Infertility Workup Wrapup

I went for my OB/GYN consultation to review all the infertility testing that was completed over the course of the last two months. Basically, everything is normal--HSG, hormone levels, etc. There was one test, the DHEAS (or something other bunch of letters) that measures the hormones in the adrenal gland. My level was flagged due to the parameters put in place at our base, but the measurement itself is within normal. Elevated levels typically are shown in women by masculine characteristics--receding hairline, facial hair, etc. None of these have been true in my case. She also said that elevated levels are usually tied to PCOS (which doesn't seem to be the case for me) or cancer. My level was 390 something whereas "high" is 700-800--again, vastly different. Regardless, because it is the only thing that has come back even questionable, she suggested I go back in for another blood draw to check the level again.

What does all this mean?? I have 2 options.
1. We can continue to try on our own. However, I am nearly 35 which is considered "AMA" or "Advanced Maternal Age," which begins to decrease the likelihood of conception on my own as well as places me in a "pseudo-high risk" status at the hospital.
2. We can continue this infertility journey to a German Fertility specialist who will put a plan in place. My OB said they would likely start me on clomid. Her concern is that conception of multiples increases immensely with clomid. She does NOT want me to have multiples--even twins. More on that later. Clomid is typically the starting point. The next step is IUI or the turkey baster as I like to call it and finally, IVF. I have no desire to do either of these options, so I am left in a tricky spot. Our medical insurance stops reimbursements at the point of IUI or IVF. That would mean, very expensive procedures paid out of pocket.

If I get pregnant:
1. I will be considered "high risk" which means I will see the High Risk OB every other visit and will be more closely monitored.
Why? My age. (This factor alone wouldn't place me in the high risk category, I just think it is funny that 35 is considered OLD!) The reasons I'd be high risk is because of the thinning of the uterine wall due to my previous c-sections. Basically, the uterine wall needs be closely monitored because if it thins/stretches too much, it could cause a uterine rupture. The other reason is because of a potential accreta, which basically means the placenta attaches deeply within the uterine wall and it cannot be removed. When removal is attempted, hemorraging results. Hemorraging is life threatening, but could be avoided through a hysterrectomy. Anyway, she said the percentages of liklihood for both situations are increased due to the previous c-sections. I asked what percent and she said 7-10 for both.

2. I will deliver via c-section. There will be no option for a VBAC as previously discussed. I will deliver at 37 weeks and if I had twins, I'd deliver at 34-35 weeks.

All in all, I am glad everything came out "normal." I have alot of thinking to do. I have asked for the referral to the German specialist. I will at least meet with them to see what their plan of action would/will be. We'll gather all the information and make an informed decision.

There is so much to think about. I really want more children, but I don't want to die having them. I understand there is always a risk and that my risk is just a bit more than most people's. I'm just not certain to what length I am comfortable going, to have those kids. I've said numerous times that Chris and I have been seriously considering adoption, but just haven't pulled the trigger. A part of me can't help but think that maybe this whole struggle, which we've NEVER encountered before, is a part of God's plan.

A lot to think about.