We always knew it would be IUI when we decided to start a family given my partner is older and has had a vasectomy, but heading into our second round of IUI, I have been totally caught off guard about how quickly the decision to try for a baby has taken a turn from happily sharing the news that we were starting the process, into a frankly obsessive mania of epic highs and the lowest lows. Nothing can prepare you for that dreaded two week wait before a result, and I now realise there is just so much I didn't know before we started, like the fact that the window in which you can fall pregnant each month is actually really small or that bleeding in early pregnancy is quite common (making you hold out with extra false hope that you are indeed pregnant when you know deep down that all those PMS symptoms you frantically Google to see they could point to early pregnancy are just that, good old PMS). Now I am starting to regret the 5 pregnancy books I bought to 'be prepared' staring me down from the book shelf, and that free second hand cot we accepted that stands empty in the corner of the lounge.
That said it is early days - really keen to hear from other on this journey about their experiences...how have you handled it, and how do you stop from losing yourself and your partner in the process?
I feel your pain and anguish and I am sending lots of love. Our journey has been over 6 years now which have included 4 losses. We are now currently getting guidance at Cape Fertility. Truth? I have not handled it well. I still emotional breakdowns and we end up having horrible fights. Our marriage has taken a toll. But, we are still here and still love each other very much. What helped me? Running. I became an active runner and it really helps my depression and helps me be positive. I too have those pregnancy books! And what have I learnt? Put them away. And do not Google. Just have faith (something I still tell myself). Good luck xxxx