Endometrial Scratch & SA test results

This morning I had an endo (endometrial) scratch, which is essentially causing a deliberate injury (scratch) to the lining of the uterus, in the hope that the healing process will create a more receptive environment for embryos to implant in the following IVF cycle. There are some recent studies on it which are quite interesting

I took two Nurofen Plus tablets at 8.30am and then headed in for my 9am appointment with the specialist. It is very similar to getting a pap smear - you lie down with your bottom half clothes off, and they insert a speculum. My Dr also did a pap smear for me since I was due for one which was helpful.

Then came the tough bit, the scratch itself. I won't sugarcoat it - it was painful. I had to do lots of deep breathing and there was no way I could relax my body during it. People that say it is a 'mild discomfort' are lying through their teeth or else had a VERY different experience to me! In saying that, the local pain was only while it was being done (maybe 60 seconds?), then some mild cramping for a couple of minutes, and then just a little achy for an hour after that.

I had a long nap when I got home, most likely due to the effects of the codeine, and this afternoon I have felt fairly normal. The Dr said that I possibly will have a bit of spotting as their was some contact bleeding during the pap smear, but nothing to be worried about. So all in all, it was worth doing, although I can see why it isn't a first line treatment for new IVF'ers.

My specialist also gave us some really good news - Murray's DNA fragmentation test results had come in and they were only 6%!!! Considering they were once at 35%, that is a massive improvement and is now completely normal! The Dr asked what we had been doing and I explained that he had lost about 12kg since July, and has also been taking Blackmores Conceive Well for Men, which has antioxidants in it (which he hates taking but I make him take!), and she said for him to keep doing it because it is working! He is also on an alcohol ban until he gives his sample on the egg collection day, so hasn't been drinking for the last few weeks, along with me, so that we give everything our best shot. 

We are due to start IVF in about a week or so once my period arrives, which could be any time either next week or the following week. We have a big event coming up though - our tenth wedding anniversary! We are renewing our vows at a picnic ceremony in a local park on November 14, so hopefully my period doesn't arrive too soon, as I need to be able to fit into my dress!

In other good news, our 2 year adoption approval has been renewed until 2017. Even though I expected it to be all okay, it was very reassuring to get the letter in the mail this week.