Pregnancy is possible after Essure reversal

Although the manufacturer of the Essure device states it is not reversible, the tubal reversal doctors at Chapel Hill Tubal Reversal Center have successfully removed Essure coils from women wishing to become pregnant again. Pregnancy after Essure reversal is possible.  

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Posted by 11Needles August 12, 2009 02:17 PM:
 
Hello all,
I have been reading the message boards for a couple weeks now and I would like to thank all of you for sharing your stories. It makes me feel good to know that I am not the only one who now longs for a baby after my decision to sterilize. I have not seen any posts about women having the Essure reversed (removed) and I thought it would be a good idea to share my story.

I had the essure done in November 2006. At the time I thought it was the right thing to do and now nearly 3 years later I regret having done the procedure. I am schedule with Dr. Berger on August 26, 2009 to have Essure reversal. I am hopeful that I will become pregnant again.

 

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Posted by LauraD, RN August 12, 2009 02:32 PM:
 
Hi 11Needles,

Thank you for your post. I think you will find the message board a great place for support for women like you. We are looking forward to meeting you in a few weeks!

Laura

 

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Posted by startin'again August 12, 2009 02:58 PM:
 
Hello 11Needles,

What is the Essure?? I haven't heard of that. I to am scheduled August 26th with Dr. Monteith. See you then!
 

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Posted by 11Needles August 12, 2009 03:18 PM:
 
It is a procedure where they put small metal coils in fallopian tubes to create scare tissue to block your tubes. It is an outpatient procedure that is an alternative to the traditional TL. I do believe there is a page on this web site that explains it better than I do. ha ha
 

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Posted by Ericka P August 12, 2009 08:49 PM:
 
11Needles,

Take a look at this link for information regarding the reversal of the Essure http://www.tubal-reversal.net/blog/2007/tubal-ligation/essure-tubal-reversal.html

Ericka

 

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Posted by 11Needles August 14, 2009 05:34 PM:
 
Thank you. I knew someone could explain it better than me.
 

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Posted by 11Needles August 14, 2009 06:01 PM:
 
I was surfing the net (yet again) to see if I could find any bfp for an essure reversal and I came across a site that report tube lenghts of Left: 12cm Right: 9cm - after an essure reversal. I don't understan how that can be. I know Dr. Berger has only done a couple essure reversals but I was under the impression that the lengths would be shorter than the average TR length??
 

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Posted by AnitaA68 August 14, 2009 08:57 PM:
 
Well then I think that person had above average tubal length because the average uncut tube length is 10cm.
 

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Posted by Rsatteson August 22, 2009 10:57 PM:
 
I am so excited, my surgery is in 4 weeks...well 3 weeks and 6 days...but who's counting right? LOL!!
With the initial conversations with the staff they are all wonderful and caring professionals.
My husband and I look forward to the possibility of a baby after the Essure procedure is reversed.
 

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Posted by 11Needles August 25, 2009 11:10 AM:
 
Rsatterson, congratulations!! Glad that you have scheduled yout apt. I am hoping that Dr Berger can make it work. My coils are not visable in my uterus so I am so scared. How long ago did you have your procedure done?
Ccoo
 

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Posted by 11Needles August 25, 2009 11:12 AM:
 
~ ok that ccoo doesn't mean anything ~ I'm posting from my crack berry! Ha ha
 

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Posted by ashtangi August 30, 2009 11:38 AM:
 
Hello 11 Needles & RSatteson,

First, I want to thank you for posting here. I also had the Essure procedure- 10/2006. My PTLS has been so horrific that I sought out Dr B and have placed a deposit to also have a reversal. I am thinking that I will either have the reversal this fall or next spring.

I would love to hear as many details as each of you are willing to share regarding recovery from the procedure and also recovery from PTLS.

My story is this: I am a married MD. I am in my thirties and I am luckily in a "lifestyle specialty" (I work 50 hour weeks instead of 80). As I am a resident physician still in training, there are only certain times of the year that I can take time off to have the reversal. I have also been hesitant because, well I have scrubbed into too many surgeries gone wrong. So, I know that sometimes even the procedures that should not be too complicated can so south, and quickly. That said, the overwhelming majority of surgeries like this are successful and without complications. So, I had a threefold approach when deciding to sign up with Dr Berger: first, I prayed a lot. Second, I did a lot of my own research on the surgery and the available surgeons at this time. Last, I waited and hoped my PTLS would improve.

As far as why I choose Dr B- it came down to his obvious experience in this field. I called the other provider's office (who currently offers the Essure reversal) and was told that the current length of time under general anesthesia would be four hours. Dr Berger is able to do this reversal in approximately one to 1.5 hours (this is what I was told when I spoke with one of his nurses, and as he does not charge any more than for a regular tubal, I assume it to be true- OR time = money). The price was also considerably higher with the other provider. So, the bottom line is that I wanted for myself the most experienced surgeon I could obtain, and I feel that I have found that in Dr Berger.

Regarding the PTLS, it hasn't gone away. I was more than willing to loose the deposit on the procedure- in the hope that it would magically vanish and I would not loose myself 5 -7 days out of the month. So, now that I am three years poost- Essure, I feel confident that having the reversal is worth the risks of surgery. I only hope that the PTLS begins to subside and quickly! As for babies- perhaps now I am ambivalent about that more than the past, but that is not the primary reason I am seeking out this reversal. It is PTLS.

I hope you are recovering well 11 needles. Thanks again for initiating this post. Please keep us updated on your recovery!
 

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Posted by Jan, RN August 30, 2009 12:24 PM:
 
ashtangi , you have found the right doctor and facility. CHTRC is a private surgical center where Dr. Berger and Dr. Monteith perform 4-5 surgeries/day Monday - Friday. Tubal Reversal is their focus and thus, they are continually adjusting and improving the surgical and recovery experience. Both doctors are very progressive and appreciate patient suggestions. The surgery only lasts 1- 1 and 1/2 hours. Look forward to having you at the center.
 

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Posted by 11Needles August 31, 2009 01:12 PM:
 
ashtangi,
Well I am back at work today (5 days after surgery) I have a desk job and manage a group of 18 people. I feel GREAT!!! I didn't tell anyone at work that I was having surgery and no one has noticed that I went through surgery. as far as PTLS although I was never diagnosed with it I believe that Essure is the result of some of the problems I have been experiencing since I had it done in November 2006. the Main issue is Anemia. I take Iron 3 times a day during my cycles and one pill a day the rest of the time and my blood levels are still low. At this point I am tired of being tired (if that makes sense). I feel really good an am very happy that I had the reversal. You are in excellent hands with Dr Berger. After the surgery my tube lengths are both 9 cm YEAH!!!! I will keep you posted with my progress. If you have any questions at all please let me know. I am happy to share experience with you. . . . Thank you.
 

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Posted by in-Gods-hands August 31, 2009 01:52 PM:
 
ashtangi I did not have the same thing done as you but I did have really bad PTLS. Which I am so happy to say has improved greatly. I am working with Dr.B on the PTLS topic. I wish you all the best. If you would like it my email is ranisheets23 at yahoo. You have picked the right doctor. Miranda
 

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Posted by ashtangi August 31, 2009 10:21 PM:
 
11 Needles, In God's Hands & Jan,

Wow, thanks for the awesomely quick replies to this thread.

I think it may be of benefit to others in the future, and it has already been helpful to me.
11 Needles: Glad to hear that you are doing so well! Without disclosing too much identifying information, can you please share this with me: what would you describe as your overall "physical condition" prior to the surgery: physically fit, average, overweight, etc... The reason I ask is that I would be curious to hear how well you are recovering. General physical condition has a direct reflection on how quickly folks tend to recover after surgery. Considering the fact that you are just 5 days post- op and going back to work, I take that to be a great sign overall.

I intend to give myself at least a week off, and will shoot for more like seven full post-op days before I return. I also intend to do a whole lot of preventative- holistic interventions (mainly, fish oil, a great multi vitamin, MSM ( a MUST for healing tissues), zero refined foods, no alcohol, and some good old carrot juice and wheatgrass juice. Yes, I am a health- food nut. I am very into healthy living and taking care of myself. Ironically, I think this has contributed to the PTLS- my theory is that my overall state of health tilted me towards localized rejection of the Essure coils- because I am so otherwise well...

So, I am curious how you are feeling in relationship to how you would expect to feel considering your overall health status and prior to the surgery.

Also, I would LOVE to hear if your anemia and fatigue improve. My body literally shuts down a few days prior to menses now, something it just did not do before Essure. Please keep us posted on how and if you feel a "return to normalcy" over the next few months. Also, are you needing to take much medication for the pain? Hopefully not...THANKS!

Congrats on the 9CM tube length. Very nice indeed.

Jan- if you read this... how long post Essure can one resume both exercise and/or sex? I am specifically going to target healing well in order to prevent adhesions... not that "I" really have anything to do with it... I know it is up to God. But as a doctor, you know that I know too much and I just dread the thought of developing adhesions. So, I want to follow all the "rules" and heal well.

In God's Hands- If you want any info on my PTLS, I will gladly share with you!

Thanks everyone here for sharing.
It is MUCH appreciated!
 

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Posted by 11Needles September 01, 2009 10:40 AM:
 
ashtangi,
I would say that I am average, 5ft 6in (although Erica RN would say i am 5ft 5in) about 130. . . I try to exercise but don't like to. I think I am just lucky. This is my second Major surgery this year (had my thyroid removed in January-nothing wrong with the functionality but had two large nodules in it). I don't take vitamins. . .my diet. . . let me put it this way, there is nothing wrong with eating ice cream for breakfast. . . it has MILK! As far as how I expected to feel. . well I figured I would feel like crap afterward. Surprisingly I feel good. Yes I experiencing some pain but its more of an annoyance than anything and its not constant pain either. Before Essure I was pretty active. . single parent of two boys who play sports I would generally sleep about 2 to 4 hours a night my house was always clean and laundry always done. After essure I pretty much couldn't do anything. I began sleeping about 15 hours didn't want to do anything either. clean house, take kids places, I pretty much became a home-body.  

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Natural pregnancy is possible after Essure removal, Read Essure reversal patient Michelle's experience  proof that all of the above are possible.

Choosing The Most Experienced Tubal Reversal Doctor

Tubal Reversal Message Board Member, Rajsan04, comes to the board with questions and concerns about choosing a tubal reversal doctor with the most experience and financing her reverse tubal procedure. For the most successful tubal reversal surgery, it is important for the doctor to have performed at least 500 tubal reversals and that he or she is reversing tied tubes daily. Dr. Gary Berger has performed over 8000 tubal reversals and Dr. Monteith nearly 1000 reversal procedures. Experience is also an important indicator on whether reversal surgery will be performed if a woman has a difficult situation due to short tubes, missing tubal segments, fimbriectomy, or inherent diseases of the tubes. While most doctors would be unwilling – or unable - to perform a tubal reversal in one of these situations, Dr. Berger and Dr. Monteith are able to repair the tubes in 98% of cases, regardless of the type of sterilization that has been performed. Dr. Berger pioneered this technique for outpatient tubal reversal surgery and the procedure takes approximately an hour. Chapel Hill Tubal Reversal Center is a specialty clinic for tubal ligation reversal and Dr. Berger and Dr. Monteith are the only doctors in the US who limit their practice specifically to untying tied tubes. This experience has led to the most tubal reversal babies born worldwide.

Tubal Reversal Surgery or In Vitro Fertilization?

Is in-vitro fertilization or tubal reversal surgery better after tubes have been tied? Tubal Reversal Message Board Member writes about her experiences while considering IVF and sterilization reversal surgery. She is researching which of the two is the right choice to restore her fertility after her tubal ligation. Chapel Hill Tubal Reversal Center staff and other Tubal Reversal Message Board members offer their support and information. After researching her options, this member writes "We both feel very confident with Dr. Berger and his team." Dr. Berger and Dr. Monteith are the only doctors in the US who limit their practice specifically to tubal reversal surgery. Chapel Hill Tubal Reversal Center is a unique medical facility exclusively for tubal ligation reversal; helping couples from all over the world realize their dream of having children after a tubal sterilization. With their surgical reversal experience tubal reversal can be a better option than IVF for many couples seeking more children after a tubal ligation procedure.

Posted by rajsan04 (Member # 15108) on November 10, 2010 09:11 AM :
Hi, My name is Sandy and my husband and I have been married for 8 years and for the past few years we have been talking about having a baby. He has a daughter from a previous marriage and I have two sons from a previous marriage. We are both 39 and thought this would be the best time before its to late to get a tubal reversal and give it a try. I have my first appointment with an RE yesterday and I'm feeling very discouraged. I was assuming because this RE has many options for pregnancy, such as IVF , egg donation and tubal reversal, I was expecting him to be very supportive of our decision to have a tubal reversal and to have a child but he didn't sound like it! Before I had any examination he kept going on and on about my age and the risk of getting pregnant at my age. He was pushing me towards IVF (no way we could afford that) Luckily my health insurance covers the tubal reversal 100%, I am a state employee. I told him I'm aware of the risk but I would like to get the tubal. He didn't seem very happy about my decision and said, well lets exam you first..if I don't see many follicles or if they are in bad shape the tubal reversal wont even be an option! He seemed to be full of attitude the entire time and I felt a little uncomfortable to be honest. While my feet was up and ready to be examined, the doctor made the comment "Your kids are grown now, you are out of the woods finally, why would you want to do this all over again? I was completely floored, I couldn't believe I was hearing this coming from someone who was suppose to be encouraging my chances of having another child! I didn't know quite what to say, I just kind of chuckled at his comment and kept quiet. So he starts to exam me, and here comes the problems! He jumps because he sees a polyp on my cervix the size of a walnut, which he removes right away. There was some heavy bleeding after that which he got to stop after about 10 minutes. He gives me the pap smear and pelvic exam, breast exam, then gets me ready for the ultrasound of my ovary's and uterus. The good news is, and at his surprise, I have many healthy cyst and follicles on my left ovary and also saw that I was ovulating! Which I already knew because I test for a surge everyday with OPK. I know that is probably ridiculous since my tubes are tied but I just wanted to see if some of my parts are still working and get use to the idea of checking for it every month when I do get the reversal. When I told him I detected a surge that same day he seemed annoyed that I was even checking! Anyways, here comes another problem! My right ovary has good follicles, not as many as the left ovary but he saw a shadow of some mass inside my right ovary. He looked at me and said, well your just full of surprises aren't you? I was freaking out at this point of course! Come to find out I have a dermoid cyst in my right ovary, those weird ones that contain teeth and hair, sometimes eyes and bone fragments. After the exam and my husband and I are back in his office all of a sudden he seems to be more encouraging about the tubal reversal (because of the shape and amount of follicles I have) but is trying to decide if I should get my cyst removed and tubal at the same time or have 2 separate surgeries. Also, my husband and I had intercourse within a 12 hour period of my exam so he checked for any signs of sperm and not that I had enough bad news to work with, he tells me he didn't see any signs of sperm at ALL. He said there was a possibility the large polyp blocked it from getting to the point he had checked but he would need to get his semen checked before we go any further with anything. So he has an appt. to do that on Friday. Before leaving the doctor told me the tubal reversal surgery was not a walk in the park, I would practically be hanging upside down, blood rushing to my head for 4 hours and pressure put on my diaphragm, which wasn't good for me because I was over weight, so another thing, he suggest I lose at least 60 lbs before I have any surgery performed. I can lose the weight but just very discouraged about everything else, I was not happy when I left there, I was crying all the way home, my husband was driving feeling helpless for me, not sure what to say to me except everything was going to be okay. I get the results of the pap and polyp on Friday.

The reason I'm talking about all of this is because I'm so discouraged I feel like just giving up now. My husband and I want a child so much. I don't feel very encouraged to continue with all of this. I'm just not sure what to do. My husband wants to go all the way and try all our options. I wanted to try who seems to be very popular with tubal reversals, Dr. Berger in North Carolina, which is very close to me, I am in Virginia, but my insurance wont cover the expenses with him being in a different state, so I have no choice but to use this doctor. There are other RE's in Virginia but further away than he is but I'm willing to drive the distance if I have to. The RE I'm seeing right now has a good track record. He said his tubal reversals are successful but he is worried about the health of my eggs because of my age. I understand he is right in what he is saying but I wasn't very encouraging at all.

I know this is a lot to digest lol, just need some sort of advice here, not sure what to do, thanks!

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Posted by NJgirlinWI (Member # 12872) on November 10, 2010 09:39 AM :
Hi Sandy, I hope you've had a chance to catch your breath after that difficult office visit. Your age is not a factor but your reproductive health is... I would see what this RE comes back with as far as test results and then contact CHTRC for their opinion. I don't know about other clinics but I was never "hanging upside down" for my TR surgery, LOL!
There is a weight requirement for the surgery, it is based on BMI and you can find the details on this website to see where you fall within the range.
I hope you are able to sort this all out and move ahead with your TR. I promise that the staff at CHTRC will help you every step of the way, they are terrific at what they do!!
Take care and keep us posted

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Posted by Hopeful1970 (Member # 14190) on November 10, 2010 09:43 AM :
I wouldn't let him get to you. I am 40 at present and I am currently 31 week pregnant. I also had PTLS bad and had battled it for 19 years before having my TR done. I just can not begin to tell you how many uncaring doctors I have seen about the problems I was having before my TR. I had talked to a few doctors also about having a TR done before we made up our mind to have it done at CHTRC. If you have it it done I would go with CHTRC no matter the cost. That is their job every day and in my opinon they are the best at what they do. The last doctor that I had seen about having my TR done, before making the drive to NC. Told me that I would need to have a tubal implant done. Meaning that they would have to cut a hole in my uterus and putting the tube into that hole and stetch it in. I told this to Dr. M when he seen me the day of surgery. He told me not to worry and to let him figure that part out during surgery. When I woke up Dr. M said to me I did not need to do the implant and you have really good lengths on your tubes. When I had my surgery done last November. My DH was over seas. Two week after he came home. I got my first and only BFP for now. As I said I would go with the best right off the bat, no matter the cost. And please, please do not let the things that the RE said to you get to you. Most will always always try to push you to what will cost you the most money. Good luck, Sabrina OH yeah, by the way. Dr M didn't have me in surgery long enough to have me hanging up side down for 4 hours. I was in surgery maybe 1 hr and 15 mins before waking up in recovery. So you can chock that up as one lie that that doctor told you.

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Posted by ismagirl (Member # 13074) on November 10, 2010 09:51 AM :
i had ivf 2 rounds first round my egg didn't form fully and second round i had 3 grade a embryo implanted and i had a miscarriage. your egg health is going to be the same with ivf or tubal with ivf they give you egg stimulating hormones and if needed after tr you can take clomid to increase your eggs. of course clomid cost 20 and ivf meds hundreds. tr surgery by dr at chapel hill are very easy to have and very easy to heal from so i would be scared to have a tr from a dr who is telling you that you will be hanging upside down blood rushing etc. tr surgery at chapel hill takes about an hour and there really isn't much pain involved. if you can afford to go to chapel hill you should. they take credit cards and have other payment options available. either way i hope everything goes well for you
oh yeh i am almost 37 and i have a 9month old daughter from tr now working on #2

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Posted by eneitge (Member # 14887) on November 10, 2010 09:53 AM :
Sandy, sweetie, you had an awful experience and I sure feel for you! Maybe you and your husband can look at your finances and find a way for Dr. Berger or Dr. Monteith to do your surgery so you're with someone who is encouraging and helpful. And they don't hang you upside down for four hours either My surgery in June took a little over an hour I believe, and I don't think Dr. Berger had me bat-ways at any point If going to CHTRC and paying out of pocket isn't financially realistic, then please look into the other REs in your insurance coverage availability, this guy sounds like he is not the right person for you if you left feeling hopeless and your husband felt helpless to comfort you. Just my opinion, but you deserve someone who will give you realistic information AND encouragement. Get a second opinion, and a third, and fourth...find the right person for YOU no matter what the distance My husband and I are from WI, and we never questioned going the distance to NC for great care, this was the right fit for us. Good luck hun, hoping you find the right fit for you and your husband soon

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Posted by strawberry (Member # 14961) on November 10, 2010 10:05 AM :
I'm sorry for the experience you had with that RE. I can tell you my surgery did not last 4 hrs. It was under 1hr. No surgery is a picnic so to speak but I did not have any problems. CHTRC took great care of me! They were the only ones I would consider for my TR and I have regrets! Please don't be discouraged!

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Posted by rajsan04 (Member # 15108) on November 10, 2010 10:28 AM :
Thanks so much for your encouraging and supportive responses! I'm shocked that none of you were hanging upside down during the surgery lol. He told me several times during our meeting that I would be at an angle (not completely upside down) but enough of an angle that blood would be rushing to my head and pressure on my diaphragm. I forgot to mention that he said DEATH is always a factor in any surgery. I was like geezz! My husband and I can cover the cost for Dr. Berger, we can manage, just thought it was nice we wouldn't have to pay for it and we were lucky enough to have insurance to cover it 100%. But after that experience, I'm not the least bit worried about paying for it. I've wanted to see Dr. Berger or Dr. M before anyone and now I feel like they are the best for the job right now. But what about the Dermoid Cyst that has to be removed from my right ovary? Should I continue with this doctor to at least get the dermoid removed or find someone else to do it? I would like for my insurance company to at least cover the expenses of this surgery.

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Posted by Julia, RN (Member # 10) on November 10, 2010 11:17 AM :
Dear Rajsan04: We frequently hear from potential patients that a local doctor performs reversals when, in fact, their expertise in in vitro fertilization (IVF). For tubal reversal surgery, it is important for the doctor to have performed at least 500 tubal reversals and that he or she performs this surgery daily. (Dr. Berger has performed over 8000 reversals and Dr. Monteith nearly 1000.) Experience is also an important indicator on whether surgery will be performed if a woman has a difficult situation due to short tubes, missing tubal segments, fimbriectomy, or inherent diseases of the tubes. While most doctors would be unwilling – or unable - to perform a reversal in one of these situations, Dr. Berger and Dr. Monteith are able to repair the tubes in 98% of cases, regardless of the type of sterilization that has been performed. Pregnancy rates for our patients in your age group average 64%. Dr. Berger pioneered this technique for outpatient tubal reversal surgery and the procedure takes approximately an hour. The majority of patients return to work in 3-5 days and are back to the majority of normal activities within 7 - 10 days. Compare this to the operating and recovery times in other facilities, with less experienced doctors, where surgery takes 3 - 4 hours and patients may spend 2 - 3 nights in the hospital and have a 6 week recovery. Dr. Berger and Dr. Monteith are the only doctors in the US who limit their practice specifically to tubal reversal surgery only. This means you will be with other women going through the same experience and will have a nurse and your doctor available 24/7 following surgery. I hope this is helpful. We do have a few appointments during November that are available at a discounted fee if you would like to contact me at JuliaS@tubal-reversal.net. Julia S., RN

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Posted by prayingfor3 (Member # 14807) on November 10, 2010 11:38 AM :
Hi Sandy,
I am Heather(37) and live in Marion, Virginia. I had my TR surgery 5/12/10 much against dr advise also. I was told by 2 RE that I was too old and had too many abdominal surgeries 8 Before the tr!
Dr M did my surgery, and he said I was in better shape than he expexcted. As of today I am 10 weeks pregnant. It took only 4 ovulation cycles to conceive little bean. So far so good!
It is hard not to get discouraged but try not to. You do what you feel is best for you and your family. I do recommend CHTRC over any I looked into.
Oh, and if you dh SA is not as good as it should be, try Fertil- Aid ( get it from Babyhopes.com) My hubbys SA was pretty bad 10% motility..but after 6 months on it we were pregnant!!!
Don't give up hope and pray alot.
Baby dust to you and all trying!
Heather

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Posted by rajsan04 (Member # 15108) on November 10, 2010 12:31 PM :
Heather, congrats on your pregnancy! Your story gives me much hope! Thank you for the baby dust and prays, I sure do need it!

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Posted by Simonsen6 (Member # 10172) on November 10, 2010 02:59 PM :
Dear Rajsan04
WOW- ur appointment with the RE sounds a lot like how mine went and I too left there crying and feeling so discouraged... except I had already had my TR (by dr berger) before I went there but I was being seen by the RE because of a massive mass on my uterus that they found a month earlier when I had kidney stones... SO the Re is mad that ONE - I had the Tr done by someone else and when he found out it was Dr berger he became a total jerk to me and told me my odds where not good or ever conceiving and IVF would be my only hope. TWO- I have had endo my whole life and have had 7 surguries to remove it and this RE questioned if I had "really" ever had endo at all. I have all the symptoms and that was just too much of a red flag that I had been making it up my whole life... Told you he was a Jerk! Then he did the ultra sound and couldn't find the mass, there wasn't one to be found and refered to the Er dr's as stupid and didn't know what they were talking about... the exam he did he told me I was probably perimenopausal and just wasted all this money on a tr - where if I would have went with him he would have pointed me in the rigt direction instead of giving me false hope...
Left there crying - It had been 8 months since my TR and I had also already had an HSG to confirm my tubes were both open.. I emailed dr berger that night with questions and thngs this dr had told me... The funny thng was this RE had once applied for a job with Dr. Berger and I am SO SO SO glad Dr.Berger could see the type of guy this was and for what ever reasons this RE didn't get the job... I think that is why he was such a jerk to me once he found out I had had my Tr done by Dr. Berger. Dr Berger email me back with + thougts and things do and not to stress...... I became PG THAT cycle with my first TR baby!!!!! I am currently 27 1/2 weeks Pg with my second Tr baby.. Don't give up hope and DO NOT let this quack of an RE do your TR. Really you want the best go to Chapel Hill and have Dr. Berger or Dr. Monteith do your TR. This is what they do and teh only thing they do. Did you know for an extra $1,000 you have have them do a lap before the Tr - where they can take care and make sure everything looks good before the Tr? The day of My TR there was one Tr sister the day before that during her TR Dr. Berger noticed she had a hernia and took care of it, the day of my surgery there was another lady after me that also had something like that and he took care of that for her too... Chapel hill is teh only place I would go and know I am truley in good hands... As far as being 39 follow your heart and do whats best for you two... I say GO FOR IT...
DOn't lose faith nor hope!
Lots of Love
Becki

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Posted by Julie B., RN (Member # 14875) on November 10, 2010 03:28 PM :
Hi, ladies. It is disheartening to hear that many of you have had what you consider "bad experiences" with various doctors. Health is extremely important, and we should all feel we can talk to and trust the doctors we depend on as a general rule. Of course, I can't speak to your specific situations since I was not there and don't know the doctors. But I can certainly vouch for Dr. Berger and Dr. Monteith , as well as for the nurses and staff members here at Chapel Hill Tubal Reversal Center. I am very proud to work in an establishment that puts patients first, and has so much emphasis on excellent care and patient safety. As you can see from other comments, the surgeons here are absolutely at the top of their field, and each surgeon does between 12 and 15 tubal reversal surgeries each week. Just to put your fears at rest, Rajsan04, nobody is ever "hanging upside down" during surgery with Dr. Berger or Dr. Monteith. The surgery is quick, there is very little blood loss, and patients recover quickly and are able to go rest in comfort at the hotel (rather than in a hospital). Rasjan04, please note that on the home page of this Web site there is a link that allows you to request a free DVD of Dr. Berger performing tubal reversal surgery. We encourage anybody who is considering TR and has questions about what happens during surgery to click the link and watch your video when it arrives. As you will see in the video, there certainly isn't any hanging upside down! I hope that helps ease any fears you have. Please, for all of you ladies, don't hesitate to keep sharing questions or concerns with us. We want to make your TR journey as smooth as possible. Julie B., RN

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Posted by jacquelynwilliamseid (Member # 14943) on November 10, 2010 09:27 PM :
Hi Sandy my name is Jacque and I am very sorry to hear about the experience that you have had. I also had a very bad experience with RE and OB was told by RE that TR was not really and option for me due to 2 c-sections and having TL over 9 years ago. He told me that I would have too much scar tissue and it would not be very good idea to even consider it. He however was very willing to take my money for IVF . I also went to a OB in my area that does TR he told me that he would not do the surgery either that scar tissue would be too much and that it was a waste of time that I should have IVF. The thing is that me and my DH just wanted to have the oppurtunity to try to have a child on our own. The problem is that at every turn we felt shut down and like there was no hope. I sit here now having had my TR on September the 14th 2010. I will say this CHTRC gives back hope to thousands of women who have had their hope taken away from them. No one can tell you what is the right decision for you we can only tell you of the experience that we have all had and hope that this helps. Try not to give up or get discouraged. CHTRC has payment plans for saving up for the surgery. I was wondering if the doctor did a FSH test on you to tell you wether or not your eggs were good or not for all you know you could have more eggs than someone younger than you. Try not to give up hope and stay strong. Good luck to you in what ever decision that you choose and I hope that all goes well with you.

Jacque

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Posted by rajsan04 (Member # 15108) on November 11, 2010 10:10 AM :
Thank you Jacque and all you ladies for sharing your experiences and encouraging words. My husband and I talked last night for hours. I shared with him your replies to my message and emails. We both feel very confident with Dr. Berger and his team. Plus we are only 3 hours away! I also talked with my insurance company and because they do cover the cost of the tubal 100% and we are PPO, that they will reimburse the cost after the TR is done. Which of course is nice, but after what we have been through with the local RE and after hearing your experiences and the encouragement from the staff with Dr. Berger and Dr. M, it wouldnt really matter if we were to be reimburse or not! I am excited and honor to become apart of this journey with the rest of you and to share the bond of wanting this dream to happen for all of us. I will be spending the next 3 to 4 months losing the weight I need to lose. If anything is a motivator, it is this for sure! I look forward to letting all of you know I'm in Chapel Hill and ready to get my TR! Until then you will be in my prayers and thoughts! Love, Sandy 

Source: http://www.tubal-reversal.net/forum-topic-tubal_reversal-1t003725.htm

Contact the Tubal Reversal Experts

Chapel Hill Tubal Reversal Center takes pride in its tubal reversal doctors and staff. When patients call 919-968-4656 they can be sure they are getting the most complete and accurate information about reversing tubal ligation. Tubal reversal doctors and nurses are accessible 7 days a week to address any questions, concerns, or issues. When looking into tubal reversal surgery, you might as well go to the experts for the best information.

This is topic The best medical office and staff in forum New Message Board Members at Tubal Reversal Message Board.

Posted by Anderson16 February 11, 2010 09:06 PM:
I wanted you to know that my experience to your office has been nothing short of excellent. Your staff and the office itself all excellent. From your web site, and the information available for your potential and current patients. To the patient care that is offered throughout the whole experience, all excellent. I will keep in touch. Please post this as another satisfied patient. From the lady with a heart shaped ovary.

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Posted by shareekhot2 /airforce wife February 12, 2010 09:33 PM:
It's good 2 hear every 1's good experience I'm sure mine will be great also , Lots of baby dust

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Posted by Jo Ann01 February 13, 2010 11:51 AM:
She is SO right! And the excellence continues long after you leave their building. I had my TR in 2002 and every time I have emailed Dr. B or a nurse, I have a reply with minutes. Literally, within minutes. I have 2 TR babies and have had 2 m/c in the last almost 8 years. I have had 100% complete support from them any time I needed it. This is truly an EXCEPTIONAL practice. This should be the standard for all medical care! Jo Ann

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Posted by Chloe O, RN February 13, 2010 02:02 PM:
Thank you ladies! We take great pride in providing all of our past, present, and future patients with the best possible service and patient care from the minute they call our office to long after their reversal surgery. Chloe, RN

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Posted by hopes n dreams February 14, 2010 11:09 AM:
I am looking forward to meeting the staff on April 5 !!

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Posted by Ericka P February 14, 2010 11:15 AM:
Thank you for all your kind words! As Chloe stated, we take great pride in making your visit a wonderful experience. We've enjoyed meeting all of our previous patients and look forward to meeting all of you that are scheduled and those that will be scheduling in the future! Ericka P.

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Posted by Kathy, ST February 15, 2010 08:07 AM:
It's nice to hear from patients who have had a positive TR experience here at Chapel Hill Tubal Reversal Center. We strive for that goal. Thank you for your comment. Please keep us posted on how you are doing. Kathy

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Posted by Mrsanxious February 15, 2010 09:00 AM:
I second that . I had my TR on 2/11/10 and the experience has been wonderful. This has truly been a stress free journey. I would like to thank everyone for their professionalism.


The Tubal Reversal Center at Chapel Hill
In this video Chapel Hill Tubal Reversal Center (www.tubal-reversal.net) nurses and doctors explain their how they help make reversal tubal ligation safe, comfortable, and successful for women wanting another baby after tubal ligation. Each staff member has expertise in caring for and performing outpatient tubal reversals. The tubal reversal doctors and nurses provide the most safe, personalized, and successful outcome for tubal ligation reversal patients.

Fallopian Tube Lengths after Tubal Surgery

The fallopian tube lengths remaining after a tubal ligation procedure are important determinants of the chances of getting pregnant after tubal reversal surgery. (Normal fallopian tube length before a tubal ligation is approximately 10 cm or 4 inches.)

Tubal segment lengths are measured routinely during surgery at Chapel Hill Tubal Reversal Center. The average length of the two fallopian tubes after repair was correlated with the likelihood of pregnancy after tubal reversal (Table 6). Women with longer tubal lengths had higher pregnancy rates than women with shorter lengths following tubal reversal. Women with tubal lengths of 7.5 cm or longer had a pregnancy rate of 77%. The pregnancy rate declined as tubal length decreased, but even women with the shortest tubes (less than 2.5 cm) became pregnant (38%). Although previously unreported in the medical literature, it became apparent during this study that a repaired fallopian tube of any length can result in pregnancy. Based on reports by women with only 1 fallopian tube, we now know that tubal lengths as short as 1 cm can result in a normal pregnancy.

Table 6. Pregnancy Rates by Tubal Length (cm)

Length	Total Women	Pregnant (No.)	Pregnant (%)
7.5+	469	362	77%
5.0-7.4	2826	1966	70%
2.5-4.9	1602	920	57%
<2.5	112	42	38%

This is topic The Tubes in forum After Tubal Reversal at Tubal Reversal Message Board.

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Posted by 31plumber

Hello everyone. I was wondering how much does the tubal length ; after TR, have to do with your chances of pregnancy ? I have pretty good length tubes, but don't want to get to excited, if it really doesn't matter at all.

Thanks.

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Posted by Ericka P.

Dear 31plumber,

The fallopian tube lengths remaining after a tubal ligation procedure are important determinants of the chances of getting pregnant after tubal reversal surgery. For additional information, please click on the following link: http://press.tubal-reversal.net/2009/tubal-reversal-pregnancy-report-2009-pregnancy_rates-tubal-lengths.html

Hope this helps!

Ericka P.

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Posted by 31plumber

Thank you so much Erika...I can't believe I missed that (thought I researched the whole site). Thanx much

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Posted by motherbug
This post made me even more depressed. I never saw this stat board. Wish I didn't know....oh well.

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Posted by GodisGood68
motherbug, please don't be depressed, there are women that have 1cm tubes or even just one tube which was repairable at 1cm and still got BFP . Nothing is impossible with God! Be Blessed!
Roslyn

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Posted by TulipGarden

Think of it like this, even though I know it's hard. I have 2cm both sides, there is more chance than there was before the tubal reversal ! A chance is a chance, so stay hopeful motherbug.

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Posted by motherbug
OH. LOL! I know.....I was just having a moment....I guess I never really expected to be left with such short tubes....it shocked me when Dr. Monteith told me after the surgery....and I know I have a lot to be thankful for....sorry to sound ungrateful....I just get moody sometimes. I never really thought About how stressful ttc can be escpecially when you have tubal issues. Thanks for the kinds words.....

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Posted by GodisGood68

Girl, we all have those days, before or after tubal reversal . WE ARE WOMEN!!! That's our genetic make-up, LOL!!! That is what we are here for, to support one another. Baby dust to you!!!!
Roslyn

Is It Beneficial To Get A Tubal Reversal for PTLS?

A frequent topic of discussion on the Tubal Reversal Message Board is about the issue of Post Tubal Ligation Syndrome (PTLS). Cristina ('dixechick77') posed this question: "Since I had my tubes tied, I have noticed less libido, more headaches, longer periods with heavier bleeding including clots, unbelievable mood swings and heavy cramping. WHAT IS THIS? I have read different views! Would it be beneficial to have a Tubal Reversal?" She receives responses other message board participants about the issue of Post Tubal Ligation Syndrome (PTLS), such as "Immediately after TL, I had severe headaches, bleeding with clots, depression, anxiety, skin problems and the list goes on. I am on CD 5 and have had only slight cramps, no headaches and no mood swings although results vary from woman to woman. I had immediate results after TR. Tubal reversal was worth every penny for me," and "Absolutely! It is called Post Tubal Ligation Syndrome and I had it bad. My tubes were tied for 3 years and I suffered right away. I am six month post-TR and am 95% back to what I consider normal. I say, go for it!" Another member adds, "After I had my tubes tied, AF started to change. My AF before the TL used to be 4 days, mild cramps, and medium flow. I had my TR Nov. 08 and have not had a single episode of flooding and no cramps. I am amazed. I am back to my old self!" Dixechick77 asks "Why aren't doctors diagnosing this?" That question has been discussed in detail on the Tubal Reversal Blog.

This is topic Is It Beneficial To Get A Tubal Reversal for PTLS? on the Tubal Reversal Message Board.

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Posted by dixechick77
Hello everyone! My name is Christina. I am 31 years old - with 3 daughters. After my 3rd daughter (6 years ago) I had my tubes tied. In the last 3 years I have noticed less libido, more headaches, longer periods with heavier bleeding (including clots), unbelievable mood swings and heavy cramping ALL the time, not just during my menstrual. WHAT IS THIS??? I have read different views! Would it be beneficial to have a Tubal Reversal???

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Posted by anesiajackson
Christina, I am 33 yo with 3 children. I had my TL in 2003 and just had my TR on the 1st. Immediately after TL, I had severe headaches, bleeding with clots, depression, anxiety, skin problems and the list goes on. I am on CD 5 and have had only slight cramps, no headaches and no mood swings although results vary from woman to woman. I had immediate results which I am grateful for, and the chance for #4 with DF. I wish you luck, TR was worth every penny for me.

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Posted by dixechick77
Thank you anesia. My hubby would love to have another shot for a boy - but I am not sure if I am ready quite yet. But I am DEFINATELY ready to get rid of these headaches,cramping etc. etc. We are looking at getting the TR in June, I hope. We are waiting on his disability rating to come in from the Veterans Administration to decide WHEN we can afford to do it. Thank you for your help! Good luck on #4

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Posted by Flutist29
Absolutely! It is called Post Tubal Ligation Syndrome and I had it bad. My tubes were tied for 3 years and I suffered right away. I am six month post-TR and am 95% back to what I consider normal.
I say, go for it!

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Posted by dixechick77
Thank you!!! I have been looking through some of the other posts! Why aren't doctors diagnosing this?!?!?!?! This is worse than anything ever! My family doctor just kept prescribing zoloft or whatever to help, but it doesn't! My husband thinks I don't want him anymore - which could not be further than the truth, but I just don't CRAVE sex anymore, let alone anything else!!!!! Thank you ladies for your insight!

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Posted by Flutist29
I didn't either and it frustrated my husband alot. We've had sex more the last six month than the previous 3 years before my TR. LOL!
The libido returned within a couple weeks following my TR.
Needless to say, DH is HAPPY!

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Posted by dixechick77
I am glad to hear that I am SO not alone! Thank you for the support ladies!

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Posted by aliyahsdream
I am in the same boat. The doctors kept saying I was just depressed, that is why I was so tired, or I had Chronic Fatigue, etc. They gave me meds that did not work and made me feel worse. I am so grateful that I found out about PTLS. My doctor blew a gasket, but there was no way he was giving me another medication that I do not need. I am looking forward to some relief from the symptoms. So is DH. LOL It has gotten to the point with the fatigue that I am almost bedridden, especially during AF, but all the time now. I thought I was alone, but am so grateful for all of you that have been where I am and that there is hope. Thanks so much!

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Posted by ajherr
After I had my tubes tied, AF started to change. Cramps as well as flooding. To the point that I needed to be home "in case" it happened. My AF before the TL used to be 4 days, mild cramps, and medium flow. I had my TR Nov. 08 and have not had a single episode of flooding. NO CRAMPS. I am amazed. I am back to my old self! Praise the Lord!

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Posted by dixechick77
Ladies I am now getting so excited about having the TR done! My DH is as well! LOL. I am with all of you on the sleeping fits and cramping - but the MIGRAINES are outrageous. They come on at the blink of an eye and take me going to sleep to get them to ease off - not go away. Does anyone else Wake Up with a headache? Other than normal daily life issues - I have no stress. So I have nothing that should be giving me these. Anyways - I thank all of you for your input and keep the posts coming! I am ready for the TR! Hoping in June!!!

Tubal Ligation Reversal vs. IVF: Age And Pregnancy Success

This article discusses the impact of age on the success of in vitro fertilization (IVF) and tubal ligation reversal surgery. Age is a strong predictor of success in becoming pregnant with either treatment. At Chapel Hill Tubal Reversal Center, the tubal reversal success rates are higher in every age group when compared to IVF using fresh, nondonor eggs. Chapel Hill Tubal Reversal Center has the largest know data base of tubal reversal pregnancies in the world

IVF data has been obtained from the latest available national statistics complied by the US Center for Disease Control (2006 Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) Annual Report). Shows the average chance of IVF pregnancy success, not considering age, is 35% per cycle. Anyone considering IVF should be aware of their specific age related chance of success when undergoing IVF. The success rate of IVF, when using fresh nondonor eggs, is heavily dependent on patient age. The IVF nondonor egg birth rate begins a gradual decline between 30-32 and then declines more significantly after 36-38. The IVF live birth rate after the age of 44 comes very close to zero. The average IVF pregnancy rate using nondonor eggs is about 35%.

From 2001 to 2007, over 4000 women underwent tubal ligation reversal at Chapel Hill Tubal Reversal Center. The average chance of pregnancy success after reversal of tubal ligation experienced by patients of Chapel Hill Tubal Reversal Center is 70%. The statistics compiled from Chapel Hill Tubal Reversal Center's extensive patient database of over 4000 tubal reversal patients over the last six years clearly demonstrate their patients do similar, if not better, at obtaining pregnancy success when compared to the national average of patients who undergo IVF using nondonor eggs.

The average chance of pregnancy success is 70% after tubal reversal and 35% after a single cycle of IVF and both treatments are adversely impacted upon by age.

Readers are invited to join discussions with other women on our Tubal Reversal Message Board.

Source: http://www.tubal-reversal.net/blog/2009/tubal-ligation-reversal/tubal-ligation-reversal-vs-ivf-age-and-pregnancy-success.html

Helpful Ideas for Becoming Pregnant After Tubal Reversal Surgery

Tubal Reversal Message Board member Jan asks other patients to share what they did to help become pregnant after tubal reversal procedures by Dr. Berger and Dr. Monteith. Many patients respond to her question and give helpful hints, ideas, and advice. There are many things you can do to aid in becoming pregnant more quickly after tubal reversal surgery. One of the most useful tools is to use an ovulation predictor kit each month to make sure you are ovulating and to help pinpoint the most fertile time of your cycle.

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This is topic What did You do to get your BFP? in forum After Tubal Reversal at Tubal Reversal Message Board.

Posted by Peach

I have been reading lots of boards, posts, and logs about what so many have done to get pregnant.. Due to some age groups. more should be done as you get older. Since not everyone is a part of a certain thread... maybe posting your suggestions, experiences, and what you have done in assisting in getting you fertility "in check" to get pregnant....not to mention going to a fertility Specialist. ie: EPO, Preseed, clomid, fertilaid... etc... What did you take or do to acchieve your goals? Can we get some helpers out there to add their list of "things to do" while TTC.
Though I did not get my BFP every since my TR in 05 and goning through LAp in 12/07. I still would like to let you know what I did, and what I should have continue to do....
Preseed, clomid many times, prenate vitamins, extra folic acid, mucinex (not that i needed it), and started eatting right and walking 1 hour a day.

me 44
dh 45
tl 86'
tr 4/05- HSG- 10/05- left blocked, right open
IUI 4 times every other month in 06-07 NEG results
RE done a Lap/Recannulation 12/07- both were blocked - now supposedly both OPEN.
My cycles all were ovulatory... and levels were good. 4.6-7.8 only once did it get to 10.3 for FSH. Lining always thick enuff. dh sperm was over 20mil- considered normal for his age.. morphology motility was a bit low but well enuff. Guess not!
Now What?

Thanks
Jan

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Posted by Jennifer K.

We had our TR in August, 2005. It took us 22 months to get pregnant with Lydia Grace - that was after 4 miscarriages and 1 suspected ectopic. Here is what I was doing the month we got pregnant with Lydia Grace:

Metformin (1500mg)
Baby aspirin
Clomid (100mg on CD5-9)
Trigger shot on CD15
Progesterone (100mg 2x daily starting 2 days after O)
BD CD14,15, 16 & 17 (1x per day)
Preseed
Prenatal
Acupuncture (1x per week started 6 weeks before BFP)
No coffee
Eating right
Mild exercise

I was diagnosed with PCOS and unknown repeat m/c. I did all the tests and everything came back normal. I started seeing an RE about a year after my TR. We got our first BFP the first month we were seeing her and our first month on clomid. Unfortunately, it ended in a miscarriage. After our 3rd m/c our RE started treating us as if we had been diagnosed w/ repeat m/c even though my test results were normal. I had good egg reserves and a good lining and the clomid helped me to ovulate regularly. My RE thought that the PCOS was affecting my egg quality and that we needed to keep trying until we "popped off a good one" which we eventually did. We now have a happy, healthy, beautiful 9 month old baby girl that is THE light of my life.

I hope this helps those still out there waiting for their BFP. I'm living proof that it can and will happen if you hang in there and keep trying.

Jenn

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Posted by MRC

Jan....the first time I got pregnant I was on a "break" and did nothing special but let off the pressure...that ended in m/c. The second and third time I got pregnant was the same scenario...my dh was drinking ALOT of redbull...the second pregnancy ended in m/c as well..but third time was a charm...I'm just about 20 weeks pregnant with my first tr baby. Have your dh drink redbull before bd...it can't hurt...another girl on the march 06' board has here dh do that and she has a beautiful tr baby girl. You are mor than welcome to come join us over there as well
Michelle
TR 3-6-06
m/c 9-29-06
m/c 2/13/08
BFP 7-3-08 EDD 3-9-09

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Posted by Tanya from VA

TR 9-7-06
BFP 9-11-07
Carly 5-13-08

The cycle I got pregnant I did nothing in particular. I used my ClearBlue monitor and I OPK'ed twice. We bd'ed twice - every other day - only twice in the fertile period.

I ttc for a year and had two miscarriage. In that time I took took asprin, used Pre-Seed, took vitamins, had my dh take vitamins, used my monitor, used OPK's, tried the Instead, laid on my back after bd'ing - and I've become a believer that half of this stuff we do while ttc doesn't really do anything.

I know that sounds harsh - I certainly tried it all myself - but the one time I did absolutely NOTHING, and didn't even take it overly serious (we were moving, stressed, I didn't even hardly temp and didn't test until my AF was due) I got my sticky BFP.

Good luck to all!

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Posted by HisWill

Jan,

The number one thing I did, was prepare for the fact (as much as possible-it's a lie to say that dissapointment and heartache wouldn't be normal) that I didn't know what my outcome would be. I knew many ladies on the boards conceived the first time trying, others take a while, and some never become pregnant. The one factor in common is that all want another child(ren). I was truly ready that this may not be God's plan for me. I didn't want to be heartbroken over something I wasn't guaranteed. I was actually surprised I became pregnant, because I had been so realistic about it not being my call.

I didn't OPK or chart, because I know I would over-focus on this, and I didn't believe making it the focus of my life would be my honestly surrendering it to God how I intended.

I know this is a very personal journey for all of us ladies-I'm just sharing how I embarked on my journey. I pray for all of us to have peace regarding our fertility.

I take herbs to promote overall health. I don't believe beginning something for the sake of fertility is necessarily very effective. I take the following for my overall health and I do it whether TTC or not..so it's been years that I've been on it.

Good Multi vitamin
3000 mg vitamin C
EPO from CD1-O when TTC, otherwise all month
Super B complex
Fish Oil 1000 mg
Baby aspirin all the time. I take this because I lost a baby due to positive ANA. I don't believe it necessarily helps get pregnant, but I know for sure it protects me from m/c.

Husband takes good multi vitamin
zinc
1000 mg vit C
Super B complex
Baby aspirin for heart health
Fish oil 1000 mg

Andrea-31
Dh-37 next month
DS-11
DS-6
DD-5
DD-3
TL 4/19/05 at time of c-section
TR 7/30/08
BFP 9/16/08-1st cycle TTC
EDD 5/28/09

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Posted by debjim

Not trying to be funny or anything, but all we did was BD during O time, I didn't even use OPK's I just knew around when I would O.

It took 5 months for the first baby and 3 the second.

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Posted by Marty

For me it took 0 months for my first TR baby and he is 9 months. I breastfeeded the first 6 and now that he is 9 months Im pregnant so I would say it took 2 months for Baby # 2....

Martha

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Posted by Marty

Sorry did not write what I did... Lots of you know what and Fertil-Aid- Also eating healthy and lots of jogging seems both times I got pregnant is when I would be in pretty good shape...

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Posted by BlessedMommyKat

I have been taking pre natal vitamins for 18 months, I've tried charting/temping, using opk's alternating BD days...I'm stumped as to how some of you just don't really think about it and... poof! You're pregnant! Are those of you who have gotten bfp's physically fit and within normal BMI ranges? I'm overweight and can't help but to wonder if that is hurting me.

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Posted by Amy1234

Pre-Seed + opk + Dh drank Redbull 10 minutes before bd.

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Posted by HisWill

Hi BlessedMommyKat,

My BMI is in a good range. Before this pregnancy I was 5'9 and about 140.

I truly think being overweight may cause problems. Obviously, plenty of overweight women become pregnant, but because fat cells in women produce estrogen dominance, it is likely that being overweight doesn't help fertility. High amounts of body fat can increase estrogen-or prolong the estrogen phase, thus reducing the mature follicles and ovulation.

I understand being overweight. In my first pregnancy, my doctor thought I had lupus. He placed me on 80 mg of prednisone a day. I started out at 120lbs, and at 34 weeks when I delivered I was 218. Additionally, with each of my pregnancies I gain WAY over the recommended amounts of weight on very healthy foods and the right amount of calories. My doctor says that I have a maternal storing thing going on. Unfortunately, I don't shed much weight through bf'ing like my friends! So I have to work hard after each of my 4 children to lose a lot of weight to be healthy. I understand what it's like!

Best wishes!

Andrea

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Posted by april1979

HI, I am 29 and my DH is 44, I had my TL in 01, and TR on 12-07, It took us 8 months to get pregnant. First I tried the figuring out when I O'd, and starting taking prenatal vitamins. After 5 months of trying, I had looked into Clomid and Pre-seed, Had DH tested, was normal, When I purchased the Clomid and Preseed I had to wait for next cycle, and AF never came. The month before, I had said that maybe this is not In God's plan for us to have a baby. And was going to give up. So, when I got pregnant, I was on nothing, BD'd Twice One at night and once in morning, (that is what did it for my sister too, BD'ing twice when O'ing)
I am over weight, my bmi is high, I know that does not help, But it doesn't make it impossible. So I hope this helps. Good Luck to all still trying! Oh due on 4-25-08!!!

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Posted by AnitaA68

Jan, I'm sorry this journey hasn't been the one you had hoped for.

My TR was in November 05.

We tried everything we could come up with, for me and for DH. At first, it was just letting nature take it's course. After the HSG showed open tubes, we stepped it up a bit using temping OPKs, etc. We eventually went to an RE who diagnosed me with unexplained infertility. That was very disappointing since all tests came back with excellent results. We did a few rounds of drugs, IUIs and then IVF.

Each person is an individual case. What may work for one, may not for another. Being under weight or over weight can influence fertility. As well as what you eat, your environment, etc, etc. I remember how hard it was to hear someone say they did nothing special to get their BFP and to relax. Although they meant well, it usually made me feel terrible. I think the most important thing I did was to try to stay positive and not give up. And that was very hard by the time the two year mark rolled around. I wanted to continue to try every avenue we could to get a little one.

I hope you soon get your sticky BFP. I know how heartbreaking this whole experience can be.

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Posted by BlessedMommyKat

Andrea (HisWill)

Thank you for addressing my thoughts on being overweight... I commend you for being so lean. What did you do to lose the weight so nicely? I find myself worrying about not eating properly for ttc and it becomes a downward spiral for me. Do you have any suggestions? I'm at the point where I am willing to try anything.

My RE says I am quote, "full of eggs" he counted 13-14 follicles on each of my ovaries and didn't think my weight was hurting me (but I cannot help but wonder) I am way heavier than when I was pregnant the first time. I remember being 6 weeks pregnant and 134. Now I'm not pregnant and I'm almost 200 pounds! So... my common sense says there's something to being overweight and ttc.

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Posted by HisWill

Hi BlessedMommyKat,

The first thing I had to do is come to terms with my physical appearance. Since I was so young when I got pregnant the first time, my body was so "perfect"...well, 80 mg of prednisone, and subsequent chemo left me with stretch marks over 80% of my body. Additionally, when you stretch that much so quickly, there's a whole lot of baggy skin involved since prednisone causes a huge depletion in collagen.

Fortunately, I knew God brought me through that so I would give myself to Him completely. I had to be knocked upside the head a bit. Nearly losing my life at such a young age, made me very realistic about what life is about. I believe life is about serving Jesus Christ-"this thorn in my side is but a mere affliction.". I think God wants us to take care of our bodies, but not let them enslave us. I will never look like I did before hand, but I can do my best, you know?

So, I started some good vitamins, and began first walking and then jogging on the treadmill. I am really active will all the kids, but that was never enough. I had to really reduce my calories and fats, add in Omega's like fish oil, and simply eat better and eat less. Since I already cook all of our meals, and we eat healthfully, it's really just eating less and exercising more that did it. I added in tons of water, and a couple of cheap beginners Pilates videos.

There is a place of comfort with knowing everything in your life is in His hands. Knowing that my body has been an earthen vessel for His glory is all that matters. I am sure I'll have 6 months or so of hard work after this baby, but I won't starve myself to reduce my work later. All healthy and I'm sure I'll be looking at another 50+ lb weight gain!

I wish you the absolute best. So many are correct that you can do everything right and still not become pregnant, or you can be eating fast food all the time and not paying attention and you conceive. This is because it's in God's timing.

However, working towards the goal is very commendable, and very good for your overall health!

Blessings!

Andrea

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Posted by BlessedMommyKat

Andrea... did you say chemo?

You are inspiring on so many levels. I thank you for your honesty and your testimony. I know some people take offense here, but not I. I am a believer and I am encouraged by your words... thank you.

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Posted by Mary-MI

"I wish you the absolute best. So many are correct that you can do everything right and still not become pregnant, or you can be eating fast food all the time and not paying attention and you conceive. This is because it's in God's timing."

Let me get this straight.. you think that if God wants you to be pregnant, it will happen, no matter what we do? Then why have a TR???? If its his will, wouldn't you become pregnant with tied tubes???

I so wished we could have one post on here without religion being used as the answer to the question that someone has posted, looking for help.

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Posted by klinger13

I have to agree with Mary-MI's last statement. This thread started out with people giving their great responses to the question asked, then completely morphed into a religious thread.

I really feel that I have the right to come to this board to read questions, answers, & advice, without feeling that I stepped into a religious message board. It can really make people (self included) very uncomfortable. Can we keep that in mind when responding so all can enjoy and find help from these boards, regardless of our belief system?

Thank you.
Amanda

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Posted by angelsbaby629

Jan,
I thought your name looked familliar. I have been here since 2000 and had TR done 2002. After we had no bfp's by the 3rd month after TR I went to the dr and begged for clomid. It worked, 4months after TR we got pg with Gabriella. ofcourse we bd'd every day(sometimes 2x's and he was lovin that ) then when Gabby was 6m we decided to try again. This time it wasnt so easy..it took us over 2 years and all the RE could say was it was unexplained infertility. we did 4 rounds of IUI, 1 incomplete(thanks to insurance) round of IVF that turned into a heavily medicated IUI cycle. clomid for 6 months, wait, 7 months, 3 of them with triggers. and countless medication, by mouth and injects. Then I gave up and decided that we were only meant to have Gabby. oh, i forgot we also had 2 hsg's to make sure my tubes were still open. out of the blue we got Preggers with Natalie-Jean.
This time i was trying to aviod (but no bc) getting pg and wham, it happened. not planned, but always welcomed.
I am so very sorry you are going through this. I still say I was taught a lesson of patients while trying to get pg with Natalie. either way. good luck hun and agian, I am sorry you're going through this mess. just remember, there IS a
light at the end of the tunnel. Jess

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Posted by mama12

The best advice I can give, I've had 3 pregnancies in 1 year, lost 2 and am now nearing 4 months pregnant with this one.
I took vitamins all the way through, simple, just Flintstones complete. Made DH take them too.
Which regardless I've taken them for years just to make sure I'm healthy so even that isn't any different. I talk calcium too, everyday.
I didn't OPK, didn't temp, didn't chart. We just did it when I knew I was O'ing, felt like I was Oing. CD 10-14 of a 28 day cycle, that's it.
We NEVER stressed it, never got obssessed. Like Tanya says it didn't help her, I knew it wouldn't help me, even in Dr. Berger's office, he tried to tell me about OPK and charting I told him I won't do it, so lets just get this surgery done! If it's going to happen it will. Which is pretty much when I felt like it, I'm in the mood at O time naturally. Just take it easy and don't worry, don't get stressed.
Let BD be what it is, you and your DH being close. Forget the technicalities. We did and it worked 3 X.
If you have regular periods you are O'ing. So don't worry!! Just have fun everything else will take care of itself.
BTW w/ the 2nd BFP I lost my right tube, so this is a 1 tube baby. It took 4 months of trying and we did it.

I do recommend help though if you have irregular periods. In that case OPK is a good idea.
For me I didn't need it I'm very regular.

I wish you luck!! Keep TTC fun!!!
In all honesty give it a year. You'll get it!

The only unnatural thing I did was have Dr. Berger in there. That's it.

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Posted by onemoretracy

I had my TR on 11/08/07. I had used FF to chart for a couple of months beofre surgery just to get a feel for my cycle. I was not always good about keeping it up though!

When the time came to actively TTC I really talked about it with my midwife. She was very helpful and positive. She recommended the HSG and I had that done in March. Also I took Clomid (50mg) that cycle. I had taken it to concieve for my previous pregnancy (pre-TL and TR) As it turns out, one of my tubes is blocked, but that same cycle I had the HSG and also began the Clomid we concieved. I also took pre-natals and baby asprin daily (DH took this as well). I did give up caffeine too.

As far as timing, we were not stressing about it. We Bd about every other day from cd 10-20. I think I o'd that cycle around day 16, but I am not sure bc I wasn't charting, just keeping an eye on mucus changes and mood changes etc.

Good luck with your TTC and remember to have fun and enjoy each other! Now I am in the 3rd trimester, my DH is remembering those back to those good old days of TTC, lol!

~Tracy
EDD 12/22/08

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Posted by TrulyBlessed

America is blessed with a great variety of people - we should celebrate that instead of always looking for something to jump down another's throat. And we are also blessed with many freedoms - one being religion, whether you want it, practice it or not - faith comes in many varieties. But maybe you should question why the mention of God "offends" you. No one is saying anything other than what they believe - you can choose to believe or not but just as you have the right to ignore we have the right to proclaim.

Now the people who try to shove it forcefully down your throat are a bit offensive - even me, a christian, will admit to that - because Jesus himself did not force his teachings on people. But just remember - for those of you who get "offended" by the talk of God - there are just as many of us who are out there that find the encouraging words of our fellow christians a balm in rough times. And yes, God can do all things but it was not him that made fertility impossible - it was her choice of TL that did. He gives us 100% control over our bodies, but that also means we suffer the concequences if we do not treat them right.

HisWill, you are very encouraging for us who are out there that are not "offended". I think you are very brave for standing up for your faith, even when people complain about it - because in the end you are not hurting anyone with your words, negativity in this world is rapant and I hope that one day when I get to do my TR and announce my pregnancy that there will be people like you still around that will praise and rejoice with me and my family.

Sorry that this is so long but it really just aggrevates me when people want to "shut down" a positive thing - last time I checked, true christians were not unhappy, negative people - even in the most dire circumtances.

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Posted by HisWill

Yes Blessed, I had chemo.

Mary, I'm sorry you take offense. It isn't religion, it's Jesus Christ. No, I wouldn't become pregnant with tied tubes because I circumvented the will of God by tying off His blessings. Not the answer you wanted, but the one I believe.

There are lots of posts on this forum that don't deal with any bit of faith. I'm sure they will offer you more of what you want to hear.

I'm praying for blessings for every lady of the board, whether they personally offend me or not.

Blessings!

Andrea

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Posted by momto10

Andrea, this is why I don't post much anymore. Faith and belief...religion whatever anyone wants to call it is so much a part of every opinion I have and every aspect of any help I have to offer that there is NO possible way I could write without refering to Christin some way. But as in many things in life offense to Christian religion is harped and therefore Christian religion is suspressed BUT if the roles were turned and I was prasing Budda, nobody would say a word. I guess I'll never understand why Christian support and comfort is attacked.

So if my way of speaking and my way of showing comfort to my TR sisters is NOT welcomed then..... I guess it's time for me to leave.

This entire forum was here for SUPPORT and COMFORT. If you need medical advice, hire a doctor!

Gwen

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Posted by LIZZYpooh

Hello Ladies......I thank everyone of you who trust and believe God for your miracles...since He is the only one that gives life...i will always be trusting him...yes he could have caused me to get pregnant without a tr ...but faith without works is dead...if this board allowed all types of fussing and cussing some people wouldn't be offended with that at all...I am one that is not charting or any of that I am going to keep practicing with dh and will happen when God says so....I'm in love with Jesus and he is in love me.....

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Posted by MOMZILLA

I am not a religious person. I was raised Catholic but do not practice. I know many people who are church-goers and still do bad harmful things to people. Likewise, I know many folks who do not attend mass (organized religion) and are very good people who have their own faith in God and serve in their own way. We need to be tolerant of each otther, no matter what our faith or beliefs. I, too, do not like it when people "push" their religion or beliefs on me. That being said, I do not think that is anyone's intent here. People go on this journey for different reasons (ptls vs TTC) and we all go through it in our own ways, taking comfort in words of others, support of family, medical advice or religion. I know it can be frustrating being on this journey that is such a hard struggle for many..it is hard to hear women say it is simply up to God when many are riding a roller coaster of meds, herbs, tests ,kits, temps, and all kinds of interventions. It is a very emotional and personal journey but we need to remember we are all individuals with different beliefs and perspectives and we need to respect our differences and still be there to offer whatever kind of support we can based on our own journies in life. Again, while I do not practice religion I believe in God and believe we just need to be there for each other. When my father in law was dying of prostate cancer I got pregnant unexpectedly (BC failure).I truly believe we were given a gift from God here. Though he was dying we had a wonderful new baby coming. It is unfortunate that he passed 10 weeks before I delivered but it was a positive thing for the family in a very sad time...Again, I am not religious but I still believe this was God's way of giving us happiness and a new focus in the midst of such a great loss. For me, I try to offer advice here based on my experiences in child-bearing and living with PTLS but not through a religious voice or persepctive. I find no fault in those who ride their faith through this journey and share from that view point. As long as nobody is trying to convert me (LOL) I am ok with everyone expressing their feelings and beliefs here. Try to remember why we are here..to help each other from our individual experiences and perspectives. If you do not care for a particular perspective..then feel free to disregard and move on to another post from yet a different perspective..This is a hard journey...let's not make it more stressful and hard on each other by taking offense where none is intended...We are all here to help because we care.

Tracy

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Posted by momto10

Tracey it is just human nature to resort to the explaination of God's Will, when herbs, medicine, creams, surgeries, and IUI all fail. Humans throughout history have looked for reason when our methodes fail. I don't uderstand why that is so offensive. No-one has said you have to be Catholic or you that you have be believe what any of us say...

I will just never understand why words that are meant to offer comfort are so bad.... I know that these types of words comfort me. I want peopel to use them when speaking to me. I am sterile after TR....9 months post TR and NO positives..... It hurts me that maybe God doesn't will for me to have more....BUT... I find comfort in knowingthat maybe it's not my fault, maybe I just don't have 100% control over that part of my life. I not only find it comforting BUT it also relieves my guilt and my anxiety over trying.

Almost ALL "support" groups uses some sort of surrender to a higher power, AA, OA, and many secular mental health professionals instruct people to focus on ones "spiritual-self" in order to relieve stress. Heck Oprah even talks about it all the time... Not that I put too much Faith in her, she isn't fair off the pulse of America.

To everyone who has a problem with these type of words of advice/comfort; What would you prefer we say to offer comfort? Should we be just like you? Should we parrot your thoughts and advice? WHy is my advice any less important? Why, can't I jsut offer my advice and be ignored, when my advice/comfort isn't welcomed? How are we supposed to know who wants that kind of support and who doesn't? Should this forum become so politically correct that even herbs and homeopathey, should be discluded, afterall, science can't prove that either?

Maybe we should jsut have some Socialistic rules guiding our everyword, only saving what the powers that be would say... The who desides who the powers that be are? When I spoke to Dr. B and told him that I was just having the surgery to be Open to God's Will he didn't judge me. He accepted me with love and kindness, despite the fact that all I could do was talk about God and the TL being the BIGGEST mistake I've ever made.

Signed Gwen <who is compeltely baffled by why these words offend. If someone believes something else they can say, please don't talk about God around me. I would say, OK and I would make an effort to not do it again.

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Posted by MOMZILLA

Gwen, I was addressing those who feel it is "offensive" when folks mention God. I do not agree with that..That was the point of me saying there is no "intent" here to preach, etc. I was not sure, from your response, if you thought I was expressing an issue with that. My point is that we all bring our individual prespectives here and we should not get offended or make that more stressful for each other. We need more tolerance and support and less worrying about where the advice originates. We are who we are and should not apologize for that, but we should support one another in this journey, despite our differences...

Tracy

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Posted by momto10

OHHHH, gotcha MOMZILLA. Sorry. BTW, I love you screen name.

Gwen


Posted by MOMZILLA

Thanks. My screen name sort of reflected what I became with PTLS....I was so unhealthy, isolated, short-termpered and miserable..I lost the joy in being a mother to my 3 kids..I felt I became this evil Momzilla rather than just plain Mommy..I am so relieved to be back to my old self again after TR...I feel so badly for some of the women here who try so hard to get pregnant and stay that way. I was lucky to have the 3 kids I have without too much trouble.. I have had 3 m/cs in my life-time and 3 healthy kids. I am blessed to have them!

Tracy

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Posted by LuceFamily

umm... so about those BFP's...

Lets get to the reason this forum is here... regardless of what our individual beliefs may be this board is intended to offer support to one another. So maybe we dont all have the same faith in common, but one thing we do have in common is that we have all struggled with the heartache and turmoil of having gone though a TL and wanting more than anything to have another child. I think there is always something we can learn from each other, lets take what we need from each others post here on the boards... and what we dont like or dont agree with, just move on. Come on guys, this is silly. Let support each other in our journey making children, not acting like children.

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Posted by Mary-MI

Peach, I have only had one BFP that ended in E/P. Months prior I had an HSG, and my only tube was opened, 3 rounds of clomid, preseed and charting.

When I got my BFP, I was only charting. Now, my RE discovered I have PCOS. I am on my first cycle with Metformin, so we shall see if that works. I didn't realize how much PCOS cause infertility. Best wishes to you.

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Posted by momto10

Tracy, I know what you mean about not connecting with my children..... Each onth I sem to get a little better. I seem to "enjoy" my maritail relations again as well. I really feel like my whole life is coming back into order. This month is only my second "normal" month, and I am 9 months post TR..... So, who knows, I feel like I still have time.

I have had 6 Biologocal living children, 4 m/c before TL, and 4 step children. ALL are Blessings, even if I never conceive another baby, "MY" TR was very much worth it!

Gwen

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Posted by MOMZILLA

OK..so I have no intention of have a TR baby ( I am 43) but I got my pre-TL BFPs by ...child #1: did nothing and got PG within 3 months..child #2)..had 2 m/cs two months in a row and did some temping and clearplan monitor thing but still took 1 year to get pg.. child #3: not trying but had bc fail us resulting in a wonderful gift of a baby boy who turns 4 in March and tells me "Mommy I love you" every day..

Tracy

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Posted by Iluvrsp

If your tubes are blocked when you have the surgery done does that mean that you cannot get pregnant? Also when you have the TR done do you just let nature take it's course or do you have to do something else? I am new to this and just trying to learn before then time comes to have the TR done..

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Posted by Tanya from VA

iluvsrp - The point of the TR surgury is to put your tubes back together so you can conceive in a more "natural" or pre-ligation way. If your tubes become blocked then you can not conceive after TR (the old fashion way). You would need to seek IVF or another fertility treatment.

My comments about doing nothing were in no way to meant to say "relax, it will happen". In my case I did almost everything for a year, and we took a month off mostly because we were moving and I simply didn't have time to chart, temp, OPK, ect. It was one of only two months that I didn't do anything.

As far as the the God/religion talk, to each their own. I agree it's hard after months and months of ttc and frustration to hear it's as simple as turning it over to God. You want to know why your being forsaken. What is the plan he has for you? Why this loving giving God throws miscarriage or blocked tubes at you, when others conceieve and have a child with no problems? I felt that way many times, especially after my loss at 10 weeks with twins. It was completely devestating, and I'm not sure I've come back around yet. Just when I felt I was getting past most of it, my dad died unexpectly on April 26th - three weeks before Carly was born in May of this year.

Religious encouragement doesn't offend me, but it's not always easy for those who are struggling with this rollercoaster of ttc to embrace something that is suppose to be comforting when they truly are heartbroken and searching for answers. I'm sure it's actually as simple as that, not some deep seeded anti-religious sentiment.

Best of luck to all.

Tanya

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Posted by Iluvrsp

So what blockage means is that after you have TR done your tubes can become blocked?

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Posted by Tanya from VA

Absolutely they can become blocked. One or both can become blocked for several reasons. They can heal up and get blocked or they can get blocked with debris.

Chapel Hill has a statistic - not sure of the number - but it is a possibility you should be aware of.

Best of luck!

Tanya
TR 9-7-06
Carly 5-13-08

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Posted by MOMZILLA

Tanya - That was one of my points..exactly..

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Posted by mama12

Iluvrsp. It is a possiblity but the risk isn't that high.
There is a thing called an HSG where they force a dyed liquid through your tubes and do like an Xray so they can tell if your tubes are blocked.
Alot of times just getting the HSG done will clear out tubal blockages if it's just debris or tissue in there.
I wouldn't worry too much about it honestly.
The chances are pretty low, most women have at least one good open one if one is blocked.
All you need is one tube.
Getting the HSG is something you would do maybe 8 months to a year or more after TR if you haven't gotten pregnant. Most Dr.s will recommend waiting for a while see if you get pregnant. It took us a while for me to get pregnant after the EP I had, but I'm pregnant with a good one. Just passed my 1 year anniversary of TR.