Monday's appointment with the NaPro doctor was an eye-opening experience. We drove an hour to his office, which also allowed us a stop at Trader Joe's (Yea! We were out of Two Buck Chuck). The doctor spent almost an hour talking with us. I can't remember a visit so peaceful, knowing that the doctor truly cares.The diagnosis, however, is complex and a bit surprising. I thought my problem was PCOS and the doctor would give me a diabetic drug. As it turned out, the doctor believes that I have had endometriosis for most of my life. He also thinks I have the early stages of PCOS but that it can be stopped. It's tough music to face, but relieving to have more answers. Some of the paths ahead: more exercise, an extensive hormone test, and learning Natural Family Planning according to the Creighton Method. There is also the possibility of a laparoscopy (!).
Talk about shocking. I never fathomed my infertility problems would reach such a grand scale. Needless to say, the news shook me up a bit and took a while to process. Hence the tardiness of this post. I continue to count on the prayers of so many family, friends, and random unknown people to keep persevering.
One burden did get resolved: my post-Clomid blood tests. Every month between days 20 and 22, I sauntered to the blood test lab. Blood was drawn to determine my Progesterone levels. The more of that hormone, the better indication that I've ovulated. Many months ended in sorrow when I called the nurse only to find low Progesterone levels.
The NaPro doctor told me there was no solid proof that my levels were that low. Not all women ovulate at the same time. So getting a test on days 20-22 doesn't work for every woman. That was very comforting to hear. The hormone test he's ordering will mean a blood test every 2 days (ick). However, the doctor will have more concrete proof of my progesterone levels. If I would have known it sooner, I would have spent less time crying about it! Deo Gratias.
5 comments:
So glad you like your doctor! Why does your doc think you have endo? I am so hoping I don't have endo!
Don't worry! Once you do a hormone profile for one cycle (every other day b/w), it will be enough to tell them what they need to know. I'm so glad you have found some answers, and are on your way to a wonderful, healing treatment plan! Congrats!
Your willingness to share the ups and downs of your journey will be invaluable to couples who also suffer in this way. Yes, this is a difficult cross but one that will bring unknown comfort to others suffering like you. My similar journey would have been so much easier if I would have had someone like you willing to share with me. Thank you for reaching out in this way. We are so very proud of you!
I completely understand that feeling of having fertility issues on such a grand scale. I knew we wouldn't conceive right away. But never in my life did I think Stage IV endo would have reeked the havoc it did on my body.
So only good things come from lap surgery! It is the greatest blessing! I promise you will love every minute of it because it gets you that much closer to the end goal. And nothing can give you the feeling of being disease free like a lap does! ;)
This does sound promising. I got to watch you on EWTN last night, and when I heard the doctor speak, I said to myself, "I wish she practiced in Lexington so Kristy and Mark could see her," only to hear you say the same thing a few minutes later! It must be a relief to see a doctor who understands and supports your choices.
And I just want to know, am I one of those "little old ladies" saying the Rosary for you??? My daughter very sweetly pointed out your comment about that to me:)
Love and prayers from your favorite aunt in San Diego:-)
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