Baseline Ultrasound & Lab results

I had my baseline lab work done today and another ultrasound. The main lab that we are following is my Estradiol (E2) level. Estradiol is a hormone that stimulates the lining of the uterus, causing the lining to grow, and to make itself ready for embryo implantation. This lab is a key marker (along with my ultrasounds) for how my follicles are developing, how many follicles I have and also how thick my lining is. The more follicles I have and the bigger they are, the higher the E2 level is. My E2 level today was 13. A baseline E2 level should be less than 80, with studies showing numbers on the lower end prior to stimulation with the gonal-f to have better outcomes.

Today's ultrasound showed 11 little follicles. 4 on my right ovary and 7 on my left ovary. There are probably a couple more that were too small to show today. The goal by egg retrieval day is around 15-20 follicles, so I am right on track there. The minimum number to continue is 5 follicles and my left ovary beat that all by itself. You can see 7 follicles below (dark shapes) on this example ultrasound.

So both my lab work and ultrasound were very positive. Yea!

I also updated my calendar a bit to include a lab data section and added in my acupuncture sessions.