Clinic: New York
Doctor: Aimee Seungdamrong
Conditions: Unexplained Infertility, Endometriosis
Treatments: Assisted Timed Intercourse, Intrauterine Insemination (IUI), Minimally Invasive Surgery, Embryo Preimplantation Genetic Testing, In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)
Triumph Over Infertility: Our Journey to Parenthood with Kindbody
Introduction
In October 2019, our journey to parenthood took an unexpected turn when we walked through the doors of Kindbody in New York. We had been trying to conceive for seven months with no success, and while we hoped for the best, we couldn’t shake the feeling that something wasn’t quite right. Little did we know, this visit to Kindbody would unveil a series of challenges and triumphs on our path to becoming parents.
Discovery of Uterine Abnormality and Ovary Cyst
Our initial assessment at Kindbody revealed more than we had anticipated. I was diagnosed with a uterine abnormality and had a cyst on my ovary. Further tests revealed that I had an almost complete septate uterus and an endometrioma. It was a shock to learn that my uterus had been this way since birth, and I had lived 31 years without any knowledge of it. We made the difficult decision to pause our attempts to conceive and move forward with surgery. Dr. Aimee Seungdamrong, our trusted physician, performed my initial septum removal surgery, and we embarked on a journey of hope.
Multiple Surgeries and Fertility Treatments
In 2020, I underwent two more surgeries to address minor adhesions. With my uterus repaired, we hoped for better odds of getting pregnant. After three more cycles, we still faced infertility. We began fertility treatments, starting with two rounds of medicated timed intercourse, followed by two medicated Intrauterine Inseminations (IUIs). When success eluded us, we made the decision to move forward with In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) to gain more insights into our unexplained infertility. We eagerly awaited answers, hoping to find out if we could even produce viable embryos.
Challenges and Setbacks
Before our first IVF cycle, I needed another surgery to remove scar tissue in my uterus. Despite the setbacks, Dr. Seungdamrong was a constant source of support, offering reassurance and guidance throughout the emotional rollercoaster of fertility treatments. We were left with four embryos, all day 6 blasts, and genetic testing revealed two genetically normal embryos. We proceeded with our first embryo transfer, filled with cautious optimism, but it resulted in no implantation. We faced the heartbreak of yet another setback.
Diagnosis of Endometriosis
We pressed on, undergoing additional tests – the ERA and the Receptiva DX – to explore potential factors contributing to our infertility. My body had other plans, leading to delays and difficulties. Against Dr. Seungdamrong’s advice, we decided to move forward with another transfer, which ultimately failed. As we prepared for another egg retrieval, I met with an endometriosis specialist and underwent an MRI. To our surprise, I was diagnosed with advanced stage deep infiltrating endometriosis, even though I had experienced no symptoms.
Laparoscopy and Hope Renewed
With the diagnosis in hand, I underwent excision surgery on March 1, 2022. My surgeon was optimistic about our future prospects, especially since my body showed signs of inflammation. Following a relatively uncomplicated recovery, we prepared for our third embryo transfer with renewed hope.
Support and Collaboration with Kindbody
Throughout this journey, one of the things we valued most was Dr. S’s ability to listen to us. She provided medical guidance while involving us in the decision-making process. Kindbody’s team, including my nurse Kate and sonographer Beth, stood by our side, offering support and encouragement during each step of the journey.
The Joyous Outcome
On May 19, 2022, we embarked on our third embryo transfer, filled with cautious optimism. The day held an additional blessing as I received a job offer, offering a glimmer of hope. Dr. S conducted the transfer, and we waited anxiously for the results. For the first time in over three years of trying to conceive, we saw those two precious positive lines on the pregnancy test. Dr. S’s heartfelt “congratulations” marked the beginning of a new chapter in our lives.
Conclusion
Our journey to parenthood was marked by challenges, setbacks, and triumphs. Infertility presented us with unexpected obstacles, but with the unwavering support of Kindbody and Dr. Aimee Seungdamrong, we overcame them. Our beautiful baby boy is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of modern fertility treatments. We are forever grateful to the incredible women at Kindbody who walked this path with us, offering laughter, support, and hope when we needed it most. Triumphing over infertility, we have found the greatest joy in becoming parents.
Sarah’s Advice For Others
Advocate for yourself! Do your own research, and think about what is best for you in this process. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or to ask for clarification. Understanding the scientific side of what we were going through helped me immensely. And find a support group. Whether online or in person, having others who can understand what you are feeling and who can be there for you is so important
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