Friday, February 26, 2010

Radio Silence

I've had plenty to write about lately, but just not the urge to write. Which feels strange to me. There have been many moments over the last two plus years where I found myself suddenly overwhelmed by the urge to come here and lay it all out. Every thought. Every feeling. Leaving no detail unwritten. But lately I find that I'm less and less inclined to share. Not because I think the details of my goings on these days are any less important, but because my feelings aren't bubbling over the top anymore. This break from trying - it's starting to become more than a getaway and more like an extended leave. Don't get me wrong it's not like all the baby thoughts have magically disappeared- All the normal stuff that bothers us infertile's still stings, but the voices that echo the pain back and forth have begun to grow still, and I can hear myself think again.

It's kinda nice.

So as much as I hate to admit it our old RE was sort of right about seeing a urologist. He was a really cool Doctor, and aside from being extremely knowledgeable about IF, he was just really funny and warm, and didn't BS us. And in the middle of the appointment he stopped what he was doing and told us he hopes it happens for us soon because we're going to be great parents. It was just so sweet of him to say, he sounded so genuine it kind of caught me off guard. And then he asked Brian to turn his head and cough.

So other than concluding the appointment with information we already knew, we did at least get some reassurance about Brian's Testosterone levels, which our most recent RE told us to look into. Brian's results were on the higher side of being boarder line, but it turns out that his test was done at 1pm, when testosterone levels should be checked at 8am... So this doctor said they would more than likely be normal if we were to test again at the correct time. Which makes sense cause Brian usually has a five o'clock shadow by noon. So next we'll probably do the DNA fragmentation test with our current RE because they give a discount to those who have no IF insurance coverage.

In other news we're going to interview one more RE. He's very well established, and closer to home than our current RE, so if we like him and the cost won't be much different then it'd be nice to be so close to his office. And while I feel it's necessary to finish up some testing and check one more doctor off our list, I also think it's important that I tell you all how far away our next treatment will probably be. We haven't set a date for when we're jumping back on the ttc train, and we're not going to. Partially because of finances and partially because I am REALLY not ready. I still can't believe I feel that way, and I remember shaking my head when reading a statement like that on other blogs. I couldn't identify with not wanting to pursue treatments. But right now, I need to focus on me and Brian. I've been doing that a lot more lately and it feels SO GOOD. The clouds are slowly lifting, and I'm head over heels for my new found freedom from heartache. Yes, I still think about babies, and everything we've gone through. I still haven't gone back on Fac.ebook to avoid a pregnancy related status update. But the wait/weight is gone. I'm not going to let anxiety and frustration rule my life anymore. Until I start cycling again anyway.

17 comments:

Anonymous said...

Good to hear from you. I love that you are getting as much information and empowerment that you can - kudos to you.

Jessica said...

So glad to hear from you...I've been thinking about you. I'm happy that things are looking up! All of this crap just puts too much stress on us, so it's good to just get away from it for awhile.

That's cool that you are looking at an RE closer to you...we only have 1 in our area (he sucks), so we have to go 2.5 hrs away to ours in Charleston. Oh well.

Take all of the time you need to focus on you and your hubby...you will know when the time is right!

Anonymous said...

Sounds like you doing ok-ish. Sometimes its liberating to just live a little. Im glad and you will know when the time is right to start again. xxx

Clare said...

This sounds like a very good place to be. It's so easy to forget about yourself and your partner and forget about all the other things that make you happy. I hope all the testing goes well and that for the time being you can breathe - I'm sure your body and mind will thank you for it. Sending warm hugs.

quadmom said...

I was happy you popped up on my updated blogs list! I am so glad you are enjoying this extended break ... seriously, I could almost feel your relief with every word of this entry. There are times in the IF journey where a break is truly the best, healthiest thing, and I think the fact that you were able to recognize that means you're a very strong person. Sometimes it's easier (in a way) to compulsively keep cycling rather than take a step back and get some fresh air.

I am glad that the urologist appointment went so well.

I'll be thinking of you. *hugs*

R.J. said...

I think you're very strong for realizing what exactly you needed - a break. I was just thinking about last night that the constant IF rollercoaster is damaging, but addicting. I'm so glad the break for you has been healing. It's important to connect with your life once and a while. Good luck with choosing the new RE!

Mugsy said...

In hindsight, we did a similar thing - though it was between the verdict and the treatment. I just didn't have the strength to go there. I applaud you for being able - and willing - to just step back. I've missed you!

Kerri said...

Melissa, I like the tone of this post. You sound upbeat and just, well, happier. That makes me happy too. I can't wait to hear how your RE interview goes. That's smart to interview them instead of just blindly choosing one.

Lisa said...

So glad you're taking the time for you and Brian. it sounds like you're in a peaceful place right now and that's wonderful.

Personally, I think sometimes it's a good sign when you find yourself not blogging a lot. At least for me, it means I have other non-IF stuff going on that's keeping me busy. Which is usually a good thing.

Will be here for you when you do start cycling again. And only you will know when you're ready. XO

Jamie said...

You have a whole new energy and it sounds like you are going through a much needed period of healing. I hope it continues and when you are both ready to get going with the next step, it is with this renewed energy. Lots of hugs!

Once Upon A Time said...

Always thinking about you sweetie. Every decision you make, every step you take- you are reflecting and making sure to do the very best thing for you.

Jem said...

I know what you mean about how relaxing it is to be "on a break" and not have the pressure and anxiety of actively TTC.

I will check out the WW app - I hope they have it for the Touch (I don't have an iPhone).

Jessica White said...

I'm glad that the doctor was knowledgeable and that you're doing ok.

CandyGirl said...

Just came over from Baby OCD...

My hubby is going in next week for DNA fragmentation testing as well. We've been trying (including with medicated IUIs) for 5 years, and the urologist (awesome doc that happens to specialize in infertility also) told us that DNA frag is something that they believe may be the reason behind many "unexplained" infertility - but they only started testing for it and really looking at it since 2007-2008.

We are also trying a new RE this month.

I'll be following your blog to see how you're doing and hoping for the best for you!

Meg. said...

Miss Melissa, I adore you so. =)

It makes me very happy to know that you and Brian are able to take this time to reconnect and not worry about the whirlwind of cycling.

The appointment with the urologist sounds very reassuring! All that's left now is the fragmentation test, and y'all should have a pretty good handle on Brian's sperm. =) Checkin' off one thing at a time.

And, of course, I'm uber curious to hear how your consult goes with Dr. Z. Is that happening soon, or still a little ways away?

I miss you, my friend! Looking forward to the time when we're able to meet up again!

Hillary said...

Beautifully written, Melissa. Enjoy, enjoy, enjoy this time! I am cheering you on in your current place of rest.

Von said...

Anyone suggested to you that a good experienced acupuncturist may be able to help?You might want to look into it.