Hey, ya'll! Been away for a bit but I'm back on my bullshit.
I wanted to give an update on where we are in our TTC journey. I'm currently at CD 42 of cycle number 4*. A 'normal' cycle for me is roughly ~ 34 days. This is the longest my cycle has been since I stopped birth control.
I've still been tracking my temps and I will share my charts below if anyone is curious. My app has me at 9 DPO. I was on vacation during my original predicted fertile window and I lost some of my data during this time due to needing to replace my phone. I'm honestly not sure if this is an anovulatory cycle or if I just ovulated late.
I tested for pregnancy last week and it was negative. I'm currently experiencing normal PMS symptoms. Sore breasts and cramping, etc. Hoping Aunt Flow gets here soon. I'm anxious to get started again.
*Charts only include cycles 2-4
For those not familiar with temping here is a brief explanation.
Tracking temperatures while trying to conceive can be a helpful tool in understanding your fertility patterns and increasing your chances of getting pregnant. By monitoring your basal body temperature (BBT), which is your body's lowest temperature at rest, you can gain insights into your menstrual cycle and identify the most fertile days for conception.
Here's how it works: Throughout your menstrual cycle, hormonal changes can cause slight variations in your BBT. Typically, your BBT is lower before ovulation and rises slightly after ovulation occurs. By recording your temperature daily with a special thermometer designed for this purpose, you can create a temperature chart that reveals your unique fertility patterns.
To start tracking, ensure you have a reliable BBT thermometer and take your temperature first thing in the morning, before getting out of bed or engaging in any physical activity. Make sure you take it at the same time each day for accurate results. Keep a record of your temperature readings and plot them on a graph or use a fertility tracking app to visualize the data.
Over time, you may notice a temperature shift, indicating that ovulation has occurred. This rise in temperature is typically sustained for the remainder of your cycle. By identifying this pattern, you can pinpoint your fertile window, which is the time when you're most likely to conceive.
It's important to note that BBT tracking should be complemented by other fertility awareness methods, such as monitoring changes in cervical mucus or using ovulation predictor kits, for a more comprehensive understanding of your fertility. Consulting with a healthcare professional or fertility specialist can also provide valuable guidance and support throughout your journey.
Remember, tracking temperatures while trying to conceive is a proactive and empowering way to understand your body better. Stay consistent, be patient, and remain positive as you embark on this exciting path towards parenthood!
I was originally going to wait before trying any fertility supplements or treatments until after I completed at least 3 cycles. However, I had been reading about soy isoflavones being used by women as a natural alternative to Clomid. I decided to give them a try for cycle 3.
My chart looked like a dream and I had high hopes for that cycle but it turned our to be a bust. I took 40 mg on cycle days 3-7 and I had intended do the same for cycle 4 but with caring for toddler and planning family vacation I forgot to take the supplements. So I am looking forward to starting a new cycle and trying soy again to see if I am able to trigger ovulation.
Can soy isoflavones work as a potential natural alternative to Clomid?
What is Clomid? It is a medication often used for infertility treatment to trigger ovulation. Soy isoflavones contain compounds known as phytoestrogens, which have a weak estrogen-like effect in the body. These compounds can potentially help regulate hormone levels and support ovulation.
While some women have reported success with soy isoflavones in stimulating ovulation, it's important to note that scientific evidence on its effectiveness is limited. It's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional, such as a reproductive endocrinologist or gynecologist, before trying any new supplements or alternatives to prescription medications.
They can guide you based on your specific situation and provide personalized recommendations. Remember, it's essential to approach fertility concerns with a comprehensive approach, including proper medical guidance, a healthy lifestyle, and emotional support.
What are some signs a couple should look for that may indicate they should consult a fertility expert?
1. Difficulty Conceiving: If you have been trying to conceive for a year or more (or six months if the woman is over 35) without success, it might be a good idea to consult a fertility specialist.
2. Irregular Menstrual Cycle: If a woman's menstrual cycles are irregular or absent, it may indicate issues with ovulation which could impact fertility.
3. Multiple Miscarriages: If a woman has had two or more miscarriages, it could be a sign of a fertility issue that needs to be addressed.
4. Known Fertility Issues: If either partner has a known fertility issue, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, or low sperm count, it would be beneficial to consult a fertility expert.
5. Age: Age is a factor in fertility. Women's fertility starts to decline in her early 30s and more rapidly in her mid to late 40s. Men's fertility also starts to decline around age 40.
6. Previous Cancer Treatment: Both radiation and chemotherapy can affect fertility. If either partner has undergone treatment for cancer, it's a good idea to consult a fertility expert.
7. Unexplained Infertility: Sometimes, even after numerous tests, a cause for infertility can't be found. In these cases, consulting a fertility expert could provide more insights or alternative treatment options.
8. Painful Periods: While some discomfort is normal, severe pain during periods could be a sign of conditions like endometriosis, which can affect fertility.
9. History of Pelvic Inflammatory Disease: This condition can lead to damage of the fallopian tubes, uterus, and surrounding tissues, which can impact fertility.
10. Male Factor: If the male partner has problems with sexual function such as difficulty with ejaculation or small volumes of fluid ejaculated, decreased sexual desire, or issues maintaining an erection, it might be worth consulting a fertility expert.
Remember, it's always okay to seek medical advice if you're concerned, even if these signs aren't present. Being proactive about your reproductive health can provide peace of mind and open up a dialogue about potential fertility options.
We've been dealing with sleep regression lately in our house and it has made it hard for my husband and I to even find any alone time. The struggle is real. That being said here are some helpful tips for preparing to add a new addition to your own family.
10 Tips for Preparing to Add a New Addition to Your Family
1. Maintain a Balanced Lifestyle: It's important to continue looking after your health. This means eating a balanced diet, getting regular exercise, and plenty of rest.
2. Plan Ahead: If you can, try to plan your second pregnancy around your first child's routines. For instance, if your toddler has just started preschool, it might be a good time to start trying for a second child as you'll have some free time during the day.
3. Seek Help: Don't hesitate to ask for help from your partner, family, or friends. Having an extra hand to help with your toddler can give you some much-needed rest.
4. Patience is Key: Trying to conceive can sometimes take time. Don't stress if it doesn't happen immediately. The added stress can sometimes make the process even harder.
5. Doctor's Advice: Always consult with your doctor before making any major decisions. They can provide expert advice and guide you through the process safely.
6. Quality Time: Don't forget to spend quality time with your toddler. The arrival of a new sibling can sometimes make older siblings feel neglected. Making sure they still feel loved can help ease this transition. See additional tips below for preparing your toddler.
7. Healthy Communication: If your toddler is old enough, communicating about the prospect of a new sibling can help prepare them for the changes ahead. Use simple, age-appropriate explanations.
8. Share the Load: Make sure the responsibility of caring for your child and trying to conceive is shared with your partner. It's essential to work together as a team.
9. Keep Things Fun: Trying to conceive shouldn't become a chore or a cause of stress. Keep things fun and relaxed. Remember, you're expanding your family out of love.
10. Self-Care: Remember to take care of yourself. When you're busy caring for a toddler, it's easy to forget about your own needs. Regular self-care is essential, especially when you're planning to conceive.
Remember, every family is unique and what works for one may not work for another. Always do what feels right for you and your family.
What are some tips for preparing your toddler for a possible sibling?
1. Start Early: As soon as you find out you're expecting, you can begin preparing your toddler. It's important to give them plenty of time to adjust to the idea.
2. Use Simple Language: Explain in a way your toddler can understand. You can say that there is a baby in mommy's belly who will come to live with you soon.
3. Read Books: There are plenty of children's books that talk about new siblings. These can help your toddler understand what's happening and what to expect.
4. Involve Them in Preparation: Let your toddler help set up the baby's room or pick out baby clothes. This can help them feel involved and excited about the new arrival.
5. Reassure Them: Make sure your toddler knows that your love for them will not change when the new baby arrives.
6. Discuss Changes: Talk to your toddler about what to expect when the baby comes, like crying and feeding times. Also, discuss how their role as a big brother or sister is important.
7. Spend Quality Time: Spend quality one-on-one time with your toddler, both before and after the baby arrives. This can help reassure them and reduce feelings of jealousy.
8. Encourage Interaction: Let your toddler touch your belly and feel the baby kick. After the baby is born, allow your toddler to hold the baby (with supervision) to build a connection.
9. Be Patient: Your toddler might regress in some areas like toilet training or start seeking more attention. Be patient and give them the comfort they need.
10. Set Expectations: Make sure your toddler knows that babies require a lot of attention and care. However, also remind them of the fun aspects of having a sibling, like having a playmate.
Remember, every child is different. Some might get excited about the idea of a new sibling, while others might be resistant. Patience, reassurance, and open communication can help ease this big transition.
Here is a list of products I'm currently using on my journey. If anyone is interested.
Premom app for tracking my temps and ovulation tests.
*basal thermometer*
*ritual prenatal vitamins*
If you are enjoying the content found here please consider joining the site as a member. Check out the forum where you can ask questions and connect with other members. And while you are at it take a look at the member perks & subscription page. From there you can sign up to receive additional member benefits including some sweet swag while providing much appreciated support to All The Cool Kids Mommy Blog.
Comments