I’m Kate, and today, I’m finally ready to share a story that’s been a year in the making. It’s a tale of patience, confusion, and ultimately, hope. A story of how after 13 cycles, I am 8 weeks pregnant.
The journey began with regular cycles but no positive results. Each month was a rollercoaster of hope and disappointment. My partner, William, and I tried everything we could think of. We were in this together, yet each failed cycle felt like a small defeat.
On the first day of what would become our lucky cycle, my period arrived. The usual disappointment was there, but this time, there was also a sense of anticipation. I had an HSG (hysterosalpingogram) scheduled on the 10th day of my cycle. It meant we couldn’t be intimate (BD) for a few days before the procedure, a small sacrifice if it meant finding some answers.
The HSG was surprisingly easy. No pain, no discomfort. Both my tubes were open, a relief but also a source of confusion. Why hadn’t we been able to conceive? It left me with more questions than answers.
We resumed trying to conceive (BD) on days 12, 15, and 16. I stopped using ovulation prediction kits (OPKs) as they were always the same, showing peak fertility around day 15. Then came a work trip, days filled with stress, travel, and admittedly, not the healthiest habits - drinking and smoking.
Upon my return, on day 23, a new symptom appeared – sore nipples, something I usually associated with a water cyst. But on day 25, something changed. I took a test, not expecting much. To my disbelief, it was a very faint positive. The next day, the line was still there, a little less faint. After work, I bought a digital test, and there it was, clear as day: “Pregnant 1-2 weeks.”
This was my first ever positive pregnancy test. I believe the HSG played a part, perhaps clearing away any debris, even though my tubes weren’t blocked. Seeing the heartbeat last week was surreal, a mix of joy and apprehension.
Now, as I cautiously step into each new day of this pregnancy, I feel a mixture of happiness and worry. But there’s also a deep sense of gratitude. This journey has taught me about the resilience of hope, about finding strength in the face of uncertainty.
To other women on similar paths, know that your journey is unique. It may be fraught with challenges, but it is also filled with potential for joy. Stay hopeful, stay strong, and embrace each step of your journey, no matter how uncertain it may seem. As I eagerly await the arrival of our baby, I am reminded that even in the most challenging journeys, there can be beautiful destinations.