Part 2: I’M PREGNANT! Behind The Scenes Of The Hardest 2.5 Years of My Life.
Welcome back as I continue sharing my extended conception and IVF story.
Before going further, I want to extend a trigger warning. Throughout this post and the subsequent one, I’ll be referencing pregnancy loss, the journey of IVF, mentions of suicide (related to someone else in my life), and an extensive conception journey.
If you haven’t already, I urge you to visit part one of this story, where I share the first year and a half of our journey, ending in December 2022. My partner and I had been trying to conceive naturally for over a year followed by three unsuccessful attempts with ovulation induction.
The IVF Journey Begins
In November 2022, I was faced with the cold reality that I might need IVF, something I was very hesitant to undertake. The fear of the unknown overshadowed me; I didn’t want to be the woman who couldn’t conceive naturally. Deciding to confront my fear, I reached out to a professional I engaged at the time. We sat through a session where she broke down the details of the IVF process.
This conversation was invaluable. I realised that IVF, despite its associated emotional pain, was a process I could understand and accept. The fear of the unknown dissipated. Journeying through the rollercoaster of conception, I learned that it was important to view each moment as a step in the journey, despite the constant grief cycle.
Fast forward to the first half of our first IVF cycle, a time of injections, hormones and a series of medical procedures. I learned about egg collections, the extraction process and the ongoing hormonal support required. In parallel with the scientific aspects of IVF, my partner and I chose to see and embrace the magic of the process. We discovered a profound appreciation of modern medical advancements and the potential miracle of life they could bring.
Unfortunately, our first round of IVF was unsuccessful. It was a crushing blow and I questioned whether I was ever going to fall pregnant many times.
The Power of Grit and Hope
The truth is, this entire journey, narrated in all its raw, uncut entirety, showcases not a polished tale of success but the expression of an unyielding steadiness of spirit. Despite the despair and feeling like a shell of my former self, the businesswoman in me blazed forth. Business served as my solace and my refuge. Something else to focus on, and give me a greater sense of purpose in the dark times.
This journey, marinated in pain, loss and fierce resilience, is a testament to human grit and the power of hope. In sharing it, I aim not for sympathy but to inspire solidarity. If you are navigating through your storm, know that it’s okay to crumble, cry, and grieve.
Know also, though, that beyond the tempest lies calmer waters. As darkness fades in the face of dawn, so too does heartbreak clear the way for profound joy. Rest assured, the sparkle you feel has dimmed will return one day, shining brighter than ever. In the meantime, reach out, speak up and let’s travel this path together.
Stay tuned for my next post where I discuss my first trimester and give insights into the future of my business in 2024. Thank you for witnessing my journey thus far, your support means the world. Until then, keep moving forward and never let the hope within you fade.
LINKS:
Naturopath: Natalie Douglas https://nataliekdouglas.com/
Acupuncturist: Queenie (Yanshan) Wu https://bqacupuncture.com.au/
Fertility Dr: Dr Tamara Hunter of Monash IVF https://monashivf.com/specialists/dr-tamara-hunter/
LINKS:
Doors are now open for The Mastermind Model. Join here
Website: https://www.ellieswift.com/
Instagram: @elliehswift
Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/shineonsocialelliesw
