Stacy & Stephen

How we met

When Stephen and I were both 27, a mutual friend decided we were perfect for each other. We’d never met before, but our friend arranged a party just so our meeting would take place. Upon being introduced, we discovered that we’d grown up 20 minutes away from each other. After the party, we began emailing and I asked him to play on my beach volleyball and coed softball teams. The attraction was undeniable and not long after, we started dating. Stephen and I lived together for the next few years, acquired four dogs, and decided to make it official when we were 36.

Trying to conceive

We thought we had plenty of time to have children. At 37, my husband and I started trying to have kids, but due to my age and after 6 unsuccessful months, my OB/GYN advised that we get evaluated by a fertility clinic. The first clinic we went to (not SGF) immediately told me my TSH was too high and diagnosed me with unexplained infertility. For the next year, I went through three failed IUIs and a canceled round of IVF. Furthermore, I was being pushed towards donor egg, which we couldn’t afford. At that point, my husband and I decided to go to Shady Grove Fertility.

Coming to SGF

We started working with Dr. Katz at SGF’s Bel Air, MD office. I first went back on my original thyroid med dosage. Afterward, my FSH went back to 5 and I was told my AMH was great – something the previous clinic never shared with us. Dr. Katz, along with his nurse Jenna, made us feel like we were really going to have a chance. He was willing to try several different treatment options and made us feel like our feelings and opinions really mattered, and truly listened to our concerns.

Starting treatment

I went on CoQ10 supplements, Omega 3,6,9, tried acupuncture, and went through IVF again. After three failed attempts and an FET that resulted in an ectopic pregnancy, causing the loss of a fallopian tube, we tried one more time. At the age of 40, we were blessed with two beautiful baby boys.

Treatment was difficult with all the hormones and needles, but I kept my focus and felt that I was destined to be a mother. I knew it would be hard, but I was willing to do whatever it took. I had always imagined that life with my husband included children, and I focused on making that dream come true. Now, with two very active little boys, I smile every day at the amazing gift bestowed upon me.

Advice to future patients

Lessons we learned, never give up and try new options. At SGF, Dr. Katz listened to us and let us try different treatment options. Without their understanding and flexibility, and our determination, we might never have started our family.

Also, I found it valuable to share my struggle. My strength greatly increased when I found other people who had shared my experience. Infertility can be very lonely, but it doesn’t have to be. Confidence can be found through communication and collaboration. You never know who can help until you share your story.