I’ve spent years trying to become pregnant naturally, but time and repeated losses have made me look for a more proactive medical path. I live with PCOS, which makes ovulation and cycles unpredictable and tracking difficult, and I’ve experienced several miscarriages that broke my heart and left me anxious about trying again without more support. Being in my 40s added urgency — age affects egg quality and overall success rates, so IVF felt like the best option to give us the strongest possible chance of having a baby. My fiancé and I talked it through and decided to move forward with intention and hope.
Right now I’m completing the pre‑IVF testing and preparing for treatment: blood work and fertility panels, an HSG to check that my tubes are open, and a uterine evaluation to ensure the lining is healthy. So far my ovarian reserve looks promising, which is encouraging. I also have high blood pressure, which places any pregnancy in a higher‑risk category. That means careful medical monitoring, working with specialists, and making stress reduction a priority — even though life and school can make that hard. I plan to continue therapy, lean on my support network, and use this blog to process feelings and track progress. IVF is both a medical plan and an emotional journey for me: I’m doing the testing, following the doctors’ guidance, and taking intentional steps to protect my health and my future child’s. Sharing this here keeps me accountable, helps me cope, and (I hope) supports others walking a similar road. — Ailleen