World IVF Day: A Personal Journey Through IVF, Fibroids, and Endometriosis
Today is World IVF Day, a day to reflect on the incredible advancements in fertility treatments and the brave journeys many couples face in their pursuit of parenthood. For me, this day holds a special meaning as I look back on my own fertility journey, one that was filled with unexpected challenges, heartbreak, and eventually, hope.
In the summer of 2020, I found out that IVF (in vitro fertilization) would be the only way my husband and I could conceive the family we had always dreamed of. While I was relieved to finally have some answers, I was also shocked. IVF, in my mind, was always the "last resort," the option for those who had no other choice. To learn it was our only option felt overwhelming.
On top of that, I was told I had large uterine fibroids. Later, I would also be diagnosed with stage 4 endometriosis. Both of these conditions turned out to be the culprits behind my infertility struggles.
Before my diagnosis, I had never even heard of uterine fibroids. But as I spoke with friends, family, and other women in my circle, I quickly realized that fibroids and endometriosis were far more common than I had imagined—yet, so many women suffer in silence. It was then that I promised myself that once I was on the other side of this journey, I would share my story. I wanted to help other women who might be struggling with infertility, urging them to get checked and rule out conditions like fibroids and endometriosis early on.
The signs of both fibroids and endometriosis seem straightforward: heavy, painful, and prolonged menstrual cycles. However, these symptoms are so often normalized in our society that women push through the pain, thinking it's just part of being female. From over-the-counter painkillers to "regulating" birth control, society has conditioned us to accept painful periods as "normal." The sad truth is that many women who do bring up their concerns to healthcare providers are often dismissed with birth control prescriptions, rather than being thoroughly checked for underlying causes like fibroids or endometriosis.
This is why I want to stress the importance of being your own best advocate. If you're experiencing painful periods, heavy cycles, or any unusual symptoms, don't just brush it off. Seek answers and work with your doctor to get to the root of the problem. Early diagnosis can save you years of confusion and heartbreak.
As I look back on the countless negative pregnancy tests, the emotional rollercoaster of IVF cycles, and the heartbreak of unexplained infertility, I can honestly say that it was all worth it. IVF, though a challenging journey, was the answer for us. In June 2023, I was fortunate enough to welcome a healthy baby boy into the world.
While I can't change the struggles I faced, I can share my experience in the hopes that it helps someone else who might be on a similar path. If my story encourages just one woman to seek the right care or consider IVF sooner, it will have been worth it.
If you're struggling with infertility, remember that you are not alone. There are options, support, and resources available to you. And no matter what, your journey is valid.
#fibroidsawareness #infertilityawareness #endoawareness #happybirthdayIVF