September 10, 2014.
We met with Dr. Natalie Burger, for the first time. Our friend Sarah Miller recommended her. She was very kind. She collected all of our medical records and we told her our story. She spoke with us about in-vitro fertilization (IVF) and she told us that we were going to have some tests, precisely that day! Dr. Burger, at that moment, performed an ultrasound on Nancy that revealed that there was a fluid outside the fallopian tubes, which she said was normal. This diagnosis contradicted Dr. Redman's diagnosis; he said that the liquid was inside of the fallopian tubes, and that the liquid was proof that the fallopian tubes were blocked. We were shocked by this and also felt very hopeful about our situation. Then we drove to the laboratories for the rest of the tests.
The tests included blood and sperm samples. They wanted to test and see if Nancy was pregnant and also confirm that neither of us had STDs or any other problems with our health. Nancy was very brave that day, they took four little tubes full of blood out of her, and just two from Pablo. But while Nancy handled it very well, Pablo passed out for a minute or two. Of course Nancy made fun of Pablo, because it was really funny.
Furthermore, the person who pinched Nancy with the needle was a practicing student (see picture), and pinched her about three times and they had to call the actual nurse to do it. Nancy was so brave.
Dr. Burger also ordered a test called hysterosalpingogram (HSG), which should verify that Nancy's uterus is good shape for the IVF procedure. The HSG was scheduled for October 6 because it had to be a very specific day on Nancy's fertility cycle.
After a few days, we had our test results: Nancy and Pablo have no STDs nor hepatitis nor nothing. Perfect healthy people. Sperm is fine. Results of the HSG revealed that Nancy's fallopian tubes were open, yet not open enough for natural pregnancy, there is still the risk of another ectopic pregnancy; but the uterus is in great shape for IVF.
We were told we were ready and qualified for IVF! We were ready for our next appointment. We were so excited. Not so much about the cost though:
Dr. Burger's visit and Nancy's pelvic sonogram (with insurance): $277.96 dollars.
Nancy's hysterosalpingogram (with insurance and discount): $64.34 dollars.
Multiple blood tests for Nancy and Pablo (with insurance): $23.17 and $7.19 dollars.
Pablo's sperm test (not covered by insurance): $240.00 dollars.
Total: $612.66 dollars.
We never imagined that building our own family would be this difficult. But we are grateful for friends that love us and support us. If you want to help and be part of this journey, please click here. Thank you.
Peace,
Nancy and Pablo
