off to leave you out of the loop.

@VenusStarr I’m so very sorry to hear about your recent loss. I hope you’re holding together ok. It’s hard the relentless ups and downs. Take care of yourself xxx

@NImama thank you for thinking of me. Scan went well, baby is measuring 7w6d and everything looks as it should. Very hard to believe I’m almost 8 weeks. My first miscarriage the baby stopped growing just after my 8 week scan, picked up at 10 week scan. So this feels like a very big week ahead. I’m praying there will still be that little heart beat next Wednesday when I see Dr H.
BTW the nausea hit yesterday like a tonne of bricks. Been dry heaving in the toilet and constant nausea. I’m glad of it but boy it’s hard to cope with too! How are you feeling?

@Rainbowdreams1983 I totally understand where you’re coming from and what you’re feeling. TTC after MC/loss is the hardest thing I’ve done and even though I’m currently pregnant and all is going well I’m struggling the most with this one. I’m so glad you have fantastic access to resources, you more than anyone understand how important therapy is. I went to counselling after losing my 2nd DD and it honestly saved me. You will get through this, you just have to take as best care of yourself as you can. Pregnancy announcements and photos are huge triggers. My ex SIL had a DD 2 weeks after I lost my baby, 2.5 years ago and I still struggle to look at pics of that child. It’s normal and I think people inherently are wrapped up in themselves and don’t think of the effect their announcements can have. I hope you get some good news soon xxx

Hi all. Apologies I haven’t read any messages on the thread. I’ve posted on numerous previous pred threads as I had my 2 children (now 3 and 6 months) following treatment with Mr S.

I just wanted to post because I’ve just found out I have coeliac disease. I have “silent coeliac” - no symptoms whatsoever (at least, none of the standard digestive system/bowel ones). I was only tested because one of my siblings has been diagnosed with it.

Anyway, apparently one of the classic symptoms of coeliac is recurrent unexplained miscarriage. It’s likely that this was the cause of my 4 mcs all along. The pred will have dampened my autoimmune response and so effectively treated the symptoms/inflammation caused by the coeliac disease.

I’m beyond furious that this wasn’t picked up earlier. I also have hypothyroidism and the two conditions are connected. I was never tested for it, either by the NHS or by Mr S. 70% of coeliac sufferers haven’t been diagnosed and 1-2% of the population have it (30% carry the gene) so it’s really quite common. All of my miscarriages and then the pred treatment could have been avoided if I’d stopped eating gluten.

I just thought I’d post here in case it helps anyone else. Diagnosis involves a simple blood test initially - can be requested from the GP. Best of luck to all of you.

@CherryO88 that’s great news! Really pleased for you and actually as hard as the nausea must be im pleased you’re nauseous too haha because it’s a great sign!! Remind me, you aren’t taking anything special are you? No pred or clexane or progesterone? If not that’s really even better! Any supplements?

I’m not doing too badly thanks. Hormones seem to be settling and I’m coming out of that post loss haze. Started reading about supplements etc so I’m going to get a plan together for us both. Just means in a few months when we will hopefully be ready to try again I’ll know we’ve really given ourselves the best chance!

@HarrietM87 that’s so interesting. I’m pretty sure I’m coeliac - unfortunately i cut gluten out over 12 years ago and it makes me too sick to reintroduce it. I think you have to reintroduce it to take the blood test. But at least I’m already following a totally gf diet. The link with thyroid issues is interesting too because I also have underactive thyroid. Isn’t it just baffling that these things aren’t tested after 1 miscarriage maybe 2 at most? I can’t imagine that’s an expensive test! People think women are going crazy when they start questioning whether their diet could be causing their losses etc but is it any wonder!
I just think it’s all so slap dash. No clear path for women x

Hi everyone I wanted to let you know we had the safe arrival of our little girl on Saturday.

I always found it reassuring to know people had experienced successes even when we were struggling, take care everyone x

@Badlydrawngirly thank you for sharing how you're feeling. I can really empathise with you, especially around the time it comes to test. My partner also works as a psychotherapist in the NHS but finds it very hard to practice what he preaches! So sorry about your work colleague as well. I think unless they have been through it, it's just impossible to understand how gut wrenching it can be & really triggering. How're you feeling today? All I can say is that 'i get you and I'm sending heartfelt hugs and support'. Keep sharing how you're feeling! It's never ranting xxx

@VenusStarr how are you doing? Xxx

@CherryO88 so pleased it's all going in the right direction! Keeping everything crossed for you xxx

@NImama good to hear that you're feeling a little better. I saw a nutritionist after my last loss and she recommended some really good amino acids just to settle out the stress my body was under.

My other half is also taking Impryl as well as that's meant to improve sperm, particularly with DNA Fragmentation. I think even Dr S doesn't look as closely at the guy as should be as there's a common misconception that if he can get you pregnant then it all sits with the woman!! But I've done loads of research that was confirmed by my fertility acupuncturist that DNA Fragmentation in sperm can be a huge factor in recurrent miscarriage. Rod Gilbert has done a really good documentary called 'stand up to infertility' which I think is on iPlayer. Also Dr Gordan said that a Mediterranean diet & Impryl & vit D/acupuncture can really help improve the guy's sperm.

@HarrietM87 thanks for sharing. I can understand how angry you would be!! So happy for you that you have your little one ❤️

@LRL12 thank you - that does give hope!! So pleased for you 🥰

@InvisibleDreamer thank you 🙂. She shared the picture to a group, it just took me off guard when it popped up. I agree talking definitely helps, I am selective these days though who I talk to to avoid any upsetting comments. I hope you are ok?

@Cherry088 thank you for your message. I am so happy to hear your scan went well. I agree with everything you have said. With our first pregnancy my sister was a about 4 months ahead so I can't help looking at my niece and thinking we would have a child a few months younger, a girl at work has her baby the day out first was due and my cousin a few days later. These dates are etched in your mind I find and you always think what if this and what if that. Its so sad thinking of all the things we miss out on being childless

@HarrietM87 thank you for your message. It makes no sense that these things are often overlooked. I only knew about the link to miscarriage from forums and developing a very unhealthy addiction to Google in the past, I had the blood test you mentioned to rule it out. I'm so sorry this was not picked up for you 😥. I also read recently about a lady who had recurrent loss due to B12 deficiency and again these things are not checked by the RMC, I had to ask my GP for this as well as Vitd, ferritin, folate, iron. A friend of mine had a loss and was found to have very low vitamin D after I mentioned basic tests her GP could do, she is now heavily pregnant so these things really do make a a difference

@Nlmama I'm glad to hear you are feeling a little better. I meant to reply to your post about supplements too. I also read it starts with the egg. My husband and I have taken 100mg vitamin D, coenzyme Q10, omega with DHA and EPA for a long long time plus my husband takes 1000mg vitamin C and 15mg Zinc. We both take pregnacare conception make and female. Although we have had 5 losses my husbands sperm DNA fragmentation was excellent according to Dr S and its helped my egg reserve. We also have a super healthy smoothie most days with berries, apple, banana, avocado, ginger, supergreen powder, nuts, seeds and I have bone broth powder, beetroot and spinach. We eat as healthy as we can too but we also have treats as like others have said you need to live.

@LRL12 massive congratulations! It's so good to hear success stories. Have a wonderful maternity leave ❤

@Tumby I read your message for badlydrawngirly and think it may be a rey to my message? I'm a bit better than yesterday. Been on training all week from home which has been nice. Its definitely easier giving advice than taking it isn't it! I'm glad I'm not the only one lol. I'm 8dpo today and did a FRER this morning, it may well be my eyes but I swear I can see the lightest line. I'm sure I'm just imaging it and its wishful thinking, will have to see what the next few days bring. I don't understand why Dr S tells you to test at 10dpo and if negative stop progesterone as so many women don't get a positive until closer to the day of their period. I know Dr S does the DNA fragmentation test, my husband had already had it done somewhere else. The acupuncturist I saw in the past also said its good for sperm health. I will definitely keep sharing how I am feeling, you ladies are all so lovely. How are you doing?

@VenusStarr been thinking of you ❤

Just wanted to share a book I have for male fertility called 'Fueling male fertility - Nutrition and lifestyle guidance for men trying to conceived by Lauren Manager. Its small but full of lots of useful information, I read it in a couple of days and firmly believe the changes my husband made is why his sperm comet test was so good for his age, he is 44.

Xxx

Sorry its Manaker not manager

@Nlmama meant to say 1000 vitamin d

@Rainbowdreams1983 oops yes that was meant to be a reply to your message! Good to hear that you're feeling a little better. ❤️ Do you mind me asking what FRER is? Still getting to grips with all the acronyms!! I'm really hoping that you get a positive soon!! I'm with you on the 10 dpo thing. I took progesterone right up until my period last time as I'm sure it doesn't do any harm. Thanks for sharing the male fertility book too! Will take a look but yes, definitely agree with just having treats & living a little too!! Keep us updated on your testing!! Xx

@Badlydrawngirly how is it going at work? Are you able to take some time off? Sending hugs xx

@Rainbowdreams1983 I can understand being careful about who you talk to people can say the most inconsiderate things. I’m doing ok thanks trying not to give into temptation to POAS every day. First scan isn’t until end of the month.

@NImama I’m on everything! 20mg pred, 150mg aspirin, clexane injection, omeprazole, vit D 1000, folic acid 5mg and pregnacare and progesterone suppository twice daily. I rattle in the mornings!
I think getting your supplements ready is a great plan and gives you a sense of purpose too!

@Rainbowdreams1983 it’s possible to not do the ‘what ifs’. My friend had her little girl near when my DD should’ve been born too and I always get the what if. It’s funny though I find it easier with that child than the one born when I actually delivered (24w2d). I suppose I just associate that child with such a traumatic time. I see you have a faint bfp, gentle congrats! Hopefully things will progress well over the next few days. Everything crossed for you xx

@LRL12 lovely news!! Gives us all hope ❤️

@Tumby, took another test today and nothing, 9dpo so know its early but honestly think we are out this month as no pregnancy symptoms at all when I'd usually have achy boobs and implantation cramps by now, the only thing I have is more pronounced nipples but I think that's the progesterone pessaries. A FRER is a first response rapid result pregnancy test, they are really sensitive. No I don't see how it can do any harm either. I hope you are getting on OK xx

@InvisibleDreamer its so hard not to test isn't it. I am a self confessed POAS addict! Glad you are doing ok, waiting for the first scan is so hard

@Cherry088 I am so sorry for all the trauma you have been through. Its just all so cruel isn't it. I agree its hard to get away from the what ifs. Unfortunately I tested today and there was no line so I either imagined it or its not good news. I honestly think I'm out this month. Xx

Hi everyone 👋 sorry off been quiet, just trying to get my head round things. We've got our ivf review on Wednesday, just a telephone call but I've prepared some questions. I've also got my zoom call with Dr S on 21st, so hopefully we'll have sone insight into what went wrong and a plan.
I've not bled since the bfn which is odd, but then I bled a lot before I tested positive. I also think I may have ovulated this week, so not sure what's going on. There's a tiny chance we inadvertently caught ovulation 🤦🏻‍♀️

Congratulations @LRL12 💗

How is everyone? @Rainbowdreams1983 did you test again? Hope you're all well @Badlydrawngirly @Tumby @Daffodil21 @Unicorn9 @Cherry088 @InvisibleDreamer @NImama xx

@VenusStarr just got back from a wee holiday and catching up on all the news, I am so sorry 😞 absolutely gutted for you. Dr S put me on hydroxy and the pred after my last biochemical, are you already on both? Hopefully he will have a plan of action for you!

I have my Prostap injection tomorrow to stop my cycle and start prepping for my next frozen transfer which should hopefully be in a few weeks time. I feel quite good after our wee trip away, the thought of getting back on this ivf merry-go-round is nerve-wracking to say the least! I'm just realising the last few years have been spent either pregnant, miscarrying or doing ivf and I'm starting to enjoy the break and feeling like me again. I dont know when the time to stop will be but I am definitely getting close!

How is everyone else doing? Hope the sunshine is helping to lift everyone's spirits a little 😎 xxx

Hi everyone

Just catching up. I’m feeling so down today. My friend who is pregnant is complaining about feeling big. I get that it must be uncomfortable in the heat but I’d give anything to feel like that at the moment.

I took last week off sick from work because I was quite literally sick of it and had made myself physically ill. I’m dreading going back tomorrow. We had a call about reasonable adjustments and they had concerns over budget if they reduce my workload so I’ve suggested I work 4 days. That would help me with having IVF but I doubt they will go for it. I just want an answer so that I can make plans.

My other friends seem to have just abandoned me. I know probably don’t know what to say but all I can think about it how pregnant I should be and it’s tearing me apart. I’ve actually been thinking maybe it’s time to just accept it’s not going to happen and save myself any more heartache.

Life just feels so incredibly empty.

Sorry for such a negative post, I just needed to share x

@Badlydrawngirly I am so sorry you are having such a difficult time. You have absolutely nothing to apologise for. I really hope you get some resolution soon with work. I am also feeling like life feels very empty currently without a child and like I am going through the motions. Like you I'd love to be feeling fat and hot with a healthy baby on the way. I think this journey shows you who your true friends are. I'm forever grateful for ladies like you to talk to. Just know you are not alone in your thoughts. What I will say is that all of the ladies and men who have been on this incredibly hard journey are absolute warriors to get through everything we have and keep going. We will have our dark days but I am holding onto there being a light at the end of all this for us all ❤

@VenusStarr I hope your review with Dr S goes well. I'm glad you don't have to wait long for the appointment. That is a bit strange there has been no bleeding yet but as you say you did bleed a lot before. That would a nice suprise if you got a positive after catching ovulation. I tested again and negative. Just not feeling it this month. If I was pregnant I would be completely shocked.

@Luckyducky2 glad you have been able to get away for a break, its good to get away from normality for a while. I wish you all the best for you next transfer. Like you its been years now of ttc and miscarriage, its exhausting isn't it!. It's been lovely to spend the weekend in the sun apart from my hayfever which has driven me a little crazy! I have a lovely red dry nose to match my sunburnt face lol

Hope all you other ladies are ok

Xx

@Rainbowdreams1983 thank you, I’m so grateful to have ladies like you too.

I’ve just snapped at my husband because I’m sick of him moaning about his weight loss. Currently sat in my car crying my eyes out while eating a bag of popcorn! At least it’s cool I guess!

I think I thought we would be pregnant again now but instead we’re not even trying and quite honestly I don’t know if I can.

@Badlydrawngirly life can just be really crappy at times, sometimes we just need to have a good cry and stuff our faces 🙂. Can you talk to your husband about how you are both feeling when you've had some time to clear your head? My husband and I have had many a disagreement over rather years for similar reasons and it certainly doesn't make you feel very sexy does it! I snapped at him tonight for not mopping for kitchen floor and leaving it to me! He does loads but in that moment I was in my hands and knees scrubbing the floor crying and I just moaned at him and then stormed out the house with the dog! You are not alone lovely. The important thing is keep communicating with one another

@Badlydrawngirly so sorry you're feeling utterly crap, this is the hardest journey without your work making it even harder, makes my blood boil how badly women going through miscarriage are treated! You are a stronger person than me, as I just walked out my job in the end and thought I cant take any more. I just needed my head to stop, the constantly stressing and worrying was making me so ill. Really hope you get it sorted soon for your own peace of mind. And as for the friend.... I definitely back off from pregnant friends for my own mental health!!! If they're a true friend they will understand why you need to do that for a while.

@Rainbowdreams1983 thankyou so much, I've had 6 losses (4 failed transfers aswell) so I just feel a bit flat about it all and like we're coming to the end of the road, though I really really want this to work. Still that wee voice inside saying 'don't give up' but I'm so drained by it all, and the 14 hour journey to and from Epsom is just ridiculous!! Just need to take it one day at a time I guess. And you are absolutely right about all of us being warriors....I think many people would just give up at the first hurdle? I keep hoping I will be rewarded for my perseverance!!! Time will tell 😉 xxx ps hope you've got some aftersun at the ready!!

Morning everyone, I was wondering if anyone can help me get my head around IVF. What I’m trying to understand and I keep getting vague answers from the medics here in N.Ireland is whether IVF is an option for recurrent miscarriage on the NHS or not. My situation is that I seem to be getting pregnant very easily but they never stick. When this comes up in conversation with a medic they seem unsure about whether I would qualify for IVF on the NHS because I’m getting pregnant. Yet when I read about it I can see that it often helps with being able to pre-screen the quality of eggs. Does anyone know? Thanks xx